Travelers and locals alike flock to certain Virginia hotels every year at Christmastime. Why? These hotels go above and beyond to deliver a magical experience inside. The decorations are stunning, professional creations that stop you, and leave you standing with your mouth gaping wide open.

Don’t believe me?

To quote Disney’s Brave,

“feast your eyes …”

— The Jefferson, Richmond —

The Jefferson has had elaborate gingerbread artworks – pieces far taller than my 5’6″ stature, and while these arts change annually, the breadth of the rest of the grand hotel remain. Enter and find a stunning 28′ tree decorated by Rick Lunsford of Blooms at The Jefferson (it has its own illumination ceremony, by the way), sweeping staircases wrapped in garland, ribbon and bows, and hundreds of beautiful poinsettias delicately situated about.

Richmonders spend time at The Jefferson for dining, intimate meetings, and after hours drinks. There aren’t many other hotels that can claim the local love that this place can.

— Primland, Meadows of Dan —

Come see the festive decorations during December at Primland Resort and book the Winter Savor Package for a great deal on one of Virginia’s most beautiful resorts. The package includes your overnight stay, free breakfast, afternoon tea, and a dinner from your choice of the resort’s restaurants (Elements, the 19th Pub, the Stables Saloon, or in-room service). Additionally, guests booking the package on the weekends are welcomed with a Manager’s Reception.

— The Omni Homestead Resort, Hot Springs —

A near-national treasure, this Virginia mainstay always delivers the quintessential Southern hospitality experience, and if possible, the holidays seem to take that experience up a notch.

Peruse the halls and spaces of The Omni Homestead Resort to find the more than 30 decorated trees. The Great Hall Fraser fir was more than 23′ tall and 15′ wide when it was cut. It now twinkles with more than 2,000 multi-colored lights. Look for its 17′ sibling tree in the Grand Ballroom, decked in satin and white lights.

— Boar’s Head Inn, Charlottesville —

Boar’s Head is a AAA Four Diamond destination known for its superb Old Mill Room dining. The entire estate glistens with the twinkling lights of the season, but it’s the themed, decorated trees you’ll want to seek out.

— Kingsmill Resort, Williamsburg —

Kingsmill Resort is a gem of a stay not far from Colonial Williamsburg, giving visitors an over-the-top Christmas treat outside, inside, and even in their room. When you stay at Kingsmill, you can truly spend the Christmas weekend, as your stockings, tree, trimmings, milk and cookies … it’s all taken care of! Just ask for the Holiday Traditions package when you call.