Parenting Today
Traveling with family has many benefits beyond seeing exciting new places. Daily routines at home can make it easy to cross paths without really bonding and investing time in quality activities. Family trips force you to unplug and connect face-to-face. You’ll get the added bonus of making lifetime memories that will serve as reminders of fun for years to come.
This winter, take a trip with the family to one of these exciting destinations. Some are perfect for snowy adventures, while others can give you a break from the cold season. All of these spots offer a variety of activities to fit any budget and family structure.
The Best Winter Travel Spots for Families
Grand Canyon, Arizona
Visiting the Grand Canyon should be on every family’s bucket list. Whether you want to hike down to the bottom or enjoy the views from up top, you won’t miss the majesty of this natural wonder. Winter is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and the extreme desert heat. Even though the North Rim is closed, you can still adventure from the South Rim and get a complete experience. If you’re lucky enough to see snow on your trip, it’s a truly magical sight! Explore the surrounding towns to round out your trip.
Lake Placid, New York
Much of the fun in Lake Placid in upstate New York is on the pricier side, but the expense is well worth the entertainment and accommodations. The kids will love outdoor ice skating, dogsled rides, and the toboggan chute. There’s also plenty of world-class downhill and cross-country skiing for participants of all ages. Make sure to visit the sites of both previous Olympic Games to experience the outdoors just as the athletes did.
Durango, Colorado
The town of Durango offers a lot of fun winter activities for the whole family. While there’s often snow, it’s warm enough to explore outside and enjoy the town without little ones making a fuss. Leading up to the holidays, the Polar Express train runs daily for kids of all ages. Sledding and ice skating spots are plentiful, but if you need time indoors, the children’s museum will keep everyone’s attention for hours.
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
This upper Midwest destination is perfect for a family with lots of different interests. Several popular ski resorts can keep you entertained, and there are also winter ziplines, live shows, hikes in the woods, and an indoor waterpark. If you visit in late January through early February, you can explore the local Winterfest, which is full of impressive ice sculptures and bonfire walks along the beach.
Galveston Beach, Texas
Another option for a warmer-weather escape is Galveston Beach. Easily accessible in the winter post-hurricane season, Galveston is a great spot to relax and enjoy a much less-crowded beachfront vacation. There are holiday light tours, special restaurant menus, and indoor attractions at the local Moody Gardens. If you spend most of your time relaxing on the sand, it’s also a super budget-friendly winter trip.
Hershey, Pennsylvania
Nicknamed “the sweetest place on Earth,” Hershey is a town full of theme parks and attractions that are fun any time of year. Winter, however, brings incredible decorations and interactive exhibits that make this season special. Even visiting the local zoo during winter is a magical experience. Spend time at the museums, ice rink, and even the local theater for a night of arts and culture.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Sitting on the border between California and Nevada is Lake Tahoe. This destination is well-known for its world-class skiing in the winter and is also great for families who want to relax in a small resort town that’s less expensive than other nearby locations. Horse-drawn sleigh rides and a trek to Chickadee Ridge to feed the birds are family favorites.
Whether you’re trying to embrace the snow or escape to warmer climates, these winter destinations are perfect for family bonding before, during, or after the busy holiday season.
