13 Top Winter Getaways in the U.S. for Families This December
The winter season brings a chance for families to escape to destinations filled with holiday cheer. Whether you are drawn to snowy mountain retreats or festive city adventures, there is something for everyone. Many U.S. destinations offer unique experiences perfect for families looking to make memories. From ice skating to holiday light displays, December is the time to enjoy these special places. Let us guide you through some of the best options for a memorable family getaway this winter.
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Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is a winter wonderland for families seeking outdoor fun and cozy vibes. Known for its world-class ski slopes, this town offers a variety of winter activities for all ages, from beginner skiers to experienced adventurers. Beyond skiing, families can enjoy snowshoeing, ice skating, and even sleigh rides through the snowy landscape. Aspen also hosts a series of festive events in December, making it a top destination for a memorable winter vacation.
This mountain town combines stunning natural beauty with charming, family-friendly amenities. The town features a welcoming atmosphere, with cozy accommodations and family-oriented dining options. After a day on the slopes, families can unwind with a warm meal and enjoy the vibrant holiday decorations in town. Aspen’s festive spirit is perfect for creating lasting memories together.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park becomes a serene winter wonderland in December, attracting families looking for adventure and solitude. Known for its geothermal features and abundant wildlife, the park offers unique winter experiences, such as snowshoeing and guided snowmobile tours. Visitors can also spot bison, elk, and wolves as they roam across the park’s snowy expanses. The park is less crowded during this time, giving families a peaceful and intimate experience.
The winter season in Yellowstone brings a different kind of beauty, with frozen waterfalls and steaming geysers against the snowy backdrop. Accommodations near the park cater to families, offering cozy cabins and rustic lodges. This is a destination for families who enjoy nature and want to experience one of the most iconic national parks in a quiet, magical season. December offers a chance to see the park in a whole new light, away from the summer crowds.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe is a great destination for families who want a mix of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty this December. Families can enjoy skiing and snowboarding on some of the best slopes in the country, or try snowshoeing, sledding, and ice skating. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and snow-covered mountains offer a picturesque setting for winter activities. December brings festive holiday events to the area, adding a special touch to the family experience.
In addition to its winter sports offerings, Lake Tahoe also boasts numerous family-friendly resorts and cozy accommodations. Many of the area’s resorts provide kids’ programs and family-friendly amenities, ensuring that everyone enjoys their stay. With its combination of outdoor fun, scenic beauty, and vibrant holiday spirit, Lake Tahoe makes for a perfect family getaway this December. This destination ensures there is something for everyone, whether you love outdoor adventures or relaxing by a warm fire.
Park City, Utah
Park City is a fantastic winter getaway for families looking to enjoy skiing, shopping, and holiday festivities. Known for its top-tier ski resorts, the town also offers a variety of activities for families, such as snowboarding and tubing. The picturesque downtown area is beautifully decorated for the holidays, with festive lights and seasonal events. Families can also enjoy ice skating or take a scenic gondola ride for stunning views of the snow-covered mountains.
Aside from outdoor activities, Park City provides an array of family-friendly accommodations and dining options. The town’s welcoming atmosphere and small-town charm make it a cozy destination for families of all sizes. Whether you are on the slopes or exploring the charming streets, Park City offers something for everyone. It is a must-visit location for families looking to experience winter fun and a festive atmosphere this December.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago shines during the holiday season, offering families a mix of culture, entertainment, and winter fun. Families can explore the famous Christkindlmarket, an annual German-style holiday market, where they can shop for unique gifts and enjoy festive treats. Ice skating at Millennium Park is another popular activity, where families can glide across the rink with the beautiful city skyline as a backdrop. December also brings holiday performances, such as the Nutcracker ballet, perfect for a family outing.
Beyond the holiday festivities, Chicago is home to museums, parks, and indoor attractions that families will enjoy. The city’s architecture and seasonal decorations make it a winter wonderland to explore, with many attractions offering family discounts. Chicago’s public transit makes it easy for families to get around and enjoy all that the city has to offer. With its festive vibe and variety of activities, Chicago is a great place to experience the holidays in a big city setting.
Stowe, Vermont
Stowe offers families a charming, snowy escape with a mix of outdoor fun and cozy relaxation. The town is famous for its ski resorts, but it also offers sledding, snowshoeing, and snowboarding for those seeking adventure. Families can enjoy picturesque views of the Green Mountains and explore nearby attractions, such as the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum. December brings holiday cheer with decorated streets, festive events, and plenty of opportunities for winter fun.
Stowe’s small-town charm is perfect for families who want a quiet getaway surrounded by nature. Cozy inns and family-friendly lodges provide a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after a day of outdoor adventures. Stowe also offers warm, local dining options where families can enjoy traditional Vermont dishes. Whether you want to hit the slopes or relax by the fire, Stowe offers something for every family this December.
Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge is a must-see destination for families who love winter sports and outdoor fun. The town’s ski slopes are perfect for skiers of all levels, with beginner lessons and challenging runs for experienced adventurers. Breckenridge also offers snowshoeing, ice skating, and even snow biking, ensuring that every family member can find an activity they enjoy. The historic downtown area is decorated for the holidays, providing a festive backdrop for a family outing.
The town’s charm goes beyond its outdoor activities, with family-friendly restaurants and accommodations offering cozy spots to relax. Families can take in the beautiful mountain views, stroll along Main Street for shopping, or enjoy holiday concerts and events. Breckenridge’s welcoming atmosphere and mix of adventure and relaxation make it a great winter escape for families. It is an ideal destination to make family memories in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket is a winter gem for families seeking a cozy, seaside getaway. The island transforms in December, with quaint streets lined with holiday lights and local shops offering festive goods. Families can explore the island’s rich history at the Nantucket Whaling Museum or take a stroll through the charming downtown area. Although it is quieter during the winter months, Nantucket’s beauty and charm are still in full force.
The island’s unique winter atmosphere offers families the chance to relax and enjoy time together without the usual crowds. Accommodations range from charming inns to luxurious hotels, perfect for families of all sizes. Nantucket offers an intimate winter retreat with plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature, history, and the quiet beauty of the sea. It is the perfect destination for families seeking a peaceful and festive holiday experience.
Orlando, Florida
Orlando is an ideal destination for families looking for a fun-filled winter getaway. The city is home to world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, where families can enjoy special holiday-themed attractions and events. Orlando’s weather in December is mild, making it the perfect escape from the cold. Families can explore the parks, meet beloved characters, and experience the magic of the season.
Beyond the theme parks, Orlando offers other family-friendly attractions, such as the Kennedy Space Center and SeaWorld. The city also has an array of family-oriented dining options and accommodations, with many resorts offering special deals during the winter months. Orlando’s exciting mix of activities, coupled with its mild winter weather, makes it a great destination for families to create lasting memories.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe offers families a blend of art, history, and winter fun, perfect for a December getaway. The city is known for its unique adobe architecture and vibrant arts scene, which is especially magical during the holiday season. Families can explore the historic Plaza, where they will find festive lights, traditional holiday markets, and warm local treats. Santa Fe also offers opportunities to enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing in the nearby mountains.
Santa Fe’s charming ambiance and rich cultural offerings make it an exciting destination for families who enjoy art and history. Families can visit local museums, take a cooking class, or explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding area. The city’s mix of outdoor and cultural experiences ensures that there is something for everyone. Santa Fe’s blend of winter activities and artistic charm creates a perfect setting for family memories.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu provides a unique winter getaway for families looking to escape the cold. The city offers a warm climate, perfect for families who want to enjoy outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, or relaxing on the beach. December is an excellent time to visit, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Families can explore the island’s natural beauty, from Diamond Head to the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve.
Honolulu also offers a variety of cultural experiences, from visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial to enjoying a traditional Hawaiian luau. The city’s diverse dining scene, along with its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, makes it a great destination for families. Whether you want to relax by the ocean or explore the island’s history, Honolulu offers the perfect mix of family-friendly adventures and warm weather.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston offers a charming and historic winter getaway for families. The city’s cobblestone streets, historic homes, and scenic waterfronts are especially beautiful during the winter months. Families can explore the city’s rich history by visiting museums, historic plantations, and taking a carriage ride through the historic district. December brings festive events like holiday tours and Christmas markets, adding to the charm of the city.
Charleston’s mild winter weather makes it a pleasant destination for families who want to explore without the crowds of summer. The city also offers excellent dining, with family-friendly restaurants serving everything from southern comfort food to fresh seafood. Charleston’s unique blend of history, culture, and holiday spirit makes it a perfect place for a family winter getaway.
New York City, New York
New York City is a classic winter getaway for families, offering a festive atmosphere like no other. Families can enjoy the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, ice skate at Bryant Park, and see dazzling holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue. The city is also home to Broadway shows, holiday markets, and various family-friendly attractions. December is the perfect time to experience the magic of New York during the holiday season.
Beyond the holiday decorations, the city offers countless museums, parks, and shopping districts that families can explore. Whether you want to see iconic landmarks, take a tour of Central Park, or visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, there is something for every family. New York City’s energy, diversity, and holiday cheer make it a must-visit destination for families this December.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.