The holiday season is a magical time to plan the best Christmas vacations in US for families, offering unforgettable experiences filled with festive cheer. Destinations like New York City shine with iconic attractions such as the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice skating in Central Park, while Disneyland in California transforms into a winter wonderland with dazzling decorations and special events. Aspen, Colorado, provides a snowy paradise for skiing and cozy fireside gatherings, making it one of the best Christmas vacations in US for families seeking outdoor adventure.
For a warmer option, Orlando, Florida, features enchanting holiday celebrations at Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. Historic Williamsburg, Virginia, offers a charming colonial Christmas with light displays and traditional festivities. Wherever you choose to go, the best Christmas vacations in US for families promise cherished memories, whether exploring winter landscapes, enjoying theme park magic, or reveling in festive traditions.
1. Yosemite National Park, California
A family vacation to Yosemite Park won’t disappoint. There’s so much to explore in this national park in the winter—from sleigh rides through Curry Village to ice skating at Yosemite’s outdoor rink to skiing and snowboarding, and more!
The park is open year-round and no reservations are required, but be sure to check the weather before you head out this winter. No need to worry about cooking on Christmas Day, as the Wawona Hotel, Yosemite Valley Lodge, and The Ahwahnee all offer enticing dinner menus to celebrate the season.
Where to stay: Yosemite Valley Lodge
Price: $197 and up per night
Features: Skiing, sleigh rides, ornament making, and gingerbread house decorating
2. Disney World in Orlando, Florida
Let’s be honest—isn’t there a better time of year to visit Disney World? Get in the holiday spirit during their very merry winter celebration at Disney’s Magic Kingdom park. Their newest event, Disney’s Very Merry After Hours, includes a themed parade, fireworks, and more! Be sure to treat your taste buds to Disney’s seasonal flavors and take in all the holiday-themed decorations throughout the park.
Where to stay: Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Price: $475 and up per night
Features: Christmas parade, fireworks, theme park rides and dance parties
3. Legoland in Winter Haven, Florida
A giant Lego Christmas tree? That’s right—you’re sure to see this kid’s toy masterpiece and you and your family should visit Legoland during the holiday season. With festive-themed food and drinks and Lego characters decked out in their very own festive costumes, the whole family is sure to enjoy this warm winter getaway. And don’t forget about Legoland’s rides and attractions!
Where to stay: Legoland Hotel
Price: From $225 and up + tax per night
Features: Theme parks, shopping and dining
4. Park City, Utah
What’s a winter vacation without a family skiing trip? Even if you and the kids have never put on a pair of skis, you’ll still enjoy the snow and incredible views at Park City Ski Resort in Utah. To really get into the holiday spirit, take a ride on the Polar Express train for a 90-minute ride filled with hot cocoa, live entertainment, and even a special gift from Santa. Take things slow with a free holiday showing of It’s a Wonderful Life (and don’t forget to bring tissues for all your nostalgic people out there).
Where to Stay: Park City Peaks Hotel
Price: $115 and up per night
Amenities: Skiing, tree lighting ceremony, and Christmas dinner special
Related: These 125 Best Christmas Quotes Guaranteed to Get You in the Holiday Spirit
5. Los Angeles, California
You won’t find snow-covered trees or cold winter nights in L.A., which can be a good thing for some families. But you’ll find plenty of Christmas and general holiday festivities even when it’s 70 degrees and sunny in December. One of the most infamous L.A. winter events, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, perfectly embodies the spirit of the season and shouldn’t be missed. Kids are sure to love the animal-themed light-up tradition that is the L.A. Zoo Lights, but be sure to buy your tickets in advance to avoid the lines.
Where to Stay: Hotel Indigo Los Angeles
Price: $150 and up per night
Amenities: L.A. Zoo, Hollywood Christmas Parade, and outdoor ice skating
6. Steamboat Springs, Colorado
If you’re a family that enjoys skiing but is looking for some extra activities to really get into the holiday spirit, Steamboat Springs has just the thing. If you choose to cook your holiday meal in Steamboat, be sure to order your meat special from Steamboat Meat & Seafood Co. or Natural Grocer. If you don’t want to bother with the dishes, enjoy your meal in the comfort of your lodge with a Steamboat private chef.
If you want to dine in, you should definitely make reservations in advance. In addition to the fantastic dining options in Steamboat, you’ll also find hot springs, a fireworks show, and even a snowshoe trail! After all, the town center is perfect for a family photo shoot.
Where to stay: Residence Inn Steamboat Springs
Price: $185 and up per night
Amenities: Shopping, Santa’s horse parade, horseback riding, skiing, and holiday festivities
7. El Paso, Texas
You’ll be surprised to discover the many holiday traditions practiced in El Paso, TX. Support local vendors at the Christmas Fair, which has been kicking off the winter season for 40 years. Immerse yourself in the rich El Paso culture by attending a public posada, a traditional ritual that takes place every night for nine days leading up to Christmas Eve. If you’re staying around New Year’s, be sure to catch the Sun Bowl game—one of the oldest college football bowl games in the country!
Where to stay: Hotel Paso del Norte, Autograph Collection
Price: $150 and up per night
Amenities: Christmas Fair, traditional celebrations, Sun Bowl game, and ice skating
8. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Pack up the family’s ski gear and head to Jackson Hole Resort, where the highlight is, of course, Santa’s “drop-in.” What is it? Oh, it’s just Santa Claus slicing up the mountain “Jackson Hole style” to hang out with the little ones on the slopes.
If you don’t plan on spending much time on the slopes, no worries—you can catch Santa at the historic town square tree lighting ceremony. For a unique way to spend your winter family vacation, hop on a sleigh for a ride through the scenic landscapes of the Tetons.
Where to stay: Elk Country Inn
Price: $133 and up per night
Amenities: Skiing, sleigh rides, arts and crafts, and fireworks
Related: Holiday Instagram Captions
9. Frankfurt, Germany
Teach your family about Europe’s rich history with a trip to Frankfurt, Germany. No description can do justice to how awesome the 600-year-old Christmas market is—and it sits just minutes from Frankfurt Airport. Wander the market and notice the wonderful aromas of baked apples, gingerbread, and mulled wine—and make sure your nose doesn’t distract you from the beautiful architecture. If you’re looking for a Christmas Day service, check out one of the city’s several medieval churches.
Where to Stay: Steinberger Frankfurter Hof
Price: $180 and up per night
Amenities: Christmas markets, museums, dining, and Frankfurt Zoo
10. Grand Canyon, Arizona
Most families wouldn’t consider spending the holidays in Arizona—if you want to avoid the crowds, that might be a good thing! Enjoy winter sunrises, low-lying clouds, and cool temperatures at the Grand Canyon this Christmas. El Tovar serves up a fantastic Christmas Day meal, with a view of the canyon in all its snow-dusted glory. If you’re an outdoorsy family, trek 7 miles into South Kaibab for an overnight stay at Phantom Ranch. It’s sure to be the ultimate adventurer’s Christmas!
Where to stay: El Tovar
Price: $294 and up per night
Amenities: Hiking, dining, and train ride (Polar Express)
11. Highlands, North Carolina
Take things slow in the mountain town of Highlands, North Carolina. Santa stops by every year at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park with millions of twinkling lights, where there’s plenty of hot chocolate and cookies for the whole family. On a sunny day, head out for a hike to one of the several waterfalls scattered throughout the Highlands Mountains. You won’t want to miss the small-town parade filled with floats, bands, and camels—yes, camels are in the parade!
Where to stay: Skyline Lodge
Price: $214 and up per night (3-night minimum)
Properties: Hiking, live music, and a Christmas parade
12. Grapevine, Texas
Everything is beautiful in Grapevine—AKA the Christmas Capital of Texas! With 40 days of unique Christmas events, you’re sure to have your fill of the holiday season. The city sparkles with millions of lights and brings the magic of the season to life. Watch a Christmas drone show, step back in time with Hometown Christmas, or enjoy the Christmas Wine Train (and there’s still plenty to do in the Christmas Capital). If you’re still looking to shop for gifts, head to historic Grapevine and check off your holiday shopping list.
Where to stay: Gaylord Texan Resort
Price: $268 and up per night
Amenities: Dinner theater, caroling, wine tasting, and Christmas markets.
13. Big Bear, California
Plan your winter getaway to the snowy mountains of Big Bear. Build a giant snowman in front of your cabin with the kids or mine for treasure on the Gold Rush Mining Adventure. If you have an adrenaline-hungry member of your family, book a high-speed zip-line experience or a Segway cruise through the city. To top off your perfect day, build a fire and roast marshmallows in the cabin.
Where to stay: Vintage Lakeside Inn
Price: $79 and up per night
Properties: Zip-lining, skiing, horseback riding, and shopping
14. Destin, Florida
Take advantage of the warm weather in the Sunshine State! Come on in—you can’t complain when you’re wearing a swimsuit on Christmas, right? Destin is known for its white sandy beaches, beautiful sunsets, and Southern seafood. Visit Destin Commons for the annual Christmas tree lighting and fireworks display, and look for Santa’s arrival at Baytown Wharf!
Where to stay: Emerald Grande at Harborwalk Village
Price: $293 and up per night
Features: Live music, fireworks, beach, and Christmas markets
15. Cancun, Mexico
Christmas season is a special time of year in Mexico — even without the snow. The sun shines over the Caribbean, casting a light on the holiday magic, with lots of happy surprises and festive music. A holiday buffet dinner, themed beach parties, and El Grinch performing acrobatic numbers—need we say more? Cancun is the perfect winter wonderland for those warm-weather lovers.
Where to stay: Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun, all-inclusive
Price: $245 and up per night
Features: Christmas tree lighting, Candyland Beach Party, Christmas Day dining, live music, and dancing
16. Faroe Islands, Denmark
Ever heard of it? The Faroe Islands are a self-governing archipelago of 18 rocky islands, volcanoes, and some of the most welcoming people you’ll ever meet. Every year, the islanders create a Christmas town filled with bright lights and decorations. During the day, you and the family can head to the medieval church in Kirkjubø or hike up the mountain to get a fantastic view of the islands.
For a Faroese-inspired meal, head to Rust and enjoy fermented lamb and fish dishes with rye bread. If you prefer a more personal meal, try HeimablÃdni, or “home hospitality,” where you and your family can dine in the homes of Faroese families.
Where to stay: Hilton Garden Inn Faroe Islands
Price: $89 and up per night
Pros: Hiking, traditional dining, and a Christmas town
17. Washington, D.C.
As the capital of the United States, this city is brimming with Christmas activities. D.C. is home to the National Christmas Tree—a live, evergreen tree adorned in Presidents Park near the White House. The best part? Its ornaments are created by artists from all over the country!
The Washington Ballet will be putting on its annual and most spectacular performance of The Nutcracker that you can’t miss. Be sure to head to Union Station, where the halls are decked out with Norwegian-style Christmas decorations, food, and ice sculptures.
Where to stay: Grand Hyatt Washington
Price: $130 and up per night
Amenities: Ice skating, lighted boat parade and “Garden of Lights”
18. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Spend your family Christmas in the little German town of Gatlinburg! From the holiday lights decorating the buildings to the festive attractions, there’s magic around every corner! Their winter schedule is packed with holly, merry events—an enchanting Christmas festival at Anakista Park, a Christmas lights parade and a holiday lights event, just to name a few. A cozy little cabin in the Smokies sounds like a 10/10 way to spend the holidays if you ask us.
Where to stay: Parkside Cabin Rentals
Price: $160 and up per night
Amenities: Christmas parade, arts and crafts, breakfast with Santa, and fireworks display
19. London, England
What can’t you do in London during Christmas? Ice skating, shopping, afternoon tea, visits with Santa—the list goes on. You can watch the light displays or enjoy a Victorian feast in an immersive experience a la A Christmas Carol at the Great Christmas Feast. If you’re staying long enough to take a weekend trip outside of London, Blenheim Palace (Winston Churchill’s birthplace) comes alive during the holiday season with a Christmas market, light trail, and more.
Where to stay: Tower Hotel
Price: $153 per night and up
Amenities: Ice skating, shopping, bus tours, and museums
20. Rovaniemi, Finland
Meet Santa Claus and cross the magical Arctic Circle at Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. A true winter wonderland awaits, complete with reindeer, Northern Lights, and cross-country skiing. Take the little ones to the Elf’s Farmyard Zoo, where they’ll meet alpacas and other Arctic animals. After a day of winter activities, pop over to Santa’s Salmon Place for some traditional salmon cooked over a fire in front of you.
Where to stay: Santa Claus Holiday Village
Price: $795 and up per night
Amenities: Northern Lights, skiing, petting zoo and a Santa Claus Village
21. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is nothing short of magical during the holidays. With an annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, a performance of The Nutcracker, and dancing in Indian pueblos, you and your family will never run out of things to do. The New Mexico Art Museum’s annual Christmas Open House is a favorite with kids of all ages. Learn about historic Santa Fe traditions like Las Posadas, a city-wide event that features a reenactment of Joseph and Mary’s search for an inn in Bethlehem.
Where to stay: Hotel Santa Fe
Price: $102 and up per night
Amenities: Art museum, Christmas lights, holiday markets, and a tree lighting ceremony
22. Stowe, Vermont
Celebrate a traditional Christmas with your loved ones in Stowe, Vermont. As soon as you arrive in this magical town, you’ll notice that the entire community of Stowe takes great pride in preserving Christmas traditions. Homes and businesses throughout the city are decked out in lights and decorations, making for a perfect evening stroll as you sip hot cocoa and choose your favorite lighting setup. Take advantage of snowy days and head out for a sled race with the family!
Where to stay: Green Mountain Inn
Price: $126 and up per night
Amenities: Skiing, sledding, ice skating, and sleigh rides
23. Fairhope, Alabama
Head to southern Alabama for the annual Christmas Boat Parade! Fairhope is a charming little town located on the Gulf Coast, and while it’s a sight to behold year-round, the town comes alive during the holidays. Stroll around the North Pole and admire the Christmas lights, shopping, and food in downtown Fairhope.
After Santa’s grand entrance at the Magical Parade, he sticks around for a while to hear children’s Christmas wishes. We can’t forget to mention the city’s “Movie in the Street”—where kids and adults alike gather downtown for a holiday movie.
Where to Stay: Jubilee Suites
Price: $306 and up per night
Amenities: Beaches, Christmas Open House, Shopping, and Dining
24. New York, New York
There are so many songs and movies surrounding being in New York during the holidays. The Big Apple has always been a dream Christmas destination for families around the world, and we couldn’t agree more! There’s winter wonderland magic around every corner—ice skate at Rockefeller Center, catch The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center, visit the Christmas Markets, and more! To top it all off, the iconic Rockettes perform a Christmas Spectacular at Radio City that’s sure to have you dancing the night away.
Where to stay: Plaza Hotel
Price: $1,577 and up per night
Amenities: Home Alone experience, rooms decorated with Christmas trees, holiday-themed afternoon tea, custom pet clothing
25. Florida Keys, Florida
A tropical Christmas sounds like paradise to us! Pack your bags and join Santa on a trip to his favorite vacation spot in Key West. The best way to catch all the holiday lights across the island is on the Holiday Lights and Sights Tour - a trolley ride through town complete with cookies and cider. Admire the historically charming architecture of the southernmost city on a guided historic inns holiday tour. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the illuminated boat parade planned by boat owners weeks in advance.
Where to stay: Southernmost Point Guest House
Price: $239 and up per night
Amenities: Beach, Christmas parade, light tours and a lighted boat parade
FAQ
1. What are some top destinations for family Christmas vacations in the US?
Some top destinations include New York City, Disneyland in California, Aspen, Orlando, and Williamsburg. Each offers unique experiences, from snowy adventures to festive theme park celebrations.
2. What is the best place for a snowy Christmas vacation in the US?
Aspen, Colorado, and Lake Tahoe are perfect for families seeking a white Christmas with activities like skiing, snowboarding, and cozy cabin stays.
3. Are there warm destinations for Christmas vacations in the US?
Yes! Orlando, Florida, and San Diego, California, offer warm weather and holiday-themed events at theme parks and resorts.
4. What makes New York City a top choice for Christmas vacations?
NYC is iconic for its holiday spirit, featuring the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, ice skating rinks, and festive window displays.
5. What activities can families enjoy during a Christmas vacation?
Depending on the destination, activities include skiing, holiday parades, light displays, shopping, visiting Santa, and exploring theme parks.
Introduction
Christmas is a time for joy, togetherness, and creating magical memories with loved ones. Planning the best Christmas vacations in US for families offers a chance to celebrate the season in extraordinary ways. Whether you're dreaming of a snowy getaway in the mountains, festive fun at world-renowned theme parks, or charming holiday traditions in historic towns, the US has something for every family. From iconic cities like New York to cozy ski resorts in Aspen, each destination brings its own unique holiday cheer. With countless options, finding the best Christmas vacations in US for families can turn your holiday into an unforgettable adventure filled with love, laughter, and festive delight.