15 Unforgettable Family Getaways for the Winter Season

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Winter is magical. Snow toppings everywhere, beautiful lights, warm cups of hot chocolate in front of the fireplace, and fabulous locations for families to connect. But deciding where to go? That’s another story.

No worries—here are 15 winter vacations that are so fantastic they may even get the kids to look up from their screens! If it is a winter wonderland that you crave or just some sun and sand, then you are in the right place.

Lapland, Finland – Where to meet Santa Claus himself

15 Unforgettable Family Getaways for the Winter Season — Image Credit: Erix2005/123RF

You can meet the “real” Santa, and the family can ride reindeer sleighs, hunt for the Northern Lights, and enjoy cozy stays in glass igloos. It’s like getting into a Christmas movie sawdust and all save for adding marshmallows into the cocoa.

Pro Tip: Bundle up! It can get very cold and below freezing, so thermal clothing is a requirement.

Banff Canada – A Winter Paradise

Banff forms the heart of the Rockies, and after witnessing this tiny town, you will feel like you are in some snowflake. This location is ideal for families, from skiing to relaxing in the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Family orientation is also characteristic of Banff; roasting s’mores before the fire is a must every night.

What to Pack: If you plan on throwing snowballs, remember waterproof gloves and extra clothes. In the heat of the battle, no one wants to hear, “I’m cold.”

Hershey, Pennsylvania – A Sweet Winter Escape

What could be more entertaining than a family trip? The town turns into a winter location with amazing lights and a serene environment.

Fun Fact: The kids won’t even remember that it was once freezing when they view the 50-foot Christmas tree.

Aspen, Colorado – Luxury Meets Family Fun

Although best known for first-rate skiing, Aspen has softer sides, with gentle slopes to entertain kids and ski lessons for all age groups. Non-skiers? No worries. Go for a sleigh ride or experience the art and enjoyment of the Pacific Aspen town, which is inadvertently decorated with snow.

Accommodation Tip: Spend the night in a family suite with a fireplace for fun story moments, family, and a glass or two of hot spiced cider.

Iceland – Around Reykjavik | Ice Caves & Hot Springs

Iceland remains the best option for families seeking a vacation like no other. Children, grab your admission tickets for an entirely new start in Iceland—Reykjavik, to be exact—for geothermal hot springs, walking through an ice cave, or watching the geysers shoot at the frosty sky. It is theatrical, dreamlike, and not far from the spirit realm.

Must-Do: Watch the beautifully dancing Aurora Borealis or the Northern Lights. It will amaze teenagers, let alone other age groups.

Quebec, Canada – Winter Wonderland with A Twist of France

Picture for a moment strolling through some quaint, warm lanes paved with cobblestone and everyone and everything covered in snow with French sentimentality all around. Quebec City has its Winter Carnival, which families love, and it includes installations such as ice castles and slides.

Christmas lights in the streets of Quebec City, at night this time, together with the Château Frontenac and the streets of Place Royale, shine beautifully. There are colored bright street lights almost all over the city, especially the Christmas street lights, which make it beautiful at night. It is Paris, but there are way too many puffy jackets.

Packing Tip: You don’t have to walk around in completely enclosed UGG-style boots here: fleece-lined riding boots are perfect fashion staples.

Big Bear Lake, California – Winter Wonderland Without the Crazy Cold

Need the snow but not the freezing temperatures? Big Bear Lake has sledding, skiing, and even snow tubing, all accompanied by essentially a Californian climate. The rustic inches of the cabins are perfect for large family gatherings with fireplaces and games for kids.

Good to Know: You can drive there from most parts of California, including LA, which makes it a great family destination for the west!

Orlando, Florida – A Warm Winter Break

If you enjoy spending winter on roller coasters, Orlando does not disappoint. From Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in Disney World to Grinchmas at Universal, it’s the bright alternative to conventional winter depression.

Packing Tip: Coats should preferably be left at home, but better take a sweater with you. Yes, even Florida gets a tad chilly at night.

Zermatt, Switzerland – Swiss Alps Magic

You will find the Matterhorn in Zermatt—and believe us when we say the real thing looks even better than on the Toblerone chocolate wrappers. The place is so snowy, especially when you tour around it during this time of the year. It also contains skiing, sledding, and stunningly beautiful trains in this sleepy Alpine village.

Don’t Forget: Try Swiss hot chocolate. It would make every other hot chocolate taste questionable.

Yellowstone National Park – A Snowy Wildlife Habitation

Winter proves to be very good for viewing wild animals. Wildlife species like bison, elks, wolves, and coyotes are easily seen during wintertime since no undergrowth hinders the view. Children and adults would love it when they are lucky to see bison charge their way through deep snow or witness a pack of wolves hunting.

Accommodation Tip: Book a cabin for that quintessential “snowed in” vibes

Tokyo, Japan- A Culture Infused Winter

From bright and glittery illuminations to warm and relaxing onsen or hot spring baths, Tokyo has something very different prepared for winter. Winter light-ups in Tokyo should not be missed during the winter season. Millions of lights are placed on the streets and parks of the city and at landmark buildings.

Places like Shibuya, Roppongi Hills, and Omotesando have amazing lighting that makes your night lovely for a family night out. Besides, everybody will be excited about the themed cafes and the Studio Ghibli Museum for kids.

Can’t-Miss Stop: Rikugien Garden’s winter light-up event.

Utah Park City – The ski destination with all the trappings

Park City, Utah, is a snowy city waiting to be discovered. It can be a place of extreme activity, fun for kids, or simply a holiday in the middle of the wild nature. Prepare yourself for an amazing time and some Fairytale moments on your winter vacation in Park City.

Arguably one of the best ski destinations, Park City should feature on the list of any winter tourist intending to have a touch of family-oriented activities in the downtown area. It also presents a wide range of fascinating activities apart from skiing breaks. Have fun using snowballs on your family members, or enjoy the ride at the exclusive snow tubing parks nationwide.

Why it’s Great: Many of the lodges are ski-in/ski-out, making it easier to access services or products during the holiday season.

Tromsø in Norway- A city jam-packed with arctic fun activities

If you have never considered going back up north for a holiday, here is your clue. Treat your family to a never-before memorable tour in Tromsø with options such as dog sledding, whale watching, and native Sami people interaction. By the way, they also have the Northern Lights.

Tromsø is a place of great northern light displays on the snowy background; it’s interesting to learn about this phenomenon while watching it. Taking science, you see particles coming from the sun and interfering with our atmosphere, and for kids, it may seem those little technicolor fairies are at work!

Pro Tip: Bundle up! The weather conditions are unforgiving, and proper thermal wear keeps everyone warm while taking in the scenery.

Walt Disney World, Orlando – The Magical Choice

Disney during the holidays? It’s a no-brainer. From Cinderella Castle, all decorated with lights, to parades and fireworks. It might be known as “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” but Walt Disney World transforms into an enchanting wonderland during the winter season!

The permanent lights and the absence of summer crowds and heat allow your family to enjoy the parks better. Don’t miss events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party or Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays, where you’ll be immersed in cultural traditions, delicious treats, and magical performances.

Pro Tip: Give your experience a boost and join a character dining breakfast where you’ll meet Mickey and friends with little or no waiting.

Edinburgh, Scotland – The Winter of Our Childhood Dreams

Imagine snowy streets where they seem to have borrowed a little something from the Harry Potter movies with fairy lanterns, old castles, and Christmas fairs. Edinburgh in Scotland becomes a beautiful winter wonderland, enchanting the family with its magical atmosphere and fabulous attractions.

This makes people understand why such a place remains a memorable winter break for families, providing a fairytale-like environment. Wintertime in Scotland is helpful for creating the magic of Harry Potter in Edinburgh.

Accommodation Tip: When choosing accommodation, opt for a family cottage or an imaginable, soulful Airbnb rental.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.