winter trips with family

• Last Updated On
• September 29, 2023

15 Best Winter Vacations for Families — Kid-Friendly Ideas!

Winter, with its sparkling snowflakes and cozy evenings, often brings families closer together. 

And what’s a better way to bond than embarking on a thrilling vacation? 

Having experienced it firsthand, I can assure you there’s nothing quite like whisking your family away on a winter retreat.

Whether you’re eager to feel the frosty thrill of snow-capped peaks or yearn for the soothing warmth of sun-drenched seas, your options are as diverse as they are exciting. 

And the best winter vacations for families? 

They’re right here on this list.

From chilly adventures to toasty escapades, let me guide you through these magical spots that are not just locations but also unforgettable experiences. 

Enjoy a memorable winter trip by checking out my reviews below. 

Best Winter Vacations For Families Compared

From snowy adventures to cozy retreats, discover the perfect destinations to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. 

Editor’s Choice

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is a magical haven for families seeking a winter getaway.

• Family amenities: 5/5
• Proximity to attractions: 5/5
• Safety and cleanliness: 5/5
• Room comfort and configuration: 5/5
• Dining options: 5/5
• Value for money: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Crystal Mountain

Nestled in the heart of a winter wonderland, Crystal Mountain is a family-friendly paradise that beckons to snow enthusiasts.

• Family amenities: 4/5
• Proximity to attractions: 3/5
• Safety and cleanliness: 4/5
• Room comfort and configuration: 4/5
• Dining options: 3/5

#3rd Best Choice

Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort 

Nestled in the heart of Anaheim, California, this captivating destination offers a perfect blend of luxury and convenience.

• Room comfort and configuration: 3/5
• Dining options: 4/5
• Value for money: 3/5

Here are the top 15 winter vacations in the US for families.

1. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort (Editor’s Choice)

10100 Dream Tree Blvd Lake Buena Vista, FL 32836 (407) 313-7777 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Proximity to Walt Disney World: Families can enjoy the convenience of being close to the attractions and make the most of their time at Disney.
• Luxury amenities and services: Families can indulge in luxurious rooms, fine dining options, and access to recreational facilities like pools, spas, and golf courses. 
• Higher cost: Families on a budget may find the rates expensive, especially during peak travel periods. 
• Crowded during peak seasons: As a popular destination, especially for families, Four Seasons Resort Orlando can get crowded during peak travel seasons.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is a magical haven for families seeking a winter getaway. 

Nestled within the enchanting world of Disney, this luxurious retreat offers an unrivaled experience. 

With its elegantly appointed rooms, world-class amenities, and exceptional service, it guarantees a memorable stay. 

Children can delight in the Explorer Island water park, character breakfasts, and a complimentary kids’ club.

Meanwhile, adults indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and exquisite dining options. 

The resort’s proximity to Walt Disney World Resort allows for seamless access to the winter wonderland of Disney parks, parades, and festive celebrations. 

It’s the ultimate destination for creating cherished family moments during the winter season.

Related: Places to Eat: Orlando, FL

Related: Best Orlando Resorts & Hotels for Families

Related: Best Places to Visit in January in the USA

2. Crystal Mountain

12500 Crystal Mountain Dr Thompsonville, MI 49683 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Beautiful natural surroundings: Families can enjoy breathtaking views, scenic trails for hiking or skiing, and opportunities for outdoor activities like snowboarding. 
• Family-friendly amenities: Crystal Mountain caters to families and offers a range of amenities suitable for all ages. 
• Weather-dependent activities: Families may need alternative plans if weather conditions prevent them from enjoying specific outdoor activities.
• Limited dining and entertainment options: Families who prefer a wide range of culinary experiences or a bustling nightlife may find the options limited.

Nestled in the heart of a winter wonderland, Crystal Mountain is a family-friendly paradise that beckons to snow enthusiasts. 

With its majestic peaks and powdery slopes, this alpine retreat offers endless fun and adventure. 

From skiing and snowboarding to tubing and ice skating, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

The resort boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a ski school for kids and beginners. 

Families can create lasting memories while exploring the stunning trails, cozying up by the fire in charming lodges, and indulging in delicious hot cocoa. 

Crystal Mountain is the perfect destination for a winter getaway, combining thrilling activities with a welcoming atmosphere.

Related: Best Family Hotels Near Disneyland

3. Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort 

1855 S Harbor Blvd  Anaheim, CA 92802 (714) 750-1811 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Proximity to Disneyland: Families can enjoy easy access to the theme park, making it convenient to spend full days exploring Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park.
• Affordable options: The Sheraton Park Hotel offers more affordable rates than other hotels in the Disneyland area.
• Potential for crowds and noise: Families seeking a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere may find the hotel’s proximity to the theme park a drawback.
• Limited amenities and services: Families looking for a more upscale experience or additional on-site amenities may need to consider alternative accommodation options.

Discover the enchanting Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort, a haven for families seeking a memorable winter getaway. 

Nestled in the heart of Anaheim, California, this captivating destination offers a perfect blend of luxury and convenience. 

With its spacious and cozy accommodations, splendid amenities, and proximity to world-famous attractions like Disneyland Resort and Knott’s Berry Farm, Sheraton Park Hotel is a must-visit for families during winter. 

Experience the magic of holiday-themed events, parades, and fireworks, creating lasting memories for both young and old. 

Embrace the warmth of Southern California while indulging in exceptional service and delightful adventures at Sheraton Park Hotel.

Related: Family Ski Resorts in Colorado

The Bahamas, Caribbean (800) 224-2627 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

One of the best travel destinations in the world, the Bahamas enjoys fair weather throughout the year, with winters touching a pleasant 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

It is one of best family vacation packages, where your bundle of joy can have an enthralling time spotting dolphins, exploring shipwrecks and coral reefs or just being awestruck by schools of colorful fish.

Family bowling, horseback riding and sightseeing to explore the culture and history of the island country can be a great way to learn as you enjoy.

Diving, birding, ecotours, nature parks on the one hand and gaming, flying, live shows and nightspots on the other make this a great winter vacation destination.

Recommended Hotel: Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau

Related: The Best All Inclusive Family Resorts in Bahamas

5. Honolulu, HI

Honolulu, HI (808) 768-4325 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

From Pearl Harbor to Makapuu Point, Honolulu stretches across the southeastern shores and includes the world-renowned Waikiki Beach.

In this kid-friendly place that you can visit in December , you can experience snorkeling, build sandcastles on the sun-kissed beaches, explore the culture of the Hawaiians or meander through the emerald green mountains.

You can make a trip to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and see active volcanoes.

Then there are water-based activities where your young ones can not only learn to surf but also pet a sea lion or watch massive humpback whales splashing around.

Recommended Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach Hotel

Related: Top Honolulu, Hawaii Restaurants

Related: Best Family Hotels in Honolulu

6. Jasper National Park, Canada

Jasper, AB T0E 1E0 (780) 852-6176 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Jasper National Park is the largest in the Canadian Rockies stretching over 11,000 square kilometers between Lake Louise and the town of Jasper.

Its vast wilderness and majestic peaks are a joy forever and house a variety of wildlife.

In winter, this turns into a wonderland with snow-covered peaks and offers a variety of activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and fat biking.

Wapiti Winter or Whirlpool Winter Camp is a great destination for front country camping.

Backcountry camping option is also available for the more adventurous.

Don’t miss other sights such as Maligne Canyon, Maligne Lake, Pyramid Island, Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls.

Recommended Hotel: The Crimson Jasper

Related: Best Family Hotels in Toronto

7. St. Petersburg, FL

St. Petersburg, FL (727) 893-7111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Art, culture and adventure, St. Petersburg has something to offer everyone, making this an ideal winter vacation idea for the family.

The Dalí Museum and Chihuly Collection are for the art lovers while nature lovers may want to stroll down the tranquil Sunken Gardens or the Florida Botanical Gardens.

Children will be thrilled to see marine life in the Clearwater Aquarium or can be entertained at the Great Explorations Children’s Museum.

History buffs will find the middens as the pre-Columbian shell mounds are called, exciting.

And for the adventurous, this destination offers ziplining 60 feet above a nature preserve.

You can also take a pirate cruise.

Recommended Hotel: Tru By Hilton St. Petersburg Downtown Central Ave

Related: Best Places to Visit During Christmas in the USA

8. Gatlinburg, TN

Gatlinburg, TN (865) 436-4178 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

A visit to Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains may be the perfect family trip in winter as it offers many seasonal activities.

There is the Winterfest, the Great Smoky Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Show, the Festival of Trees, the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade and even the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks if you time your trip to catch the New Year there.

In early December, you can attend the Annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade when the streets are filled with floats decorated with LED lights, marching bands, large balloons, dancers and holiday characters.

Gatlinburg Space Needle and the popular Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies will be a great it with your little ones.

Recommended Hotel: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gatlinburg, TN

Related: Restaurants in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Related: Christmas Vacations for Families

9. Adirondacks, NY

Adirondack Mountains, NY (518) 743-9424 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Snow-covered mountains make this an ideal location for skiing in winter, be it down the slope or cross country.

The glistening white trails and frozen lakes further add to the possibilities of a great, adventurous winter.

Winter carnivals, hiking, snowmobiling and a December filled with various carnivals make this a great vacation spot.

Surprise yourself by taking a dog sled ride, luging or bobsledding.

You can try ice skating across a frozen lake or just shoot over Mirror Lake on a wooden toboggan, the possibilities are many and exciting.

A regular resort, a cozy cabin or rustic camps, let your children choose the place of stay.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Lake Placid

Related: Best Adirondack Resorts for Families

Related: Best Family Reunion Locations

10. Whistler, Canada

Whistler, BC, Canada (800) 766-0449 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The adventurous ones can go ziplining, skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing or even heli-skiing.

You even have programs to learn skiing and snowboarding for children and adults.

Peak-to-Peak gondola is your thing if you love sightseeing.

There is a Peak 2 Peak Viewing Gallery that lets you watch the record-breaking lift in action.

Don’t miss the mementos from the 2010 Winter Olympics on display at the Olympic Plaza.

Rooftop dining as you enjoy the views of the ski slopes and the towering peaks and a special glass-bottom gondola that gives you a bird’s-eye view of the forest below are additional attractions that make this an ideal winter vacation destination.

Recommended Hotel: Delta Hotels by Marriott Whistler Village Suites

11. Aspen, CO

Aspen, CO (970) 925-1940 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Whether it is a weekend getaway or a longer sojourn, the snow-capped peaks of Aspen offer loads of activities for the young kids, teenagers, for the art lover or even those just on a vacation for sightseeing.

This is a postcard town that gives you the opportunity to let your hair down and relax, drinking in the beauty of nature, the quaint sights and the delicious food on offer.

You can ski or hike, join a dance party with a prior booking or catch your favorite band.

If you are an expert at skiing, you must include the Highland Bowl in your agenda which is 12,392 feet.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Durant

Related: Best Family Ski Resorts in the U.S.

12. Lake Tahoe, CA

Lake Tahoe, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Enjoy your family winter vacation in Lake Tahoe at Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe in Truckee, and ski or snowboard at will on the slopes of Northstar California Resort.

The way the concierge treats you and smooths out the logistics of skiing, you will feel like a king.

The ski shop for rentals in the hotel lets you get skiing without having to stand in long queues.

And if your children are too young to ski, or don’t know how to, there is even a ski school at the hotel’s back deck where you can let them learn the ropes under expert guidance.

Don’t miss the “Marshmology” when there, to taste s’mores by the fire pits.

At the Village at Northstar, you can try other non-ski activities such as ice skating, bungee trampolines and even watch a movie.

Recommended Hotel: Heavenly Valley Townhouses

Related: Best Hotels in Lake Tahoe

Related: Best Places to Visit in February (USA)

13. Williamsburg, VA

Williamsburg, VA (757) 229-6511 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg is a great vacation spot, meant specifically for kids and families.

There is a pool that gives you ample family time as you loosen up.

Story hour, dance party, balloon animals, a stuffed animal game and Magic Quest keep the children entertained and have fun.

The microwave and mini-fridge are also such a thoughtful addition as you can keep your little devils sated during the between-meal hours in case they get hungry.

Of course, it is also a great way to save and indulge on other, more fun things.

Recommended Hotel: Williamsburg Lodge, Autograph Collection

Related: Top Michigan Winter Family Vacations

14. North Conway, NH

North Conway, NH (603) 356-7011 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are heading to North Conway for your winter vacation, then you must choose to stay in the Red Jacket Mountain Resort, especially during winter to enjoy the snow all around.

Ideally located close to all important premier ski mountains for those who love to ski, you can also indulge in other activities such as ceramic painting, face painting, story hour with fresh baked cookies, horse-drawn carriage rides and a family movie night.

The 40,000 square feet indoor water park, Kahuna Laguna, is a great hit with children of all ages and even the adults.

If you are there in December, don’t miss their “Journey To The North Pole”.

Recommended Hotel: Cranmore Inn and Suites, a North Conway Boutique Hotel

15. Hendersonville, NC

Hendersonville, NC (828) 693-9708 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The CedarWood Inn in Hendersonville is one of the best winter vacation destinations in the USA because of the fun activities they organize.

Two snow-tubing outfitters, ice skating rinks, skiing locations and or a winter hike, you can choose the activity that suits your family.

Within 30-minute drive is Chimney Rock where you can enjoy a picturesque view of bare winter trees.

The Inn, easy on the pocket, has several restaurants nearby and the rooms are also equipped with a fridge and a microwave for you to make what you like, if you feel like it.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Hendersonville

Vacationer’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

Winter vacations are always a special time for families, and I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing these amazing destinations that are perfect for creating unforgettable memories. 

First, there’s the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. 

From the moment we arrived, the magical atmosphere enveloped us, and the kids were overjoyed by the character breakfasts and proximity to the parks. 

Next, Crystal Mountain stole our hearts with its stunning snow-capped peaks and endless winter activities. 

We laughed our way through snowball fights and cozied up by the fireplace at night.

Lastly, the Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort was a dream come true for Disney enthusiasts.

Its convenient location made our visit to Disneyland a breeze, and the hotel’s pool area became our favorite hangout spot. 

These winter vacations were truly extraordinary, and we can’t wait to embark on more family adventures in the future.

How I Picked The Destinations 

As I ventured into the winter wonderlands of various family destinations, I immersed myself in the joy and excitement shared by locals and fellow travelers.

From skiing on pristine slopes to building snowmen in enchanting villages, these winter vacations offer a memorable escape for families. 

Discover the ultimate winter retreats that will create lifelong memories for you and your loved ones.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these destinations based on the following criteria:

• Family amenities: I use this criterion to evaluate the family amenities at every property. Are there kiddie activities on-site? Does the property feature play areas to keep kids entertained and parents relaxed? I ask myself these questions to rate the property’s family amenities.
• Proximity to attractions: This is used to assess the property’s location. Is it near popular skiing destinations? Is there an ice-skating rink nearby? Are there holiday events around that the whole family can participate in? These are the questions I ask myself to evaluate proximity to attractions.
• Safety and cleanliness: I use this to evaluate safety and cleanliness. Are the premises clean and well-kept? Are safety protocols followed to ensure a safe environment for families? I use these questions to assess safety and cleanliness.
• Room comfort and configuration: This is used to assess the comfort and configuration of rooms. Are the rooms cozy? Are they ideal for relaxation after a day out in the cold? Are they configured to be family-friendly? These questions are important when I rate this criterion.
• Dining options: This evaluates the dining options at the property. Are there diverse dining options to cater to different tastes? Is there a kid-friendly menu available? I use these questions to assess the property’s dining options.
• Value for money: This assesses the value for money of every property. Are the room rates reasonable? Are the services, activities, and amenities suitable for the price? Are there inclusive packages or special deals for families traveling on a budget? I ask myself these questions to rate value for money.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Where is the best place to go in winter.

The best place to go in winter depends on personal preferences and desired activities. Some popular winter destinations include ski resorts in the Alps or the Rocky Mountains for skiing and snowboarding, tropical locations like the Maldives or Hawaii for warm beach getaways, or cultural cities such as Paris or New York for holiday festivities and shopping.

Where Do Most People Go In The Winter?

During winter, many people tend to head to destinations with winter sports and activities. Ski resorts in popular locations like Switzerland, Austria, Canada, and the United States attract a large number of visitors. Additionally, tropical destinations like the Caribbean, Thailand, or Mexico also see a surge in tourism as people seek warmer climates.

How Do I Plan A Winter Vacation?

Planning a winter vacation involves several steps. Start by deciding on the type of vacation you want, such as a skiing trip, beach vacation, or city exploration. Research destinations that offer the activities and climate you desire, consider factors like budget and travel logistics, book accommodations and transportation in advance, and make a list of attractions and activities you want to experience during your trip.

Conclusion 

After exploring the best winter vacations for families, I can confidently say that Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort takes the crown as the best choice. 

My family and I recently had the pleasure of staying there, and it exceeded all our expectations. 

The resort seamlessly blends luxury and family-friendly amenities, ensuring that both kids and parents have an unforgettable experience. 

From the spacious and beautifully designed accommodations to the top-notch dining options and the incredible on-site activities, Four Seasons Resort Orlando truly stands out. 

With its proximity to the enchanting world of Disney, it’s a dream come true for families seeking the ultimate winter getaway.

25 Cheap Winter Family Vacations in the United States

The holidays are a time when most family budgets are stretched thin.  Lavish winter breaks are not an option for many. Yet for those that hate to let a school break pass by without at least a short getaway, finding cheap winter family vacations can be a challenge.

The festive season also brings high rates and occupancy at many hotels. (See my picks for the best Christmas hotels in the USA.) If you are really lucky, you may have the option of traveling the week before Christmas or after New Year’s but for most, traveling during the high season is hard to avoid.

No matter how you slice it, winter family vacations on a budget can be hard to find. So I did some research to find some inexpensive winter vacation destinations in the United States. You can also check these recommendations for winter vacations for all budgets.

Cheap Family Vacations in the U.S.

I based my research on destinations that could host a family of four (2 adults and 2 children under 12) for at least five days between December and February for $2,000- $5,000. Rates have definitely gone up in the last year but, if you are careful, you can still manage a winter family vacation on a budget.

This would include lodging and activities. Some options are much less than that, while others will use the whole budget for activities like skiing. Depending on where you live, some of these are possible road trips or not too far from an airport (which may mean stretching the budget, but not necessarily.)

Whether you prefer warm climate destinations or cold weather vacations, hopefully you will find an idea for this year’s winter family vacation that works for your budget. If you are willing to leave the U.S., consider a trip to the Quebec Winter Carnival or New Brunswick , Canada for an affordable Canadian vacation.

Cold Weather Family Winter Vacations

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. 

If cold is your thing, but you are looking for a bargain, avoid the ski resort towns and look for something a bit smaller, off-season, or under-the-radar.

1. Niagara Falls, New York

Wintertime in  Niagara Falls USA is unlike any other, with plenty of outdoor adventure and no crowds. An easy drive from Boston , Cleveland, or NYC , you can enjoy the frosted Falls while also finding cozy places to warm up.

Take a stroll along snow-covered trees and catch panoramic views of the Falls on the Observation Tower at Niagara Falls State Park, America’s oldest. In the winter you can take an abbreviated Cave of the Winds Gorge Trip, where you can get up close and personal to the Bridal Veil Falls from one of the two permanent observation decks. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore the 400-acre state park using complimentary snowshoe rentals and if it is cold enough, catch a glimpse of the famous “Frozen Falls.”

Families can warm up indoors at one of the many budget-friendly attractions in Niagara Falls including the Aquarium of Niagara, where you’ll encounter penguins, sharks, seals, and other fish. Or, choose to thaw out with a cup of hot chocolate at Platter’s Chocolate Factory while watching the chocolate-making process from multiple viewing areas.

Where to stay: Rooms at the Sheraton Niagara Falls start as low as $100 per night and the hotel offers a variety of kid-friendly amenities, including family suites, the Reef Beach Club & Pool, an arcade, and a Rainforest Café. The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of Niagara Falls State Park.

2. Silver Mountain, Idaho

Silver Mountain is located just over an hour from Spokane, Washington near the historic mining community of Kellogg, Idaho. There is plenty to see and do for families, both on-mountain and off. With two mountains featuring 73 trails and 300 inches of snow annually, skiers and snowboarders will love the diverse terrain, extensive graded areas, and plenty of fresh powder.

There are also scenic gondola rides, snow tubing, and Idaho’s largest indoor waterpark. In Kellogg, families can explore old gold and silver mines, go snowshoeing, or cross-country ski.

Families can stay in a one-bedroom unit with a fireplace, full kitchen, and pull-out sleeper sofa for only $250 per night, with access to the waterpark included.

Ski packages start at $78 per day, per person, but there are also multi-day discounts and the Ski Idaho Passport Program allows kids in 5th or 6th grade to ski for two or three days for only $29. This gives you plenty of time to ski and relax, with wiggle room in the budget for food and extra activities.

For even cheaper skiing, head over to the family-run Lookout Pass ski resort.

3. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

An hour from Milwaukee on the shores of Geneva Lake, the four-season resort area of Lake Geneva is a great spot for a family winter vacation ( Lake Geneva in the summer is also fun.) Here you will find small-town charm with no big-city prices.

Winterfest , which takes place in late January-early February, features the United States Snow Sculpting Championship along with helicopter rides, magic shows, a chili cook-off, and a human-dog sled race.

Visiting Winter Realms (formerly Ice Castles ) is also a fun winter activity in Lake Geneva. These man-made castles include slides, thrones, archways, tunnels, and lights that twinkle to music. Perfect for all Frozen fans!

In February, families can enjoy Sky Circus on Ice at the Lake Lawn Resort. Lake Geneva also offers cross-country skiing, ziplining, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice skating, with plenty of indoor entertainment and shopping also available.

Where to stay: Families can stay in a one-bedroom suite at the Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark for as low as $150 per night (including waterpark passes.) Or, The Cove in downtown Lake Geneva offers two-bedroom suites for only $209 per night, including access to an indoor pool and 24-hour arcade.

4. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Located in the middle of the country and accessible using budget airlines such as Frontier, Colorado Springs , CO is the perfect, budget-friendly choice for a family winter vacation. With a backdrop of the rugged Rocky Mountains and nearby places like the stunning Garden of the Gods National Natural Landmark, Colorado Springs is perfect for outdoor-loving families.

Colorado Springs is home to more than 60 attractions, including the U.S. Air Force Academy and Olympic Training Center, and over 30 of them are totally free. Families will also enjoy unique experiences like hand-feeding giraffes and elephants at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, visiting Santa at The North Pole Christmas-themed amusement park, and an array of hands-on museums like the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum and Money Museum.

Lodging properties range from charming B&B’s to full-service indoor waterpark hotels, some of which are under $150 per night in the off-season. Check the Visitors’ Bureau website for special deals and discounts!

5. North Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

North Lake Tahoe spans two states and is within driving distance from Northern California. Situated on beautiful Lake Tahoe, you will find two dozen beaches, twelve ski resorts , and hundreds of miles of biking trails.

In the winter, families can enjoy a day of ice skating at Northstar California Resort, and warm up at the fire pits and couches that surround the rink while sipping hot cocoa and eating s’mores. They can also take a magical sleigh ride in the snow at Sand Harbor, try dog sledding at the Resort at Squaw Creek, or visit the SnoVentures Family Fun Zone at Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows for mini-snowmobiling and snow tubing.

Where to stay: The waterfront Franciscan Lodge offers affordable accommodations starting at $300 per night for a studio with a fully-equipped kitchen.

6. Waterville Valley, New Hampshire

Waterville Valley is an affordable winter vacation destination offering skiing and winter sports in the White Mountains – and plenty more for families to enjoy. Young skiers can enjoy Kids Venture Kamps with specially designed Venture Zones for learners. Waterville offers 52 trails and 12 ski lifts and the Nordic Center features 75 km of groomed trails for cross-country skiing.

When not on the trails, families can enjoy the White Mountain Athletic Club for swimming or the Waterville Valley Ice Arena for skating. At the nearby Curious George Cottage, once home to Margret and H.A. Rey, the creators of the world’s most beloved monkey, the Curious Kids program takes children and families into the White Mountain National Forest to explore and learn.

Where to stay: Families can save on food and attractions around Waterville Valley with the Freedom Pass. Lodging options for families range from $175 for a room at a local inn to $411 per night for a three-bedroom condo on the mountain.

7. Finger Lakes Region, New York

The Finger Lakes region of New York may be most known for its wineries and lakes, but it is also a great destination for adventurous families in the wintertime. Greek Peak Mountain Resort offers 30+ ski trails and an adventure center with a mountain coaster, ziplining, snow tubing, and ropes course.

Where to stay: And unlike some of the larger ski resorts in New York, this one is affordable for families with rooms at the Hope Lake Lodge starting at $309 per night. Designed with families in mind, the hotel features 106 condominium-style suites sleeping up to 10 guests at a time and is equipped with full kitchens.

8. Canaan Valley, West Virginia

Located under three hours from Washington DC and Pittsburgh, PA, Canaan Valley Resort Ski Area is an affordable winter destination for families. Canaan Valley has won numerous awards from Liftopia in recent years, including top rankings in family-friendly and best-value categories. In addition to skiing, Canaan Valley offers a 1,200-foot tubing park (the longest in the Mid-Atlantic region) and covered outdoor ice skating.

Kids stay free in one of the 160-lodge rooms and suites, and the resort also offers 23 cabins and cottages. Some six-night stay packages included, two days of skiing, lessons, tubing, skating, accommodations, dining, and access to the fitness center with a swimming pool is under. A family of four, could stay here for under $2500 leaving room in the budget for plenty of hot chocolate by the fire.

9. Massanutten Resort, Virginia

Massanutten Resort is an all-season resort nestled in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley , within a few hour’s drive from Washington D.C. and just 45 minutes from the Charlottesville Airport. With a selection of affordable accommodations and activities, Massanutten is an ideal winter vacation choice for families in the mid-Atlantic region.

Families can enjoy free hiking on Massanutten’s western slope, which offers more than thirty miles of trails for hikers of all experience levels. Families can also enjoy a leisurely walk at Rockingham Springs Arboretum or explore the Shenandoah Valley through geocaching. 

For those who want to be more active, adult rates for ski slope tickets start as low as $53 for a 4-hour session or $93 for an 8-hour session. The Family Adventure Park is also ideal for thrill-seekers, with a Zip Line Canopy Tour, Snow Tubing, a Kids’ Adventure Course, and the Mega Zip, an 800-foot zip line capable of reaching up to 30 miles per hour. 

Where to stay: Resort lodging options include Woodstone Meadows. These premium condos comfortably sleep four with a queen bed and sleep sofa, and are located near the Woodstone Meadows Golf Course and Recreation Center.  Eagle Trace townhouse-style condos also start at $270 a night and are conveniently located near the Family Adventure Park and Ski Area. A one-bedroom condo will sleep four with a queen bed and two queen-sleep sofas. The Massanutten Resort Hotel starts at just $118 and can also sleep up to four, with a choice of one king-size bed and a sleeper sofa or two queen beds.

10. New yOrk, New York

Sure, New York City is one of the most expensive cities in the world, especially if you are visiting NYC around Christmas . However, if you are looking for a cheap winter weekend getaway in January, New York City should be on your list. You can regularly find hotels, especially around the Times Square area at around $200 a night.

New York City restaurant week also runs from mid-January through mid-February, offering great deals on prix fixe dinners, offering a great opportunity to try some of New York’s top restaurants. And if you really want to bang out the tourist attractions, invest in a New York CityPass and maximize your savings. See my complete guide to visiting NYC with kids .

11. Ace Adventure Resort, West Virginia

If you are an active family but looking for a winter-weather alternative to skiing, try the ACE Adventure Resort . An hour from Charleston, WV, and within a 250-mile drive from major cities including Cincinnati and Pittsburgh, ACE is easily accessible via car and is located within New River Gorge , America’s newest National Park.

During the winter months, they offer a range of activities for all ages including winter ziplining, ATV tours over snow, winter paintball, and you can even do a three-house adventure “Brave the Bridge” walk on the New River Bridge, the longest single-arch bridge in the Western hemisphere, which towers 800 feet above the water.

There are also complimentary resort amenities and adventures including winter hiking or mountain biking the dozens of trails with views of the historic town of Thurmond, the New River Gorge, and maybe even a frozen waterfall. ACE is also a bird watcher’s paradise and in West Virginia, no fishing license is necessary to utilize the resort’s private ponds.

Where to stay: Ideal for families, ACE offers a range of private cabins, in addition to options for camping sites and an RV campsite, which have access to all of the resort amenities. For a family of four, the Lakefront Cozy Park Cabin starts at $400 a night.

12. Ellijay, Georgia

The mountain town of Ellijay, Georgia is located about an hour and a half north of Atlanta, and is perfect for those that want a chilly, mountain destination, but not too chilly. There are plenty of affordable rental cabins with cozy fireplaces for under $200 per night. You can also be a little more adventurous and sleep in a vintage Airstream or geodesic dome at Elatse’ Yi.

Ellijay is great for families that want to be outside and then warm up at some of the area’s charming restaurants and locally-owned shops like In the Woods, where you can take pottery lessons.

Gilmer County and its surroundings are home to 11 mountain hiking trails, 59 mountain bike trails, and several impressive waterfalls. The best views are in the winter when the leaves are off the trees and you can take in the scenery on the Bear Creek Trail or climb the path to Amicalola Falls.

13. Clarksville, Tennessee

Clarksville is less than an hour from Nashville, but way more affordable! You can still venture into Nashville for a night at the Grand Ole Opry or to take in ICE at the Opryland Hotel , but with an average age of 30, Clarksville knows how to entertain families. The average cost of a hotel room is about $150/night and there are plenty of locally-owned and reasonably-priced restaurants downtown.

Clarksville features multiple indoor recreation venues, including The City Forum, which is one of the largest indoor entertainment complexes in the country. It features climbing, blacklight golf, two escape game venues, a trampoline park, and more.

Plus, in December the downtown and RiverWalk transform into a sparkling, magical place with 1 million lights along a ½ mile of RiverWalk and into the Public Square downtown. There are special performances such as Charlotte’s Web, Miracle on 34th Street, and other Christmas exhibits. See more affordable things to do in Tennessee .

14. Togwotee Mountain Lodge, Wyoming

Conveniently located near three national parks, Togwotee Mountain Lodge is a short 45-minute drive from the town of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Families appreciate the charming, rustic cabins with full kitchens and cozy fireplaces, and winter rates start as low as $255 a night.

This destination is considered to be one of “America’s best” for winter activities thanks to 600 miles of snow-packed adventure along the Continental Divide. The fine powder also sets the stage for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing & dog sled tours through the backcountry of the Tetons.  Snowmobilers are encouraged to bring a bathing suit to stop for a soak at Granite Hot Springs. These little-known hot springs are located just above Granite Creek Falls and set amongst gigantic spruce, fir, and pine trees alongside sheer granite cliffs that tower thousands of feet overhead. During the winter months, the hot springs can only be accessed via a snowmobile dog sled, snow bike, or skiing.  

Winter is the time when wildlife viewing is at its best to spot gray wolves, bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, moose, and bald eagles. And while access to the parks may be more limited in the winter, families can visit Bridger Teton National Forest, Grand Teton National Forest, and Yellowstone National Park in just one weekend.

15. Beech Mountain, North Carolina

As the highest town in the Eastern USA and with sweeping views of snow-capped mountain tops, Beech Mountain , North Carolina is the ideal destination for winter adventure. Once the 80 inches of yearly snowfall blanket the pristine mountain hideaway, this magical destination becomes a budget-friendly, winter haven for adventurers of every age and skill level. To top it off, the area is within driving distance of most major cities in the South and more affordable than other ski resort towns, yet offers visitors the same unforgettable winter sports options with fewer crowds and more affordable pricing.

At the Beech Mountain Resort, guests can take advantage of a perfect home base within the Town of Beech Mountain to enjoy exciting winter sports and activities without the high price tags. Families can also enjoy snow tubing, ice skating, sledding, or snowshoeing on Beech Mountain’s 30 miles of town-maintained trails using free snowshoes from Buckeye Recreation Center.

There are lodging options for groups of all sizes from condos, chalets, and private homes, to quaint inns & lodges, with many priced at around $200 a night. Also, many of the condos, chalets, and house rentals come with equipped kitchens which always helps in saving from eating out meals for larger families.

Warm Weather Family Winter Vacations

While I can’t make any promises about the weather, sometimes even warmer (than home) is good enough when you are from the north. Here are some ideas for warm winter family vacations in the U.S. that are budget-friendly.

1. Jacksonville, FLorida

Jacksonville is the perfect destination for families this winter, with hotel rates typically 30 to 40 percent less than most Florida destinations. With a ton of free outdoor and holiday activities, Jacksonville has plenty for the whole family, and won’t break the budget. Plus, budget airline Allegiant recently added new direct flights to JAX from Nashville, and other airlines have added more direct flights to JAX including major cities like Dallas and Raleigh, NC.  

Warmer winters in Florida mean families can spend the days outside–exploring the largest urban park system in the Country, with over 400 city parks, seven state parks, and two National Parks, making it a great destination for families with young children. Teens will also enjoy paddling through Jacksonville’s 1,100+ miles of waterways on guided eco-tours or relaxing at one of Jacksonville’s beaches that stretch over 22 miles of the East Coast of Florida.

Jax is also home to several interactive museum exhibits, like the Museum of Science and History, and the much-loved Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. For a splurge, you can try fun family activities like indoor skydiving, indoor go-karting, and Adventure Landing, which offers a mega-arcade, laser tag, mini golf, and more.  

If you are visiting during the holidays, you can enjoy some of the city’s “ Winter on the Water ” events like Deck the Chairs and drive-thru holiday lights.  

2. Orlando, Florida

If you are lucky enough to get out of school the week before Christmas, this is an ideal time to head to Orlando. The Hilton Orlando offers low room rates during that week. You don’t even need to spend money on the theme parks with the Hilton Orlando’s 892-foot-long lazy river, a winding water slide, and a zero-entry swimming pool. There is also a new splash pad, spray ground, and an expanded pool deck.

This is also a perfect opportunity to see everything that Orlando has to offer beyond the theme parks , including these free things to do in Orlando. We have also found great rates at the Margaritaville Resort Orlando .

3. St. Petersburg, Florida

St. Pete Beach on the Gulf Coast of Florida is a great home base for so many area attractions from the Clearwater Aquarium, Busch Gardens, and Tampa’s amazing food scene. Plus, staying on the beach gives easy access to water sports such as jet skiing and paddleboarding.

Where to stay: Located right on its own private beach, Sirata Beach Resort has great family-friendly amenities. Guests can enjoy three pools, a Kid’s Splash Zone, a hanging chair garden, and a beachfront oasis. With budget-friendly seasonal packages going as low as $200 per night, St. Pete Beach can be a great cold-weather escape.

4. Panama City Beach, Florida

The Florida gulf coast has so much to offer for families looking for a low-cost winter getaway. Even if it isn’t swimming weather, Panama City Beach offers 27 miles of coastline with sugar-white sand beaches to enjoy.

In addition to the beaches, there are also two state parks, hiking trails, fishing piers, and family attractions such as Ripley’s Believe it or Not Odditorium and Gulf World Marine Park. There is even plenty to see off-the-beach in nearby Panama City  including a family-friendly Mardi Gras.

Where to stay: Families on a budget can find affordable beach rentals from Royal American Beach Getaways , with one to four-bedroom units averaging around $250 per night. Guests can also enjoy free perks like drinks at the Spinnaker Beach Club, a gift card to Rock’It Lanes, and discounts on area attractions.

5. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach , Alabama is home to some of my favorite beaches in the U.S. Even if it isn’t beach weather, you can enjoy dolphin cruises, kayaking, and biking, as well as ziplining at The Wharf and visits to Historic Fort Morgan and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Of course, one of my favorite activities is eating at some of the amazing Gulf Shores/Orange Beach restaurants !

These two beach towns offer plenty of affordable and family-friendly vacation rentals, from the indoor/outdoor pools and lazy river of the Caribe, to the simpler beachfront Crystal Tower. Fall and winter are the perfect time to look for a lodging deal and try out a property that may be out of budget in the summer.

6. Biloxi, Mississippi

Margaritaville Resort & Family Entertainment Center in Biloxi, Mississippi on the Mississippi gulf coast offers families a fun escape without the flight to the islands. With 371 coastal rooms and suites, many priced just under $100 mid-week and $135 on the weekends in the winter months, it is also an affordable option for families. Those prices leave plenty of room for margaritas!

Margaritaville Resort in Biloxi features a 55,000 square foot arcade, with 200 games and attractions such as the 48′ rock wall, indoor sky coaster, and sky trail ropes course. (Just note that the pool is closed in the winter.) Of course, Biloxi and nearby towns are also chock full of activities for families, such as the Infinity Science Center or Lynn Meadows Discovery Center.

7. South Padre Island, Texas

With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, South Padre Island , one of the best Texas beaches, off the southern tip of Texas is an ideal winter destination for families. This barrier island offers the unsurpassed beauty of the Laguna Madre Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Located just a few hours from Houston, San Antonio, and Austin, Texans can easily get to the island, and guests looking to fly in can do so via the Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport or McAllen International Airport.

South Padre Island offers an assortment of lodging options from beachside hotels to colorful home rentals, starting below $100 per night. South Padre Island is also popular for RVing and camping. Getting around the island is also a breeze with free transportation from the Island Metro. 

South Padre Island has activities for the whole family from sailing, fishing, windsurfing, dolphin watching, horseback riding, golf, shopping, and sandcastle building. South Padre Island offers an abundance of opportunities to get up close and personal with animals at both The Sea Turtle Inc. and South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center, and the Alligator Sanctuary. If you time things well, you may also be able to see a SpaceX rocket launch.

8. Tempe & Mesa, Arizona

There are plenty of affordable options in Mesa, Arizona, such as the Sheraton Mesa at Wrigleyville, Mesa’s located next to the Chicago Cub’s spring training stadium, and Delta by Marriott downtown.

Located between Scottsdale and Phoenix in the “Valley of the Sun”, families can enjoy the Sonoran Desert without the heat. Adventurous families can hike, cycle, and even horseback ride at the Superstition Mountain Wilderness or state parks. Kids also love a day trip to The Apache Trai l, a scenic byway with multiple stops including an old west stagecoach stop, an authentic gold mining ghost town, and the Superstition Mountain Museum.

Tempe, Arizona is another affordable choice, located just 10 minutes from the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and with a walkable downtown for a car-free vacation. There are lots of outdoor activities and things to do in Tempe that make it a great family destination. Also see things to do in nearby Phoenix .

9. Santa Maria Valley, California

Located midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco , Santa Maria Valley is an ideal home base for exploring California’s Central Coast. Nature-loving families will love exploring the great outdoors on the 13 beaches and 24 hikes within a 30-minute drive.

Families can also ride dune buggies, take bike rides, and explore the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes, before sipping a glass of local wine at one of the 34 nearby tasting rooms.

Plus, from October through February, thousands of Monarch butterflies flock to the nearby eucalyptus groves! In the slower winter season, families can find hotel rooms for just over $100 per night, making Santa Maria Valley a great budget destination.

10. Oceanside, California

Located near San Diego, Oceanside is not your over-polished Southern California resort beach town. Instead, it has a quirky vibe and its budget-friendly accommodations make it a laid-back destination that is great for families.

Nearby, families can enjoy fishing from the longest wooden pier on the west coast, whale-watching cruises, kayaking, surf lessons, helicopter tours, biking, and attractions such as the California Surf Museum and Buena Vista Nature Lagoon. With budget and family-friendly restaurants and craft breweries, there should be budget to spare for a visit to nearby Legoland.

Where to stay: The SpringHill Suites Oceanside offers suite-like rooms, ocean views, and is within walking distance to the pier and downtown for under $200 per night. And with temperatures that average in the 70s year-round, it is a great warm-weather winter getaway.

Need more ideas? Also try:

• Best Places to go for Christmas on the East Coast
• Best Christmas Hotels
• Affordable spring break ideas

PIN THIS FOR LATER

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

Find this useful? Share it!

Publish Date: December 10, 2023

4 thoughts on “25 Cheap Winter Family Vacations in the United States”

Lots of awesome suggestions here! We love Orlando in the winter. It’s cheaper, not as crowded and still pretty warm. They have some of the best family resorts in the country!

Can there be anything more fabulous for a child than New Year and Christmas in the “most Christmas city in the world” – New York? Perhaps nothing.

Santa Maria Valley is the real deal and in this time of the year with all the butterfly and wine. The post made me miss those days. Lots of love to the author. Thanks

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16 Best Winter Family Vacations — From Ski Trips to Caribbean Escapes

Here are 16 of the best winter family vacation ideas, according to travel experts.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Jedamus_Lichtbilder/Getty Images

Family vacations are a great way to bond and create shared memories to last a lifetime, and winter provides ample opportunities to get away between holiday breaks from school and long weekends. Whether you’re trying to score a deal or ready to splurge, there are plenty of destinations that bring the fun — it’s just about picking the right place to suit your vacation interests and goals. Sun worshipers should look at flights down to the Costa Rican jungle and the Caribbean island of Antigua, while avid skiers will love the domestic slopeside hotspots of Park City and Telluride. Parents keen to experience a city break with kids in tow might want to jet off to Toronto. If it works within your schedule (and maybe you have a few extra frequent flier miles to spare), it’s worth considering a long-distance trip somewhere fascinating like Siem Reap. 

Here are 16 of the best winter family vacation ideas, according to travel experts. 

Related: 22 Best Family Vacations in the U.S. That Are Perfect for Everyone — From Toddlers to Teens

Rovaniemi, Finland

Subodh Agnihotri/Getty Images

The gateway to Finnish Lapland , Rovaniemi is a real-life winter wonderland full of magical moments — from reindeer sledding to surreal views of the northern lights . Outdoor jacuzzis, ice plunges, and saunas are waiting for parents and older kids to unwind. For families looking for even more thrills, Carly Patane Moss, travel expert at Black Tomato , suggests booking a nighttime guided snowmobile excursion. At the end of a day full of Arctic adventures, curl up in a glass igloo surrounded by snowy terrain. 

Arenal, Costa Rica

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Ready to trade the cold for an action-packed family holiday somewhere warm and tropical? The epicenter of eco-adventure in Costa Rica , the area surrounding Arenal Volcano National Park is ideal for tubing, canyoning, traversing networks of hanging bridges, ziplining over forest canopies, and peeping native wildlife. “One of my absolute favorite spots for families to stay in the area, Nayara Tented Camp gives off rainforest hideaway vibes with glamping tents that have wrap-around balconies with hammocks for chilling out and sweeping views of the volcanic landscape,” says Moss. 

Park City, Utah

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

Park City is an exceedingly family-friendly destination during ski season thanks to groomed runs and lessons with skilled instructors. Besides hitting the slopes, visitors can look forward to scenic gondola rides, dog sledding, and ice skating.   Montage Deer Valley — one of Travel + Leisure readers' favorite resorts in Utah — goes all out for younger guests with the Paintbox kids club, a snow bowl for tubing, an adorable in-room camping amenity, nightly s’mores, and a bowling alley.

Bruges, Belgium

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If you’re searching for a place that’s chock-full of charm and brings history to life for kiddos, Bruges definitely ticks the boxes with its meandering canals, flake-frosted cobbled streets, and medieval architecture. A dazzling holiday destination with yuletide markets, the spirit of the season extends well past the end of December. “Regardless of what you celebrate, the city evokes that festive feeling that’s hard to replicate,” notes Moss. Without the crowds of the summer months, it’s the perfect time for families to indulge in chocolate treats and join free history walking tours.

Kaikōura, New Zealand

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Admittedly, a trip to New Zealand requires a lot of hours up in the air. But if your kids are pretty good fliers and you don’t mind dealing with time zone differences, it has a ton for families in the winter (the summer in the Southern Hemisphere). Moss recommends Kaikōura, a coastal town on the South Island that’s beloved for wildlife encounters. “Family-friendly experiences range from swimming with dolphins to whale-watching boat rides to birdwatching tours to see majestic albatross and other sea birds in their natural habitat.”

Toronto, Canada

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Toronto still buzzes with things for families to see and do all winter long. Since it’s quite cold, just remember to pack accordingly to keep everyone nice and toasty for walks along the waterfront, exploring the shops and restaurants in the vibrant Distillery District, and sightseeing. Ripley's Aquarium of Canada and Casa Loma, one of a handful of castles in North America, are favorites for little ones. When hunger strikes, head to St. Lawrence Market. Moss recommends venturing to the quaint neighborhood of Cabbagetown for sledding followed by hot cocoa. 

Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

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A safari is a once-in-a-lifetime trip for parents and kids. “Kenya’s ‘secret season’ in the winter offers a terrific value for families as compared to the Great Migration months, coupled with fewer visitors, terrific weather, and ample animal sighting,” says Moss. Travelers of all ages will go wild for the chance to spot lions, elephants, buffalos, rhinos, and various species of birds at the watering holes on daily game drives. Maasai Mara National Reserve also brims with family-friendly lodges such as Angama Mara . Pro tip: Kenya Air operates direct flights between New York City and Nairobi.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Visit Lake Geneva

Summer draws the crowds to Lake Geneva, but this Wisconsin town wows families in the cold months, too. Located just an hour from Milwaukee, it’s a quick and easy Midwest weekend getaway . Convenience aside, the spate of activities for all ages and affordable rates really win over travelers and make the town a great place to escape in the winter. Between Winterfest — the free annual event with a larger-than-life snow sculpture competition.— ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling, it overflows with frosty fun. 

Siem Reap, Cambodia

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Once you get over the long-haul flights, Siem Reap makes a lot of sense as a family vacation destination. It’s home to UNESCO-listed Angkor Wat as well as dozens of other ancient religious sites that date back to the Khmer Empire. A morning of temple hopping via tuk-tuk teaches kiddos about the distant past, and staying at a resort like Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang with a sparkling pool means having the perfect place to cool down in the balmy afternoons before going to watch Phare, the Cambodian Circus or a traditional Apsara dance performance.

Telluride, Colorado

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A favorite of outdoor enthusiasts, Colorado is well-known for its mountain towns that come alive in the winter. From top-notch skiing and snowboarding to abundant après activities, there’s certainly no shortage of adventure for families traveling to Telluride during the frosty season. “Though a pain point for some buzzy places in the Centennial State, Telluride’s proximity to multiple airports makes it one of the more accessible options for winter sports — which means more convenient flights and less time driving in the car with kids,” says Moss.

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Home to countless beautiful beaches with soft sand and clear water, Antigua aims to please families of all sizes. “It supplies incredible snorkeling around shallow coral reefs and Stingray City as well as off-shore scuba diving for teens and older,” says Moss. More on the adventure front, helicopter tours give passengers a birds-eye view of the rainforests and sparkling ocean. A trek to Shirley Heights, a former military lookout, also delivers some superb vistas. Kid-friendly resorts include Curtain Bluff and Carlisle Bay .

London, United Kingdom

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London is one of the most family-friendly cities in Europe. Melissa DaSilva, President of Trafalgar , reminds travelers that cloudy skies and some mild rain won't stop the fun in the winter. Snag tickets to a West End play, ride the London Eye, and slosh around in the many parks. “ Harry Potter fans should stop by King’s Cross Station and snap a photo at Platform 9 ¾.” Traveling with tots? The Carlton Tower Jumeirah caters to the youngest guests with curated kids’ menus and family-friendly packages . 

Orlando, Florida

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Orlando may be an obvious pick for families, but notoriety isn’t a reason to look past somewhere wonderful. Yes, there will be crowds at the various theme parks — especially during school holidays — however, it’s worth contending with queues to watch the joy on kids’ faces while they’re zipping around coasters, posing alongside Mickey and his pals, and scarfing down tasty, only-in-Disney treats. Plus, skip-the-line passes and early entry options do help cut down on the wait times, making it a magical trip for visitors of all generations. 

Related: 23 Best Things to Do in Orlando With Kids — From Theme Parks to Nature Experiences

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

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DaSilva encourages nature and adventure lovers to plan a family vacation to Grand Canyon National Park during the peaceful off-season when it’s far less busy and your chances of snapping a frame-worthy group photo are way higher. While the North Rim remains closed, the South Rim is open with hiking trails for all skill levels and the chance to spot wildlife, from elk to ravens. “It’s particularly mesmerizing to soak in the spectacular views of snow-covered banded rock formations and the valleys below from scenic lookouts.”

Alentejo, Portugal

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Alentejo might not be the first spot to spring to mind as a winter destination, but that doesn’t mean Portugal’s agrarian heartland isn’t a great place to travel with the whole crew during the quiet months of December, January, and February. Families can do cork tours, visit Badoca Safari Park, and book a farm stay. Herdade da Malhadinha Nova , a Relais & Châteaux property on a working farm, has spacious accommodations, animals — horses, cows, and pigs — and an acclaimed restaurant with a stash of coloring books and pencils for kiddos. 

Reykjavik, Iceland

An easy, affordable flight from the East Coast of the United States, Reykjavik is an awesome city for families that puts action and adventure within reach. The coastal capital is a hub of Icelandic culture that’s home to the glass-domed Perlan interactive nature museum and the concrete Hallgrimskirkja church as well as casual and fine-dining restaurants. It’s also a great jumping-off point for day trips to Gullfoss Falls and the geothermal Blue Lagoon as well as northern lights-chasing expeditions in more far-flung corners. 

Mom Knows Best: 23 Winter Family Vacations to Embrace (and Escape) the Cold

Cold weather gets a bad wrap, but anyone who lives someplace where you can get a proper winter full of snow knows that folks down south are really missing out. Face the facts — you can’t ski down a sandy beach, you never have a reason to snuggle up to a fire, and sipping hot cocoa in Florida or southern California is just plain silly.

This year, we’re embracing the season by connecting with our family travel experts — moms — to share the top winter family vacations you can plan this year.

Lake Tahoe, California

For a family ski vacation, the Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe in Truckee, California has no Tahoe rival. This luxury hotel is located on the slopes of Northstar California Resort with easy ski-in and ski-out access. The laid back Tahoe vibe makes the destination feel especially welcoming to travelers with kids. Service is attentive, but not pretentious. Rooms at the Ritz are more than spacious enough for an entire family to share. The hotel has several dining options on property, and children are welcome at even the signature restaurant, Manzanita.

Skiing and snowboarding with kids can sometimes be challenging, but the hotel helps make those logistics seem like no challenge at all. A ski concierge whisks skis and boards out of your hands the moment you step off the slopes. Forget long rental lines, the hotel has a full ski shop for rentals on site. Parents can even drop children off for ski school at the hotel’s back deck.

The can’t-miss highlight for families? In the winter, the hotel offers “Marshmology,” a daily afternoon s’mores tasting by the fire pits. The sugar rush is always a welcome treat after a long day on the slopes. For more adventures off the slopes, take the short hop aboard the Highlands Gondola to the Village at Northstar. The Village is home to numerous restaurants and many non-ski activities, from ice-skating to bungee trampolines and even a movie theater.  — Leslie Harvey, Trips With Tykes

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

Williamsburg, virginia.

Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg is our family’s number one choice anytime we are looking for a vacation of any length. (My oldest has even asked us to go to Great Wolf Lodge for his birthday instead of having a birthday party!) The reason is simple; the entire resort from top to bottom is designed with kids and families in mind. As a mom, I love it because for a few days I never have to tell my kids to “behave” or “be quiet.” I can let them get all their energy out, have a blast, and never worry that we’re disturbing someone because everyone else’s kids are doing the same.

Plus, can I confess? The resort brings out the kid in me, too. Every day, we start the day out by going to the pool (if you go in the morning you beat the crowd) and then in the afternoon, we hit the arcade, play mini golf, go bowling, you name it. There are so many options. By nighttime, we’re always playing Magic Quest and I love being able to let loose and run around the resort with my kids. It’s so much fun and an amazing bonding experience.

One question I’m often asked is whether little kids will enjoy the resort too, and the answer is a resounding yes. There is a story hour, dance party, balloon animals, a stuffed animal game (like a toddler-friendly alternative to Magic Quest).

One more pro tip is to bring snacks and meals you can make in the microwave, as every room has a microwave and mini-fridge. This makes taking a break to eat in the room a great cost-saving option, but also provides an excuse to take a breather if your kids get overstimulated.  — Rachel, The Analytical Mommy

Hotel Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg

Gatlinburg, tennessee.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a worthwhile destination no matter the season. In winter, visitors can enjoy the snow-peaked mountains while enjoying unique shops and experiences. Start your family’s visit by checking into the Park Vista DoubleTree hotel. The mountain view sets the stage for a memorable family trip. Lunch at one of the onsite restaurants (my husband recommends the club sandwich at the Vista Grill) then head to the lobby where the Gatlinburg trolley picks up Park Vista guests, making transport to nearby activities is a breeze.

Make Ober Gatlinburg your first stop. Accessible by aerial tramway, this mountain is full of activities from ice skating to an alpine slide. Skiing, snowboarding, and tubing are also available. The activities at Ober Gatlinburg are so plentiful that kids of all ages are able to discover something new. For a special meal, make a reservation for The Peddler Steakhouse. With its extensive salad bar and hand-cut, top-quality steaks, this restaurant is loved by locals and visitors alike.

Finish the day with a swim in the hotel’s kid-friendly indoor swimming pool. Our kids wore a path into the built-in slide while I relaxed in the spacious poolside lounge chairs. A Gatlinburg family winter vacation will be one you’ll cherish for years to come.  — Dianna Gardenhour, Savings In Seconds

The Park Vista - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel - Gatlinburg

North conway, new hampshire.

No matter the season, the Red Jacket Mountain Resort is a family favorite to visit, but especially so when the winter snow comes around. The resort is close to many of the premier ski mountains in the area, but also chock full of other amenities for non-snow lovers. The Red Jacket Mountain View has daily activities for your children, like family movie night, ceramic painting, face painting, story hour with fresh baked cookies, horse-drawn carriage rides and so much more. Not to mention, kids, teenagers, and adults love the Red Jacket Mountain Resort’s indoor water park, Kahuna Laguna with its 40,000 square feet of splish-splashing fun!

The Red Jacket Mountain View Resort is in the heart of North Conway, so you’ll be surrounded by quaint restaurants, unique little gift shops, and splurge-worthy outlets so you can shop ‘til you drop. Staying here, you’ll be close to other popular family destinations like Santa’s Village, Story Land, Conway Scenic Railroad, Clark’s Trading Post, and the Ice Castles. December is a great time to stay at the Red Jacket for their “Journey To The North Pole.” Families can enjoy being snuggled up in their pajamas, sipping hot cocoa, and nibbling cookies, all while listening to the Night Before Christmas poem.  — Beth, Real Life Mama Drama

Red Jacket Mountain View Resort

Hendersonville, north carolina.

During the school breaks, we like to take short little excursions into Western North Carolina which is just a couple hours drive from where we live in Charlotte . One of our favorite places to stay is the CedarWood Inn in Hendersonville because the town itself is central to a lot of fun activities, and the Inn is rather inexpensive with a homey, kitschy appeal.

Rooms come equipped with a fridge and microwave for storing and making snacks, and there are plenty of tasty restaurants in the area (Flat Rock Village Bakery and the Poe House, just to name a couple). The staff at the inn are very friendly and work hard to ensure you have a pleasant stay.

Hendersonville has two snow-tubing outfitters, places to ice skate, and is just a short 30-minute drive from Asheville . There are several places for skiing nearby and plenty of places to enjoy a winter hike. Chimney Rock (a 30-minute drive from the inn) is an awesome place to partake in a chilly tromp through the woods because the bare winter trees mean there are more places to snag a gorgeous view — a memorable cap on your school holiday break as a family.  — Dara Brewton Schweitzer, Like Sara But With A ‘D ‘

CedarWood Inn

Riverside, california.

My family loves to enjoy the Festival of Lights each December in Downtown Riverside. It’s about a 30-minute drove from our home, which makes it an easy location for a quick getaway with our new baby in tow. The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa host the event and is a lovely place to stay to enjoy the festivities with beautiful accommodations. The hotel boasts charming traditional décor and winding staircases. (It even has a chapel for weddings, and catching a glimpse of a bride and groom is always a treat.)

The hotel is located right in the heart of downtown and within walking distance to the nighttime street fair. The event brings out an ice-skating rink, fresh donuts, hot cocoa vendors, and Christmas shopping. The original and award-winning Casey’s Cupcakes is also located on Main Street just outside of the Spa entrance. We love that the hotel hosts a delicious Sunday brunch and has several restaurants on-site as well.

During the holidays, the hotel is always decorated with trees, ornaments, and festive garlands and there are usually carolers that walk around at night as well. It is so nice to be able to go out for a walk and quickly return to the hotel with our baby if we need to. The hours of the event give us the flexibility to come and go as we please while still having enough time to thoroughly enjoy the beauty of the getaway.  — Elise Laney, Polka Dotted Blue Jay

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa

Boone, north carolina.

When the kids are out of school for winter break, taking them to the wonderland of Boone, North Carolina provides fun, recreation, and stellar family bonding whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, tubing or just sharing a cozy mug of hot chocolate.

The Courtyard Boone is the perfect destination for winter play. It’s close to all the recreational opportunities that your family will enjoy and has super amenities, like an indoor pool if the weather doesn’t cooperate with your outdoor plans. If you’ve had enough snow, check out the Foggy Mountain Gem Mine, just a five-minute drive from the hotel. The kids will have a ball panning for gemstones and mom just might get a new piece of jewelry out of the deal.

Less than a 10-minute drive away in Blowing Rock, the Tweetsie Railroad offers a Tweetsie Christmas extravaganza on Friday and Saturday nights in November and December. Roast s’mores over an open fire, visit with Santa and step into a huge snow globe. Whether your kids are young or teenagers, the town of Boone, North Carolina a the wonderful destination for winter family fun.  — Vicki Floyd, Coupondipity

Courtyard Boone - Marriott

Intervale, new hampshire.

We love heading north to New Hampshire to our favorite spot in Intervale: the New England Inn and Lodge . The Inn offers couples-only accommodations , family lodgings (great for groups too), and if the family dog likes to accompany you on family vacations , they also offer accommodations for Fido!

Another highlight is that a number of suites feature a fireplace or jacuzzi . Our go-to favorite is the newly renovated Garden Suite, with two queen beds and a gas fireplace, along with a mini refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker. It’s like a home away from home with parking right out front.

Nestled in the heart of Mount Washington Valley, the New England Inn is the ideal spot for a family winter vacation. North of North Conway and south of Jackson, there’s plenty to do, including skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing, dog sledding, or snowmobiling and taking in the beautiful sites. There are plenty of tax-free outlets and specialty shops as well as the Cranmore Mountain, Attitash, Bretton Woods, Wildcat Mountain, and Waterville Valley resorts just a short ride away.

For dining, you can drive to the many ski resorts or check out North Conway, yet we love the quick walk over to Tuckerman’s Tavern for dinner, right on the New England Inn property. They have an amazing selection of food, featuring a gluten-free and kids menu, too. And if you enjoy a cold beer with your dinner, they have 20 brews on tap to choose from and a nice selection of wine and cocktails.

It’s only a short walk back to the cozy suite for a movie by the fire (they offer rentals at the front desk) and a nice early night to get up in time for the complimentary continental breakfast. Enjoy bagels, toast, pastries, cereal, fresh fruit, yogurts, juice, tea, and coffee in the main inn and be sure to try their delicious homemade granola, which is always fully stocked.  — Natalie McMenamin, Mamma Natty

New England Inn And Lodge

Grapevine, texas.

When you think “Christmas in Texas,” you have to remember “Everything Is Bigger In Texas.” We do Christmas big and the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center  is one of the top Christmas destinations for families for plenty of  big reasons.

The Gaylord in Grapevine (Dallas), Texas hosts tons of activities for the entire family. At Gaylord’s Lonestar Christmas you will find snow tubing, ice skating, and Santa’s Snow Throw for the older kids. There’s gingerbread house decorating, photos with Santa, Rudolph’s Holly Jolly Breakfast and stories with Mrs. Claus for the little ones.

Boasting an over-the-top indoor Christmas lights show and Ruldolph’s Ice show featuring huge ice sculptures, the Gaylord is truly a place for everyone to immerse themselves in the full holiday experience. The resort’s property is expansive with accommodations for families of all sizes. Our favorites rooms are the atrium view rooms that look out onto the atrium where the Christmas tree and lights are displayed inside. The rooms are cozy and spacious, but during the holiday season, the last thing you’ll be doing is hanging out inside. Visit the Gaylord Texan from November to January to experience a one of a kind “Lonestar Christmas”!  — Jessica Conner, Grace and Ford

Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center

Manchester, vermont.

Right after Thanksgiving, The Equinox transforms itself into a winter wonderland. The grand hotel is at the base of a mountain, and with the evergreen trees, it’s right out of a winter holiday painting.

The National Historic Landmark is right in Manchester, Vermont surrounded by fantastic downhill skiing. There are also cross-country and snowshoe trails, and venues for ice skating and tubing. After a day of outdoor activities, you can relax in the warm indoor pool and hot tub. We also took our kids on a magical sleigh ride through the snowy woods and then back to the resort to cozy up next to the fireplace.

There are several places to eat in the hotel and you can walk into town for a wider variety. When the kids get older, they might like to wander around the designer outlets or antique shops. The luxury hotel was recently renovated but still has plenty of charming rustic touches. We enjoyed a large room with two queen beds, but there are also suites available for families who need more space during their winter family vacation.  — Judy Antell, Wheels and Eats

The Equinox, a Luxury Collection Golf Resort & Spa, Vermont

Chittenden, vermont.

Our favorite picture-perfect winter getaway is the Mountain Top Inn & Resort in Chittenden, Vermont. It holds a special place in our hearts because we got married at Mountain Top, and we put kids on our invite list, so we know it’s perfect for families!

In terms of the best activities, there’s cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and my two family favorites, ice skating, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. My kids also love the pool, hot tub, and the gift shop.

What’s really cool is that you can choose between standard hotel rooms, cabins, or even entire guest houses that you can share with other families. Once it snowed so much that we took sleds to breakfast down the hill from our house.

Our favorite place to stay is The Jewel, which has cozy fireplaces in every bedroom and is wonderfully modern. At night, curl up with a book or play some billiards.  — Tamara Bowman, Tamara Camera Blog

Mountain Top Inn & Resort

Breckenridge, colorado.

Each winter we make our way to Breckenridge, Colorado to stay at the Crystal Peak Lodge . Crystal Peak Lodge is the perfect home away from home for families. It has that upscale lodge feel that you seek when visiting Colorado, but with all the luxurious amenities of home. Large separate bedrooms for everyone to have their own space, cozy living rooms, and well-equipped kitchens — ideal for coming home to after a long day on the slopes.

The lodge is located right off the base of Breckenridge Ski Resort’s Peak 7, and is quite close to the BreckConnect Gondola and Independence Superchair. One of the best things about the resort is that there are so many activities within the property. The Recreation Center has a large pool with waterslides and some amazing art classes. You can also sign up for snowmobiling, Jeep tours, and more.

One of our favorite things to do is hop on the complimentary shuttle from the resort to walk around the town of Breckenridge. My kids love heading there in the evenings when it’s all lit up with twinkling lights. While we’re there we can’t seem to get by without at least one visit to Downstairs at Eric’s, a lively pizza restaurant full of fun arcade games that the whole family loves.  — Jen Giambalvo & Carrie Beth Posener, The Magnolia Mamas

Crystal Peak Lodge

Big bear, california.

When wintertime travels make their way into your schedule, a great place to vacation is in Big Bear, California. You can find a beautiful home away from home tucked back in the pristine snowy mountains close to skiing, sledding, snowboarding, and endless hot cocoa.

When we go to Big Bear, we stay at the Goldmine Lodge . It’s close to the lake, it’s close to the summit, and the cabins have an authentic, rustic feel to them. The free parking and the free WiFi are an added bonus, and the guys will love getting into a competitive game of volleyball on the premises. They also have barbecues for those sunny days and a large outdoor area for building snowmen and having snowball fights.

Even though it has an isolated cabin vibe, you’re still close to the city and all amenities, so running to the store for groceries or drinks is no problem. Our family always has an amazing time when we visit Big Bear. It’s the best spot for making family memories in the winter.  — Cate Rosales, Sweet and Simple Life

Goldmine Lodge

Park city, utah.

Park City proved itself to be a marvelous winter destination for families after we spent the Christmas holidays at Hotel Park City, Autograph Collection . The room is equipped with a kitchenette, private bedroom, and a steamy hot tub on the patio.

The hotel has abundant amenities, like game boards in the lobby, a baby grand piano, and twinkling holiday decorations in every corner. From cross-country skiing right on the hotel premises to snow tubing at Gorgonza park, there is so much to do as a family in Park City. One of our favorite activities was The Viking Yurt, an event that began with a 25-minute sleigh ride up 1,800 feet with incredible views of the night sky and the mountains. You’re taken to a Yurt where you’re served a traditional Nordic dinner along with live entertainment. (They also pass around hats, horns, and mask for dress up, which the kids adored!)

We also enjoyed skiing, dining around town, and diverse entertainment on Main Street. Park City really is the ultimate family destination.  — Evelyn Hernandez, Healthy Fit Couple

Park City Autograph Collection

Fairlee, vermont.

Nestled inside a ring of mountains in Vermont sits Lake Morey, and what happens on that lake every winter is nothing short of classic, simple joy in its purest form. Lake Morey Resort in Fairlee, Vermont sits next to this gorgeous lake, and as the temperatures plummet and the lake freezes over, the resort can be found abuzz with family-friendly activities.

Our family of four spent a January weekend there and had a wonderful time. Our rooms were spacious and the beds were comfortable, plus the lake view made for truly epic scenery.

Walk out of your comfy, well-appointed room and enjoy a hearty breakfast in the resort’s restaurant. (We ate breakfast and dinner at the resort and give the dining two thumbs up for both variety and quality.) After fueling up, bundle up and head outside to the skate shack to rent some ice skates or perhaps a sled. The frozen lake is your playground!

Enjoy skating (there is even a trail that, and weather/ice conditions permitting, you can skate around the entire lake) or play some ice hockey like it originally was played. Other winter activities offered include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and sleigh rides.  — Devon W, Mama Cheaps

Lake Morey Resort

Colorado springs, colorado.

Say the words “Colorado winter” and chances are visions of powdery snow blanketing miles of ski runs throughout the state’s Rocky Mountains will come to mind. But what if your family isn’t into skiing or boarding, not to mention paying steep winter resort prices? Simply head to the legendary Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, roughly 71 miles south of Denver. A 20th-century property combining old-world European craftsmanship with Old West charm, set at the base of majestic Cheyenne Mountain, this pink-stucco enclave known as the “Grand Dame of the Rockies” has hosted the likes of dignitaries and magnates since its 1918 debut.

Families will feel as welcome here as any celebrity, particularly in winter, when room rates drop to roughly half of high-season rates. Guests can select from a variety of complimentary weekend activities and classes throughout winter, from dance and fitness classes to fly-casting instruction, cooking demonstrations and more. Swim in the indoor pool, open year-round; bowl at PLAY, the resort’s activity and dining area, complete with six bowling lanes and a variety of games including Xbox and Wii; or venture next door to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo to feed the giraffes.

Brave the chilly outdoor temperatures for fat-biking, snowshoeing or geocaching, or enjoy one of the resort’s most unique experiences — falconry lessons with new female master falconer Deanna Curtis. A winter wonderland awaits in one of the Centennial State’s most scenic settings.  — Heather Mundt, Momfari

The Broadmoor

Seaside, oregon.

Being a native Oregonian, a wintertime getaway means storm watching season . During the summer we have beautiful, mild weather, but winter is perfect for curling up with a blanket and a warm cup of coffee and watching the crashing waves, wind, and rain roll in. Anywhere along the Oregon coast is ideal to view this seasonal treat, but I prefer to go to Seaside, Oregon. This quaint town is great for settling in and feeling like a local.

Once you check in at the Rivertide Suites , all the food, activities, and amusement for family fun is well within a short walk. The oceanfront property is plentiful, which is particularly important for storm watching.

At the Rivertide Suites you will find full suites with a kitchen, dining room, living room, and cozy fireplace. The design and layout of the space make it feel especially spacious and comfy. We stayed in a room with a queen bed but were also able to pull the couch out for additional guests. The hotel is very clean, convenient, and a fantastic home for your little winter storm watching adventure.  — Amber Brault, Dazzling Daily Deals

Rivertide Suites

Escape the cold.

Even the Redmond Gerards and Chloe Kims among us need a break from the cold and a weekend (or more) under the sun with a little sand and ocean-based therapy. With that in mind, we also asked our mom experts to share their favorite winter family vacations far from the snow.

Cancún, Mexico

The Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach in Cancun is our go-to escape from the NYC winter weather. Not only do they have the most incredible kids club we’ve ever seen, but the staff is super friendly and the property is gorgeous. The pools go on for days and the beach is immaculate. It’s also in the heart of the hotel zone, so you’re just steps away from shopping and restaurants as well as the ferry to Isla Mujeres.

From the moment we set foot in the hotel’s lobby, we were immediately transported to vacation mode as we gazed out over the ocean and the resort’s impeccably manicured grounds. The hotel’s oversized rooms are perfectly suited for families as they contain both a sleeping area and step-down living room. On those occasions when we’ve stayed on the Grand Club level, we’ve been treated to additional amenities, such as access to a private lounge complete with VIP check-in and check-out, complimentary beverages, and culinary presentations throughout the day.

Grand Club service extends to the beach area, where you’ll find an exclusive seating section, as well as a sundeck with complimentary beverages and culinary presentations. My kids never fail to delight in exploring the sprawling pool complex that stretches nearly the entire length of the hotel. With three swim-up bars, protected shallow areas for little ones to wade and splash around, and numerous mid-pool sun loungers, the Coral Beach pool complex is truly a sight to behold. A few steps down from the pool area is a pristine beach area where kids can spend hours splashing in the ocean, bodysurfing, building sandcastles, or just relaxing under one of the shaded palapas.

Beyond the beach and pool, there’s plenty of other fun to be had at the Grand Fiesta Americana, including a well-appointed fitness center, a Gem Spa boasting a 10-step hydrotherapy ritual, a small outdoor play structure, and our greatest vacation find of all time — the Coral Kidz Club, which offers so many activities that my kids typically ask to spend the entire afternoon there and have even been known to stay on for the evening programming. From cooking classes to crafts to dramatic play to video games and more, the club really is non-stop fun. The Coral Kidz Club recently added an outdoor water park component, which was a big hit with my kids on our last visit.

The Grand Fiesta Americana isn’t all-inclusive, but they do have several on-site restaurants and kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entree, so it definitely makes for an affordable vacation. My kids were particularly enamored with the hotel’s elaborate breakfast buffet, where you’ll find a whirlwind of options, including a custom omelet station, Mexican specialties, Japanese breakfast staples, a smoothie bar, and more.  — Monica Storch, Macaroni Kid Manhattan East Side

Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun - All Inclusive

Fort myers beach, florida.

Who doesn’t want to build a sand castle instead of shovel snow? Located on the west coast of Florida, this area is ideal for a family getaway, and the Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina is the best resort to ensure activities for every member of your family.

The resort has so much to do you that you might never want to leave the resort. Multiple times a week they offer movie nights at the pool with a selection that caters to younger kids as well as teens and adults. Want to play some games? Head to the on-site arcade or stumble upon the many games scattered throughout the resort, like life-sized connect four, checkers boards, table tennis, corn hole, and more. There are also daily activities including arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, beach volleyball, shaved ice, and bingo.

What’s a Florida winter vacation without the beach? Pink Shell sits right on the beach and offers free lounge chairs and umbrellas for guests. They also offer free water sports, such as kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. For an additional fee, you can rent jet-skis, parasail, or even go on a dolphin tour.

If you prefer the pool over the beach, there a multiple to choose from, including a splash pad dedicated to the resort’s youngest guests. Outside of the resort you can visit Lover’s Key State Park to canoe through the mangroves or go for a mild hike. Take a quick drive over the bridge to Sanibel Island, rent a bike and hit the trail to the Sanibel Lighthouse. (Cool down at the beach afterward!) You can also go fishing or take part in Sanibel Island’s world famous shell collecting.  — Monet Hambrick, The Traveling Child

Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina

San diego, california.

Whether you’re looking for a place for out of town guests to stay or a holiday vacation, the Rancho Bernardo Inn is a great option. We stayed during the inn’s December Days and Nights event, and immediately upon check-in, we were greeted by carolers to get us in the holiday spirit.

Guests and locals alike have made the Rancho Bernardo Inn a place to stop on their holiday list because of the life-size gingerbread house. We couldn’t believe the detail of this candy palace! After, we headed to the December Nights event, where we decorated gingerbread ornaments while grandma and grandpa took our little guy on the train.

If you need a break from the holiday festivities, the Rancho Bernardo Inn has a pool for families and one for adults . It’s also home to the 18-hole San Diego Championship Golf Course and an unforgettable spa. If your family is craving even more local fun, the inn is close to the famous San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, beaches, and Legoland.  — Mei Ling, Family Entourage

Rancho Bernardo Inn

Playa del carmen, mexico.

One of the best ways to enjoy winter is by immersing yourself in nature and ancient Mayan history in a unique all-inclusive resort in Playa del Carmen called Sandos Caracol Eco Resort . There’s something for everyone in the family, from swimming in the clear fresh waters of the natural sinkhole in the jungle or lounging on the beach to petting the farm animals at the resort’s mini farm or spending a day at the full-size water park.

Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, this resort has attractions to keep the entire family entertained throughout their stay with eco-activities, games, and sports all day. Lunch and dinner are always something to look forward to after burning all that energy thanks to an excellent selection of bars, fine dining restaurants, and delicious buffets serving mouth-watering cuisine all day.

The fun doesn’t stop after the day ends. Evenings at the resort are filled with excitement and entertainment with nightly Maya performances set in gorgeous natural locations. Also, mom and dad can enjoy a couples pampering session at the luxurious Spa del Mar and discover a variety of relaxing treatments.  — Arushi, The Snazzy Mom

Select Club At Sandos Caracol All Inclusive - Adults Only Area

Koloa, hawaii.

We tried to convince ourselves to plan a white Christmas for a while, but we’ve finally embraced it. We’re just warm weather people! That’s why we love planning winter trips to places like Kauai, where the average high in December is in the 70s. The Garden Island is small, but incredibly diverse thanks in part to the varied climate.

We opted to stay in the sunny southern part of Kauai at the Koloa Landing Resort at Po’ipu, Autograph Collection . There are tons of fun activities at the resort including pools, waterslides, lawn games, and volleyball. Your kids might be begging you just to hang out at the resort!

The spacious rooms at the resort include a kitchenette, convenient for making a quick breakfast, a packed lunch for hikes, or for just having food on hand when someone needs a midnight snack. We also appreciated the washer and dryer in the unit. With muddy treks to waterfalls and sand getting everywhere, it was nice to give our clothes a quick wash right in the hotel room.

Staying at the Koloa Landing Resort in Po’ipu gives you easy access to exploring the most amazing sights in Kauai. Take the family for a hike through Waimea Canyon, dubbed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, or up through Kōkeʻe State Park where the lookouts onto the Na Pali Coast are almost too beautiful to be real.

Whether your family likes surfing, snorkeling or sunbathing, there are plenty of beautiful beaches like Po’ipu and Shipwreck’s just a few minutes away by car. Drive a bit further to Kauai’s north shore to visit Hanalei Bay, Tunnels Beach or hike the first few miles of the Kalalau trail along the Na Pali Coast.  — Kelly Barcus, No Man Before

Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection

Hollywood, florida.

We had a wonderful winter stay at the Diplomat Beach Resor t in Hollywood, Florida. They have a kids’ club, on-site ice cream parlor, spa (with kids’ treatments as well), room service, and of course, pools and the beach!

My daughter is usually pretty apprehensive about kids’ clubs or babysitting services on vacation, but she didn’t want to leave when I came to pick her up. We had a relaxing experience at the spa, and my gel manicure lasted for weeks. For dining, there were so many delicious restaurant options, you can literally eat at a new restaurant each day of your stay. Every restaurant was welcoming to kids and had diverse menus with a variety of options at different price points. (There were options for picky eaters as well if that’s something you deal with.)

Our room was spacious and the connecting window between the bathroom and bedroom allows parents to prepare in the morning or bathe one child while keeping an eye on the rest. There was additional seating for leisurely mornings and the view from the balcony was stunning. The beach was well-maintained and lounge chairs come with your resort fee. There are also cabanas for rent which is nice if you have mixed-age groups and one child needs to nap while the others want to stay in the pool.

Breakfast room service was also top-notch and great for slow mornings with kids. The Diplomat was a welcome (hot) break in the cold winter and gave our family that much-needed dose of Vitamin D.  — Jennifer Tammy, Sugar, Spice and Glitter

Diplomat Beach Resort Hollywood, Curio Collection by Hilton

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24 Best Winter Family Vacations in the USA

Seeking out the best family vacation destinations to enjoy within the USA this winter – no passport required!

Winter to you might mean family dinners, hot drinks, a warm fireplace, and Christmas mornings. It could also mean the best time to travel and explore unique locations with your family.

The traditional cold season, December to February, is a great time to plan your winter family getaway. You can avoid peak season crowds and nab great deals on your flights and accommodation. Equally, you can enjoy outdoor adventures that may be too hot to fully appreciate with kids in tow at the peak of summer.

Traveling during the winter is also a fantastic opportunity to enjoy festivals and events held only during the winter season – from ice castles and Christmas markets to the best of snow sports, tubing, and sledding in the country’s best ski resort destinations .

If the cold isn’t your thing, luckily, the vast size of the USA and its territories means you can always find somewhere year-round boasting sunshine and warm days. What is better than having a ‘summer vacation’ experience during winter?

This post is part of our series Discover the USA – pop on over for plenty more US Vacation Ideas

Best winter destinations in the usa.

So, first up – what’s your goal in winter travel? Are you looking to catch the festive lights and find unique places to visit in December in USA with family? Test out your skiing skills in the mountains? Or are you seeking a little reprieve from the winter and want to head somewhere warm and beachy?

Here’s our handy guide to finding the many vacation spots for snow and seeking the sun across the country. Read on for more details on what to expect from climate to kids activities at each.

Big Sky, Montana

Breckenridge, colorado, lake tahoe, california/nevada, mount hood, oregon, stowe, vermont, yosemite national park, california, lake geneva, wisconsin, gatlinburg, tennessee, sequoia & kings canyon national parks, california, new york city, new york, beaver creek, colorado, boston, massachusetts, fairbanks, alaska, canaan valley, west virginia, adirondacks, new york, palm springs and joshua tree national park, california, us virgin islands, san diego, california, clearwater beach, florida, big island, hawaii, orlando, florida, disneyland, anaheim, california, key west, florida, san juan, puerto rico.

Climate in Winter: Expect winter daytime temperatures of 30°F (-1°C) and lows overnight down to 7°F (-14°C )

With over 400″ of snow falling annually, Big Sky in Montana is a winter family vacation favorite for snowsport enthusiasts. Excellent ski conditions are nearly guaranteed, and there’s less traffic here than some of the larger resorts – meaning fewer lines and more ski time!

Alongside Moonlight Basin, connected by ski chair, Big Sky boasts more than 5,850 acres of skiable terrain. Big Sky also claims to be one of the best-connected ski resort towns in the US, with over 30 daily direct flights to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN).

Even if you’re not avid skiers, there’s still plenty of exciting winter family fun to be had at Big Sky. Look for sleigh rides, cross-country skiing, snow tubing, and guided snowshoe tours. The resort also offers ski lessons in Big Sky , Basecamp for Kids and Basecamp for Teens activities such as zip-lining, laser tag, bungee trampoline giant swing, and a climbing wall.

Big Sky Resort is also close to Yellowstone National Park, another incredible choice for winter family exploration. It is much quieter than in summer, but many parts become inaccessible by car, so be prepared to jump on a snowmobile. The only part that remains open year-round is Mammoth Hot Springs, which provides for a spectacular winter experience.

Where to stay: A luxury pick if the budget will stretch is Big Sky Resort Village Center , or try Huntley Lodge at Big Sky Resort

Climate in Winter: Expect highs of 28°F (-1°C) and overnight lows of 15°F (-7°C)

Home to the best hot chocolate in the world, this unique Colorado mining town is an excellent location for your family’s winter vacation. Featuring charming streets, play areas for kids, museums, and a world-renowned ski resort, your family will have lots of activities to explore during your winter vacation.

Rent a carriage and explore the small town, or go on a snowcat tour. There are many ice sculpting contests, indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks, and snowshoe hiking to keep you entertained for days. A gondola ride to the base of Peak 8 is a must.

In addition to the excellent winter vacation and entertainment conditions, Breckenridge is also a great place to live. If you plan to move with your family to that area, you won’t regret it. Find the best moving company in your area and start your new life in a city rich in history, beauty, culture, and fresh air.

Where to stay: With a family group, you can ski door to door staying in a condo such as Trails End 414 , or for a luxury resort treat in the snow, try Marriott’s Mountain Valley Lodge at Breckenridge .

Climate in Winter: Expect at the coolest point of winter highs of 30°F (-1°C) and lows overnight down to 16°F (-9°C)

Nestled in the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe rounds out our list of winter wonderlands in the USA. It is undoubtedly one of the best destinations in the US for a winter family vacation, combining the majestic beauty of the festive season with sensational snowy slopes to explore with skis, snowboards, sledding, or snowshoeing.

For those looking for a quieter pace, scenic gondola rides offer breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-blanketed landscape. Off the slopes, the towns around Lake Tahoe dazzle with festive lights, and local events, from holiday markets to winter festivals, ensure there’s never a dull moment.

Where to stay : This is the ideal place to book yourselves a cozy cabin such as these in Incline Village , or for a luxury resort with all the festive trimmings, try Northstar California Resort , one of the best family ski resorts in North America.

Climate in Winter: Expect winter highs around 32°F (-10°C) and overnight to 5°F (-15°C)

Mount Hood is very much a four-season area close to Portland, Oregon but is most famous as a popular winter destination for families in the Pacific North West .

Mt Hood offers three skiing and snowboard resort areas within 20 minutes of each other – Meadows, Ski Bowl & Timberline. Two smaller ski resorts at Cooper Spur and Summit Ski can also be found.

There are a few things that make Mount Hood uniquely; Timberline is famous for being the only year-round destination for snowsports in the northwest, while Ski Bowl is known for its floodlit night skiing opportunities, the largest of its kind in the USA!

You’ll also find a number of areas around Mt Hood for tubing and sledding; these will require a Sno-Park Pass.

Where to stay: Try Cooper Spur Mountain Resort for a family group or Timberline Lodge with ski to door access and outdoor heated pool kids will love!

Climate in Winter: Expect highs of 18°F (-8°C) and lows overnight down to 1°F (-17°C)

Winter is one of the best times to visit Stowe in Vermont . It is a quiet village, making it one of the best places for family vacations in winter. One of the country’s oldest ski resort towns, recent additions include an on-mountain Kids Adventure Zone with gentle slopes and freestyle terrain purpose-built for learning – making it an ideal spot for beginners.

We recommend spending some time exploring the Stowe Recreation Path. This 5.3-mile path will take you through the valley to the West Branch of Little River. The trail is well-groomed even during winter and is perfect for snowshoers, cross-country skiers, hikers, and bikers. Be sure to make some stops at the restaurants along the way. There, you can enjoy a warm meal and keep warm with an array of hot beverages.

Twilight dogsledding tours, sleigh rides, and snowmobile tours through the Mt. Mansfield State Forest are some of the other winter options in Stowe.

Where to stay: It’s hard to go past The Lodge at Spruce Peak for that winter wonderland experience, on a smaller budget staying nearby you could try Green Mountain Inn

Don’t miss our winter ski trip packing list if you’re planning to head somewhere cold!

Climate in Winter: Expect highs of 48°F (9°C) and lows down to 28°F (-2°C) in midwinter

Although Yosemite National Park is popularly known as a summer destination, it is even more awe-inspiring in the winter. Visiting Yosemite during your family winter vacation, expect to see frozen waterfalls, frost-coated trees, crispy snowy reflections, and valleys blanketed in white. It is a magical sight to behold.

With fewer crowds, lower prices, lots of outdoor activities, and the appearance of more wildlife, Yosemite National Park is one of the best winter family vacations. Your kids will love exploring the cold and engaging in skiing, zip-lining, snowboarding and snowshoeing. Rug the kids up warm and take pleasure in enjoying stargazing on dark winter nights.

Whilst some of the usual family hiking trails in Yosemite may be closed, why not enjoy backcountry ski tours, snowshoeing, snow tubing, and cross-country skiing? Badgers Pass Ski Area is a great beginner’s area; it’s the perfect Northern California spot for families with small children just starting with snow sports.

Where to stay: Prices are must cheaper than in the summer peak, so spoil yourself at one of the lovely lodges, try Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite or Narrow Gauge Inn

Climate in Winter: Expect mid-winter highs of 28°F (-2° C ) and overnight lows 12°F (-11°C)

Lake Geneva is a winter wonderland with a four-season resort. Its unspoiled small-city charm makes it an excellent location for a winter family getaway, a place all families should visit at least once!

If your kids are fans of Frozen, they will be delighted to visit the Ice Castles . These castles have thrones, tunnels, lights, slides, and archways built with hundreds of thousands of icicles. The ice castles magically bring all your favorite winter fairytales to life.

Winterfest is also held around February each year. This event features magic shows, helicopter rides, a human-dog sled race, and the US Snow Sculpting Championship. Your family can also enjoy zip-lining, cross-country skiing, ice-skating, and many other winter outdoor activities, making this one of the best winter vacation destinations in the upper Midwest.

Where to stay: With the added bonus of an indoor waterpark, families simply can’t go past Timber Ridge Lodge and Waterpark or close to town The Cove of Lake Geneva

Climate in Winter: Expect mid-winter highs of 50°F (10°C) to overnight lows of 28°F (-2°C)

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a winter haven for families. The town sparkles under the annual Winterfest lights, turning the streets into a festive spectacle, while Ober Gatlinburg invites visitors for skiing, snowboarding, and joyful snow tubing sessions.

The snow-draped landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in winter offer a tranquil backdrop for snowshoeing and capturing the beauty of frozen waterfalls.

Downtown Gatlinburg buzzes with attractions, from the immersive Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies to panoramic views from the Space Needle. Gatlinburg combines outdoor thrills with heartfelt winter traditions, making it an ideal family getaway during the colder months.

Where to stay: The perfect place for a cozy cabin in the mountains with a hot tub! Or, for a more resort feel, try Westgate Resort with its huge indoor water park for a unique winter retreat with the kids, enjoying the best of indoors and out!

Climate in Winter: Expect daytime highs of 34°F (1°C) to overnight lows of 7°F (-14°C)

Encased in natural splendor, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park is a spectacular winter vacation location. This park is stunning in winter, featuring dense forests of colossal sequoias.

(NB 2021 KNP complex bushfire may mean some or all parts of the park remain closed this winter – save this idea for future family winter experiences)

Be ready to have your breath taken away by views of deep glacier-carved valleys and gigantic granite cliffs. You can hike through Grant Grove and enjoy views of the General Grant or explore it on horseback. You will also get to see the Nation’s Christmas Tree , the second-largest tree in the world.

Where to stay: Nearby, try Sequoia Resort , or deep in the park, Wuskcashi Lodge is the most comfortable stay for families.

Climate in Winter: Expect December highs of 45°F (7°C) down to 32°F (0°C) overnight

There is something truly magical about a family trip to New York City in winter. For families looking to enjoy the festive spirit of winter in the city, New York City is the best location. Think Christmas lights, mouth-watering aroma of delicious winter treats, Christmas trees all over the city and well-lit, brightly decorated holiday windows.

Be sure to check out the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and take memorable family pictures. You can also head on to Central Park and enjoy a fun time playing in the crisp white snow, or try some ice skating while making priceless memories with your family.

New York City also boasts many Broadway shows, sporting matches, music events and family-friendly restaurants – it’s a year-round city with something special to enjoy in every season but Christmas certainly adds something magical to the Big Apple.

Where to stay: Roxy Hotel New York can be a great family choice in Lower Manhattan, or at Midtown Fifty Hotel & Suites by Affina is a great choice for larger families with small serviced apartment options

Climate in Winter: Expect winter highs of 28°F (-2°C) and lows 5°F (-15°C)

The Beaver Creek Resort is a hub of exciting winter sports and one of the best winter vacations for families. Every December, athletes and spectators from around the world gather to participate and experience the world’s premier ski events.

The Beaver Creek Resort spans over 1800 acres. This space ranges from steep bumps to gentle slopes and is an excellent landscape for skiers of all levels. There are other hiking trails along the edge of the village for those who love to explore.

Outside of winter sports, Beaver Creek also offers other fun, family-friendly activities, such as a children’s museum and a performing arts center where different events are held during winter.

Where to stay: For a truly luxurious mountain ski resort experience Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort , or for something a little more budget-friendly (this area is not cheap!) try The Christie offering family suites

You can find more incredible Colorado ski resort ideas in our guide to North American Ski Resorts for Families .

Climate in Winter: Expect midwinter highs of 37°F (3°C) to overnight lows 23°F (-5vC)

Filled with history, great food, and amazing people, Boston is another bubbly winter vacation for families looking to explore an East Coast city this winter .

Boston in the winter is a real thrill as there are tons of fun attractions for both kids and adults. You could go ice skating on the Boston Common Frog Pond or explore the Freedom Trail. You can also go shopping at the indoor Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

Take your kids to the Skywalk Observatory, where they can see the beauty of Boston from above. Heading on the road from Boston you can also enjoy magical day trips to picturesque spots such as Plymouth or Lincoln is a magical spot at Christmas.

Where to stay: Try the Revere Hotel Boston Common or Club Quarters Hotel in Boston in the heart of the action, both offer self-catering rooms for families.

Climate in Winter: Expect daytime temperatures of 0°F (-18°C) and overnight lows down to -15°F (-26°C)

If you do not mind the cold weather, you should plan a trip of a lifetime to Alaska in winter. Alaska on its own is a beautiful destination for a family vacation. However, during winter, it is even more stunning.

Due to the plummeting temperatures, visiting Alaska with small kids might not be ideal. However, it is an exciting location for adults and older kids to explore. Adventure lovers will enjoy exploring the ski races, ice skating, dog sledding tours, snowmobiles, and winter festivals.

And, of course, you would not miss the breathtaking Northern lights across the winter skies. Fairbanks is renowned as one of the best places in North America for witnessing the Northern Lights and works as a great base point for a winter trip to Alaska.

Where to stay: Aurora Villa offers family rooms with superb mountain views near Fairbanks, or get in the heart of the action Iniakuk Lake Wilderness Lodge in Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve.

Climate in Winter: Expect daytime highs midwinter of 32cF (0°C) to 18°F (-8°)

Canaan Valley is a beautiful and affordable winter destination that offers the best value to families looking to have fun. This top-notch ski resort features a 1,200-foot tubing park where you and your kids can enjoy tubing and other fun winter sports.

There is also a covered outdoor ice skating rink at the resort. Skiing lessons are available for amateur skiers, and guests here have exclusive access to the swimming pool and fitness center. You can also enjoy other winter sports, such as skating and snowboarding, at this resort, a highly recommended spot for beginners dipping their toes into winter sports on the east coast.

Where to stay: Canaan Valley Resort State Park of The Inn at Canaan are both good family choices

Climate in Winter: Expect average highs midwinter 25°F (-4°C) and lows of 5°F (-15°C)

If you have never been to the Adirondacks, you are really missing something spectacular. Rounding out our list of snowy winter wonderland destinations in the USA, the snow-covered mountains, historic sites, and beautiful landscape make the Adirondacks look like something out of a fairy tale – but it’s also extremely cold!

One of the best locations for cross-country skiing, the Adirondacks also features fun winter carnivals, dog sledding, bobsledding, hiking, snowmobiling, and winter activities for everyone. Enjoy beautiful views of frozen lakes and dazzling white trails as you explore the great outdoors.

Ever ridden a wooden toboggan across a lake? Try it at Mirror Lake , where your kids can also enjoy ice skating and other kid-friendly winter games and sports. Look out for the Lake George ice castle in this winter fairytale corner of Upstate New York .

Where to stay: For a charming winter wonderland escape try Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa or for a family group try Cobble Mountain Lodge , Lake Placid

Now, let’s head on to some slightly warmer winter destinations in the USA. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures for the whole family without the crowds seen in the summer months or simply need the sights and smells of the beach to banish the winter blues – try one of these best warm winter vacations in the USA.

Climate in Winter: Expect mild daytime highs midwinter of 70°F (21°C) to 45° F (7°C)

With its unique climate and desert scape, people come to Palm Springs not just as a sunny winter destination but also to enjoy the natural glory of Joshua Tree National Park away from the peak temperatures of the year. In fact, February is becoming one of the most popular times of the year, meaning accommodation books up!

Joshua Tree provides families with many excellent day hikes, whilst Palm Springs has many kid-friendly attractions, including the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and Children’s Museum.

Where to stay: For a luxury treat in Palm Springs, try the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel , or in Palm Desert, try the Westin Desert Willow Villas

Climate in Winter: Expect daytime highs of 82°F (28°C) and lows of 75°F (24°C)

A sunny island escape in the middle of winter without leaving the US? We’re talking about the US Virgin Islands, of course! Situated in the Caribbean, you’re only about 2 hours 20 minutes from Florida by plane or 3 hours from New York, and you won’t need passports!

The US Virgin Islands are a group of three islands – St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. If you like busy beaches, luxury resorts and enjoy your water sports, then you’ll want to base yourself in St. Thomas.

St John is perfect for families who love to hike, snorkel , and explore the great outdoors.

The US Virgin Islands remain warm throughout the winter months with seawater temperatures of 79 ° F (26 ° C).

Due to the wonderfully sunny climate, the holiday season is a peak travel season for the US Virgin Islands. You will want to book your accommodation well in advance.

Where to stay: For a relaxed family retreat on St Thomas, you could rent your own apartment with sea views in a boutique villa hotel, or for a luxury treat, try The Ritz-Carlton St Thomas

Climate in Winter: Expect mild days of 66°F (19°C) and lows down to 50°F (10°C)

San Diego is blessed with year-round warmth and magnificent beaches . Maybe it’s too cold to take a dip in midwinter – kids will want wetsuits if dipping their toes in – but still enjoyable beachfront fun can be had when visiting San Diego in the winter.

Aside from the beaches, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions to enjoy in the winter. The San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park are world-famous attractions worth getting on your itinerary in the cool of winter, whilst Balboa Park is home to nearly 20 museums and beautiful outdoor spaces.

Don’t forget you are only about 30 minutes away from Legoland, California, here too!

Warm in southern California doesn’t necessarily mean no rain. Still, you should find plenty of daylight hours to enjoy in San Diego for a wonderful mid-winter family vacation in the US.

Where to stay: Scripps Inn , La Jolla offers wonderful family suites on the beachfront, or basing yourself in Downtown, try Hotel Indigo San Diego – Gaslamp Quarter

Climate in Winter: Expect at the coolest point of winter highs of 70°F (21°C) and lows overnight down to 50°F (10°C)

One of the best warm winter family vacations in the lower 48 states, Clearwater Beach , is the perfect destination for sun-seekers who want to enjoy the Florida winter sunshine at its best on the Gulf Coast .

This three-mile beach features soft, white sands, warm winter weather, and tons of fun family activities to pick from. From stand-up paddleboarding to surfing and kayaking, there is something adventurous and fun for everyone in this Florida-favourite location.

Be sure not to miss the sunset at Pier 60, where the stunning sunset serves as a backdrop for fire eaters, musicians, and artisans performing and displaying their crafts. You can also explore the shopping district found nearby.

Many families love Clearwater Beach for its accessibility to Disney World; in fact, it’s the closest beach to Orlando on the Gulf Coast, so it makes a perfect winter pairing for families seeking a Florida escape – here’s exactly how you get from Orlando to Clearwater .

Where to stay: On a budget, try  New Hotel Collection Harborside ,  or a luxury stay, try  Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa .

Climate in Winter: Expect daytime highs of 80°C (27°C) and lows of 66°F (19°C) overnight

Another unmissable warm weather destination you should consider is Big Island, Hawaii. The largest of the Hawaiian islands, you can expect tropical warm temperatures in this picture-perfect winter vacation destination. Most famous for the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, you will find the natural diversity of Big Island incredible, from lush tropics to polar tundra!

Big Island’s beautiful beaches may not be as famous as some on O’hau , but kids will still love swimming in the beautiful tropical waters. Due to volcanic activity on the island, you can explore the uniqueness of black sand beaches, such as  Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach .

Just remember winter, especially the Christmas to New Year period, is the ultra-peak season for all of the Hawaiian islands. Expect to book winter accommodation well in advance and pay the top rate. Waiting until schools are back and deeper into January/February, you will find it much cheaper if you still want to squeeze in that mid-winter escape.

You will find Big Island far less crowded than the most popular tourist islands of Hawaii, perfect if you are looking for a family nature escape in the sunshine this winter.

Where to stay: Try Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel or for a superb and isolated retreat on Kaimu beach try Ma’ekele Lodge for something truly unique this winter

Climate in Winter : Expect daytime highs up to 73°F (23°C) and overnight lows of 50°F (10°C).

Orlando, Florida is another location that’s perfect for soaking up some winter sun with your family.

Every kid wants to go to Disney World or Universal Studios at some point in their life, and the cooler months of winter make this a much more manageable experience, especially with small children, than in the sweltering heat and humidity of summer. Take your time and mix theme park fun with other fun family activities in Orlando .

Meanwhile, don’t miss Universal Orlando off your list too. Potterheads will especially love the Wizarding World of Harry Potter; dip into some Butterbeer or Fishy Green Ale!

Just note that although the resorts and pools at Disney are open year-round with temperature-controlled water, they alternate closing the water parks for annual maintenance over winter. Check in advance when these closures will occur if you have winter water parks on your mind.

Where to stay: Staying at any onsite resort at Disney World or Universal may cost more, but the savings and convenience can undoubtedly add up – or stay at a hotel with a shuttle to the theme parks . Disney heats all its pools in winter, but we love the setting of the thermal springs at Copper Creek Springs , Disney Wilderness Lodge. At Universal, try Loews Sapphire Falls Resort .

Don’t miss our complete guide to Orlando with toddlers | And the best of Orlando with Teens & Tweens

Climate in Winter: Expect daytime highs of 70°F (21°C) to overnight lows of 46°F (8°C)

If Florida is not possible for you, head on to another fairy tale destination – Disneyland in Anaheim, southern California for some winter theme park action.

This magical location is a sure hit for kids as they will enjoy several special events. Some special winter events held here include food festivals, Santa’s Visit to the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, and other themed music festivals. These events are suitable for all ages.

The weather here is also amazing during winter, with very low rainfall and crisp clear days ahead. Beyond Disneyland, explore more of Greater Los Angeles with the kids , or try some of the nearby beaches to Disneyland – maybe not swimming weather but plenty of fun in the sun.

Where to stay: Disneylands Grand California Hotel & Spa is always a favorite, but if the budget doesn’t stretch, no issue staying off-site; we like self-catering accommodation options such as Homewood Suites by Hilton

Climate in Winter: Expect highs of 75°F (24°C) and overnight lows down to 66°F (19°C)

A classic sunny escape for families in the US looking for some eternal winter sun . Key West is one of those places families go to avoid the winter months cold, snow, and rain. The island is known for its tropical climate and is one of the best winter family vacations.

Key West, at the very tip of the Florida Keys, sits around 3.5 hours away from Miami, though the road trip that gets you there makes for the highlight of your winter trip to Florida. At the end of your road trip, you’ll find the delightful township of Key West and the Historic Seaport.

This is one of the best road trips in the country, and the views along the way are nothing short of stunning. Your road trip will start at Everglades National Park and then take you through many attractions, including the Turtle Hospital, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the Rain Barrel Artisan Village, and the History of Diving Museum. 

With lots of fun island activities like scuba diving, snorkeling , sailing, fishing, and kayaking, your family is sure to have the time of their lives while everyone is shivering and wrapping up in blankets.

Where to stay: For a relaxed family retreat on the beachfront, try Coconut Palms , or for a luxury treat, try Santa Maria Suites Resort

Climate in Winter: Expect highs of 83°F (28°C) and overnight lows down to 70°F (21°C)

This Caribbean gem is more than just pristine beaches and turquoise waters; it’s a tapestry of rich history, vibrant culture, and exhilarating activities suitable for all ages. The historic district of Old San Juan, with its colorful colonial buildings and cobblestone streets, transports visitors back in time, offering an interactive history lesson for curious kids and adults alike.

Adventurous families can explore the lush El Yunque Rainforest , take a mesmerizing nighttime kayak trip in bioluminescent bays, or discover underwater wonders through snorkeling excursions.

Combine these unique experiences with the genuine warmth of the Puerto Rican people, and it’s easy to see why San Juan is a top winter destination for US families looking for a warm adventure – sans passport as Puerto Rico remains a US Territory.

Where to stay: in the heart of the old city, try the Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel , or for something truly unique, the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel offers beachfront access at one of the city’s grandest buildings.

More USA Family Vacation Ideas

We have plenty more vacation inspiration guides within the USA to keep your family busy year-round. Whether it’s beaches you crave or outdoor exploring, why not try:

• Best Family Beaches on the East Coast
• The Best Family Beaches Along the Gulf Coast
• 20 Best Places for Families to Visit in Oregon
• Exploring the West Coast of the USA
• Escape to the Beaches of O’ahu, Hawaii
• Why Alaska makes the ultimate outdoor family destination

If it’s more winter fun you’re looking for, why not look across the pond to the best ski resorts for families in Europe , the best places to visit in Europe in December (think traditional Christmas markets!), or if you like it warm, the best destinations in Europe for some winter sun !

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Disclosures: This page contains links to some of our favorite tour and accommodation providers. As affiliates of these businesses, we may earn a commission on qualifying purchases. Our disclosures, privacy policy and website terms of use can be found here .

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North America Travel , Travel Inspiration

23 exceptional winter family vacations in the us you and your kids will love (snow + winter sun ideas).

Our selection of the best winter family vacations in the US, perfect for a family winter getaway: inspiration for winter family vacations in the snow, hiking and winter sun holidays in the US perfect for all ages!

What is your dream winter family vacation?

A winter wonderland family break with snow and hot chocolate, a sun-filled vacation to leave the winter blues behind or maybe something in between, like a hiking vacation with the kids? 

If you cannot decide, I am with you!

This is why in this list of ideas for winter family getaways in the U.S., I have listed a mix of vacation ideas ranging from ski holidays to beach winter vacations.

I have gathered these vacations ideas on the base of our own family experience and of US based friends who are lucky enough to have these marvellous destinations as their backyard!

I hope it helps you plan (or even just daydream) about a family winter vacation to remember.

Safe travel planning! 

Table of Contents

The best winter destinations in the USA for families who love snow – our picks

If you are looking for a winter wonderland family destination in the US, you will love the following suggestions.

Vail, Colorado with kids

Vail is a great town for a winter family vacation with the kids. 

The famous Vail slopes will keep busy the more experienced skiers in the group; however, there are plenty of family activities in Vail in the winter that makes it perfect even for families with small kids or beginner skiers.

If you want to immerse yourself in the snowy wonderland of Vail, you can go winter hiking, snowshoeing, snow tubing and ski biking, all activities that will keep even the most adventurous kids entertained. 

If you have toddlers and very small kids, they will love spending time at Imagination Station, Vail’s children’s museum.

Here, kids ages 2 to 12 find a great indoor play area with kids’ hands-on installation and easy access to kids’ activities such as pottery making and science projects.  

The whole family is guaranteed to love Vail’s stunning hotels and the many opportunities to cozy up in front of the fire with chocolate and marshmallows. 

Vail is perfect when it comes to winter family getaways in the U.S. to embrace the snow!

Ski and relax in stunning Park City, Utah, with kids

We first visited Park City on our way to Bryce Canyon , and we fell in love with its stunning mountains and scenery, which seemed painted in blue and green hues.

Park City is known for its world-class ski resorts and has many perfect activities for families with kids.

Here, you can go snowmobiling, dog sledding, ice skating, snow tubing, and you can even swim in the Homestead Crater Geothermal Pool!

The town of Park City is lovely too: pretty and very well organized, and it has plenty to keep kids occupied away from the slopes.

Things they are sure to enjoy are the Park City escape room, Kimball’s art center offerings of kids classes and the Rocky Mountains chocolate factory, perfect for a chocolate and pie break!   

Mount Hood, Oregon

Mount Hood is one of the best places to visit in Oregon with kids all year round and this includes the winter, when the places turns into a veritable winter wonderland for children and adults alike!

In Mount Hood, kids can go skiing, sledding, snowboarding, cosmic snowtubing (aka tubing at night, with the snow lit up with led lights in different colors!).

During the Christmas season, you can also catch the Mount Hood Christmas train, a Christmas-themed magical rail journey through this beautiful area!

Perfect for a Christmas break!

Relax in picture-perfect Telluride, Colorado, with kids

Telluride is the picture-perfect town you see in so many travel magazines: the one with a pretty main street at the foothills of a jaw-dropping, snow-covered peak!

Indeed, Telluride is one of Colorado’s most picturesque mountain towns and a fantastic family destination for a winter outdoor adventure break.

The main reason to come to Telluride with kids is to make the most of its fantastic ski slopes.

Telluride’s ski resort is nearby Mountain Village, a short gondola ride from Telluride.

Getting there is already part of the fun as the gondola ride is spectacular and offers fantastic views over Telluride’s winter wonderland scenery!

Once up, experiences kids can enjoy the great slopes, and beginner skiers can join an instructor and safely move their first ski steps. 

Other snow activities kids can enjoy in Telluride are snowmobiling, ice skating and sledding.

For downtime, the whole family can make the most of pretty Telluride high street and the fantastic hotels, perfect for enjoying the scenery from a cozy indoor space with all the pampering you may dream of!  

Marvel at otherworldly Yellowstone National Park

National parks are perfect for winter family vacations.

Yellowstone National Park is one of the best national parks to visit in the U.S. with children in any season, but it is simply magical in winter.

The park is vast and seems to have it all: snow-capped landscapes, snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, steaming geysers are all spectacular in the winter and safe to visit with kids.

The park rangers do a spectacular job of making this wild area safe for families, and you will find endless activities to keep your kids entertained. 

To give you an idea of the options, West Yellowstone offers kids’n snow weekend during which kids can try out snowmobiling, skiing and ice fishing for free!

With the aid of specialized winter vehicles, you can visit Yellowstone’s most impressive sites lie Old Faithful.

Yellowstone is huge and you can choose between very many ski areas with activities for all ages.

The best way to visit Yellowstone with kids is to start from the visitors center and coordinate with a ranger: they are fantastic with kids and will be able to direct you to the best areas and adventures.

Big Sky, Montana

Big Sky is a fantastic winter destination for families who love to ski.

The area has over 5000 acres of slopes and has many activities on offer for skiers of all skill levels. Here, you and your kids can go on sleigh rides, try cross-country skiing, have snow tubing and explore with family-friendly, guided snowshoe tours.

Special activities for kids are at Big Sky Resort Basecamp, a great place for children who love adrenaline!

Zip-lining, laser tag, climbing walls and trampolining are all here for them to enjoy.

By Sky resort is also close to Yellowstone, you can combine it with a visit to the stunning park for a truly perfect family vacation!

Breckenridge, Colorado

The first two things I have ever heard about Breckenridge is that it has amazing chocolate (see what gems you learn, when you ask parents in the know?!) and it is often called Colorado’s playground.

It comes as no surprise then, that it makes this list of best winter family vacations in the US!

Breckenridge is just lovely for families.

As well as winter wonderland scenery, in Breckenridge you find fantastic kids playgrounds, a splash center for fun afternoons, opportunities to go sledding, tubing, skiing, ice skating and more.

A perfect destination for a winter wonderland family getaway.

Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park is the first National Park I have ever visited and I adore it.

In winter, its pristine Alpine peaks are even more impressive and there is plenty of things to do here for kids.

Here, you can have your ski fix at Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area  ski resort, you can go snow tubing, enjoy ice skating in Half Dome Village and take long walks in Yosemite’s stunning scenery.

Yosemite is one of the best winter family vacations if you love the charm and stunning scenery of National parks.

Have great family fun in Gatlingburg & The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Gatlinburg in Tennessee is a fantastic place for families who wish to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Gatlinburg has a quintessential mountain town charm and has plenty to keep kids entertained.

For your fix of winter sports, head to Ober Gatlinburg, the area’s fantastic ski resort, perfect for the kids to try snow-tubing, have fun on ice bumper cars and just play n the snow (they have a dedicated area for younger kids too)

For even more fun, you can treat your kids to Anakeesta Theme Park, a winter wonderland with kids with lights, a playground and fun activities like breakfast with Santa.

To top it all, you can treat the kids to Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic Tour of Lights, a fun trolley ride with a festive feel.

Then, when you feel like winding down and relaxing, Gatlinburg delivers with many family-friendly restaurants. 

Enjoy winter hiking in Arches National Park, Utah

Arches National Park in Utah is one of the most spectacular parks in the U.S. for kids and adults.

It is, blessed with otherworldly rock formations in stunning red colors, and, in winter, it gets a dusting of snow that makes it look even more magical!

Arches is perfect for an outdoor winter vacation with the kids; you will need to wrap up to hike, and you should expect snow on the ground in the colder months, but you will find many trails open and sage for children of all ages. 

The best way to visit arches N.P. in winter with kids is by joining their fantastic junior ranger program , a great way to engage with the park, learn and stay safe during your visit.

Explore the beautiful Rocky Mountain National Park in winter with kids

While Rocky Mountain is a popular summer destination but is enchanting in winter too!

The snow adds an extra touch of beauty to these stunning areas, and you find a fraction of the crowds, which is perfect for a safe and outdoors winter family vacation. 

This is actually one of the best US National Parks to visit with kids in winter if you love snow activities!

There are many fun things to do in the park with kids, depending on the amount of snow you get at any given time.

Weather permitting, you can hike to Bear lake, go snowshoeing to Chasm Falls, go sledding in Hidden Valley Ski Area and spot wildlife.

Make sure you equip your kids with kids’ binoculars for the most fun!

Marvel at incredible Death Valley National Park, California

Death Valley National park is always fascinating for kids, and it is at its best in winter!

At this time, the temperatures of this crazy spot are more manageable, and you can spend a little more time outdoors, making the most of the scenery. 

In winter, you can visit many of the best national park spots for kids. Not to be missed are the  Badwater Basin Salt Flats , the lowest point in North America (282 feet below sea level!), Zabriskie Point, the incredible Artists Drive and Mesquite sand dunes.

Despite the inhospitable land, death valley has excellent family-friendly lodges that are wonderful to relax and switch off after a day in the valley. 

Sequoia National Park, California

Located on the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Sequoia National Park is one of the best places in the world to admire sequoias, the biggest trees in the world. 

The sequoias are incredible for kids (you can read about our first encounter with them in Muir Woods here ) and there is something magical about seeing the contrast of the snow against the bright red sequoia barks.

The park has family friendly trails that are fun on snowshoes and it is great for sledding, cross-country skiing, and just play at the Big Stump Snow Play Area, perfect for families!

Sequoia is fantastic for kids and adults alike and it is one of the best California winter getaways you can ask for!

Best family Destinations in the USA for Winter Sun – winter family vacations in mild to hot weather

If you prefer sun holidays but don’t want to leave the U.S., you will love these winter sun, family-friendly destinations in the USA! 

St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands

A visit to St Josh in the U.S. Virgin island is the perfect way to enjoy a Caribbean family vacation without leaving the country.

 St. John is one of the most untouched of the U.S. Virgin Islands, and while it is perfect for a resort vacation, it will also give you the chance to spend time in more unspoiled nature in the Virgin Islands National Park.

Here, you can go snorkeling, enjoy the beach or take to the trails and, of course, enjoy as much time on the pristine beaches of this stunning island as your heart desires!

Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park, California

We first visited Palm Sprigs on a weekend getaway from LA to Joshua Tree , and we loved how easy it was to relax here with the kids!

Palm Springs is in the middle of nowhere in the desert, and it is an otherworldly town with sky-high palm trees and a unique town center with trendy cafés, artsy shops, boutique hotels, and a retro-chic vibe.

There is plenty to do in Pal. Springs with kids.

If you just want to relax in town, you can stay in one of the many resorts and long between the pool and the main downtown area.

If you want children’s activities, you can visit the Palm Spring Living Desert Zoo Garden or take the local Aerial Tramway, which is very exciting! 

If you want to add a bit of adventure into the mix, make sure you spend a couple of days exploring the nearby Joshua Tree National Park .

Here, you can spend your days hiking in the desert, driving the most scenic routes ever, or simply taking in the desert magic of this area of California. 

Kauai, Hawaii

If you are like me, as the winter starts closing in, you start dreaming of a family vacation in luscious Hawaii or, more specifically, a family vacation in Kauai! 

Kauai is fantastic for kids.

In winter, the island goes through its rainy season; however, the temperature stays pleasant, and you can easily enjoy the nice hikes this beautiful island has to offer. 

There are many things to do on Kauai with kids, including kayaking, mountain tubing, taking a train ride through a plantation, going horseback riding and of course, enjoying the beach and the ocean to your heart content!

Kauaii is home the stunning Na Pali coast as well, a natural wonder you can enjoy from the water or, if you are very adventurous, by helicopter!

This is a fantastic island for adventurous families looking for a stunning, warm winter break with the kids.

You can find here >>> the best things to do in Kauai with kids .

Orlando, Florida 

A list of the best family winter getaways in the US wouldn’t even be credible without Orlando, top of the list for them-park loving kids!

Orlando is home to a plethora of amusement parks that will keep entertained kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens!

Just to give you an idea of the wealth of choices, in Orlando you find  Walt Disney World® Resort, Universal’s Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando Resort, and LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, Hollywood Studios, Epcot…and this is only the start of the list!

Blessed with beautiful weather all year round and close to fantastic Florida Beaches, Orlando is perfect if you want plenty of family entertainment and great tourist infrastructures.

There is so much to do here, it easily gets overwhelming. You can find tips for visiting Orland with kids here .

San Diego, California

San Diego is maybe the most family friendly city in the US and, in winter, a paradise of good weather and kids entertainment.

There is plenty to do in San Diego with kids.

Stunning beaches , plenty of theme parks, and Balboa parks are just the beginning: the city also has a fantastic food scene for parents, incredible museums for the whole family and it is on highway 1, one of the best and most scenic drives in the world, with plenty of cool stops for families!

You can read here >> our first experience in San Diego with kids and why we love it.

Scottsdale, Arizona

Ok, Arizona in winter is nothing like other destinations on this winter sun list, it is colder; however, blessed with dry weather and blu sky, it is a great State to get away from winter rain and grey!

We fell in love with Arizona the first time we visited this stunning state, and it has been one of our favorite family destinations ever since.

In winter, a fantastic family vacation spot in Arizona is Scottsdale. 

Scottsdale gets sunny skies year-round, and daily temperatures in winter hover around the 70s.

This means winter is the perfect time of the year to explore this quaint little town in the heart of the desert.

You can find here >>> fun ideas for desert adventures with kids around the world.

There are many things to do in Scottsdale with kids. Downtown Scottsdale is a delight, full of charming boutiques, cafés and a dynamic food scene. 

Outdoor attractions for kids you should not miss are Scottsdale’s McDowell Mountain Preserve and  McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, a fun railroad themed park and playground young kids will love. 

In December, the festival Scottsdazzle brings to town workshops and events, including a change to write your letter to Santa and even get a response before the big day!

Sedona, Arizona

Another fantastic place for winter family vacations with kids is Sedona.

Sedona is one of our favorite places in the US and one of the very best winter family vacations destinations in the US you can dream of!

We first visited Sedona on our way back from the Grand Canyon and it took us less then a minute to fall in love with it.

The town is surrounded by stunning red mountains, dotted with the green colors of conifer trees and has many nice hikes you can take with the kids.

Downtown Sedona has many wonderful shops and restaurants and a relaxed, chilled out, alternative vibe we love.

The whole area is well equipped for famailies with lovely lodgings and kids’ attractions and it is the kind of place that makes you want to come back year after year!

You can find here >>> our tips and best things to do in Sedona .

Disneyland, Anaheim, California

If you are looking for a winter family getaway filled with the magic of Disney, then Disneyland Anaheim is a must!

The park is as magical as you imagine it cane be and it is also a vast yet manageable size.

Depending on what your kids like to do, you can simply enjoy the atmosphere strolling down main street, hopping on the small kids’ rides such as Dumbo, Mad Hatters’s Cups or Winnie the Pooh adventures.

If you have Star War lovers they will adore the dedicated Star Wars Land and rides (even I loved it, and I am not a huge fan!) and thrill seekers also have their share of scarier ride to choose from.

With a pleasant temperature and clear sky, Disneyland Anaheim is perfect for a family winter getaway!

You can read >>> our guide to a perfect day at Disneyland

Clearwater beach, Florida

Gulf of Mexico’s Clearwater Beach one of the finest beaches on the East Coast and it is perfect for families with kids. 

This gorgeous beach has miles of sand to run around and build sandcastles and is lined with resorts that offer a variety of family-friendly activities that will be a blast for the whole family.

Here, you can take strolls along the pier, play in the fabulous beach playground, take wildlife tours and more adventurous kids can go jet skiing and parasailing!

Another thing that makes Clearwater Beach in Florida such a great place for a family vacation? 

The sunsets are breathtaking, the atmosphere is just right for that mix of family fun and relaxation that makes a perfect family beach destination.

Clearwater beach is one of our favorite beaches on the East Coast for families .

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Another fun family destination in the USA with a Caribbean feel is San Juan Puerto Rico.

San Juan is a colorful, lively destination perfect especially for families with slighly older kids (school age and up)

Here, you can spend your days exploring its fun downtown, full of colors and curious corners, relax and play at the many palm-fringed beaches and immerse yourself in history at the historical El Morro fort.

If you are up for the drive, Torro Verde adventure park, outside of San Juan, is also guaranteed success with thrill-seeking kids!

I hope you enjoyed this selection of winter family vacations in the US and inspired your next trip. Safe travel planning!

Winter family vacations in the US – pin this!

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

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The Family Vacation Guide

Revealed: The Best Winter Vacation Destinations for Families

posted by Liv Day on January 13, 2023 // last updated on February 10, 2023

Discover the most beautiful family-friendly winter destinations. 

Winter doesn’t always have to be all doom and gloom – though the cold season is upon us – it presents the perfect opportunity to explore the best winter and winter sun destinations around the world.

If you fancy hitting the slopes this winter, there are plenty of spectacular ski resorts out there, from the famous Vail Mountain Resort in Colorado to Canada ’s top ski destination – Whistler Blackcomb. 

However, if you’re looking to escape the winter gloom altogether, then The Family Vacation Guide can help you find the best winter sun locations, so whether you choose to explore grand cities or charming villages you can enjoy a well-deserved rest and catch some rays while you’re at it! 

To help you find your next winter or winter sun vacation, we took a closer look at the best winter vacation destinations from around the world, taking into account affordable accommodation, average winter weather, snowfall, and more to determine the best family-friendly destinations. 

The best winter destinations to visit in the US

•  Mammoth Mountain, California – 6.89/10

Mammoth Mountain ranks first place as the best US winter destination for a family vacation with an overall score of 6.89 out of ten. This comes as no surprise due to its wide array of ski and snowboard areas and diverse variety of activity offerings which not only make it worthwhile but also a wonderful location to go skiing with kids . 

On average a one-night stay at a hotel in Mammoth Mountain during winter is expected to cost around $356 (£290 | €336). Not only does this ski resort have a decent 4.4-star review but it experiences an average of 281 inches of snow yearly, its towering rocky mountains filled with fluffy white snow. 

Located in Mammoth Lakes, this ski destination also offers a range of relaxing winter adventures for all ages, making it a truly epic playground for kids and adults alike. From the Mammoth Ice Rink to its adventure center, Mammoth Mountain is a major hot spot for families.

• Palisades Tahoe, California – 6.71/10

Host of the 1960 Winter Olympics, Palisades Tahoe comes in second place on our list with a score of 6.71. Voted as the best ski resort in North America for three consecutive years, this renowned ski destination upholds its legacy by adopting a fun and vibrant ski culture. 

Well known for its skiing and snowboarding, Palisades Tahoe receives an annual average of 343 inches of pristine snowfall spanning 200km of slopes and 50 km of available ski routes. This popular winter destination also offers the ultimate mountain adventure at Lake Tahoe Via Ferrata, it truly is a unique experience for the whole family to enjoy. 

When it comes to the cost of accommodation at Palisades Tahoe, it comes at a slightly heftier price, you can expect to pay $522 (£426 | €494) on average for an overnight stay during the winter months.  

• Heavenly Mountain Resort, California – 6.69/10

California – also known as the Golden State – hits three home runs as the best destination for the perfect winter vacation in the US. Ranking in third place on our list with a score of 6.69, Heavenly Mountain resort is undoubtedly one of the best family-friendly ski resorts in the US . 

Also located at Lake Tahoe in California, this ski location boasts 94 km of snow-covered slopes and 40 km of ski routes. Overlooking beautiful sapphire blue waters, Heavenly is one of the most distinct outdoor recreation destinations in the world. 

Costing around $311(£254 | €295) a night, the world-class ski resort also offers plenty of child-friendly activities. From skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and gondola rides, this location is truly a top-notch destination for the winter season. 

Not only does the average winter weather reach as high as 59°F in California but this ski resort has an average annual snowfall of 250 inches – one of the largest snow-making systems in North America. 

The best sunny destinations in the US to visit during winter

• Davenport, Florida – 7.08/10

Davenport, Florida ranks as the best winter sun destination in the US with an overall score of 7.08. This comes as no surprise considering the holiday destination is largely popular due to its proximity to major theme parks such as Disney World. As a matter of fact, one of the most pressing questions for families is, how far is Davenport from Universal Studios? – It’s pretty close!

Despite being a small city, Davenport has plenty of tourist attractions of its own. Featuring plenty of family-friendly adventures, visitors can take part in boating activities at Lake Kissimmee State Park or simply explore the city’s nature and horse trails. According to Tripadvisor, the city’s Fossil Funatics kayaking and canoeing activities offer guests a five-star experience.

With the average winter temperature soaring as high as 71°F, this truly is the ideal winter sun location. Davenport is also very much affordable as it costs just $160 (£131 | €152) on 

average per night, during the winter season. 

• The Everglades, Florida – 6.08/10

In second place on our list is the Everglades. This 1.5-million-acre wetland preserve is surrounded by mangroves, sawgrass marshes, and pine flatwoods. Home to hundreds of animal species and wildlife, the Everglades National Park in Florida scores a 6.08 rating. 

Water covers nearly the entire Everglades, making it a prime location for boat rides. The Buttonwood Canal is a great location for family-friendly activities –  spanning 3.2 miles. This unique waterway is the perfect opportunity to explore wildlife and diverse ecosystems. 

The average Florida weather in December can hit temperatures as high as 79°F, making it a blissful location to lodge during the colder months. The average nightly cost to stay at the Everglades is around $221 (£180 | €209) making it relatively affordable for a short stay. 

• San Diego, California – 6.03/10

With so many free things to do in San Diego with kids , this much-loved city has earned its place in the top three, scoring a total of 6.03 out of ten.  

Costing an estimated $241 (£197 |€228) in winter, this sunny city is not only nice for a short-term family vacation but it’s a must for Lego-obsessed kids. 

The average winter temperature in San Diego is 65°F, so you can be sure you will be greeted with a spectacular sunrise in the mornings. To top it off, you can also enjoy a five-star experience on a whale-watching cruise. 

The most family-friendly destinations in the US

• Orlando, Florida – 6.74/10

With an overall score of 6.74 out of 10, Orlando, Florida grabs first place as the number one family-friendly destination on our list. Packed with plenty of child-friendly activities and theme parks, this warm-weather wonderland is the perfect place to spend the winter months, especially with an average of 71.5°F.

Not only does Orlando have over 200 family-friendly hotels on available TripAdvisor alone, but it also costs just $202 (£166 | €188) on average for a one-night stay. 

If you’re visiting the US for the first time with kids it is also worth visiting the country’s capital, which is just two and a half hours away by flight. You can also expect to find some of the best family hotels in Washington, D.C.

• Indianapolis, Indiana – 6.72/10

Harboring the biggest children’s museum in the world, it comes as no surprise that Indianapolis makes it to the top three list with a score of 6.72. Based on Tripadvisor’s most family-friendly vacations, this city ranks highly, bursting with many wonderful attractions for children to marvel at.  You can also expect the weather to hit a decent 52.5°F.

With a safety score of 52.98, the state capital also offers a decent array of 94 family-friendly hotels, accommodating both the little ones and grown-ups alike. What’s more, it only costs 

$161 (£132| €149) on average for a one-night stay. 

• Phoenix, Arizona – 6.62/10

Arizona’s capital, Phoenix is well known for its year-round sun and warm temperatures that average 61.1°F. There are also plenty of attractions perfect for the whole family, such as the Arizona Science Center, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix, and the Musical Instrument Museum. 

According to research, Phoenix has a relatively high safety score of 52.95, not to speak of its 56 family-friendly hotels to choose from. On average it costs just $163 (£133|€154) for a one-night stay at this location. It, therefore, comes as no surprise that the southwestern US state capital takes the thyroid spot with a total score of 6.62. 

If you’re feeling a little adventurous, you should also consider visiting nearby states such as San Diego, California which is just over one hour away by flight. Not only can kids enjoy visiting the world-famous San Diego Zoo but you can also be sure to find some of the best family-friendly restaurants in San Diego . 

The best winter destinations to visit in the world 

• Kitzbühel, Austria – 6.01/10

When it comes to the top family-friendly winter destination, Kitzbühel takes the lead with a rating of 6.01. This is unsurprising as this ski resort is considered to be one of the best in the world, with a 4.9 out of 5 stars rating based on its test reports alone. This is the highest rating worldwide. 

Located in Austria, Kitzbühel has been a venue for regular ski races, since 1895. Not only does it have a spectacular selection of slopes but legend has it that this was where skiing was ‘invented’. 

This famous destination is equipped with 188 km of slopes and 45 km of ski routes available as well as 57 lifts to transport guests. 

Receiving an impressive five-star rating for its family-friendly offerings, Kitzbühel has plenty of children’s areas that provide full childcare services located throughout the ski resort’s villages. To top it off, it costs a decent $379 (£311| €360) to experience this world-class location for the night.  

     2. La Molina, Spain – 6.01/10

Located in Spain, La Molina also takes the top position with a rating of 6.01. Embracing a modern and sportive spirit – just right for the winter season – this destination is the perfect fit for family activities and visitors of all ages. 

What’s more, La Molina also offers very affordable accommodation options with an average nightly cost of around $149 (£122 | €142). 

   3. Livigno, Italy – 5.96/10

The well-known Italian ski resort Livigno takes follows behind with a rating of 5.96. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with the most magnificent white winter wonderland. 

Scoring five stars for its family-friendly offerings, this snow paradise has many easy slopes and children’s areas as well as plenty of fun attractions for kids to enjoy ranging from a kid’s fun park to race courses. The best part is that it only costs $91 (£75 |  €87) a night to experience this winter. The best sunny destinations in the world to visit during winter.

The best sunny destinations in the world to visit during winter

• The Whitsundays, Australia – 6.62/10

At the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays are a group of continental islands located off the central coast of Queensland, Australia. In first place with a score of 6.62, this beautiful sunshine destination is home to many famous landmarks, the Whitsunday Islands are non-negotiable for visitors. 

This tropical coastline does not only guarantee sunshine with an average of 80.6°F but it only costs $101 (£83 | €96) a night to lodge at Airlie Beach – the perfect base from which to explore both the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef.

There are also plenty of family-friendly activities on offer, from waterfront parks to palm-fringed beaches making it a beautiful location to escape the winter gloom. 

• Gulf of Chiriquí, Panama – 6.37/10

The Gulf of Chiriquí follows closely behind in third place with an overall rating of 6.37. With temperatures hitting 90°F, this is the perfect vacation getaway during winter. 

Accommodation is also quite affordable in the Gulf of Chiriquí, costing $105 (£87 | €100) on average per night. There are also plenty of highly-rated outdoor adventure activities to take part in such as river rafting and canoeing. 

• Candelaria, Cuba – 5.94/10

Having been on the New York Times as one of the hottest tourist destinations for a few years, it’s no wonder Cuba made it onto the top three list with a rating of 5.94. Not only can winter temperatures reach as high as 81°F but guests can also take family-friendly activities such as visiting Salto de Sorao, a beautiful waterfall, and a fun way to cool down. 

Accommodation in Candelaria is also very much affordable. On average it costs around $112 (£92 | €107) to spend the night at a hotel. You can be sure that you’re in safe hands as the crime rate is quite low (28.33). 

The most family-friendly countries to visit in the world

• Portugal – 7.40/10

Portugal tops our list with an overall score of 7.40 out of 10. Filled with golden sandy beaches and an array of colorful cities, Portugal is easily one the best destinations for a family vacation. Promising good weather year-round, this sunny country has an average annual temperature of 59.27°F making it one of the best winter sun spots.

From water parks to exploring ancient caves, you can be sure that there are lots of kid-friendly activities. There are also over 2,000 family-friendly hotels dotted across the country that are available on TripAdvisor. The average hotel price in the country is estimated to be around $133 (£110 | €124) per night. 

To top it off, Portugal is also said to be one of the safest countries in the world, taking a spot in the top ten. This popular destination has an overall safety score of 1.301. 

• Malaysia – 6.92/10

Next up is Malaysia with a score of 6.92 out of 10. Steeped in history and rich in culture, this country is a top destination for a family getaway. Surrounded by beaches, vibrant rainforests, and modern cities Malaysia is a very kid-friendly location. 

You can expect to enjoy temperature reach an avenge of 77.72°F all year round, perfect for exploring! There are also approximately 1,288 hotels in the country, providing you with plenty of options. The best part is that it costs an average of just $82 (£68 | €77) for one night. 

Malaysia is also a relatively safe destination, with a safety score of 1.471, making it even more appealing for a family vacation. 

• Indonesia – 6.81/10

Completing the top three on our list is Indonesia with a total score of 6.81. Known for its diverse and multicultural islands, this country is a popular vacation spot for many families. 

As a matter of fact, there are nearly 2,000 family-friendly hotels in the country that are available on Tripadvisor alone. Accommodation in a standard three-star hotel also costs approximately $102 (£84 | €95) per night, making it a very affordable destination to visit. 

With an average yearly temperature of 78.53°F, Indonesia is a top location for child-friendly activities. This includes seeing the sunrise over a volcano and a nice long trek through one of the many rainforests the country has to offer. 

Methodology 

To find out the best winter vacations in the US, this campaign looked through 481 ski resorts to source the top 50 and rank them in order of test reports, these test reports were scored out of five for each ski resort respectively. All data for this section were sourced from skiresort.info .

Information for winter sun destinations was collected via various articles on Google, such as Travelaway and Trip .

Kayak was used as a source to calculate the average nightly cost of a three-star hotel during December, January, and February. 

The most family-friendly countries were taken from Tripadvisor’s most kid-friendly places for a family vacation. Likewise, the list of most family-friendly countries in the world was taken from U.S.News . 

Figures on the average winter weather temperature for each country were taken from Weatherspark as well as the world population review site which can be found here:

Coldest states 

Snowiest states 

Hottest countries 

Data based on crime rates can also be found here: 

Crime rates by state 

Safest states  

Crime rates by country  

The average annual snowfall figures were sourced from On The Snow . All data based on accommodation prices and how many family-friendly hotels there are in each location can be found on Tripadvisor.com . These figures were originally sourced in USD and then converted into three currencies – USD, GBP, and EUR.

*Please note that all data collected was correct as of 12/01/2022.

More about our TFVG Author

Protect Your Trip »

13 best winter vacations with kids under 13.

From Costa Rica to Colorado, these winter escapes will pique all family members' interests.

(Getty Images) |

Picking a family-friendly winter escape

Mont-Tremblant, Quebec

The District of Columbia

The Bahamas

Maui, Hawaii

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Sedona, Arizona

Cayman Islands

Getty Images | Purestock

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10 Best Winter Vacations for Non-Skiing Families

Jan 3, 2018

See recent posts by Allison Tibaldi

Sure, skiing is a fun activity this time of year. But there are alternative (and often better and even cheaper) ways to play in the snow.

Meet 10 resorts offering families a range of cold-weather fun, with activities including dog sledding, snowshoeing and fat tire snow biking (which should tempt even die-hard skiers off the mountain).

1. Auberge Du Lac Taureau – Saint-Michel-des-Saints, Quebec

Auberge Du Lac Taureau is deep in the snow-covered heartland of French-speaking Quebec. This wilderness resort embraces families with a full plate of cold-weather offerings. The frozen lake is the place for trout fishing, ice skating and Canada’s national pastime, ice hockey. Additional ways to have frozen fun include snowshoeing, tubing, wildlife observation tours, fat tire biking, guided forest hikes with a trapper and more. An indoor pool, spa and Gallic-inspired cuisine are welcome touches.

2. Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake – Brainerd, MN

A vacation at Cragun’s is all about Midwestern fun in the snow. The frozen Minnesota landscape looks stolen from the pages of a Nordic fairy tale. Old-fashioned activities such as broomball and bowling on the pond, ice fishing on Gull Lake, bonfires with S’mores and horse-drawn trolley rides should delight young guests. This is snowmobile country and Cragun’s has a designated track and miniature snowmobiles just for children.

3. Camp Richardson Resort – South Lake Tahoe, CA

Situated on the shores of Lake Tahoe , Camp Richardson ’s yesteryear spirit and low-tech ethos is a breath of fresh air. Many guests started coming here as children and now bring their own kids, making it just right for a multi-generational vacation. Each winter, the resort’s miles of pine-scented bike trails are dusted with a thick coating of snow, turning the property into a winter wonderland. Cross-country skis, snowshoes and sleds are available to rent. Build a snowman, relax by the outdoor fire pit or just enjoy the tranquility of communing with nature. Simple lakeside cabins and uncluttered lodge rooms have everything you need and nothing you don’t.

4. C Lazy U Ranch – Granby, CO

C Lazy U Ranch has been introducing families to the traditions of the American West for 100 years. Guests stay in upscale private cabins at this traditional dude ranch . Situated on 8,500 pristine acres, the recreational programming is anchored by extensive year-round horsemanship and horseback riding opportunities. Additional cold-weather activities include snow tubing, ice hockey and skating on the pond, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Each winter morning, guests may join the wranglers on the morning feed wagon and get up close as the herd of horses eats their breakfast.

5. Woodloch Pines – Hawley, PA

Located in the Pocono Mountains , homespun Woodloch has been owned and operated by the same family since 1958. Many of the employees have been with the resort for decades, so you can expect genuine hospitality. Scores of kid-perfect activities keep the excitement level high when the temperatures drop. Frosty favorites include ice skating on both the lake and on the new synthetic ice rink, snow tubing, snowshoeing and winter archery. The resort’s Winter Olympics encourage healthy outdoor competition. When it’s time to warm up, kids can get creative in the arts and crafts room, splash in the indoor pool and slide down the double-corkscrew waterslide. Nightly entertainment at a bedtime-friendly hour includes live music, magic shows and balloon artists.

6. The Omni Homestead Resort – Hot Springs, VA

This sprawling Virginia resort has been in operation for over 250 years. The Omni Homestead Resort presents many ways to have fun in the snow. Mini-snowmobiles are proportioned for children ages 6 to 12 and ice skating on the outdoor rink draws a crowd. The Penguin Slide Tubing Park has a conveyor belt to conveniently whisk kids up the hill and enjoy the fun of sliding down. In the evening, enjoy a nightly movie screened in the resort’s theater. Traditional hotel rooms and suites are loaded with amenities.

7. Woodstock Inn – Woodstock, VT

Woodstock is a charming New England village. The cozy Woodstock Inn , with its wood-burning fireplaces, Vermont-made flannel blankets and fresh-baked cookies each afternoon, sits in the center. The hotel’s Nordic Adventure Center offers active families the chance to cross-country ski, snowshoe and fat tire bike on 30 miles of groomed trails. Fat tire bikes are designed with thick tires that allow you to pedal directly on the snow. A visit to the Billings Farm and Museum, Woodstock’s fully operating Jersey dairy farm, is a must. Watch the cows being milked and cuddle under a blanket as you ride in a horse-drawn sleigh.

8. Sunriver Resort – Bend, OR

In the Pacific Northwest, Sunriver Resort is a magnet for families. The area is known for its abundance of snow, so expect an array of options that exploit the powdery windfall. A covered ice skating rink, nature center with an observatory for stargazing, indoor tennis courts and an aquatic center with a FlowRider that simulates surfing are recreational options. Dogsledding, snow tubing and snowshoeing are very nearby. Accommodations are a mix of spacious townhouses, cabins, condos and lodge rooms.

9. Lake Placid Lodge – Lake Placid, NY

The Lake Placid Lodge complements the natural beauty of the Adirondacks. Winter’s blanket of white makes it look as festive as the inside of a snow globe. Snowshoe through the forest, skate on the lake’s glassy surface and sip hot chocolate at the nightly snow bonfire. It’s the only resort directly on Lake Placid, and accommodations enjoy water views. Whimsical cottages and lodge rooms blend into the surroundings and create a rustic fantasy. Lake Placid is a winter sports powerhouse with an illustrious Olympic history. Aspiring athletes should enjoy a ride down the Olympic bobsled track and a visit to the interactive Olympic Museum.

10. Old Faithful Snow Lodge – Yellowstone National Park, WY

If your family is seeking an immersion in nature, you’ve struck gold. Located within Yellowstone National Park , the Old Faithful Snow Lodge offers a unique vantage point to explore the beauty of the park in winter. The Madison Wildlife Excursion is a family favorite. A snow coach will escort you to view birds and mammals in their frosty habitat. Active experiences include a guided backcountry snowshoe tour of Old Faithful, gently winding past thermal hot springs. Just outside of the hotel’s door are boardwalks with excellent views of the geysers and ice skating with a nightly rink-side bonfire.

Allison Tibaldi is a travel writer based in New York City. With her husband and two kids, she has lived in Rome; Tuscany; Melbourne, Australia; Toronto; and Los Angeles. She studied early childhood development in graduate school and believes that travel is an important part of education. She writes for CNN, TravelChannel.com, HGTV, USA TODAY, Time Out New York, am New York, Family Traveller, Family Travel Forum, Travel Weekly, off Metro and numerous other publications. Follow her @gourmetrav .

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18 Best Winter Vacations for Families That Love Snow

• December 6, 2023
• USA / Canada , Holidays , Outdoor Adventures , Winter

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Check out our selection of winter vacation destinations for families who like to play in the snow . Each of these family-friendly destinations offers amenities and activities for families of all ages and sizes. A family winter vacation can be magical as your kids enjoy outdoor adventures in a new light, from snowmobiling, and hiking in the cold snow, to curling up by a cozy fire and board games competitions. So let’s dive into some of the best winter vacation ideas that GoWhee families love.

• Outdoorsy Families
• Families on a Budget
• Christmas & Holidays
• In The West

Know Before You Go: Plan Your Winter Family Vacation Without Stress

Winter vacations often come at a premium. Look for less popular places so your budget can be stretched further. To find some great family-friendly spots this winter, check out this map with snowy places validated by parents.

Don’t turn your winter family getaway into a cold weather nightmare! Check this cold weather packing list .

Ski trips may be the first thing you think of when planning winter vacations for your family. But don’t forget to diversify the activities your family will be able to enjoy during all those winter months. Look for unique winter hiking experiences, charming train rides, tubing, culinary experiences, and more…

Winter season comes with its fair share of unpredictable weather. Always include a buffer in your family travel times to be ready to change things around if a snowstorm or airport closures happen.

Make sure to get full coverage travel insurance to be ready for incidents that go along with your winter adventure, since your traditional health insurance may not cover those costs. Here is how to choose your travel insurance when you travel with kids.

Table of Content

Adventurous winter destinations for outdoorsy families, 1. take your kids dog sledding in oregon .

When you stay at the Sunriver Resort in Oregon, your kids will learn how to mush behind a team of energetic sled dogs. This resort also offers a lot of other fun winter activities. The whole family can wind down after a day of winter adventures, since the resort has a heated indoor pool and offers some really fun activities inside the hotel like a built-your-own-bear factory kit to enjoy in-room cozy by the fire.

Basic Info: The sleigh experience can be booked for 2 kids and adults sharing a vis-a-vis sleigh. Book in advance–this opportunity sells out! – Resort rooms and cabin rentals are available – Rooms start at $123

Nearby Attractions: For families loving things a little off the beaten path, a must-see is the lava tube cave in Bend, great for kids aged 5+. If you are more into indoor activities, we recommend checking out the Sunriver Observatory and in particular their night visits.

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2. Ride In The Snow at Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park and Old Faithful are amazing in winter, yet not a super popular destination for winter family travel! The snow transforms the landscape into something truly magical. You can enjoy a fair share of adventure with your kids from hiking in the snow to seeing the buffalos in their winter habitat. For kids old enough, take a thrilling snowmobile ride with a guide and start the adventure.

Basic Info: The snowmobile tours are accessible for ages 8+ (as a passenger) but you can book a snow coach instead for little ones and anyone not interested in the snowmobile experience. The cost starts at $450 for the ride per person and includes the guide and visit through the national park.

Nearby Attractions: After a day in the national park your family may want to enjoy one of the best winter family vacation spots kept secret: The Astoria hot springs’ kiddie pool.

• More Family Fun Near Yellowstone

3. Visit Gorgeous Whistler in Canada

Whistler is one of Canada’s treasures and a wonderful hub for family winter vacations. It has a vibrant arts culture and access to amazing skiing and snowboarding slopes. You can take a self-guided walking tour through the charming village, spend some family time at the skating rink, and finish the day at one of the many great restaurants in town.

Basic Info: The Whistler Village visitor center also offers scavenger hunts and special activities for families with kids. You can also take e breaks during your visit to the kid zone and playgrounds.

Nearby Attractions: Kids age 8+ can get a taste of the Olympic winter sport of Luge at the Whistler Sliding Center. Families can also catch the magical alpenglow during a winter ziplining experience.

• More Family Fun Near Whistler

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Cheap Winter Family Vacations For Families on a Budget

4. ride a real-life polar express in new york.

Upstate New York is beautiful in the winter and home to one of the most magical experiences. During December, families can hop on board a real-life Polar Express in Utica, NY! Children and adults will enjoy the reenacted Christmas stories while staying warm with a cup of cocoa. But we recommend making this holiday season even more memorable by staying 

Basic Info: Tickets start at $47 for adults and $29 for kids 2-12. Local hotels start around $160 a night – Lots of family-friendly dining options like Georgio’s Village Café and Swifty’s Restaurant and Pub

Nearby Attractions: After riding the Polar Express, take a day trip to Cooperstown for the Baseball Hall of Fame. Visit the Utica Zoo to see how the animals play in the snow or stop by the Val Bialas ski center.

• More Family Fun in New York

5. Go on a Fun Winter Getaway in Minnesota

Enjoy the beautiful Minnesota winter at Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake . This lakeside resort gives you access to a ton of fun winter activities and amenities on a budget. Kids can enjoy a ride on their famous pint-size snowmobile or practice their skills at ice bowling for free.

Basic Info: Rooms start at $159 with a winter special available. They also offer five restaurants onsite and all amenities for ice fishing with kids.

Nearby Attractions: You can stretch the fun with a day trip at the local water park, with tickets only $20/ per person, this is a great way to change pace for a day

6. Winter Vacation in the Mountains of Michigan

The Boyne Mountain Resort has everything you need for a great family vacation. From all the traditional winter sports, to sno-go biking ( a bike with ski), your kids will have a great time. We recommend a friendly competition on a twin-racing zip line or trying out their eco-friendly moonbikes (for kids 5 feet tall and up)

Basic Info: Rooms start at $160, and they offer full-day childcare on the weekend from 3yo to 12yo, if you need a break.

Nearby Attractions: You don’t really have to leave the resort to extend the fun. Head over to Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark. Families can reconnect around a little thrill like the “couloir”, one of the steepest slides in the industry.

• More Family Fun In Michigan

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Great for Christmas and Holidays

7. spend time in a life-size christmas village, in ontario canada.

Niagara-on-the-lake is one of those towns coming out of a Christmas card! During the Christmas season, you can stroll around the village, discover all the beautiful old homes completely decorated, and even enjoy an authentic Christmas carol by candlelight experience on the weekend in December. But what will make this family vacation so special is to stop time during an afternoon and enjoy a traditional high tea with kids, at the McFarland House from the 19th century.

Visit info: Niagara by the Lake, is usually set as a romantic destination and offers mostly bed and breakfast. But the South Landing Inn is welcoming families with kids of all ages with open arms and spacious bedrooms (sleeping up to 6), kitchens, and family-size dining tables.

Favorite attractions nearby: When in town you will want to visit the butterfly conservatory where kids can meet the beautiful insects up close, we also recommend adding the open-to-public ice rink at Pillar and Post.

• More Family Fun In Ontario
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8. Enjoy Christmas in Hershey, Pennsylvania

No proper Christmas family vacation would be complete without chocolate! Hersheypark has festive decorations, delicious foods, and holiday-themed coasters! If you visit before January 1st, the park has a special holiday candy-themed overlay with over five million twinkling lights. They also feature a special reindeer encounter (the only place in the Northeast to see all 9 reindeer) and opportunities to visit with Santa.

Basic Info: Guests at Hershey’s Great Resorts and Lodge, can enjoy a free preview 2.5 hours before closing the day before their full visit, a free shuttle, and many more perks.

Nearby Attractions: From December up to the end of the holiday breaks, you can join their Santa Breakfast Buffet event at the Chocolatier restaurant, where families enjoy a cozy breakfast with hints of chocolate, kids’ activities, and lots of holiday family fun.

• More Family Fun in Pennsylvania

Exceptional winter family vacations For Families looking for the WOW factor.

9. visit an ice hotel in quebec, canada.

The Ice Hotel in Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier on the east coast of Quebec is an unforgettable experience for winter trips, that will seem like fairytale magic to your kids. You can spend the day visiting this unique structure, discover the hotel’s themed room, drink a hot drink at their bar, and enjoy the family activities throughout the resorts. If you choose to spend the night, they accommodate even the youngest visitors and offer rooms with fireplaces for families a little worried about the cold.

Basic Info: A day visit starts at 29.99 CAD and rooms for the night at $399 CAD, The price includes Arctic sleeping bags and discounts for local activities. You also get access to the Nordic spa with special family time in the morning.

Nearby Attractions: You don’t have to go far from the hotel to enjoy all snow activities, a fun family game space as well as an indoor water park. Check out their bora bora parc and other activities.

• More Family Fun in Quebec

10. Hit Some of the World’s Best Slopes in Colorado

Vail, Colorado is famous for its incredible ski slopes and resorts. Places like Sonnenalp Resort are the perfect spots for family vacations. Their kid’s clubs have both indoor and outdoor seasonal activities and take your adventures’ adventures-loving kids. From photography hikes with Polaroids provided to arts and crafts, they will keep busy, while you hit the slopes.

Basic Info: The loft bedrooms are perfect for families since they give everyone space, with lots of charm and even a giant jetted tub. And while the kids have fun at the club, parents can relax at the spa with the indoor/outdoor pool and tons of treatment options.

Nearby Attractions: Take a break from the snow and enjoy the local Betty Ford Alpine Gardens or the Vail scenic gondolas.

• More Family Fun In Colorado

Winter family getaways a short drive from New York City

11. snow vacations in a classic austrian ski resort in vermont.

Located in beautiful Stowe, Vermont, the Trapp Family Lodge is a unique mountain resort featuring Austrian-inspired architecture. It has lots of amazing downhill and cross-country skiing. Plus, it’s run by the same Trapp family as featured in The Sound of Music! The hotel offers great indoor activities for kids to shelter in, in case of bad weather like rock climbing and sugar house experience. 

Basic Info: The Trapp Family Lodge offers spacious rooms, starting at $295, their family room is a great option for large families sleeping up to 6 in the same unit. 

Nearby Attractions: Stowe is the ultimate winter town with charming shops and restaurants, so you will want to spend some time there to escape the hustle and bustle of New York City. For outdoor adventure-loving families, check out the beautiful hike leading to Moss Glen Falls.

• More Family Fun in Vemont

12. Winter Vacations With An Olympic Flare at Lake Placid, NY

If your family is taking snow sports seriously, add some friendly competition during your vacation and other fun winter activities on the Olympic slopes and rinks of Lake Placid Legacy Sites and White Face Mountain. The complex also offers a great Olympic Museum with one of the world’s largest collections of Winter Olympic memorabilia.

Basic Info: Some activities kids can participate in at the complex include. 50-minute figure skating session, indoor and outdoor public skating, stick N puck individual session and Whiteface Mountain offers traditional and adaptive sessions to start skiing like pros.

Nearby Attractions : The Mirror Lake Inn resort offers some great family room layouts, it welcomes all families and receives the LGBTQ+ badge of support.

• More Family Fun Near New York

13. Twilight skiing and Furry Friends on the slopes of this ski resort in Maine

If you never thought of Maine for your family’s winter getaway, then this may change your mind! The Sunday River is one of those ski resorts that puts family fun first. They offer tons of unique experiences like their twilight skiing for all ages, Eddi the Yeti mascot can be seen going down the slopes, and they put together some great apres-ski entertainment for the kids like the fire dance show or a lighted trail.

Basic Info: Twilight skiing is available on select Friday and Saturday nights, plus a few extra holidays so check their schedule. For the lighted trail experience, plan for a half-mile-long stroll through the woods with trees wrapped in thousands of twinkling lights, and hot cocoa is provided after the visit.

Nearby Attractions: There is a free shuttle from the resort to Bethel a charming town hosting the Gem Theater . The venue has tons of events throughout the year, including movies for all ages and live performances. They also have some amazing popcorn!

• More Family Fun in Maine

Winter wonderland destinations in the West

14. winter family vacations for large families in southern in california.

Big Bear Mountain, located near San Bernardino National Forest in southern California, is giving you a family winter getaway a couple hours’ drive from Los Angeles. The Big Bear Mountain resort is known for excellent snowboarding, skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. Big Bear has lots of family-friendly cabins for rent which makes it a great option for a winter vacation with your entire extended family.

Basic Info: Cabin rental and hotels start around $200 per night and often offer hot tubs and playrooms for kids. The free area trolley is great to get around if you travel with a large group, it has an app available to keep track of hours and stops available.

Nearby Attractions: Kids love the Alpine mountain coaster, the Big Bear Snow Play, and the Ropes Course. There are even helicopter sightseeing tours for unparalleled views of the San Bernadino National Forest and the nearby mountains.

• More Family Fun in California

15. Stay at this Ski Resort Made For Kids and Parents Near Denver

Keystone Resort in Colorado created a parent’s dream for the perfect winter vacation. You can split your time between fun days filled with kids’ activities like their famous  Kidtopia Snow Fort, snow tubing, and other winter activities, or catch some downtime thanks to their child care center offering options for both daytime activities and parents’ night out opportunities. 

Basic Info: The snow fort is completely free and is the largest of its kind in the country. For child care options, it is first come first serve and the parent night out option includes pizza and a dance party.

Nearby Attractions: Keystone is known for its skiing, but non-skiers can enjoy snowshoe trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, sleigh rides, and beautiful views from the gondola trip. The resort is also a quick 1hr drive from Denver if you crave some city escape.

• More Family Fun in Colorado

Winter family vacation ideas for families who don't like to ski

16. take a one-of-a-kind winter chocolate tour in new hampshire.

For the past 21 years, this fun winter tradition has roamed the streets of Jackson, NH. Families can sit comfortably in a horse-drawn Austrian carriage. The sleigh rides around town and at each selected stop, a chocolatier presents a new treat. After the tour, you can visit each property again some offer tours of the ground and historic buildings.

Basic info: The sleigh can accommodate up to 10 passengers and for children under 3 seating on the parent’s lap is free. Note that there are no bathroom breaks so come prepared. Reservation is necessary and spots book fast.

Nearby Attractions :  We recommend checking out Santa’s Village within a quick road trip away from Jackson. To make this a real vacation, stay a few nights at the Mountain View Grand Resort , it offers a real family-friendly vibe, paired with affordable luxury accommodations.

• More Family Fun in New England

17. Winter Fun in An Interactive Icy Wonderlands in Lake George, NY

Lake George is often seen as a warm weather destination, but some magical things happen there in the winter months. You can visit the  Winter Dreams experience at the Fort William Henry Historic Fortress. 

Basic info: The experience requires a ticket to enter. The winter dream experience is associated with the Fort William Henry resorts so you can easily access nearby restaurants. The resort offers a package deal with a 20% discount and a gift for their guests.

Nearby Attractions: We recommend the World Awareness Museum in Glen Falls, a great place to stay warm and learn about different cultures. Or Spend some time visiting the fort and enjoy their educational programs.

18. Enjoy A Winter Dip In A Natural Hot Spring in British Colombia, Canada

If you love snow, Canada will have it! And with that, it offers some cool experiences like a family-friendly hot spring in Radium Hot Spring , Canada. Kids of all ages are welcome and they even have a family pool to cool off (under construction). The best part, you get to enjoy a relaxing experience with views of snowy Canadian mountains.

Basic info : If you have more than one child make sure to get the family pass for only $53. It doesn’t have in-and-out privileges so make sure you schedule your thermal experience accordingly. The temperatures vary between 98F (37°) and 104F (40°).

Nearby Attractions : If you crave some outdoor non-ski fun, head over to Kootenay National Park, there are tons of snowshoeing and sightseeing opportunities. The Fairmont Hot Springs Resorts has some really cozy family villas to accommodate kids and extended families.

• More Family Fun in British Colombia

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Frosty Fun: Create Cherished Memories on Our Winter Family Getaway

Article By: Juliana Sidsel

One of the best ways to enjoy the cold weather is by planning a winter getaway to create memories. By visiting a new location with a snowy landscape, your family will spend bonding moments to last you a lifetime.

But that’s easier said than done. The perfect trip requires a lot of planning and careful consideration. Even then, your plans need to change depending on the situation, such as an unexpected blizzard.

In this article, you’ll get to see a glimpse of what the entire winter vacation could look like starting from the planning to seeing it in action to creating memories. Let’s start.

Preparing for the Trip and Making Memories

If you’re determined to take your family out this winter, it all begins with the planning. Although it’s technically not part of the trip, it’s just as exciting looking up places and decide where you want to go. It might not be as exciting as booking a ticket for the Phantom of the Opera (if you’re into those things), but it’s just as memorable.

When choosing the ideal place for your family winter vacation , look for places where you can do things. Winter is not the time to spend indoors. So your holiday destination should have a plethora of winter activities to choose from, such as skiing or snowboarding. Enjoying activities together is how you create memories.

Then there’s the matter of packing for your trip. Unlike a summer vacation, where you can take a change of clothes, winter vacations are different. You need to pack enough warm clothes to enjoy yourself properly. Likewise, snacks are also something that you need to consider, as hearty sustenance makes all the difference in keeping everyone’s energy levels up.

Settling In and Taking in the Sights

You can ask anyone, and everyone will tell you the same thing. The first moments after arriving at your destination are magical; cherish them to create memories. That’s when you realize you get to take a break from your daily routine and relax with your loved ones.

Once you’ve checked in to your accommodation, take a deep breath and let it sink in.

Once you’ve allowed yourself to enjoy the sights and surroundings, the realization kicks in that you’re on vacation. Hold onto that feeling while start unpacking.

When you’re all ready and set to go, start look for the different activity options. Look for the nearest sledding hill, or find a good place to enjoy a hot cup of coffee. If you have your kids with you, make sure the cafe serves hot chocolate, which they’ll definitely enjoy. Create memories at every meal.

Winter Activities for the Whole Family

For the next few days, focus on making each moment as memorable as possible. Everything that you do should fill your trip with laughter and joy.

Go skiing with your partner or snow tubing down the hill. Head to the woods or a favorite mountain resort . If you prefer a bit of adventure, snowboarding is one of the best things that you can do.

But you can’t spend the whole time outside. At night, when the cold settles in, get everyone and sit around the fireplace. Play cards or board games with your kids instead of scrolling your phones. You can also host a movie night complete with snacks like hot popcorn and smores. And don’t forget about some hot cocoa, that’s a must.

Create Memories And Capture Every Moment

These days, with social media being so popular, people are constantly documenting every aspect of their lives. Typically, just taking pictures would be the last thing you want to do on a trip.

But as the winter trip is a special moment, don’t hesitate to capture every single moment. The laughter, the snowball fights, staying huddled in front of the fireplace; be sure to take a picture of it all. Create memories and record them.

You should remember these images are not for uploading on your social media feed. Instead, they are time capsules that will take you back to these moments whenever you see them in the future.

Wrapping Up the Winter Getaway

As you near the end of your journey, don’t forget to take a moment to recollect the adventurous days you’ve spent with everyone. Reflect on your vacation together. Be thankful for the time that you were able to spend and think about what you want to do next year.

Make your winter getaways a regular thing. After all, that’s the best way to enjoy the season.

As you head back home and return to your daily lives, get some souvenirs to remember your time here.

But there’s something more important that you’ll be taking back as well. Those are the amazing moments that you get to spend with the people that are closest to your heart.

Although everyone calls a winter trip a vacation, it’s a journey and adventure where you create core memories. Every part of it is going to be memorable, so be sure to enjoy yourself through it all.

Juliana Sidsel and her family love winter holidays and look for opportunities to create memories together whenever the snow falls. She contributed this blog post on behalf of sponsor HelloTickets.com.

Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.

3 Replies to “Frosty Fun: Create Cherished Memories on Our Winter Family Getaway”

Insightful and useful – that’s what I admire about your posts. This one on this subject is no different. The tips and recommendations you offer are practical and create a real impact.

Greetings! Very useful advice in this particular article! It’s the little changes that make the biggest changes. Thanks a lot for sharing!

Planning a winter getaway is an adventure in itself. The snowy landscapes add a magical touch to the family bonding experience. You nailed it. meticulous planning is key, and being ready for unexpected twists, like a surprise blizzard, keeps the excitement alive. Any memorable winter destinations you’d recommend?

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10 great hotels handpicked for short breaks with kids this winter

Weekends away with kids are the short breaks every family needs when winter starts feeling too long. Jane Anderson from The Good Hotel Guide picks the best family friendly boltholes for quick getaways from Cornwall to the Lake District.

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Fowey Hall, Cornwall: weekends away with Roald Dahl treats

There’s something for everyone at Fowey Hall , a baroque Victorian mansion overlooking the Fowey estuary. A crèche, cinema and library with over 700 kids’ books are matched only by a den, spa, indoor pool and Wind in the Willows-inspired outdoor play area.

For each day of a guest’s stay, the hotel offers 90-minutes free childcare in the Ofsted-registered Four Bears’ Den. Parents and carers can also take advantage of the complimentary audio and visual child monitoring system which allows guests to monitor their child from anywhere in the main hotel on a handheld device. The flexible dining showcases the best of Cornish cuisine, and a sandy cove is a short walk away. A highlight is the Matilda Afternoon Tea in collaboration with The Roald Dahl Story Company.

Family stays at Fowey Hall this winter

A deluxe double room, sleeps two adults and two children, includes breakfast and there’s no extra charge for additional kids’ beds.

Book your stay at Fowey Hall

Try Homewood for weekends away in Bath this winter

Homewood, Bath: free for under-12s during school holidays

You can feel the playful, relaxed air as soon as you arrive at Homewood , a Georgian mansion, with topiary animal sculptures outside, and slightly mad décor within. The outdoor heated pool is open year round, there’s a complimentary pantry to raid and Bath is famous for its Christmas markets . Generous family bedrooms have rollaway beds. Outdoor games in the gardens keep little ones entertained while parents take some ‘aah’ time in the holistic spa with Ila treatments.

Family stays at Homewood this winter

Family rooms sleep four and under-12s stay free during school holidays and enjoy complimentary dinner from the children’s menu.

Book your stay at Homewood

Fabulous indoor pool, The Blakeney Hotel

The Blakeney Hotel, Norfolk: weekends away with seal watching in the mix

Its dramatic quayside location means The Blakeney Hotel is perfectly placed for seal-watching trips, as well as for crabbing, fishing, waters ports, and for beach expeditions. Back at base, enjoy the indoor pool together, before adults take a well-earned rest and admire the estuary views while kids hit the games room. The Blakeney staff are old hands at looking after families. The hotel has rooms sleeping four or interconnecting rooms with extra bunk beds and cots on request. The children’s tea and lunch menus or half portions from the table d’hôte menu keep the hungriest tummies happy.

Family stays at The Blakeney Hotel this winter

Family rooms sleep two adults and two children, overnight stays are available and include breakfast.

Winter beaches win on weekends away at Treffeddian, Wales

Trefeddian Hotel, Aberdyfi: a winter beach winner with kids

Generations of families have visited easy-going Trefeddian Hotel , just five minutes from the beach. Today, it’s as family friendly as ever, with play areas and games room, tennis, putting green and indoor pool. It’s also close to Bounce Below in Blaenau Fjestiniog where little ones to grumpy teens can release their inner thrill seeker in this underground net adventure. Back at the hotel, an early children’s supper menu and child-listening services mean parents can relax in the evenings. However, children are also very welcome to dine with parents.

Family stays at Trefeddian Hotel this winter

Family rooms vary in size and sleep up to two adults and two children. Children under-9 stay free and room rates includes full Welsh breakfast and five-course dinner.

Ballyvolane House, North Cork

Ballyvolane House, Castlelyons: fun weekends away in North Cork

A beautiful and historic Irish country house, Ballyvolane is sure to charm you and your children with it warm welcome and You can only stay in the pig arks and bell tents in the summer, but all year there’s a family-friendly vibe here with a tennis court, croquet, badminton, cycling and fishing, plus extensive woodlands and gardens for children and adults to explore. Children will also adore a visit to the resident donkeys. Kids can tuck into high tea, leaving parents to savour a four-course tasting menu and to try Ballyvolane’s gin, Bertha’s Revenge. Babysitting services can be arranged.

Family stays at Ballyvolane House

The extra-large double rooms, with two additional beds for children, are ideal for families. Glamping is also available from May to September.

Augill Castle is the real deal kids will love

Augill Castle, Cumbria: children will adore this ‘real’ castle

There will be whoops of delight when kids realise that Augill Castle is a ‘real’ castle. In actual fact it’s a Victorian-folly of a castle, which makes it even more fun for families as the atmosphere’s relaxed even amid the ornate-ceilinged rooms with wood panelling. There are 15 acres of grounds to explore, as well as interconnecting and family rooms – some with turreted wardrobes – and food everyone can enjoy together. The most difficult choice you’ll have is whether to head to the Yorkshire Dales or the Lake District for a family day out.

Family stays at Augill Castle

The Castle Interconnecting Suite sleeps four guests in a king and two single beds. The children’s room has poetry on the ceiling, and there’s also room for a foldaway bed.

Calcot and Spa, Tetbury, the Cotswolds

Calcot and Spa, Cotswolds: the luxury of four hours complimentary childcare per day

With everything from an Ofsted-registered crèche with four hours complimentary childcare per day to a cinema, Calcot is family heaven. Get the kids exploring some of the 240 acres of meadowland on bikes – part of an ambitious rewilding project. Or sign them up for disc golf and tennis. Follow that up with family splash time in the spa pool. Then eat together in the country inn or gourmet restaurant.

The new suites each have two bedrooms and spacious living areas so that families have plenty of space. One also serves as a self-contained cottage. Here you’ll find an indoor dining space,  kitchenette as well as a private courtyard with a firepit.

Family stays at Calcot and Spa

The Cosy Family Room sleeps four and the room rate includes breakfast.

The Colonsay Hotel, Isle of Colonsay, Scotland

The Colonsay Hotel, Inner Hebrides: winter breaks on the Isle of Colonsay

Take the kids back to a holiday from yesteryear, starting with the ferry ride to The Colonsay Hotel . Hire bikes and explore this beautiful Inner Hebrides island, stopping at white-sand beaches to spot dolphins and seals. Back at base, there’s a kids’ menu and a relaxed atmosphere in the bar and restaurant. Stay in the hotel, or come with extended family or friends and rent one of 15 gorgeous self-catering cottages ranging from crofters cottages to Victorian farmhouses that sleep between 2 and 14 guests. You’ll end up wanting to live there!

Family stays at The Colonsay Hotel

The two-bedroom Avenue Cottage is ideal for families. Or for a multi-gen winter break, try Machrins farmhouse which sleeps up to 14 guests.

Book your stay at The Colonsay Hotel this winter

The Tawny, Consall, Staffordshire

The Tawny, Staffordshire: weekends away close to Alton Towers

Set within 70-acres of grounds, on the restored wild garden of Consall Hall Estate in Staffordshire, The Tawny is a magical for weekends away this winter. Kids won’t want to leave when they see the retreats, some with twin rooms and others with bunk beds. Not only are they scattered around beautiful grounds – perfect for letting off steam – some even have outside baths.

Activities for children include den making, treasure trails, bird spotting and exploring by recycled bikes. Plus, The Tawny’s outdoor pool is heated year round and The Plumicorn restaurant also has a kid’s menu. As an added bonus, many of the family rooms are dog-friendly too.

Family stays at The Tawny

The Lookout Family sleeps two adults and two children, and features one super king-size bed and an extra twin bedroom with two single beds.

Chewton Glen hydrotherapy pool, New Milton

Chewton Glen, New Milton: weekends away on the edge of the New Forest

If you’ve the cash to splash, Chewton Glen takes some beating. Keep the kids busy with cooking classes, indoor and outdoor pools, golf and tennis, or check them into the Beehive Kids Club with everything from scavenger hunts to rocket building, while you check out the spa, and enjoy relaxed family dining together. The luxurious treehouse suites get a huge family thumbs up. Activities for winter include foraging expeditions, and farm experiences. Young guests will be thrilled by the resident goats, Crunchie and Chewy, not to mention four teddy bear sheep, two ducks and two dwarf lop-eared bunnies.

Book your stay at Chewton Glen this winter

For more winter break inspiration take a look at the good hotel guide editor’s choice . you’ll find all hotels featured here in the good hotel guide 46th edition, to buy your copy online visit the good hotel guide ..

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn commission when you click on them. This does not influence our editorial standards. We only recommend products and services we believe will enhance your family travel experience.

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The Top 9 Family Winter Vacations in Canada

Canada’s winter months are famous for their frigid temperatures, picturesque snowfalls, and a diverse range of winter pastimes that are perfect for Family Winter Vacations in Canada. It’s considered one of the most delightful times to experience Canada – The Great White North, thanks to the variety of outdoor adventures available to visitors, such as skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, snowboarding, and tobogganing.

Visiting these Canadian locations in the winter is an opportunity to embrace the cold and enjoy the unique offerings of this northern country during its most enchanting season. Canadian cities and towns go all out with festive decorations and events during the holiday season, making it a special time to visit between mid November to the early New Year, however winter activities are available in most provinces from December through to the end of March. However, it’s essential to be prepared for the colder weather and plan accordingly to make the most of your winter visit to Canada. 

If you’re in search of the Best winter destinations in Canada for a family trip, you’ve come to the right spot as we can guide you to choosing the perfect family winter vacation.

The Best Family Winter Vacation Spots in Canada

What clothes should I pack for my trip? 

Canada experiences a diverse range of winter conditions, from chilly to frigid, depending on your destination within the country. Additionally, snowfall levels differ significantly between the East Coast, which tends to receive more snow, and the West Coast. To ensure your comfort and warmth, make sure to include the following items in your packing list:

• Cozy Winter Apparel: Layering is highly recommended.
• Insulated Coats
• Snow-resistant Pants
• Waterproof Boots
• Gloves and Beanies
• Scarfs or Balaclavas 

The Best Places to Visit in the Winter in Canada

• Niagara Falls
• Collingwood
• The Laurentians
• Quebec City
• Lake Louise

British Columbia

Banff and Lake Louise, Alberta:

Banff and Lake Louise stand out as some of the most exquisite winter scenery you can encounter in Canada. During this season, the region transforms into a captivating winter wonderland adorned with snow-draped mountains, enchanting frosty forests, and frozen lakes that create a serene atmosphere and offer remarkable photo opportunities of the Canadian Rockies. 

For winter sports enthusiasts, Banff and Lake Louise are a hub of activity, boasting multiple world-class ski resorts, including Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay, catering to various skill levels in skiing and snowboarding. Feel free to explore our guides on the  Best Family Ski Resorts in Canada .

If you prefer savoring the winter landscapes without the thrill of downhill adventures, you can delight in the experience of ice skating on the vast frozen lake, set against the majestic rocky mountains backdrop. Additionally, there’s the option to venture into the backcountry with snowshoes, immersing yourself in the wilderness and even catching glimpses of wildlife such as elk, deer, and wolves in their natural habitat.

Lastly, if relaxation is on your agenda, don’t miss the opportunity to unwind at Banff Upper Hot Springs, known for its soothing mineral-rich waters. Additionally, if luck is on your side, you might witness the captivating spectacle of the Northern Lights painting the night sky. The hot springs are the perfect place to escape the cold weather but still enjoy the scenery.

Don’t Forget too Checkout Banff with Kids or Lake Louise with Kids in the Summer Months as well for an amazing adventure. 

Where to Stay: 

Luxury -> Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and Fairmont Banff Springs are iconic luxury choices for a winter retreat and are a great option if you’re looking for a cozy cabin feel. It is the best place to see the stunning landscapes, and enjoy world class amenities and exceptional service while being close to Banff National Park.

Kid Friendly -> Brewster Mountain Lodge is a great kid-friendly spot that offers babysitting and complimentary breakfast for the whole family. Banff Rocky Mountain Resort is a family-friendly hotel with 2 spa tubs for families to enjoy.

Quebec City, Quebec:

Quebec City presents an enchanting blend of historical allure, winter recreations, and cultural richness that will captivate visitors from all corners of the globe. The Old Quebec, a UNESCO heritage site, exudes a captivating charm with its cobblestone streets and heritage buildings, which take on a magical allure when blanketed in snow.

For those seeking outdoor ice skating, various locations offer this experience, but none are as picturesque as the Plains of Abraham, surrounded by serene snowy landscapes. If downhill skiing or snowboarding is on your agenda, head to Mont-Sainte-Anne or Stoneham for a thrilling experience. Feel free to explore our guides on the  Best Family Ski Resorts in Canada .

Should your travel plans align with late January or early February, don’t miss the renowned Carnaval de Quebec, one of the world’s largest outdoor winter festivals. This historic Quebec tradition transforms the city into a winter wonderland, complete with outdoor activities such as ice skating, snow slides, snow sculpture contests, and ice canoe races on the frozen St. Lawrence River. The International Snow Sculpture Competition draws talented artists from around the world who create intricate and breathtaking snow sculptures.

Be sure to indulge in Quebec sweet treats such as frozen maple taffy (taffy made by pouring hot maple syrup onto snow) or beavertails as well as grab a drink of hot chocolate and enjoy one of the campfires to warm up. Colorful and lively parades featuring imaginative floats, costumed characters, and music wind through the streets of Quebec City, creating a festive atmosphere.

 Be sure to meet the carnival’s mascot Bonhomme the snowman at the stunning ice palace that acts as the festival’s centerpiece. For adventure enthusiasts, a toboggan ride down the famous Dufferin Terrace hill, overlooking the St. Lawrence River, promises exhilaration. 

Moreover, you can embark on an unique journey with ice canoeing on the frozen St. Lawrence River. If you seek refuge from the cold, venture indoors and explore cozy cafes, museums, or art galleries. Visitors can explore cultural exhibits and learn about Quebec’s history and traditions, including its Indigenous heritage at museums such as Musée de la civilisation.

Quebec is renowned for its traditional cuisine, featuring delectable options like poutine (fries with cheese curds and gravy) and tourtière (meat pie), readily available at local eateries.

Luxury -> Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is a historic architectural gem that looks majestic when covered in snow.

Family friendly -> Villages Vacance Valcartier is technically located 20 minutes outside of Quebec City but has the most amazing snow tubing winter playground I have ever experienced and is also home to a fabulous indoor waterpark called Bora Bora.

Churchill, Manitoba:

Churchill, Manitoba, holds the esteemed title of being the Polar Bear Capital of the World, offering a one-of-a-kind Arctic adventure. In the winter, you can enjoy excursions and experiences that are exclusive to this region and the broader Arctic. A good reason to visit is to immerse yourself in the local Indigenous culture and heritage through cultural programs and events that provide valuable insights into the region’s history.

The clear, dark skies over Churchill create an ideal canvas for witnessing the captivating Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. This is a great place to see polar bears up close in their natural environments as you can take a guided tundra buggy tours. While enjoying these unique experiences you may also cross paths with other Arctic wildlife, including arctic foxes, snowy owls, seals, and various unique birds that remain in the region during the winter.

Churchill offers an opportunity to intimately engage with the Arctic environment in Canada’s north, which has plenty of fresh snow and cold temperatures during the winter months but offers unique experiences such as embarking on dog sledding adventures through snowy landscapes with a team of huskies or indulging in ice-related activities like ice fishing, skating, or snowmobiling on the frozen lakes.

Luxury -> Polar Inn & Suites is situated on the edge of the Arctic near the Hudson Bay in Churchill. Our location is a perfect home base for your many adventures that await you with all the incredible wildlife that is home to this area.

Family friendly -> Nestled alongside the pristine Arctic waters of Hudson Bay, with Canada’s Boreal Forest stretching out behind it, you’ll find Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge – our most secluded wilderness ecolodge. The rich and varied ecosystem surrounding Nanuk serves as a habitat for an array of wildlife, including polar bears, black bears, wolves, and moose. Be vigilant and watch for these iconic Canadian creatures during your daily excursions from the lodge!

Tremblant, Quebec:

Mont Tremblant is a popular destination in Canada for skiers and snowboarders alike as the snow-capped mountains become one of Canada’s busiest winter playgrounds in the winter months. Located in the Laurentian Mountains of Quebec this picturesque alpine village resort has over 100 ski trails with a variety of terrain options for multiple skill levels. If you want to be a ski bunny and simply enjoy the hot chocolate and food at the resort you can take a gondola to the top and meet with your skiing friends.

Mont Tremblant village at the base of the mountain is a highlight of any winter vacation and offers an excellent Apres Ski environment as the village has a quaint European-inspired architectural style that is inviting and even has outdoor fire pits to warm up on a cold winter day. It’s lined with boutique shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars,  to unwind after a day on the slopes. You can often find bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment in the evenings. It’s an excellent way to relax and socialize with fellow winter sports enthusiasts. Mont Tremblant village also has several spas and wellness centers where you can relax and rejuvenate with massages, hot tubs, and other treatments after a day of physical activity.

You can also enjoy the natural beauty of the Laurentians by enjoying snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snowmobiling in the area which allows you to enjoy the scenic panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness covered in snow.

Overall, Mont Tremblant in winter is a fantastic destination for winter sports enthusiasts and those looking for a cozy and picturesque winter getaway. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, exploring the village, or simply enjoying the winter wonderland, its a great place for families to enjoy this beautiful mountain destination.

Where to Stay:

Luxury -> Hotel Quintessence is a world-class establishment with 30 luxurious suites.

Family friendly -> Tremblant Resort Tremblant’s is a beautiful natural playground has endless options for things to do and events to attend all winter long for families of all ages.

Whistler, British Columbia:

Whistler is a captivating  destination for outdoor enthusiasts and winter sports aficionados. Located in British Columbia, Canada, Whistler is celebrated for its stunning alpine landscapes. 

Whistler Blackcomb is one of the largest and most famous ski resorts in North America. It offers a vast expanse of terrain, groomed slopes, and challenging alpine bowls for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Feel free to explore our guides on the  Best Family Ski Resorts in Canada .

Guests can explore the winter wilderness of Whistler by snowshoeing through the picturesque trails in the snowy forests. The area features numerous cross-country skiing trails, including options for classic and skate skiing, catering to both beginners and experienced skiers.

Adventures can further explore the backcountry terrain surrounded by breathtaking mountain views by taking a snowmobile adventure tour. Visitors have the opportunity to embrace the enchantment of winter by embarking on a horse-drawn sleigh journey through the woods or by lacing up their skates and relishing an outdoor skating rink nestled amidst the backdrop of snow-covered peaks.

For a family-friendly activity, enjoy the exhilaration of snow tubing at Whistler’s tubing parks or take a scenic gondola ride to the top of the mountains for views of the surrounding landscapes. If you want to get even higher in the sky then take a scenic helicopter tour or get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning winter scenery.

Whistler has a lively vibe and nightlife as they have a vibrant après-ski scene, with a wide range of restaurants, bars, and shops to enjoy. Throughout the winter Whistler also hosts various winter festivals and events, including arts and culture festivals, music concerts, and holiday celebrations.

Many resorts offer relaxation after a day on the slopes with spa treatments and wellness activities available at the many resorts in the area.

Luxury -> Fairmont Chateau Whistler combines classic elegance with modern alpine style and full resort facilities. Discover the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure in every season, from poolside lounging to exploring the epic slopes of Whistler Blackcomb.

Family friendly -> Pan Pacific Village is only a short walk to the gondolas and Whistler Kids Snow School. A complimentary breakfast is also included with your stay. They have a salt water outdoor pool, 2 hot tubs, kids robes, games, and lots of baby gear.

Niagara Falls, Ontario:

For those seeking some winter fun, there are opportunities to go ice skating near the falls, with five outdoor rinks available for use during the winter season. Additionally, a visit to Fireman’s Park in the wintertime often reveals children enjoying the thrill of tobogganing down its slopes. Visiting this marvel of nature during the winter months is a delightful experience as the falls and the adjacent region undergo a stunning transformation into a snowy spectacle, all thanks to the chilly temperatures. The falls take on a partially frozen appearance, and as the mercury plunges, the mist crystallizes on the nearby trees and rocks, forming exquisite ice formations. Checkout our guide to visiting Niagara Falls in the Winter.

Niagara Falls presents a mesmerizing sight in the evening as it is beautifully illuminated, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle against the frozen backdrop which has a five-minute display on the hour at 6,7,and 8PM. Niagara Falls is host to the annual Winter Festival of Lights running from November thru to January. This is Canada’s largest FREE outdoor display of lights with over a million lights and unique Holiday light displays along the  Hot Chocolate Trail .

Luxury -> Sheraton Fallsview Niagara has a indoor walkway to Casino Niagara and Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, and moments from Niagara’s Iconic Boat Ride and Niagara Parks and a short drive to Niagara Wineries. Fallsview has multiple rooms with waterfall views.

Family friendly -> Great Wolf Lodge offers the best family friendly environment of Niagara as it has a waterpark, and is a themed hotel for kids.

Ottawa, Ontario:

Visiting Ottawa in the winter provides a unique and enchanting experience, with a variety of outdoor and indoor activities to enjoy amidst the city’s winter wonderland. Ottawa has a thriving culinary scene, and during the winter, it’s a great time to indulge in warm, hearty meals and cozy café experiences. Try traditional Canadian dishes like poutine or tour some of the city’s international cuisine offerings. Ottawa has a few winter markets and holiday craft fairs where you can shop for unique gifts, artisanal products, and delicious treats. These markets often pop up in the city’s parks and downtown areas.

Parliament Hill is beautifully illuminated during the winter months, creating a magical atmosphere. You can take a walk around the grounds and admire the impressive architecture while enjoying the festive lights and decorations. Skating on the frozen Rideau Canal is a quintessential Ottawa winter activity. The canal winds its way through the heart of the city, and you can rent skates or bring your own to enjoy a scenic and leisurely skate. There are also warming huts along the canal where you can take a break and grab a hot beverage.

Winterlude is a popular winter festival held annually in Ottawa. It typically takes place in February and features a variety of activities, including ice sculpture competitions, ice skating on the Rideau Canal (the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink), and a snow playground for children. The festival celebrates the joys of winter and is a highlight of the season. Ottawa offers numerous opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also popular activities in the Gatineau Park, just across the river in Quebec. You can go downhill skiing or snowboarding at nearby ski resorts like Camp Fortune and Mont Cascades. 

Luxury -> Fairmont Chateau Laurier is an epic castle of unmatched splendor in the heart of Canada’s capital poised between ByWard Market and the Rideau Canal locks. Fairmont Château Laurier is Ottawa’s grand icon: a soaring historic château.

Family friendly -> Lord Elgin Hotel has a heated pool and family rooms.

Collingwood, Ontario: 

Collingwood is a popular winter weekend getaway for locals in South West Ontario as Collingwood is home to Blue Mountain that offers 42 runs, 16 chairlifts and 3 freestyle terrains for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy. Blue Mountain is very similar to Mont Tremblant and offers a charming little village that has fabulous dining choices, bars and nightlife, as well as shops to explore.  Many local businesses and accommodations create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere during the winter season. You can enjoy warm drinks by the fireplaces of charming cafés and restaurants. Check out more Winter Vacation Ideas in Ontario.

You can enjoy ice skating in Blue Mountain Village on the outdoor skating rink. It’s a fun activity for families and couples alike. Or nearby you can find different excursions offering snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Families will also enjoy visiting The Plunge indoor waterpark that even has a heated outdoor pool that offers the ability to swim indoors and outside among the snow. Blue Mountain also has one of the best snow tubing locations in Ontario.

For those seeking relaxation, head to Scandinavia Spa for a unique yet relaxing spa experience in a natural outdoor setting so you can enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. Hydrotherapy is a central element of Scandinavian spas. It typically involves a series of hot and cold water treatments. Guests move between hot saunas, steam rooms, or hot tubs and cold plunge pools or even dipping into the river, often accompanied by periods of relaxation in between.

Overall, Blue Mountain Village in winter is a bustling, wintery paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to enjoy the beauty and excitement of the season. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or simply soaking in the winter ambiance, it’s a memorable destination for a winter getaway.

Luxury -> Westin Trillium House is a haven of wellness and comfort in a lively pedestrians-only village offering striking views of the Georgian Bay or Niagara Escarpment. They have a heated outdoor pool that is perfect for swimming in the winter.

Family friendly -> Georgian Bay Hotel is an all season resort surrounded by natural landscapes and has a indoor heated saltwater pool, outdoor heated seasonal pools, on-site spa and restaurant.

Tips for Going on a Winter Getaway in Canada:

• Secure Your Lodging in Advance: Highly sought-after winter resorts like ski lodges tend to fill up rapidly.
• Immerse Yourself in Local Culture: Canada boasts a rich historical tapestry with numerous opportunities to delve into Indigenous cultures and local traditions that have played a pivotal role in shaping the nation.
• Stay Physically Active: Engaging in active winter activities can help distract you from the chilly weather’s bite.
• Create a Mix of Indoor and Outdoor Activities: While outdoor adventures are a must, plan some indoor escapades like museum visits, art gallery explorations, food stops to provide opportunities for warming up.
• Stay Informed About Weather Conditions if Driving: Staying updated on weather forecasts is crucial when driving in winter, and in some provinces, it’s mandatory to equip your vehicle with snow tires.

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16+ Best Spring Break Destinations For Families (2024)

W ith winter coming to an end, families are ready to enjoy some warm weather on their spring break family vacation. Now is the best time to get started on researching destinations, finding prices, and booking your trip.

Wondering where to go on vacation with your kids during spring break? Here are some of the best spring break destinations for families.

Whether your spring break is in March or April, we’ve got you covered. This list offers European, Caribbean, and US destinations. If you are planning a last-minute trip, you’ll find some options that can be a great road trip so you can save money on flights and rental cars.

Did we miss any of your favorite spring break destinations for families? Leave us a comment and we’ll update this post.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no cost to you. All opinions are my own. Note that we experienced some of these top spring break destinations as part of media trips or comped stays.

This post has been updated for the 2024 spring break.

Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

Grand cayman.

I’ve visited the Cayman Islands (on complimentary press trips twice) three times now, and I always love it. Our hotel picks are the Ritz-Carlton or the Westin Grand Cayman Resort – both located on Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman.

We’ve traveled there with JetBlue Vacations , which is a great option, and also on a cruise excursion. There’s so much to do – but you’ll also want to spend some time on the gorgeous beach. Spring would be a great time to visit.

Keep in mind that these two resorts aren’t all-inclusive vacations, so you’ll want to budget for food and drinks. They are beach resorts though, so you’ll be able to have a family-friendly spring break even if you don’t want to do any activities.

However, if you have the budget, you may want to visit a few local attractions while you are there. We recommend visiting Stingray City, the Cayman Turtle Farm, and Rum Point Beach.

See reviews of hotels in Grand Cayman here .

Turks and Caicos

Another one of my favorite spring break family destinations is Turks and Caicos. It was on my family travel bucket list for years, before I finally had the opportunity to visit. We loved our press trip stay at the West Bay Club, and found that there was so much to do in Turks and Caicos with kids. I have since returned four additional times and would go annually if possible.

It’s a relaxing place to visit, so you’ll want to spend plenty of time at the beach. If you are looking for an all-inclusive resort, one of our all-time favorite places to stay is Beaches Turks and Caicos , which offers 22 restaurants and over 700 rooms.

It’s one of the best places to stay with kids and would be a great family spring break trip.

Read reviews of Turks and Caicos resorts here .

San Antonio – one of our favorite spring break ideas

San Antonio, Texas is a great family travel destination, with lots of things to do with kids. We recently visited San Antonio for a spring break vacation and loved our stay. There’s so much to do with families, and it’s a bit of a hidden gem when it comes to spring break.

The San Antonio River Walk is a must-visit, with things for everyone to enjoy. Of course, I also recommend a visit to the Alamo – here are 4 surprising things when visiting the Alamo.  

You can also visit SeaWorld San Antonio , which is open at select times in the early spring. If possible, I’d recommend staying on the River Walk – there’s so much to do there, and it’s easy to walk around for dinner and shopping.

See hotel reviews on TripAdvisor.

Orlando, Florida

Orlando is one of the most popular family vacation spring break destinations, and right now, there is so much going on at Walt Disney World. You can stay on or off-property, and we have recommendations for the best hotels for your Walt Disney World vacation. Remember to book early, so that you can make your dining reservations well in advance.

There are lots of other great things to do in Orlando as well, including other theme parks, nature activities, the Orlando ICON Park, and so much more.

If you’d rather stick with a more relaxing beach vacation in Florida , the Fort Myers area may be the best destination for you.  If you fly into Fort Myers, there are lots of places you can stay just a short drive away. Consider visiting Marco Island , which is a relaxing and fun place to stay. 

While I just enjoy staying on the beach, the Dolphin Study Eco-Tour and Cruise is a must-do. If you are visiting during March, you may be able to catch a spring training baseball game in the area. Find hotels in the Fort Myers area on TripAdvisor .

Other Destinations for a Florida Spring Break for Families

Florida is one of the most popular 2024 family spring break destinations in the United States. It is filled with other great spring break destinations for families, including Amelia Island , Miami Beach, Sarasota, Clearwater Beach , Tampa , and Destin/Fort Walton.

Whether you want to relax on the beach, experience nature, or explore the local area, there are lots of options. We especially love the beaches on the Gulf Coast of Florida. The best Florida spring break destinations for families offer waterfront activities, museums, and other fun activities.

San Diego, California is a great option if you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation combined with some family activities. Attractions like the San Diego Zoo, Disneyland , and Legoland are just a short drive away. During our stay last year, we stayed at the Bahia Resort Hotel on Mission Bay and loved both the location and the hotel.

The weather in San Diego is fairly consistent throughout the year, so there’s never a bad time to visit. You could easily spend a whole week there. Check out other hotels in San Diego here .

Save on a Southern California trip from Get Away Today by using the code  FTM10. 

Spring break is also a fantastic time to enjoy a vacation in the Los Angeles/Anaheim area. In addition to Disneyland Resort (the very first Disney park), you’ll also find Knott’s Berry Farm and Universal Hollywood (with the brand new Super Nintendo World).

Save money on your theme park tickets by booking through  Get Away Today . They offer vacation packages as well as individual ticket sales. Disney travel agents don’t charge guests an extra commission and can help you find deals.

Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix is one of our favorite warm-weather destinations. There are so many fantastic, kid-friendly resorts. Although you may want to spend much of your time at the resort, there are so many other things to do in the area. This includes botanical gardens, zoos, aquariums, hiking trails, and so much more.

If you visit the greater Phoenix area in March, you have the opportunity to check out a variety of spring training baseball games. The Cactus League teams all play within a relatively small radius, making it easy to see multiple teams, regardless of where you are staying in the area. Find the best hotels in Phoenix at TripAdvisor.

The Azores, the closest and one of the most affordable European destinations is a temperate 65-70 degrees in April.  With family activities like whale watching, hiking, biking, gardens, forts, and museums, you’ll find plenty of things to do. 

Azores Airlines has traditionally offered great deals in the spring from many US destinations. You could also visit the Azores on the way to mainland Portugal, or just choose to visit the Azores.

Washington DC

We visited Washington DC on a family spring break getaway a few years ago. It’s perfect for kids who are old enough to appreciate the history and culture of our nation’s capital.

Of course, my kids’ favorite spot was the International Spy Museum, which moved to a new facility. You can stay right in the city or in one of the many nearby suburbs. We chose to stay in National Harbor, MD and enjoyed our stay. Read more about things to do in Washington DC here.

Family Cruise

Would you rather visit several Caribbean destinations?  Then choose a cruise – perhaps a Disney cruise leaving from Florida and stopping in the Bahamas? 

I love Castaway Cay – Disney’s private island in the Bahamas – and think it’s great for families. We’ve done both the Western Caribbean Itinerary and the Eastern Caribbean Itineraries on the Disney Fantasy – both are fabulous.

You could also choose to take a shorter cruise as well. We enjoy the 3 or 4 day trip on the Disney Dream, which leaves from Port Canaveral and goes to Nassau and Castaway Cay.

Puerto Rico

You won’t need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico, yet it’ll feel like a world away. Spring is a great time to visit because it falls in between the winter busy season and the rainy season. We visited a few years ago in February, and the weather was absolutely beautiful. I’ve since returned in March and also found perfect weather.

It’s so easy to go from the airport to your resort since you don’t have to go through customs. Since it’s a domestic flight, you also won’t have to arrive at the airport too early or bring a US passport. It’s also a beautiful island with many fun activities beyond the pool and beach.

I recently visited Bermuda and was so impressed with this beautiful island. Located just a 2-hour flight from Boston, Bermuda is a small island with lots of great restaurants, shops, and resorts.

Kids will love touring Crystal and Fantasy caves , located near the airport. There’s also an aquarium, a fort, and so much more. Be sure to save some time to visit the beautiful beaches. We especially enjoyed Horseshoe Bay, a public beach located in the Southampton area of the island.

Just keep in mind that the weather in Bermuda is more similar to the Carolinas than to the Caribbean. So it won’t necessarily be hot in the spring.

New York City

I love visiting New York City every time of year, but April is a great time to visit. There’s so much to do in New York, regardless of the ages of your kids. My kids love the Central Park Zoo, and we always try to see a Broadway show during our trips.

There are also countless museums, the Empire State Building, Circle Line boat tours, and so much more. You’ll want to check out these kid-friendly restaurants in NYC as well.

Music City has become a popular family vacation destination in recent years. Want to learn more about music? There’s the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Museum Hall of Fame, and the Ryman Auditorium – all of which are fun to visit. I love staying at the Gaylord Opryland , a huge resort with atriums, restaurants, and so much more.

This beautiful, historic city offers so much for families. From museums (including the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace Museum) to the nearby beaches ( Tybee Island ), Savannah is a great destination.

In your opinion, what are the best places to go for spring break? Do you prefer to hang out at the beach, or stay active?

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