The National Christmas Center

It's nice being so close to Paradise- Paradise, PA, that is.  Located just about an hour West of Philadelphia, this town in Lancaster County is home to the National Christmas Center.  I think it's safe to say that you won't find any place more dedicated to the history and joy of Christmas than this charming museum/attraction.  My family has been making annual visits since I was a kid and it still fills me with the warm and fuzzies.  This year, I had the pleasure of taking my little lady for the very first time.

As soon as you enter the building, you are overtaken by the sights and sounds of Christmas.  There are 15 galleries and exhibits overflowing with decades worth of decorations, memorabilia, music, and more.  So much care and attention has gone into each display.  Admission for adults is only $12 and worth every penny.  You walk through at your own pace, checking out exhibits like Christmas Around the World, Santa's Workshop, and A Pennsylvania Christmas.

The Woolworths drugstore room is really cool. It's set up to look like a 5 & 10 from the 1950s, with shelves covered in hundreds of vintage decorations and toys.

Tudor Towne is an animated walk through that tells a sweet little tale about a bunny brother and sister team saving Christmas for their town.


It was really wonderful to bring Francie there for the first time and watch her eyes light up.  My Dad loved the Christmas Center, so it was a little bittersweet bringing my daughter there without him.  But I know he was with us, and I'm sure he had a huge smile on his face the entire time. (My Dad passed away in '09)

The First Christmas exhibit is another unique attraction.  The walk through, featuring life sized wax figures, tells the story of the birth of Jesus.  It gives you a little history about what life was like back then as well.

You could visit this place numerous times and still find something new that you didn't notice before because there is just so much to take in.  If you're ever in the area, you should definitely check out the National Christmas Center.  They aren't only open during the holiday season, so you could even enjoy a little Christmas in July!  It's truly magical for young and older folks alike.