The most cherished holiday movies often showcase homes that become cozy seasonal obsessions. Many of these houses boast snow-covered exteriors adorned with twinkling lights and welcoming interiors, even without the heating on. However, there are a few exceptions, such as a New York City apartment and an elegant California mansion. Since we know you’re indulging in festive films this season, we’ve taken the liberty to rank the top holiday movie houses. Did we place your favorite at the top of the list?
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12. The Santa Clause
In the beloved 1994 film, Tim Allen’s character, Scott Calvin, resides in a modest condo. Despite being the site where Santa falls off the roof, the simple interiors suit the role of a stereotypical divorced dad.
11. Elf
Any New Yorker would envy the apartment where Buddy the Elf’s family lives. With a spacious dining room and Buddy’s festive makeover with paper snowflakes and twinkling lights, it’s a dreamy setting at 55 Central Park West, also featured in Ghostbusters.
10. Love Actually
Among the charming London homes in this romantic comedy, the Portugal house where Colin Firth’s character writes his novel stands out. The Mediterranean-style property offers natural light, French doors, and a serene view of a pond, a writer’s perfect retreat.
9. It’s a Wonderful Life
George and Mary Bailey’s drafty old house in Bedford Falls may not be perfect, but it’s truly wonderful. Mary’s efforts to spruce it up with fresh paint and decorations teach George to appreciate the magic of a fixer-upper home.
8. Miracle on 34th St (1994)
In this remake, Susan Walker’s suburban dream house features large windows, cozy seating, and multiple fireplaces, making it holiday catalog-worthy.
7. The Holiday (Los Angeles)
Kate Winslet’s character’s dream home in Los Angeles boasts high ceilings, a pool, blackout shades, and a movie theater-quality entertainment center. Plus, having a Hollywood legend as a neighbor is an added bonus.
6. The Family Stone
Set in Massachusetts, The Family Stone showcases a colonial home perfect for a snowy winter. Inside, warm colors, patterned wallpaper, and luxurious fabrics create a cozy atmosphere.
5. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Clark Griswold’s traditional family home is a Christmas wonderland, showcasing his dedication to the holiday season.
Get ready to transform your home into a winter wonderland with 25,000 twinkling lights, charming sleigh and reindeer blow molds, and a grand, real Christmas tree. Embrace the nostalgic ’80s vibes with green carpeting, plaid curtains, and a whimsical pink bathroom – all part of the unique charm of this cozy abode. And let’s not forget the backyard space, perfect for adding a pool to your winter retreat! Dive into the holiday spirit with this classic movie, brimming with memorable quotes.
Courtesy of Warner Bros
4. Christmas With the Kranks
Step into the idyllic neighborhood where the Krank family resides – a true embodiment of the American dream, with the only hiccup being the strict decorating regulations in the community. Inside the Krank household, you’ll find a warm and inviting dining room adorned with wallpaper, a cozy living room perfect for relaxation, and a spacious primary bedroom complete with an en suite bathroom. The magic truly comes alive when the house is decked out in festive Christmas decorations inside and out.
Courtesy of Warner Bros
3. A Christmas Story
Exterior charm abounds with yellow siding and green trim on this quaint home. Inside, the large front windows provide the perfect showcase for displaying impressive awards, while the seamless flow between the kitchen and living room creates a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. Fun fact: Fans of the movie can actually visit this iconic house in Cleveland, as it has been preserved as a museum despite concerns over its future when it was listed for sale in 2022.
Courtesy of HouseFromAChristmasStory.com
2. The Holiday (England)
Despite initial heating challenges and a potentially treacherous winter access road, the English cottage featured in “The Holiday” is straight out of a storybook. Exposed wood beams, a delightful kitchen, and a claw-foot tub in the bathroom add to the cottage’s charm, making it an ideal hideaway for a cozy retreat.
Columbia Pictures / Courtesy Everett Collection
1. Home Alone
The Home Alone house has rightfully earned its place as a Hollywood filming location icon. This spacious suburban home, located in Winnetka, Illinois, boasts a staircase perfect for sledding, an elegant formal dining room, an attic bedroom, a kitchen with a generous island, a luxurious primary bedroom, a living room with a fireplace, and even a backyard treehouse. It’s no wonder that the notorious Wet Bandits are willing to brave endless mishaps in their quest to rob this impressive residence.
Collection Christophel / Alamy Stock Photo
Get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of these iconic movie homes that have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. From festive decorations to cozy interiors, each house has its own unique charm and character that adds to the magic of the holiday season. So grab some hot cocoa, gather your loved ones, and embark on a cinematic journey through these unforgettable homes that have stood the test of time.
