Where to Celebrate Lunar New Year 2025 in the USA: Best Hotels and Destinations to Visit?
Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or the Spring Festival, is a time of great significance and celebration. While this holiday originates from China, it has spread across the world, including the United States, where it’s celebrated by millions of people. With vibrant parades, delicious feasts, traditional performances, and family reunions, it’s a cultural event unlike any other. If you’re looking to celebrate Lunar New Year 2025 in style, the USA offers a variety of destinations and luxurious hotels that offer the perfect setting for the festivities.
From bustling cities with large Chinese communities to more secluded spots offering serene, cultural experiences, there’s no shortage of places to celebrate this important holiday. Whether you’re after traditional customs, modern-day festivities, or simply a fun getaway, we’ve curated a list of the best hotels and places to celebrate Lunar New Year across the country.
1. San Francisco, California: The Heart of Chinese New Year Celebrations
San Francisco is often regarded as one of the best cities in the USA to experience the Lunar New Year. With its large Chinese population, the city hosts one of the oldest and most spectacular Chinese New Year celebrations in the country. The festivities here span several weeks and are full of exciting events, from the famous Chinese New Year Parade to a variety of cultural performances and markets.
Best Hotels in San Francisco for Lunar New Year:
- The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco
This luxury hotel offers exceptional service, and it’s located near Chinatown, making it an ideal choice for those looking to be close to the heart of the Lunar New Year celebrations. The Ritz-Carlton combines modern comfort with traditional elegance and provides easy access to all the major events. - Hotel Nikko San Francisco
A beautiful hotel that celebrates its Japanese and Asian influences, Hotel Nikko offers guests an elegant stay with upscale amenities. Located in Union Square, it’s close to Chinatown and offers proximity to key cultural events. - Chinatown Hotels
If you want to be directly in the middle of the action, there are several hotels in Chinatown that offer great access to the parade route and cultural festivities. Options include the The Palace Hotel and Hotel des Arts, which offer charm and proximity to the celebration activities.
2. New York City, New York: A Global Celebration in the Big Apple
New York City is home to one of the most diverse populations in the world, and the city knows how to celebrate Lunar New Year in a grand way. The famous Lunar New Year Parade in Manhattan’s Chinatown is a sight to behold, filled with lion dancers, traditional performances, vibrant costumes, and fireworks. It’s the perfect spot for those who want to enjoy the festivities in one of the most iconic cities in the world.
Best Hotels in New York City for Lunar New Year:
- The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue
Known for its exceptional service and luxurious accommodations, The Langham offers guests a chance to enjoy all that NYC has to offer in comfort and style. It’s also a short distance from Manhattan’s Chinatown, allowing guests to experience the Lunar New Year parade and celebrations with ease. - The Greenwich Hotel
Located in the heart of Tribeca, this boutique hotel is perfect for those seeking a more intimate and stylish experience. It’s not far from Chinatown and provides a peaceful retreat after a long day of celebrating. - Conrad New York Downtown
For a more modern experience, the Conrad New York Downtown offers sleek, contemporary design with large, spacious suites and excellent service. Located near Battery Park, it’s a short subway ride away from the festivities in Chinatown.
3. Los Angeles, California: The City of Angels Celebrates in Style
Los Angeles is another fantastic city in the U.S. where you can experience a memorable Lunar New Year. With one of the largest Chinese populations in the country, LA offers an array of cultural events, including the spectacular Golden Dragon Parade in Chinatown, where visitors can enjoy the colorful procession of dragon dancers, floats, and traditional music. There are also several other activities and events throughout the city, including festivals, markets, and pop-up food events.
Best Hotels in Los Angeles for Lunar New Year:
- The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles
Located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, this luxury hotel offers guests an upscale experience with top-notch service. It’s in close proximity to Chinatown and the main parade route, making it a prime location for Lunar New Year celebrations. - Hotel Figueroa
A historic hotel located in downtown LA, Hotel Figueroa blends modern comfort with classic charm. It’s close to many cultural spots and offers easy access to LA’s Chinatown for those wanting to participate in the festivities. - The Line Hotel
Situated in Koreatown, The Line Hotel offers trendy accommodations and is just a short distance from the main festivities in LA. The hotel has a youthful, vibrant atmosphere and is known for its stylish decor, making it an ideal place for young travelers who want to celebrate in a fun and lively setting.
4. Chicago, Illinois: Celebrate the Lunar New Year with a View of the Skyline
Chicago has become a popular destination for those seeking a festive and cultural experience during Lunar New Year. The Chicago Chinatown is always bustling with energy, and the city’s parade is one of the most colorful and spectacular in the country. Besides the traditional performances and dances, you’ll also find a variety of cultural exhibits and events happening throughout the city.
Best Hotels in Chicago for Lunar New Year:
- The Peninsula Chicago
Known for its luxury and impeccable service, The Peninsula is a fantastic choice for those wanting a five-star experience. With its convenient location on the Magnificent Mile, guests are just a short trip away from Chinatown and the parade route. - Palmer House Hilton
This iconic hotel is located near Grant Park, providing guests with a combination of historic charm and modern luxury. The Palmer House is not far from Chinatown, making it an excellent choice for visitors who want to experience the best of both worlds. - Thompson Chicago
Located in the trendy River North district, the Thompson is a great choice for those seeking a more contemporary experience. It’s also close to Chicago’s vibrant food scene, so you can enjoy Lunar New Year delicacies while staying at a stylish hotel.
5. Washington D.C.: Celebrating Lunar New Year in the Capital
Washington D.C. is home to a growing Chinese community, and the city’s Lunar New Year celebrations have become a must-see for those seeking a blend of traditional festivities and modern excitement. The annual parade in Chinatown features lion dancers, traditional Chinese performances, and marching bands, while the city also hosts cultural exhibits and events to mark the occasion.
Best Hotels in Washington D.C. for Lunar New Year:
- The Hay-Adams
A luxurious hotel with beautiful views of the White House and Lafayette Park, The Hay-Adams offers an elegant setting for those who want to enjoy both the festivities and a peaceful retreat. The hotel is located near D.C.’s Chinatown, so guests can easily access the parade and other celebrations. - The Mandarin Oriental, Washington D.C.
As one of the premier luxury hotels in the city, The Mandarin Oriental offers elegant accommodations and exceptional service. It’s located on the waterfront, close to key attractions and Chinatown, making it ideal for guests who want a sophisticated stay with easy access to the festivities. - The Line DC
A contemporary hotel with a fun vibe, The Line DC offers a youthful, artsy atmosphere that perfectly complements the energetic celebrations of the Lunar New Year. It’s located in the Adams Morgan neighborhood, offering access to D.C.’s vibrant cultural scene.
6. Las Vegas, Nevada: A Glamorous Celebration in the Entertainment Capital
Las Vegas may be known for its neon lights and exciting nightlife, but it also offers some spectacular Lunar New Year celebrations. The city hosts a variety of events, including dragon dances, traditional lion dances, and spectacular fireworks shows. Many resorts and casinos along the Strip also celebrate with festive decorations, special performances, and themed events.
Best Hotels in Las Vegas for Lunar New Year:
- The Venetian Resort
Known for its opulence and luxury, The Venetian offers visitors a stunning experience in Las Vegas. During Lunar New Year, the hotel hosts various celebrations, from lion dances to delicious Asian-inspired cuisine. Plus, it’s located right on the Strip, so you can easily enjoy all that Vegas has to offer. - Caesars Palace
As one of the most iconic hotels in Las Vegas, Caesars Palace goes all out for the Lunar New Year. With its lavish decor and renowned restaurants, it’s a great spot to ring in the new year with luxury and excitement. - Wynn Las Vegas
Wynn Las Vegas is another luxury resort that hosts fantastic Lunar New Year events, including lavish celebrations, themed menus, and live entertainment. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy the holiday in style.
Whether you’re in search of vibrant cultural festivities, delicious food, or a luxurious retreat, these top destinations and hotels across the U.S. offer some of the best experiences to celebrate Lunar New Year 2025. Each location provides its own unique twist on this important cultural celebration, giving you the chance to enjoy traditions old and new in one of the world’s most diverse countries.