Detroit, Michigan
If there’s one city that’s meant to be seen this time of year, it’s Detroit. Every November, Motor City pulls out all the stops with a huge skating rink, holiday markets and elaborate light displays that shine across town. You can lean into the season (and still stick to your budget) with a cup of hot chocolate and a game of Giant Jenga in the lodge at Cadillac Square, or by visiting during the Quicken Loans Winter Blast Weekends, a free event with food trucks, ice sculptures and slides. Arrive before Jan. 27 to catch Rainbow City Roller Rink, too; this whimiscal art installation won’t cost you a single penny.