Best Family Holiday Destinations Christmas | My Top Picks
Looking for the best family holiday destinations Christmas? This festive season is the perfect time for a family getaway, and I’ve found some amazing places that offer something special for everyone. These destinations feature enchanting Christmas markets and breathtaking snow-covered landscapes.
I consulted over 900 moms and travel experts for this list. My own travels with my 5-year-old across 23 countries also influenced my choices. I focused on kid-friendly activities, easy travel, and budget-friendly options.
A cozy family scene in a winter wonderland, featuring a picturesque village decorated with twinkling Christmas lights, snow-covered rooftops, and a large Christmas tree in the town square; families skating on an ice rink, children building snowmen, and holiday markets bustling with joy. In the background, majestic mountains and evergreen trees create a serene atmosphere, all under a soft twilight sky filled with stars.
My top picks include snowy New York City and tropical Hawaii. Each location promises to fill your family vacation with holiday spirit. From Disneyland’s magic to Gatlinburg’s charm, you’ll create lasting memories.
Key Takeaways
- Consulted 900+ real moms and travel experts for recommendations
- Considered factors like kid-friendly activities and budget-friendliness
- Top picks include New York City, Gatlinburg, and Disneyland
- Options range from snowy landscapes to tropical getaways
- Each destination offers unique festive experiences for families
Introduction to Christmas Family Vacations
Christmas time brings magic to family vacations. Spending Christmas away from home creates unforgettable memories. Twinkling lights and festive atmospheres make these trips special.
From snowy destinations to warm beaches, there’s a perfect spot for every family.
The Magic of Holiday Travel with Kids
Traveling with kids during the holidays adds extra excitement. Their wonder at new Christmas celebrations is priceless. These moments become cherished family memories.
Challenges and Rewards of Festive Season Trips
Planning a family Christmas vacation has its challenges. Crowds can be overwhelming, especially at popular destinations. On Christmas Day, Disney World’s Magic Kingdom sees about 150,000 visitors.
Despite crowds, festive travel offers great rewards. Experiencing unique traditions and creating new ones makes it worthwhile.
How We Chose the Best Destinations
Picking the perfect Christmas getaway needs careful thought. I looked at kid-friendly activities, travel ease, and accommodation options. Weather is important too.
San Diego offers a nice 66°F average high in December. Budget and safety were also key factors.
By balancing these elements, I’ve made a list of great family destinations. These spots ensure a magical holiday for everyone.
New York City: The Ultimate Christmas City Experience
New York City truly embodies the Christmas spirit like no other place. The city transforms into a winter wonderland. It offers countless magical experiences for families.
Rockefeller Center is the heart of the festivities. The iconic Christmas tree stands tall and proud. Nearby, the ice skating rink beckons visitors to glide under twinkling lights.
During peak times around Christmas week, skating costs $73 per person for an hour. Skate rental is an additional $11.
The holiday magic extends beyond Rockefeller Center. Bryant Park hosts the Bank of America Winter Village. It features an ice rink and holiday market.
For a unique experience, rent cozy igloos that seat up to 8 people. These 90-minute sessions start at $125.
The Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular is a must-see. This dazzling show perfectly captures the city’s festive energy.
Budget-conscious families can enjoy free activities too. The Saks Fifth Avenue light show runs every ten minutes. Each show lasts about 5 minutes.
Stroll down 6th Avenue to admire stunning Christmas displays. It’s a great way to soak in the holiday atmosphere.
| Attraction | Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Rockefeller Center Ice Skating | $84 per person | 1 hour |
| Bryant Park Igloo Rental | Starting at $125 | 90 minutes |
| Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show | Free | 5 minutes |
Crowds are inevitable during the holiday season. However, New York’s extensive public transit system makes navigating the city manageable. Even families with strollers can easily get around.
This Christmas wonderland promises unforgettable memories for the whole family. New York City’s festive charm will captivate visitors of all ages.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee: A Storybook Christmas Setting
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the holidays. This mountain town offers families a unique Christmas experience. It’s a hidden gem for those seeking festive charm.
Festival of Trees and Christmas Parade
Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees is a must-see Christmas event. The town sparkles with twinkling lights and beautifully decorated trees. A spectacular Christmas parade winds through the streets, filling the air with holiday cheer.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Holiday festivities abound for all ages in Gatlinburg. Kids love exploring Ripley’s Aquarium, while the Gatlinburg SkyLift offers stunning mountain views. Ober Gatlinburg provides snowy fun with tubing adventures.
With winter temperatures averaging 28°F, it’s perfect for cozy family time. The chilly weather adds to the festive atmosphere.
Nearby Dollywood for Extra Fun
Dollywood, just a short drive away, adds excitement to your Christmas vacation. The park dazzles with holiday displays, festive shows, and delicious seasonal treats.
| Accommodation Type | Average Price | Average Size | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabins | $100/night | 211 m² | 9 people |
| Condos | $100/night | Varies | 2-4 adults |
Gatlinburg offers 3,148 cabins and 925 condos for families to choose from. Many rentals feature hot tubs for relaxation after a day of exploring. Finding the perfect accommodation is easy in this storybook Christmas setting.
Disneyland, California: A Magical Family Adventure
Disneyland becomes a winter wonderland during the holidays. From November 14, 2024, to early January, the park sparkles with festive cheer. A 60-foot Christmas tree with 1,800 ornaments creates a magical atmosphere.
The park offers special holiday packages with unique shows and treats. The Haunted Mansion Holiday, inspired by The Nightmare Before Christmas, is a must-see attraction. At Disney California Adventure, the Festival of Holidays celebrates diverse traditions.
Cars Land gets a festive makeover with Mater’s Jingle Jamboree and Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl. The World of Color – Season of Light show dazzles visitors with Disney and Pixar moments.
| Holiday Highlight | Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Christmas Tree Lighting | 5:00 PM daily | 20-meter tall tree illumination in Main Square |
| Christmas Fantasy Parade | Twice daily | Features Anna, Elsa, gingerbread men, and Santa |
| Fireworks Display | 8:00 PM nightly | Spectacular holiday-themed pyrotechnics |
| Viva Navidad Street Party | Multiple times daily | Includes giant mojiganga dancing puppets |
Food lovers can enjoy the Sip and Savor Pass at the Festival of Holidays. It offers eight tastings of traditional favorites and innovative twists. Use the Disneyland app for schedules and shorter wait times.
Best Family Holiday Destinations Christmas: My Top Picks
Finding the ideal Christmas family trip can be challenging. I’ve searched far and wide for the best holiday experiences. My focus is on kid-friendly activities, easy travel, and budget-friendly options.
Diverse Options for Different Preferences
My top picks suit various tastes. Vail, Colorado offers excellent skiing and festive activities for winter fun lovers.
Beach enthusiasts might enjoy Riviera Maya, Mexico. Its all-inclusive resorts help keep holiday costs down.
Balancing Fun and Practicality
St. Augustine, Florida dazzles with over three million lights. It attracts 200,000 visitors yearly for its spectacular display.
Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri is a unique experience. It’s been named America’s Best Theme Park holiday event for four years running.
| Destination | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Vail, Colorado | World-class skiing | Winter sports enthusiasts |
| Riviera Maya, Mexico | All-inclusive resorts | Beach lovers on a budget |
| St. Augustine, Florida | Spectacular light display | Festive atmosphere seekers |
| Branson, Missouri | Award-winning theme park event | Families with varied interests |
Your family’s preferences determine the best vacation spot. A perfect holiday trip awaits, whether you crave snowy adventures or sunny escapes.
Winter Wonderlands: Ski Destinations for Families
Discover amazing winter destinations that turn into magical wonderlands during the holidays. These ski spots offer winter sports and festive cheer for unforgettable family getaways.
A picturesque winter wonderland ski resort, with charming wooden chalets nestled among snow-covered pine trees, children skiing down gentle slopes, sparkling snowflakes falling from a clear blue sky, a cozy fire pit with families roasting marshmallows, and distant mountains blanketed in fresh powder.
Ski resorts cater to all family members, regardless of age or skill. They offer activities beyond skiing, like snowshoeing, ice skating, and snow tubing.
Beginners can take lessons from professional instructors to improve their skiing skills.
Here are my top picks for family-friendly winter destinations:
- Les Gets, France: Kids will love the guided tours of the enchanted forest where Father Christmas lives with his elves.
- Zell am See, Austria: With 138km of skiing area, it’s perfect for families seeking diverse winter sports options.
- Megève, France: Known for scenic ski runs past wooden chalets and over 80 restaurants for Christmas dining.
- Aspen, Colorado: This chic winter wonderland offers a unique Christmas atmosphere in North America.
These destinations shine during the holidays. Resorts transform with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and special activities.
Some even offer night skiing, creating a magical experience under the stars.
| Destination | Unique Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Les Arcs, French Alps | Torchlight descent and firework display on Christmas Eve | Snow-sure skiing |
| Saas-Fee, Switzerland | Car-free village charm | Vibrant après-ski scene |
| Val d’Isère, France | Enchanted Christmas events with giant snow sculptures | Family-friendly activities |
| Val Gardena, Italy | Christmas market with wooden carvings | Cultural experience |
These winter destinations promise thrilling sports and cozy holiday vibes. Your family will create lasting memories in these snowy paradises.
Warm Weather Escapes: Beach Destinations for Christmas
Celebrating Christmas in warm weather is a joy. Sunny beaches offer a perfect escape from winter’s chill. Let’s explore some tropical Christmas destinations.
Canary Islands: Year-Round Sun in Europe
The Canary Islands are ideal for winter sun holidays. Temperatures range from 16-21°C, offering warmth without extreme heat. Each island has unique features to enjoy.
Tenerife boasts stunning beaches for relaxation. Lanzarote, on the other hand, offers fascinating volcanic landscapes to explore.
Cape Verde: A Hidden Gem for Winter Sun
Cape Verde is perfect for a laid-back sunny getaway. Mid-20s temperatures make beach lounging delightful. Sal and Boa Vista islands feature golden sand beaches.
Hawaii: Tropical Christmas Paradise
Hawaii transforms into a tropical Christmas wonderland. Oahu sparkles with holiday lights and festive events. The Waikiki Holiday Lights Trolley tour is a must-see attraction.
For a unique experience, visit the Grand Wailea in Maui. They offer special holiday spa treatments to pamper yourself.
| Destination | Average December Temp (°C) | Unique Christmas Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Canary Islands | 16-21 | Year-round European sun |
| Cape Verde | 23-25 | Laid-back atmosphere |
| Hawaii | 23-28 | Waikiki Holiday Lights Trolley |
These warm destinations blend holiday cheer with beach relaxation. You’ll find the perfect mix of festive spirit and sunny escapes. Create unforgettable memories on your winter sun holiday.
Unique Christmas Experiences Around the World
Discover amazing Christmas activities for families worldwide. From European traditions to U.S. celebrations, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore some unforgettable holiday experiences.
Gruene, Texas offers a two-steppin’ Christmas within 15 walkable acres. Whitefish, Montana provides snowshoeing adventures in Glacier National Park. Scottsdale, Arizona boasts over 50 spas and 200 golf courses for a warm holiday escape.
A picturesque winter village adorned with sparkling lights, a bustling Christmas market with colorful stalls selling handmade ornaments, families ice skating on a frozen pond surrounded by snow-covered trees, a giant decorated Christmas tree in the town square, warm glowing windows of cozy cabins with smoke coming from chimneys, all under a starlit sky.
Copenhagen, Denmark delivers a traditional Danish Christmas with festive markets. You can hunt for naughty elves and soak in the holiday atmosphere. Frankfurt, Germany’s Christmas Market attracts over 3 million visitors annually since 1393.
Disney World in Orlando hosts Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in November and December. Asheville, North Carolina combines history and holiday cheer with gingerbread house competitions.
The Biltmore Estate in Asheville showcases 25,000 ornaments during festive tours.
| Location | Unique Christmas Experience |
|---|---|
| Kennebunkport, Maine | Christmas Prelude with tree lightings and pooch parade |
| Fredericksburg, Texas | German yuletide experience with Nights of Lights |
| Jackson Hole, Wyoming | Ice skating and skiing with Santa |
| Bruges, Belgium | Christmas Market at the heart of the city |
| Edinburgh, Scotland | Castle of Light event with spectacular projections |
These unique experiences create lasting Christmas memories. From snowy landscapes to warm beaches, a perfect holiday destination awaits you. Find your ideal spot to celebrate with loved ones this season.
Conclusion: Creating Unforgettable Holiday Memories
Family trips during Christmas offer a unique blend of festive cheer and new experiences. From magical light displays to enchanting theater events, options for fun getaways are endless. These trips create unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.
Christmas markets have become a staple of holiday traditions. They offer handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats that bring families closer together. Sports events and holiday concerts can add excitement to your Christmas getaway.
Each destination offers its own magical Christmas experience. You might discover natural beauty in Spain’s Parque Natural Los Alcornocales. Or immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Greece or Bangladesh.
These journeys are filled with historical sites and unexpected encounters. They remind us that the true joy of the season is in creating lasting memories. Embrace new adventures with your loved ones this holiday season.
