12 Destinations for a Magical Family Christmas Getaway
Christmas is about family, laughter, and memories that will keep your heart warm. However, it’s no secret that the usual routine of tree decorating and turkey carving could use a little shake-up. How else can you mix things up than whisking your family to a holiday destination that brings the magic of the season to life?
Whether you want to be somewhere snowy and magical or somewhere warm and coastal, here are 12 amazing destinations for your family’s Christmas to create memories you will long remember.
Arizona: The North Pole Experience
It’s not in the Arctic, it’s in Flagstaff! Kids can work in Santa’s toy factory, meet elves, and ride on Santa’s trolley in this North Pole Experience at this cozy retreat. I think this interactive experience is great for younger kids who still believe in all the Christmas magic. Bonus: it’s much warmer than the actual North Pole!
New York City, New York
New York City knows how to do Christmas. New York City is full of the spirit of the holidays beginning with the dazzling Rockefeller Center tree to the gorgeous holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue. Go take the family ice skating in Central Park or take the kiddos to see the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. There are also holiday markets, like Bryant Park, where you can find cozy vibes and tons of cool gifts to buy. Insider tip: Skip the long lines, and truly revel the festive charm by avoiding peak hours.
Nuremberg, Germany
One of the world’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets is Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt. Picture yourself gliding down the aisles of twinkling lights and gingerbread scents drifting through the air. Your kids will enjoy the carousel rides and festive treats and adults will enjoy mulled wine.
Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City turns into a holiday village straight from the fairy tale. While offering a magical backdrop for family photos, the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec drape itself in sparkling lights and snow. Enjoy a toboggan ride on Dufferin Terrace or visit the German Christmas Market for gift and goodie shopping. Temperatures fall below freezing, and that’s part of the fun of bundling up! Locals say it’s “as close to European Christmas charm as you can get without crossing the Atlantic.”
Disneyland, California
There’s nothing more magical than spending Christmas at the happiest place on Earth. The holidays at Disneyland are all about going big, like special parades, themed treats, and a Christmas redo for favorite rides such as “It’s a Small World.” Mickey and friends dressed up in their holiday best will have kids starstruck. Pro tip: this is Disney’s busiest season, so book tickets early to get the best days.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Rovaniemi takes Lapland’s Santa Village to the next level. It is gorgeous, with family photo-worthy snow-covered landscapes and staying in a glass igloo to see the Aurora Borealis; something your family will remember forever.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
If you want a traditional American Christmas with small-town charm, go to Bethlehem, otherwise known as “Christmas City.” Enjoy live holiday performances and market-inspired ornaments. All of these historic sites are decked out for the holidays, and this is a heartwarming destination for families looking for a slower-paced, festive retreat.
London, England
Stepping into a Charles Dickens novel is how London feels during Christmas. There are holiday lights, festive markets, and ice skating rinks all over the city. Visit Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park for rides, shows, and treats for kids and mulled cider for parents.
Lapland, Finland
Stepping into Lapland really is like stepping into a real-life snow globe. The Arctic paradise that’s known as Santa’s official home will give you the chance to go for reindeer sleigh rides, take your friends to Santa Claus Village, and watch the beautiful Northern Lights. You can even meet the man in red himself!
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is a top pick when it comes to a snowy retreat with lots of adventure. Spend your days on the slopes, or tubing, and spend your nights in a mountain lodge, all at a luxurious level. Some lights and a few carolers also come alive in Aspen’s charming downtown as a festive treat for the whole family. To others, it is “Christmas postcard perfect.”
Tokyo, Japan
You won’t get tired of the jaw-dropping Tokyo Christmas light displays. Although Japan doesn’t usually celebrate Christmas in the Western sense, there’s no denying the festive spirit. To see the illumination events, take your family to Shibuya or Omotesando, and then enjoy a Christmas cake: a Japanese holiday tradition. This is an unusual but unforgettable holiday destination.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a gem for those who like milder weather but want all the festive feels. It has lots of holiday charm from beautiful historic homes swathed in wreaths and lights, candlelight tours, and family-friendly parades. With warm hospitality, it makes your Christmas getaway even more cheerier.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights
Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights
How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro
How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
