Find the best Christmas vacations for families, with top holiday destinations offering festive activities, cozy accommodations, and memorable experiences for all ages.
Best Christmas Vacations for Families
As Christmas gets closer, families in the U.S. are planning their holiday trips. But where should you go to make memories this Christmas? There are many places to choose from, like winter wonderlands and tropical spots. What makes a Christmas vacation special for families?
Christmas vacations let families escape the daily rush and enjoy the holiday spirit. They can explore Christmas markets, drink hot cocoa, or play in the snow. These activities help families bond and make memories that last.
Nearly 115 million Americans travel during the holidays. It’s important to book early to get to the best places for family fun. Whether it’s theme parks or cozy winter spots, there’s something for every family.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the most popular Christmas vacation spots for families in the U.S.
- Explore a variety of holiday-themed activities and events ideal for family fun
- Learn about the key factors to consider when planning your family’s Christmas getaway
- Uncover budget-friendly options and unique experiences to make your holiday trip truly memorable
- Get inspired by the diverse array of winter wonderlands, tropical escapes, and urban adventures awaiting families
1. Magical Christmas Getaways in the U.S.
As Christmas nears, families look for Christmas getaways for families and family-friendly Christmas vacations in the U.S. Places like New York City, Aspen, and Orlando are full of magic. They offer a special experience for kids.
New York City: A Winter Wonderland
New York City turns into a winter wonderland at Christmas. Families can see the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. They can also skate at the ice rink and enjoy the festive streets.
The city has Broadway shows, holiday markets, and great food. It’s a top spot for family-friendly Christmas vacations.
Orlando: Theme Park Holiday Cheer
Orlando is perfect for Christmas getaways for families with kids. It’s full of holiday fun at Disney World and Universal Studios. Families can see the Candlelight Processional at Epcot and Grinch-themed Whoville at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
It’s a great place to make memories at these best Christmas destinations for kids.
Aspen: Skiing and Festivities
Aspen becomes a winter wonderland at Christmas. Families can ski and snowboard, then enjoy festive celebrations. The Aspen Wintersköl festival and Aspen Après Ski events add to the fun.
This Colorado mountain town is perfect for family-friendly Christmas vacations.
2. Family-Friendly Resorts with Holiday Packages
Planning a family Christmas vacation can be easy with all-inclusive resorts. They offer everything you need, like places to stay, food, and fun activities. You can find resorts in snowy mountains or sunny beaches, all decorated for the holidays.
Club Med: All-Inclusive Holiday Joy
Club Med is great for families wanting a stress-free Christmas. They have lots of holiday activities and entertainment. Kids and adults can enjoy making gingerbread houses and dancing at festive parties.
Disneyland Resort: Christmas Magic for Kids
Disneyland Resort in California is magical for kids at Christmas. It’s full of lights, snow, and special attractions. Families can meet Santa and see fireworks, making it a Christmas to remember.
| Resort | Unique Holiday Offerings | Accommodations |
|---|---|---|
| Club Med |
|
All-inclusive packages with lodging, meals, and activities |
| Disneyland Resort |
|
On-site hotels and resorts for a complete Disney experience |
These resorts make your Christmas vacation magical and easy. You can relax and make memories without worrying about planning. Whether you’re in the mountains or on a beach, these places are perfect for a family Christmas trip to remember.
3. Holiday Markets and Festivals to Explore
Looking for a fun Christmas experience? Holiday markets and festivals are perfect. They let you enjoy the season’s sights, sounds, and tastes. Chicago and Denver are great places to visit during the holidays.
Chicago Christmas Market: A Festive Tradition
The Chicago Christkindlmarket feels like a German village. It’s a yearly tradition inspired by Nuremberg, Germany. Families can walk through stalls with unique gifts and smell mulled wine and German food.
There’s live music and dance, and even St. Nicholas visits. It’s a top spot for Christmas vacation ideas for families.
Denver: A City of Lights and Decor
Denver turns into a winter wonderland in the holiday season. Its streets are full of lights, making it magical. The Denver Zoo Lights feature animal sculptures in lights.
The Denver Christkindl Market has German-style shopping and treats. Denver is a best holiday destination for families for best family Christmas trips.
| Destination | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| Chicago Christkindlmarket |
|
| Denver |
|
4. Scenic Winter Retreats for Families
For families looking for a magical Christmas, scenic winter retreats are great. Lake Tahoe and Banff National Park are two top spots. They offer outdoor fun and holiday joy.
Lake Tahoe: Snowy Adventures Await
Lake Tahoe sits between the Sierra Nevada mountains. It turns into a winter wonderland at Christmas. Families can ski, snowboard, sled, and snowmobile here.
The 65-foot Christmas tree at Heavenly Village makes it even more festive. It’s a top spot for a family Christmas.
Banff: Nature’s Christmas Card
Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies is a stunning place for Christmas. It has snow-covered peaks, blue lakes, and forests. It’s a real winter wonderland.
Families can ski, ice skate, go on sleigh rides, and snowshoe here. They’ll see amazing views all around.
These places mix outdoor fun with holiday cheer. They’re perfect for a magical Christmas. Whether it’s Lake Tahoe or Banff, they offer great family experiences.
5. Warm-weather Christmas Alternatives
Many families dream of a snowy Christmas. But, there are warm-weather places for a festive holiday. Places like Maui and San Diego offer a fun escape from winter.
Maui: Beachfront Christmas Spirit
Maui turns into a tropical Christmas wonderland. Families enjoy luaus, beach celebrations, and resort decorations. The warm weather makes for a memorable holiday.
San Diego: Sunny Holiday Fun
San Diego is known for its beaches and culture. It has many Christmas activities. Like the Balboa Park December Nights and seaside ice skating. It’s a mix of holiday cheer and outdoor fun.
These places let families enjoy Christmas in a new way. Maui and San Diego offer beauty and festive fun. They make for a unique and unforgettable Christmas.
6. Unique Christmas Experiences for Families
Families look for special Christmas spots to make memories. They might go on Christmas adventures for families in national parks. Or take a magical trip on family Christmas vacation resorts by train.
National Parks: Celebrate in Natural Beauty
National parks, like Yosemite, are a special place for Christmas. They have beautiful landscapes and fun holiday activities. Families can go snowshoeing, skiing, stargazing, and make s’mores by the fire.
Christmas Trains: Journey Through the Holiday Spirit
Christmas trains, inspired by The Polar Express, are a beloved tradition. These family Christmas vacation resorts on rails offer hot cocoa, carols, and Santa visits. It’s a magical journey for all ages.
Exploring national parks or taking a Christmas train ride are special holiday experiences. These unique Christmas experiences for families are perfect for making holiday memories. They are a top choice for cozy Christmas vacation spots.
7. Historical Towns with Christmas Charm
Christmas magic is special in historic American towns. Williamsburg, Virginia and Bethlehem, Pennsylvania are top picks for holiday fun.
Williamsburg: A Colonial Christmas Experience
Travel back to the 18th century in Williamsburg. This town turns into a winter wonderland at Christmas. You can see historical reenactments and enjoy colonial decorations.
Williamsburg has candlelight tours and tavern feasts. It’s a unique Christmas family-friendly resort. Families can explore, attend concerts, and do crafts together.
Bethlehem: The Christmas City
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is known as “The Christmas City.” It’s a great place for a holiday vacation idea for families. Founded by Moravian settlers, it celebrates with many events.
Walk through downtown and see the Christmas family-friendly resorts. Enjoy the markets and festivals. Don’t miss the Christkindlmarkt and Moravian stars.
Williamsburg and Bethlehem offer unforgettable Christmas experiences. Families can explore history and make memories in these best Christmas towns for families.
8. International Destinations for Family Fun
The world has many places for families to enjoy the holidays. Cancun offers tropical fun, while London has traditional cheer. These places let families dive into holiday celebrations from around the world.
Cancun: A Tropical Christmas Escape
Cancun, a lively city in Mexico, is perfect for a family holiday. Its resorts have fun holiday activities like pool parties and markets. Families can enjoy beautiful beaches, try tasty Mexican food, and make special memories in this tropical spot.
London: Traditional Holiday Cheer
London is great for a classic holiday trip. Its famous sights like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace are all lit up. Families can visit Christmas markets, go ice skating, and enjoy London’s holiday traditions.
| Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Cancun, Mexico |
|
| London, England |
|
Looking for a tropical getaway or a traditional winter wonderland? These places offer many chances to make lasting memories and feel the holiday magic.
9. Urban Adventures with Holiday Spirit
Planning family Christmas vacations with kids can be fun. Cities like Philadelphia and Boston are great. They offer festive vacations for families with history and holiday fun.
Philadelphia: Historic Celebrations
Philadelphia is full of history and old buildings. It turns into a winter wonderland at Christmas. The Christmas Village in LOVE Park is a must-see. Here, you can find holiday markets, eat treats, and enjoy the festive vibe.
The Franklin Institute is also a great place. It’s one of the oldest science museums in the U.S. During Christmas, it has a “Holiday Science” exhibit. It’s perfect for family Christmas vacations with kids because of its interactive displays.
Boston: Christmas in the City
Boston is known for its New England charm. It’s a great place for holiday destinations for family bonding at Christmas. Families can skate at Frog Pond in Boston Common. It’s a beautiful winter spot.
Newbury Street is perfect for holiday shopping. You can find unique gifts and holiday items in its boutiques and stores.
These cities offer family Christmas vacations with kids a mix of history, fun, and culture. They are great choices for holiday trips with your family.
10. Ski Resorts Perfect for Family Fun
Ski resorts are a magical place for Christmas. They have snow, cozy lodges, and fun activities. Places like Vail, Colorado, and Park City, Utah, are great for families.
Vail: Skiing and Holiday Celebrations
Vail is famous for its skiing. It turns into a winter wonderland at Christmas. Families can ski on 5,289 acres of different trails.
After skiing, they can enjoy Vail’s festive celebrations. The Torchlight Parade is a highlight, with skiers and snowboarders carrying torches.
Park City: Winter Sports and Festivities
Park City, Utah, is perfect for winter fun. It has over 7,300 acres of ski terrain. The town has many events, like the Torchlight Parade.
These ski resorts are great for Christmas fun. They have amazing activities and a cozy atmosphere. Families will make memories that last a lifetime.
11. Cruise Options for Family Christmas Vacations
Looking for a magical Christmas getaway? Cruise vacations are perfect. Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are top picks for families.
Disney Cruise Line: A Magical Holiday At Sea
Disney Cruise Line’s Very Merrytime sailings turn ships into winter wonderlands. They have festive decorations, character meet-and-greets, and holiday shows. Families can do cookie decorating, caroling, and meet Santa.
Prices start at $3,928 for a 4-night Bahamas cruise for two adults. It’s a magical Christmas vacation for families.
Royal Caribbean: Family-Friendly Festivities
Royal Caribbean offers a Christmas getaway with lots of holiday activities. Onboard, you’ll find festive decor, seasonal menus, and entertainment like ice skating shows. Prices for a 7-night Mediterranean cruise start at $581 per person.
Choosing Disney or Royal Caribbean means a Christmas cruise full of fun. It’s a mix of relaxation and holiday cheer. Families make lasting memories on these cruises.
12. Budget-friendly Christmas Vacation Ideas
Planning a family Christmas vacation can be expensive. But, there are many affordable options. You can have fun without spending a lot. Explore the outdoors or visit festive state parks for great memories.
State Parks: Affordable Holiday Getaways
State parks in the U.S. have lots of winter fun and holiday events. They are perfect for sledding, snowshoeing, and ice skating. Many parks also have holiday markets, light displays, and Santa visits.
Camping: Embrace the Outdoors This Christmas
Camping is a cheap way to celebrate Christmas. You can camp by the beach or in the mountains. It’s a chance to enjoy nature and spend time with your family.
| Destination | Accommodations | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Scottsdale, Arizona | Luxury resorts starting at $100 per night | Over 50 spas, 200 golf courses, and festive events |
| Cancun, Mexico | All-inclusive resorts with holiday packages | Sunny beaches, water sports, and Christmas celebrations |
| San Antonio, Texas | Affordable hotels along the River Walk | Mild winters, holiday light displays, and cultural experiences |
These affordable options let families enjoy Christmas without spending too much. Whether it’s a state park or a camping trip, they offer fun and magic for the holidays.
13. Iconic Christmas Light Displays in the U.S.
The holiday season shines bright with Christmas lights across the U.S. Nashville’s musical wonderland and San Antonio’s River Walk are highlights. These places offer families magical sights that bring winter joy.
Nashville: A Musical Holiday Journey
Nashville, known as Music City, lights up with festive lights and concerts. Downtown Nashville’s streets sparkle with millions of lights. The Opryland Resort is a winter wonderland with over three million lights and a huge Christmas tree.
The city also has holiday shows, from country music to the Nutcracker ballet. It’s a great place for families to enjoy Christmas.
San Antonio: River Walk Holiday Lights
The River Walk in San Antonio turns into a magical place at Christmas. Millions of lights along the river create a stunning view. Families can walk or take a boat tour to enjoy the lights.
The River Walk is also full of festive decorations, cozy spots, and fun entertainment. It’s a wonderful place for families to celebrate Christmas.
| Location | Highlights | Visitors | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Koziar’s Christmas Village, Bernville, Pennsylvania | Over 1 million Christmas lights | N/A | Ongoing |
| Festival of Lights, Riverside, California | Over 500,000 visitors annually | 500,000+ | Ongoing |
| Tweetsie Christmas, Blowing Rock, North Carolina | Over 1 million Christmas lights and live Christmas variety show | N/A | Ongoing |
| Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, New York | Elaborate Christmas light displays between 11th and 13th Avenues, from 83rd to 86th Street | N/A | Ongoing |
| Fantasy in Lights, Callaway Gardens, Georgia | 10 million twinkling bulbs | N/A | Ongoing |
These Christmas light displays offer families magical experiences. They are great places for winter vacations and Christmas celebrations.
14. Best Christmas Events and Shows for Families
When planning best Christmas vacations for families and top family Christmas destinations, magical events and shows are key. From Nutcracker ballets to local Christmas parades, these activities bring joy and excitement. They make the holiday season even more special.
Nutcracker Performances Across the U.S.
The Nutcracker ballet is a Christmas favorite for all ages. Major cities in the U.S. host Nutcracker shows during the holidays. Families can enjoy classics like the Joffrey Ballet in Chicago or the Pacific Northwest Ballet in Seattle.
Local Christmas Parades Worth Attending
Best Christmas vacations for families include local Christmas parades. These events show the holiday spirit with floats, bands, and Santa. The top family Christmas destinations have famous parades like the 80th Annual Raleigh Christmas Parade.
Other great parades are the Light Up the Holidays Event in Casselberry, Florida, and the Annual Light Up Viera Holiday Parade in Viera, Florida. They create lasting memories and a fun Christmas holidays for families experience.
| Event | Location | Dates | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chinese Lantern Festival | Cary, NC | November 16, 2024 – January 25, 2025 | $11 – $31+ |
| Ice Skating at The RINK | Raleigh, NC | November 23, 2024 – January 20, 2025 | $15 (includes rental) |
| The Dessertery | Raleigh, NC | November 22 – December 23, 2024 | $29 (ages 7+) |
| Pullen Park Holiday Express | Raleigh, NC | December 2 – 18, 2024 | $17 |
15. Tips for Planning Your Christmas Family Vacation
Booking Strategies to Save Money
Start saving money by booking early for your Christmas vacation. Travel + Leisure says the best time to book flights is in September. This is when you’ll find the best prices.
Being flexible with your travel dates can also save you money. Prices usually go up during peak times.
Packing Essentials for Holiday Travel
Think about the weather and holiday traditions when packing. Pack warm clothes and festive outfits. Include special items from home to make it cozy.
Remember to pack medicines, chargers, and fun things for the trip. An open mind helps with any surprises.
Planning well, being flexible, and focusing on family time is key. With smart booking and packing, your holiday trip will be great. It will make memories for your family to keep forever.
FAQs
Where is the best place to travel during Christmas?
Looking for the perfect Christmas getaway? It depends on what makes the holidays special for you! If you love snow and lights, New York City is amazing. Imagine ice-skating at Rockefeller Center and seeing the giant Christmas tree—it’s like stepping into a movie!
Prefer somewhere cozier? Aspen, Colorado, offers snowy mountains, skiing, and warm fireside cocoa. It’s perfect for a postcard-worthy holiday.
If you’re craving tropical vibes, Hawaii lets you trade snow for sand while celebrating in style. The Christmas parades here are one-of-a-kind.
Want the best of all worlds? Check out Chicago for its magical Christmas markets and beautiful decorations.
Where is the most magical place to spend Christmas?
Who doesn’t want a magical Christmas? For the ultimate fairy tale, head to Lapland, Finland—Santa’s official home! You can meet Santa, ride reindeer sleighs, and even catch the Northern Lights. It’s pure magic for kids and adults alike.
Dreaming of a European winter wonderland? Prague transforms into a sparkling fairy tale with its medieval charm and festive markets.
For a Disney-like vibe, Disneyland Paris is decked out in lights and Christmas magic. Every corner feels like stepping into a Christmas storybook.
Where is the cheapest place to go for Christmas?
Want Christmas magic without breaking the bank? You’re in luck! Mexico City offers a festive vibe with affordable food, fun Christmas parades, and beautiful decorations.
In Europe, Budapest is a budget-friendly gem. The Christmas markets are charming, and the food won’t empty your wallet.
If you’re sticking to the U.S., try San Antonio, Texas. The River Walk is lit up for the holidays, and it’s affordable and family-friendly.
For something tropical, Bangkok, Thailand, has surprisingly affordable flights and accommodations during Christmas. Plus, their festive celebrations are uniquely vibrant.
Where is the best place to go abroad for Christmas?
Thinking about a Christmas abroad? Start with London, England. The holiday lights, carolers, and cozy pubs make it feel like a Charles Dickens novel. Plus, ice-skating at Somerset House is a must!
Want more snow and less city? Zurich, Switzerland, offers snowy landscapes, hot chocolate, and twinkling Christmas markets.
For a warmer escape, Sydney, Australia, flips the script with Christmas BBQs on the beach! It’s summer there, but they celebrate with festive cheer.
Which country is best to visit during Christmas?
Looking for a whole country of holiday cheer? Germany tops the list. Its Christmas markets are legendary, with mulled wine, gingerbread, and handcrafted gifts in every town.
If you’re after snowy magic, Canada offers beautiful winter landscapes, cozy cabins, and friendly locals who love the holidays.
For a tropical twist, the Philippines goes all out with lights, parades, and festivals. Their Christmas spirit lasts for months!
And let’s not forget Japan—their light displays and unique Christmas traditions are stunning and unforgettable.
No matter your budget or travel style, there’s a perfect Christmas destination waiting for you!
Conclusion
The best Christmas vacation is one that brings everyone together. You could build snowmen in a winter wonderland. Or soak up sunshine on a tropical beach.
Or stroll through festive Christmas markets. The key is making moments you’ll cherish forever. Magical adventures in Lapland or heartwarming traditions in small-town America are perfect.
So pack your bags and gather your loved ones. Make this Christmas a holiday to remember!
