Winter Vacations for Snow-Loving Families
Find the best winter vacation spots for snow-loving families. Discover fun destinations and activities for a perfect snowy getaway!
Parent Intel contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of our links, we earn a small commission.
If you’re a family that loves snow, then winter is the perfect time for a vacation. There’s nothing like hitting the slopes, building a snowman, or sipping hot cocoa by the fire.
But with so many destinations to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best winter vacations for families that love snow.
Whether you’re looking for a ski resort or a winter wonderland, there’s something for everyone on this list.
From the snow-covered mountains of Colorado to the ice hotels of Quebec, these destinations offer plenty of winter activities and family-friendly fun.
So pack your bags, grab your mittens, and get ready for an unforgettable winter vacation.
Choosing the Right Destination
Winter vacations are a great way to bond with your family and create unforgettable memories. However, choosing the right destination can be a daunting task.
Here are some tips to help you pick the perfect winter getaway for your family.
USA Winter Hotspots
The United States is home to many winter vacation destinations that are family-friendly and offer a variety of activities.
California’s Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.
Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming is a great option for families who love the outdoors and want to experience wildlife and geysers.
New York’s Lake Placid is another excellent winter spot for skiing and ice skating.
If you’re looking for a winter vacation destination with a theme park, Orlando, Florida, is the place to be. The city is home to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, offering a wide range of activities for all ages.
Park City, Utah, is another excellent option for families who love skiing and snowboarding.
International Winter Wonders
Canada is known for its stunning winter landscapes and is home to many family-friendly winter vacation destinations.
Lake Louise in Alberta is a popular spot for skiing, ice skating, and snowshoeing. North Conway in New Hampshire is another excellent option for families who love skiing and snowboarding.
Whistler in British Columbia is a world-renowned winter destination and offers a variety of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
If you’re looking for a winter vacation destination with a small-town feel, Gatlinburg in Tennessee is a great option.
The town is located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains and offers skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.
When choosing a winter vacation destination, consider your family’s interests and budget. Whether you prefer a winter wonderland or a warm escape, there is a winter destination that will suit your needs.
Planning Your Winter Vacation
If you’re planning a winter vacation for your family, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Here are some tips to help you plan your winter getaway.
Best Time to Travel
The winter months, from December to March, are the best time to travel if you’re looking for a snowy vacation.
However, keep in mind that this is also the peak season, so prices may be higher and accommodations may be harder to come by.
If you’re looking to save money, consider traveling in early December or late March when the crowds are smaller and prices are lower.
Booking Your Stay
When booking your accommodation, look for a family-friendly resort that offers activities for all ages.
Many resorts offer skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids, as well as other winter activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, and sledding.
Make sure to book early to ensure availability, especially if you’re traveling during the peak season.
Preparing for Weather
Winter weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to pack warm clothes and gear.
Layers are key to staying warm, so bring plenty of sweaters, jackets, and thermal underwear. Don’t forget hats, gloves, and scarves to keep your extremities warm.
If you’re planning on skiing or snowboarding, make sure to bring or rent appropriate equipment.
It’s also important to keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for any changes in conditions.
Check the temperature and snow conditions before you head out for the day, and make sure to bring extra supplies like water, snacks, and a first aid kit in case of emergency.
Snow-Based Activities
Winter vacations are all about enjoying the snow and having fun with your family. Here are some snow-based activities that will surely make your winter vacation memorable.
Skiing and Snowboarding
If you are an avid skier or snowboarder, then you will love hitting the ski slopes.
Most ski areas offer family-friendly ski slopes that cater to all skill levels.
You can also take lessons if you are a beginner or want to improve your skills.
Some ski areas also offer cross-country skiing, which is a great way to explore the winter wonderland.
More Snow Fun
If skiing or snowboarding is not your thing, then there are plenty of other snow-based activities that you can enjoy.
Tubing is a popular activity that is suitable for all ages.
You can also go sledding, snowmobiling, or dog sledding.
Snowshoeing is another fun activity that allows you to explore the snowy landscape. You can also go ice skating or take a sleigh ride through the snow-covered terrain.
If you are looking for some more excitement, then head to a tubing park where you can slide down the hills on inflatable tubes.
Family Entertainment and Relaxation
Winter vacations are all about enjoying the snow and spending quality time with your family. Whether you prefer indoor pleasures or outdoor adventures, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained and relaxed.
Indoor Pleasures
When the weather outside is frightful, indoor entertainment can be delightful.
Warm up with a cup of hot cocoa or hot chocolate at one of the many restaurants or dining options available.
You can also indulge in shopping, arcade games, or laser tag at the local entertainment centers.
If you’re looking for something more exciting, head to an indoor waterpark where you can splash around in the warm water and enjoy thrilling water slides.
Many resorts offer indoor waterparks as part of their winter family vacation packages.
Outdoor Adventures
For those who love the snow, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from.
Go hiking through the winter wonderland or take a dog sledding or sleigh ride through the snowy trails. Snow tubing is also a popular activity for families, with many resorts offering snow tubing hills for all ages.
If you’re looking for something more relaxing, try ice fishing on a frozen lake. It’s a great way to enjoy the winter scenery and catch some fish at the same time. Many resorts offer ice fishing as part of their winter family vacation packages.
Cultural Experiences and Sightseeing
When planning a winter vacation for your family, it’s important to consider cultural experiences and sightseeing opportunities.
These can be a great way to learn about new places and immerse yourself in local traditions.
Natural Wonders
One of the most popular winter destinations for families is Yellowstone National Park.
With its stunning natural beauty and iconic attractions like Old Faithful, this park offers endless opportunities for sightseeing and outdoor adventure.
You can explore the park’s many hiking trails, go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, or take a scenic drive through the park to see Mirror Lake and other stunning vistas.
If you’re looking for a chance to see the Northern Lights, Lake Tahoe is a great destination to consider.
This beautiful lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offers plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. You can also take a guided tour to see the Northern Lights and other natural wonders.
City Attractions
If you prefer city attractions, Lake Placid is a great destination to consider.
This charming town in upstate New York is home to the historic Olympic Center, where you can watch figure skating and other winter sports.
You can also go shopping in the town’s many boutiques and galleries, or take a scenic walk around Mirror Lake.
For families who love theme parks, a visit to a skating rink can be a great way to experience the winter season.
Many cities have outdoor skating rinks that offer a fun and festive atmosphere for all ages.
Some of the most popular rinks include the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink in New York City and the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink in Washington, D.C.
Special Events and Seasonal Activities
Festivals and Celebrations
Winter is a magical season full of festive events and celebrations that the whole family can enjoy. From spectacular light displays to holiday markets, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained during your winter vacation.
One of the most popular winter festivals is the Winterlude in Ottawa, Canada.
This three-week-long event takes place in February and features ice sculptures, ice skating, and other winter activities.
You can also enjoy hot chocolate and beaver tails, a Canadian pastry that is a must-try during your visit.
Another festival worth checking out is the Ice Festival in Harbin, China. This international event features intricate ice sculptures, ice skating, and even ice swimming.
You can also enjoy traditional Chinese food and take part in cultural activities during your visit.
Unique Winter Experiences
Winter is the perfect time to try something new and exciting. From dog sledding to ice fishing, there are plenty of unique winter experiences to choose from.
If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, try dog sledding in Alaska.
You’ll get to mush your own team of sled dogs through the beautiful Alaskan wilderness.
Or, if you prefer a more relaxed activity, try ice fishing in Minnesota.
You can rent an ice fishing hut and catch your own fish through a hole in the ice.
For a unique and unforgettable experience, take a ride on an aerial tramway in Switzerland. You’ll get to enjoy stunning views of the Swiss Alps while riding in a cable car suspended high above the ground.
Or, if you prefer something a bit more traditional, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered mountains of Colorado.
Tips for Traveling with Kids
Traveling with kids can be a challenge, but with a little planning, it can be a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.
Here are some tips to help you keep your kids happy and engaged during your winter family vacation.
Keeping Kids Happy and Engaged
When it comes to family-friendly winter vacations, there are plenty of outdoor adventures and sightseeing activities to keep kids entertained.
From snowshoeing and skiing to visiting ice castles and snow tubing, there is something for everyone.
But it’s also important to have some indoor activities planned for those cold and snowy days.
Consider taking your kids to a laser tag or arcade center, or finding a local museum or indoor water park.
And don’t forget to bring some board games or books for some cozy indoor family time.
Child-Friendly Dining
Finding dining options that are both kid-friendly and enjoyable for adults can be a challenge.
Look for restaurants that offer a variety of options, including healthy choices for picky eaters.
And of course, hot cocoa is a must-have during a winter family vacation.
Consider looking for dining options that offer kids’ menus or special promotions for families.
And if your kids are feeling adventurous, try introducing them to some new foods and flavors.
Packing Essentials for Winter Travel
Winter vacations are a great way to spend time with your family and enjoy the snow.
However, packing for a winter trip can be challenging, especially if you are not used to cold weather.
Here are some packing essentials that will help you stay warm and comfortable during your winter travel.
Clothing
When it comes to winter travel, the key is to dress in layers. This will help you regulate your body temperature and stay warm in different weather conditions.
Start with a base layer made of moisture-wicking material that will keep you dry and comfortable.
Add a mid-layer made of fleece or wool for insulation, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect you from the elements.
Here are some items you should consider packing for your winter vacation:
- Base layer: thermal underwear, long-sleeved shirts, leggings, and socks.
- Mid-layer: fleece jackets, wool sweaters, and pants.
- Outer layer: waterproof and windproof jackets, pants, gloves, and boots.
Accessories
Accessories are just as important as clothing when it comes to winter travel. They will help you stay warm and protect your body from the cold.
Here are some accessories you should consider packing for your winter vacation:
- Hats: wool or fleece hats that cover your ears and forehead.
- Scarves: wool or fleece scarves that can be wrapped around your neck and face.
- Gloves: waterproof and insulated gloves that keep your hands warm and dry.
- Socks: wool or synthetic socks that keep your feet warm and dry.
- Sunglasses: polarized sunglasses that protect your eyes from the glare of the snow.
Other Essentials
Besides clothing and accessories, there are other essentials you should consider packing for your winter vacation:
- Sunscreen: even though it’s cold outside, the sun’s rays can still damage your skin.
- Lip balm: cold weather can dry out your lips, so make sure to pack a moisturizing lip balm.
- Medications: if you or your family members take any medications, make sure to pack them in your carry-on bag.
- Snacks: pack some snacks that are easy to eat on the go, such as energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit.
- Camera: don’t forget to capture all the memories of your winter vacation!
Staying Safe and Healthy
Winter vacations can be a great way to spend time with your family, but it’s important to stay safe and healthy while enjoying the snow and cold weather. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy and have fun:
Dress appropriately
Make sure to dress in layers to keep warm and dry.
Wear waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat to protect yourself from the cold.
Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
Stay hydrated
It’s easy to forget to drink water when it’s cold outside, but it’s important to stay hydrated.
Drink plenty of water and hot beverages like tea and cocoa to keep your body hydrated and warm.
Know the weather forecast
Check the weather forecast before you head out to make sure you’re prepared for any changes in the weather.
If there’s a chance of snow or ice, make sure to bring appropriate gear like snowshoes or ice cleats.
Stay safe during outdoor activities
If you’re planning on participating in outdoor activities like skiing or snowboarding, make sure to follow safety guidelines and wear appropriate safety gear.
Always ski or snowboard within your skill level and never go off-trail or out-of-bounds.
Travel safely
If you’re traveling to your winter vacation destination, make sure to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to get there.
Check road conditions and traffic updates to avoid any delays or accidents.
Family-friendly activities
Winter vacations are a great opportunity to spend quality time with your family.
Look for family-friendly activities like ice skating, snow tubing, or building snowmen.
Make sure to take breaks and rest when needed to avoid exhaustion.
Wrapping Up: Winter Vacations for Snow-Loving Families
In conclusion, there are many winter vacation destinations that are perfect for families who love snow.
Whether you’re looking for skiing, snowboarding, or just playing in the snow, there is something for everyone.
When planning your winter vacation, consider factors such as location, cost, and activities available.
Some of the best winter vacation spots for families include Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, Steamboat Springs in Colorado, and Maui in Hawaii.
Make sure to pack appropriate winter gear such as warm coats, gloves, and boots.
It’s also a good idea to bring extra layers, as well as sunscreen and lip balm to protect your skin from the cold, dry air.
To make the most of your winter vacation, consider booking activities in advance, such as ski lessons or snowmobile tours.
This will ensure that you have a spot reserved and won’t miss out on any of the fun.
Overall, a winter vacation with your family can be a great way to bond and create lasting memories.
With the right planning and preparation, you can have an unforgettable experience in the snow.
