Best Winter Vacation Destinations for Families
Winter is a magical time of year for family vacations.
Whether it’s playing in the snow or heading south to the sun, make time for fun!
Whether your family enjoys snowy mountain retreats, warm beach escapes, or cultural city visits, winter vacations can create unforgettable memories. Here are some of the best winter vacation ideas for families that cater to a range of interests and budgets:
1. Whistler, British Columbia
Best for: Skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor adventure lovers
Ideal Age Group: All ages (with lessons for kids)
If your family enjoys winter sports, Whistler is a premier destination. Known for its vast ski slopes, Whistler Blackcomb is one of the largest ski resorts in North America, offering skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and more. Non-skiers can also enjoy activities like tubing, ice skating, and snowmobiling.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Ski schools for children and beginners.
- Cozy lodges and resorts that cater to families.
- Apres-ski activities like ice skating or sleigh rides for the whole family.
Tip: Be sure to book family-friendly accommodations with kid-friendly amenities, like heated pools or babysitting services.
2. Quebec City, Quebec
Best for: History lovers and cultural experiences
Ideal Age Group: All ages
For a charming winter wonderland, head to Quebec City, especially during its famous Carnaval de Québec (Quebec Winter Carnival). The Old Town, with its cobbled streets and historic architecture, looks straight out of a storybook covered in snow. Families can enjoy ice sculptures, parades, and winter sports in and around the city.
Family-Friendly Features:
- The famous Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel) is a must-see for families, offering a unique experience.
- Toboggan rides on Dufferin boardwalk (one of the oldest toboggan runs in the world).
- Winter activities like dog sledding, snowshoeing, and horse-drawn carriage rides.
3. Banff National Park, Alberta
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers
Ideal Age Group: All ages
Banff is a true winter wonderland nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. If your family loves nature, this park offers breathtaking views and winter adventures like snowshoeing, skiing, ice skating, and wildlife watching. The Banff Upper Hot Springs is the perfect place to relax after a day outdoors.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Banff Gondola: Ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain for a panoramic view of the snow-covered Rockies.
- Lake Louise: Ice skate on the famous frozen lake or go tobogganing.
- Wildlife tours and visits to local museums.
4. Disneyland or Disney World (California/Florida)
Best for: Families with young children and Disney fans
Ideal Age Group: Toddlers to teens
For families who want to escape the cold and head to somewhere warm and fun, a Disney vacation is always a hit. Both Disneyland in California and Disney World in Florida offer festive winter decorations, special events, and Christmas-themed parades. Plus, the mild winter weather in these locations makes them perfect for families looking for a warm winter escape.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Holiday-themed parades, shows, and character meet-and-greets.
- Kid-friendly rides and activities for all ages.
- Plenty of family dining options.
Tip: Take advantage of the lower crowds in the early winter months before the holiday rush.
5. Lapland, Finland
Best for: Magical winter adventures, Santa, and unique cultural experiences
Ideal Age Group: All ages, especially younger children
A visit to Lapland is a truly magical experience, especially for families with young kids. It's home to Santa Claus Village, where kids can meet Santa and cross the Arctic Circle. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. You can also enjoy snowmobile safaris, reindeer rides, and dog sledding.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi.
- Stay in glass igloos or snow hotels for a unique experience.
- Take part in Reindeer safaris and Ice fishing.
- Experience sauna culture as a family.
6. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Best for: Skiing, adventure sports, and beautiful mountain scenery
Ideal Age Group: Teens and adults (with kids’ programs available)
If your family loves adventure and skiing, Jackson Hole is the place to go. Nestled at the base of the Teton Mountains, this resort town offers skiing and snowboarding for all levels, along with winter activities like dog sledding, snowshoeing, and wildlife tours in nearby Grand Teton National Park.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Ski schools for all ages.
- Sleigh rides and wildlife tours in National Parks.
- Cozy cabins or lodges with fireplaces for family nights in.
7. The Maldives
Best for: Warm beach destinations with luxury and relaxation
Ideal Age Group: All ages
For families wanting to escape the cold and head to a tropical destination, the Maldives offers beautiful beaches and overwater bungalows. While it’s a longer flight for many, the Maldives' winter season offers pleasant weather for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxation. Resorts often offer kids' clubs, family activities, and private excursions.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Family villas or overwater bungalows.
- Snorkeling and scuba diving with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
- Kids’ clubs and family-friendly activities at most resorts.
8. Aspen, Colorado
Best for: Skiing, snowboarding, and family-friendly resorts
Ideal Age Group: All ages (with beginner programs for kids)
Aspen is a premier ski destination known for its luxury resorts, world-class skiing, and après-ski activities. It’s not just for adults—families can enjoy everything from snowball fights and tubing to sledding and exploring the charming town. Aspen offers programs for younger children to learn to ski and ride, making it a fantastic place for first-timers.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Ski schools for all levels of experience.
- Snowshoeing, sledding, and ice skating.
- Family-friendly lodging options with plenty of après-ski activities
9. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Best for: Skiing, snowboarding, and lakeside winter fun
Ideal Age Group: All ages
Lake Tahoe offers a blend of outdoor adventure and winter wonderland charm. With over a dozen ski resorts to choose from, families can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and even ice skating on the lake. Many resorts in the area also have great **family amenities**, including indoor play areas and heated pools.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Ski and snowboard schools.
- Family-friendly cabins and vacation rentals by the lake.
- Snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and tubing.
10. New York City
Best for: Sightseeing, holiday festivities, and Broadway shows
Ideal Age Group: All ages
For families who want a bit of everything, New York City is a great choice. Winter in NYC is special with holiday lights, window displays, and ice skating at Rockefeller Center. You can also catch a Broadway show, visit the iconic Central Park, and enjoy holiday shopping at famous department stores like Macy’s.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Ice skating at Rockefeller Center or Bryant Park.
- Holiday markets, light displays, and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.
- Famous NYC landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building.
Final Tips for Planning Your Family Winter Vacation:
- Book Early: The holiday season is busy, so secure your accommodations and activities ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
- Pack for the Weather: Be prepared for winter conditions (especially in snowy destinations), but also pack layers if you're heading to a warmer climate.
- Consider the Age of Your Kids: Tailor your destination to the age and interests of your children to ensure everyone has fun.
- Plan Some Downtime: Don’t forget to balance active adventures with relaxation so everyone can recharge.
Wherever you decide to go, the key is to spend time together, enjoy the season, and make lasting memories.
