Discover the best Christmas trips for families, from enchanting mountain resorts to magical Disney celebrations. Create unforgettable holiday memories with destinations perfect for every budget.
Best Christmas Trips for Families
Are you dreaming of a magical Christmas getaway with your family? There are many places to choose from. You can find winter wonderlands or sunny beach retreats. But which one will make the best memories?
Find out the top Christmas trips that will make your kids excited for Santa’s arrival.
Key Takeaways
- Explore enchanting Christmas destinations across the U.S. for a festive family vacation
- Discover winter wonderlands with activities like skiing, ice skating, and holiday light displays
- Experience the charm of historic towns decked out in holiday splendor
- Find the perfect balance of festive fun and relaxation for the whole family
- Plan ahead to secure the best deals and accommodations for your Christmas getaway
Magical Winter Festivals Across the U.S.
As families plan their Christmas family vacation ideas, winter festivals across the United States offer enchanting experiences for all ages. From twinkling light displays to festive markets, these events create unforgettable family-friendly Christmas trips.
Overview of Winter Festivals
Chicago’s ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo is a hit. It has dazzling musical light shows and amazing ice-sculpting demos. Families can also check out the Denver Zoo Lights and the Denver Christkindl Market for real European holiday vibes.
In Breckenridge, Colorado, the Lighting of Breckenridge event is a treat. It lights up over 250,000 LED lights and has beautifully decorated holiday trees. These festivals offer fun activities like caroling and holiday markets, making them best Christmas destinations for kids.
Top Family-Friendly Events
- Hershey, Pennsylvania’s Hersheypark’s Christmas Candylane, featuring holiday rides, Santa visits, and over five million lights
- Oahu, Hawaii’s Waikiki Holiday Lights Trolley tour and the annual Honolulu City Lights event, for a tropical Hawaiian Christmas
- New Orleans, Louisiana’s Celebration in the Oaks, with dazzling light displays and bonfires
- Branson, Missouri’s An Old Time Christmas event at Silver Dollar City and the Polar Express ride for families
Tips for Enjoying Festivals with Kids
When visiting these best Christmas destinations for kids, plan ahead. Arrive early to avoid crowds. Wear warm clothes for outdoor fun. Look for special kids’ activities. These tips help make magical memories at winter festivals across the United States.
Enchanting Christmas Markets to Explore
Christmas markets are magical for families. They mix festive shopping, tasty treats, and culture. Places like Nuremberg, Germany, and Strasbourg, France, are perfect for winter vacations.
Best Markets for Families
The Denver Christkindl Market is famous. It’s at Denver Civic Center Park every year. Families can try German glühwein and European foods while shopping for unique gifts.
In Massachusetts, the Hancock Shaker Village has a Christmas market. It’s full of local goods for all ages to enjoy.
Unique Gifts to Find
Christmas markets have special gifts and souvenirs. You can find glass ornaments and Alpaca wool items. There are also fun decorations, handmade toys, and food items.
Festive Foods to Try
Trying new foods is a big part of Christmas markets. Families can enjoy German dishes like bratwurst and schnitzel. Or try Alsatian or Swiss foods in Strasbourg and Basel.
The smells of pastries, mulled wine, and chestnuts are everywhere. It’s a festive time for everyone.
Ski Resorts Perfect for Family Fun
Ski resorts are a winter wonderland for families. They offer adventure and excitement. Places like Colorado and the French Alps have something for everyone.
Top Ski Destinations in the U.S.
Breckenridge Ski Resort is a top pick in the U.S. It has 187 trails on five peaks. Camelback Resort in Pennsylvania has 39 trails and a waterpark all year.
Skiing and Snowboarding Tips for Beginners
Beginners can learn at ski resorts. Whistler Blackcomb in Canada lets kids 12 and under ski free. Steamboat Ski Resort in Colorado offers free skiing for kids with adult passes.
Family-Friendly Activities Beyond Skiing
Ski resorts have more than skiing. Big Sky Resort in Montana has an Enchanted Forest. Northstar in California has over 100 trails and 3,100 acres to ski.
Looking for fun on the slopes or a cozy winter? These resorts have it all. They offer skiing lessons and snow play. It’s the perfect holiday mix.
Warm Weather Getaways for the Holidays
Get away from the cold this holiday season. Head to the best warm weather spots for families. Enjoy sun-drenched beaches and cultural fun in tropical and subtropical places.
Best Beach Destinations for Families
Coronado Island in San Diego, California, has beautiful golden beaches. San Juan, Puerto Rico, has tropical sand and historic sites like El Morro Fortress. Scottsdale, Arizona, offers desert landscapes and a new aquarium for a unique holiday trip.
Activities for Kids at the Beach
- Build sandcastles and hunt for seashells
- Splash in the warm ocean waves
- Participate in beach-themed scavenger hunts
- Enjoy water sports like snorkeling or kayaking
Holiday Traditions in Warmer Climates
Christmas in warm places is different from snowy ones. In the Bahamas, Junkanoo is a fun parade with music and costumes. In Puerto Rico, parrandas are festive gatherings with music, food, and dancing.
| Destination | Average Winter Temperature |
|---|---|
| Key West, Florida | 71°F |
| Cape Coral, Florida | 75°F |
| Cancun, Mexico | 70°F |
| Montego Bay, Jamaica | 76°F |
| Antigua | 82°F |
Looking for sun, culture, or holiday fun? These warm weather spots are perfect for families this Christmas.
Visits to Iconic Christmas Destinations
Looking for a magical Christmas trip? There are many iconic places to choose from. You can visit Santa Claus, Indiana, or see the lights in New York City. Disney World is also a great choice for a family holiday.
Santa Claus, Indiana: A Holiday Wonderland
Santa Claus, Indiana, is full of holiday cheer all year. Families can enjoy many fun attractions and events. Visit Santa’s Candy Castle and the Santa Claus Museum & Village.
Don’t miss the Santa Claus Land of Lights. It’s a beautiful show with millions of lights. This place is perfect for a magical holiday.
New York City: A Classic Christmas Experience
New York City is famous for its Christmas celebrations. Families can ice skate at Rockefeller Center and see the big Christmas tree. The city’s streets are full of festive fun.
Go shopping on Fifth Avenue and see the Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular. New York City is a great place for a family Christmas.
Disney World: A Magical Holiday Adventure
Walt Disney World in Florida is perfect for a Disney Christmas. The parks are decorated beautifully during the holidays. There are special parades and character meet-and-greets.
Don’t miss the Candlelight Processional and the gingerbread displays. Disney World is a magical place for a family holiday.
Theme Parks Decked Out for the Holidays
Families looking for a fun holiday trip should check out theme parks. These places turn into winter wonderlands, full of fun and cheer. You can find magic at Disney, Universal Studios, and more, making memories for everyone.
Best Theme Parks to Visit in December
Disneyland Resort starts celebrating the holidays in November 2024. It goes until January 1, 2025, with Santa and special meals. Walt Disney World Resort has the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays from November 29 to December 30.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios has “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration” during the holidays.
Holiday-Themed Attractions
Universal Studios and SeaWorld also celebrate the holidays. They have special events and shows. You can see parades, decorations, and meet characters in holiday clothes.
Tips for Saving on Family Tickets
- Look for multi-day ticket packages for big savings.
- Buy tickets early for discounts.
- Think about annual passes or memberships for frequent visits.
- Watch for special deals like discounts for Florida residents or military.
Visiting theme parks in December is magical for families. There are festive attractions, special meals, and ways to save money. These places are perfect for making holiday memories.
National Parks with Stunning Winter Scenery
When it gets cold and snow falls, the U.S. national parks turn into winter wonderlands. Places like Yellowstone and Yosemite are perfect for Christmas trips for families on a budget. They offer best places to go for Christmas family vacations and winter wonderland Christmas trips for families.
These parks are great for affordable, nature-filled fun. They make memories that last forever.
Top Parks to Visit in Winter
- Yellowstone National Park: See hot springs and geysers against snowy landscapes.
- Yosemite National Park: Try skiing, snowboarding, and hikes among granite cliffs and sequoias.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: Go snowshoeing, see wildlife, and take guided tours in the winter.
Winter Activities for Families
- Guided snowshoe tours: Find hidden spots and learn about winter ecology.
- Cross-country skiing: Ski through beautiful snow landscapes and enjoy the quiet.
- Wildlife watching: See animals like bison, elk, and wolves in their winter homes.
Safety Tips for Visiting National Parks in Winter
Visiting national parks in winter needs safety first. Wear warm clothes and the right shoes. Check with park rangers for trail updates and dangers.
By following these tips, families can enjoy the parks safely and warmly.
Cruise Options for Holiday Family Travel
A family cruise is a magical way to enjoy Christmas. It offers magical Christmas destinations for families and fun Christmas vacations for the whole family. You can choose from sunny Caribbean spots to festive Mediterranean places. There’s a cruise for every family’s affordable Christmas vacations.
Popular Christmas Cruise Destinations
The Caribbean is a top pick for Christmas cruises. It has warm weather, beautiful beaches, and fun activities for families. Places like the Bahamas, Mexico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are great. Families can snorkel, relax on beaches, and explore islands.
Family Activities Onboard
- Cruise lines decorate with Christmas flair, offer festive meals, and Santa visits. It’s very magical.
- Kids have their own clubs and activities. They can play, make crafts, and enjoy shows.
- Adults can relax with spa treatments, try special foods, and enjoy nightlife. Everyone has fun.
Planning Tips for a Holiday Cruise
- Book early for the best deals and to pick your dates.
- Choose a cruise line and itinerary that fits your family’s size and age. It’s more fun that way.
- Look into what the cruise offers. This helps you enjoy your holiday cruise more.
There are many magical Christmas destinations for families, fun Christmas vacations for the whole family, and affordable Christmas vacations for families to pick from. A cruise is a great way to celebrate the holidays with your family. Plan well and enjoy the special things offered. You’ll make memories that last forever.
Historical Sites with Holiday Celebrations
This holiday season, plan a trip to some of the best historical sites in the United States. You’ll find history and holiday cheer mixed together. These places let families enjoy the Christmas magic while learning about the past.
Best Historical Sites to Visit in December
Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia turns into a winter wonderland in December. You’ll see carolers, candlelit tours, and historical reenactments. Mount Vernon, George Washington’s home, offers candlelight tours and colonial-era holiday activities.
In Boston, Massachusetts, follow the Freedom Trail decorated for Christmas. It’s a fun way to see the city’s history. Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts and Koziar’s Christmas Village in Pennsylvania are also great places to visit.
Educational Activities for Families
- Learn about historic holiday crafts and traditions in hands-on workshops
- Discover the origins of Christmas customs in interactive storytelling sessions
- Try period-accurate holiday menus and festive treats
- Meet costumed interpreters to learn about holiday life in the past
Special Holiday Events at Historical Sites
Many historical sites have special holiday events for all ages. Williamsburg’s Grand Illumination has fireworks. Solvang, California, has Julefest with live music and a Christkindlmarkt. Leavenworth, Washington, lights up with 21 miles of twinkling lights.
These experiences offer best Christmas holiday experiences for kids and top Christmas resorts for families. They help create lasting memories during the holiday season.
Unique Christmas Experiences at Zoos and Aquariums
For families looking for Christmas vacations for adventure-loving families and cozy Christmas trips for families, zoos and aquariums are great. They offer Christmas family getaways with holiday festivities that make memories last. These places have animal encounters, festive decor, and fun activities for kids during the holidays.
Best Zoos with Holiday Programs
The San Diego Zoo turns into a winter wonderland with “Jungle Bells.” Families can see bright lights, animal shows, and live music. Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo has “ZooLights” with lights, rides, and craft stations.
Fun Animal Encounters for Kids
- Meet and greet with reindeer at the Georgia Aquarium’s holiday celebration
- Explore the Zoo Atlanta’s “Glow Wild” lantern festival, showing animal-shaped lanterns
- Interact with seals and sea lions during special holiday-themed feedings at the Monterey Bay Aquarium
Seasonal Events to Attend
Many zoos and aquariums decorate for the holidays and have fun events. The Philadelphia Zoo’s “Zoo Noel” has gingerbread decorating and caroling. The Cincinnati Zoo’s “Festival of Lights” creates a magical winter scene.
Looking for cozy Christmas trips for families or Christmas family getaways with holiday festivities? Zoos and aquariums offer special and fun experiences for all ages.
Family-Friendly Resorts with Holiday Packages
As the holiday season comes, families can find many great places to go. These resorts offer fun activities and special things for kids. They make the holiday season special for everyone.
Top Resorts with Christmas Activities
The Woodstock Inn & Resort in Vermont has beautiful holiday decorations. They even have a life-size gingerbread house. Camelback Resort in Pennsylvania has skiing, tubing, and an indoor waterpark for fun.
For a warm holiday, Cancun, Mexico, and Palm Beach, Florida, are great. They have Santa-hat rooms and Christmas fun in the sun.
Features to Look for in Family-Friendly Resorts
- Santa visits and holiday-themed activities for children
- Special holiday menus and festive dining experiences
- Cozy accommodations with holiday decorations
- Indoor and outdoor recreational options for all ages
Booking Tips for Holiday Stays
Book early for a great family Christmas vacation. Many resorts have deals that include meals and Santa visits. This makes the holiday season even better for families.
| Resort | Location | Holiday Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Woodstock Inn & Resort | Vermont | Handcrafted decorations, life-size gingerbread house |
| Camelback Resort | Pennsylvania | Skiing, tubing, indoor waterpark |
| Cancun Resorts | Mexico | Santa-hat adorned accommodations, tropical Christmas cheer |
| Palm Beach Resorts | Florida | Giant sandcastle Christmas tree, world-class shopping |
Choosing a resort with holiday fun makes memories. Families can enjoy a great holiday at a nice resort.
Volunteering Opportunities for the Holiday Season
Planning your Christmas vacation? Think about volunteering. Many places have chances to help out, like serving meals or helping with toy drives. It’s a great way to bond and teach kids about giving.
Family-Friendly Volunteering Ideas
- Help at a food bank or soup kitchen, preparing meals for those in need.
- Join a toy or gift drive, collecting and wrapping presents for kids who might not get any.
- Visit nursing homes or assisted living places, spending time with lonely residents.
- Decorate community centers or churches for the holidays, spreading cheer.
Benefits of Volunteering Together
Volunteering as a family can be very rewarding. It teaches kids about helping others and builds family bonds. You’ll make memories and feel the true spirit of Christmas.
How to Find Local Opportunities
To find volunteering spots, contact your local visitor center or chamber of commerce. They can tell you about charities and groups needing help. You can also use websites like VolunteerMatch to find “adopt-a-family” programs or other holiday projects.
Adding volunteering to your Christmas plans makes your vacation special. It’s a chance to give back and make your holiday more meaningful. Your family will cherish the memories of helping others.
Tips for Traveling with Children During the Holidays
Getting ready for a family holiday trip can feel hard. But with smart planning, you can make it fun and easy. When you pack for your festive family vacation, remember to bring extra clothes, snacks, and toys. This helps keep kids happy and avoids tantrums.
Packing Essentials for Family Trips
Along with usual travel items, add toys, books, and gadgets for kids. Healthy snacks like nut butters and fruit are great for energy. A small potty for young ones makes stops easier. These tips help you face the fun of Christmas trips and photo shoots.
Managing Travel Stress
Traveling with kids can be tough, but planning helps. Give yourself extra time for travel and breaks for kids. Doctors in Orlando and San Diego say keep sleep and hand washing routines to stay healthy.
Creating Holiday Traditions While Traveling
Traveling with kids at Christmas can start new traditions. Take photos at special spots or try local treats. Staying in places with kitchens lets you cook festive meals. This makes your trip feel like home, filled with holiday magic.
Conclusion
By planning ahead and choosing the right getaway for your family’s unique interests, you’ll ensure that your Christmas vacation is filled with joy, relaxation, and unforgettable moments. Start making your holiday dreams a reality today!
