Best Family Winter Vacations: Where to Go for Christmas

Planning a family winter vacation over Christmas starts now. Whether your crew dreams of snowy mountains, festive city adventures, or escaping to warm beaches, there are plenty of amazing places to spend the holidays. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite Christmas vacation destinations for families, with a mix of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences that both kids and parents will love.

Best Family Winter Vacations for Christmas 2026 & 2027

Looking for somewhere amazing to spend Christmas with your family? Our favorite winter family vacation destinations range from warm Caribbean beaches and tropical adventures in Belize, Cozumel and Costa Rica to snowy mountain escapes in Banff and Sun Valley. For a classic Christmas experience, head to New York City or Frankenmuth, while families looking for outdoor adventure will love destinations like Sedona and Salt Lake City.

• Best warm-weather adventure: Belize

• Best snorkeling: Cozumel, Mexico

• Best snowy Christmas: Banff, Canada

• Best Christmas city: New York City

• Best small-town Christmas: Frankenmuth, Michigan

• Best tropical resort vacation: Punta Cana

• Best outdoor adventure: Sedona, Arizona

• Best Christmas resort: Big Cedar Lodge

• Best cultural Christmas: Oaxaca

Below you’ll learn more about the places your family should actually go—and how to make it happen.

Want Help Turning One of These Ideas Into Your Family's Actual Vacation?

Choosing where to go is the fun part. Figuring out the flights, hotels, activities, and all the little details can be a lot. As a family travel advisor with Fora Travel, I can help you turn your big vacation idea into a trip that actually works for your family. Let's start dreaming.

Christmas vacation in Cozumel

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After years of traveling with our family of six, I’ve learned that the best Christmas vacation isn’t necessarily the one that looks perfect on paper—it’s the one that works for your particular family.

We’ve actually spent Christmas in both Cozumel and Belize, and those experiences have taught me what makes a winter getaway memorable, from finding adventures that keep older kids and teens engaged to choosing destinations that make traveling with younger children easier.

I also know that family travel changes as your kids grow, and a trip that was perfect for little ones may not be nearly as exciting for teenagers. That’s why this list goes beyond generic “warm places to visit in December.”

These are destinations that offer something special during Christmas break, whether your family dreams of snorkeling in warm Caribbean water, exploring a snowy mountain town, experiencing the magic of Christmas in a big city, or finding an adventure everyone will remember.

Family winter vacation in Banff

Best Family Winter Vacations for Christmas 2026 & 2027

Our Favorite Family Christmas Destinations

Best Warm-Weather Family Christmas Vacations

1. Belize ⭐

2. Cozumel ⭐

3. Aruba

4. Costa Rica

5. Punta Cana

Best Snowy Family Christmas Vacations

1. Banff National Park ⭐

2. Salt Lake City

3. Sun Valley

Best Festive Christmas Destinations

1. New York City ⭐

2. Big Cedar Lodge in the Ozarks ⭐

3. Frankenmuth, Michigan

4. Oaxaca

Which Christmas Vacation Is Best for Your Family?

Want sunshine? → Belize, Cozumel or Punta Cana
Want snow? → Banff or Sun Valley
Want Christmas magic? → New York City or Frankenmuth
Want adventure? → Belize, Costa Rica or Sedona
Want a resort? → Big Cedar Lodge or Punta Cana
Traveling with teens? → Cozumel or Belize
Want a U.S. destination? → Big Cedar, Sedona or Frankenmuth
Want an international adventure? → Belize, Oaxaca, Costa Rica or Aruba

Belize — Best Warm-Weather Family Adventure

Warm Christmas vacation in Belize

Best for: Families who love snorkeling and outdoor adventure
Christmas weather: Warm and generally dry
Best for kids: Snorkeling, Mayan ruins, cave tubing and wildlife
Ideal trip length: 5–7 days
Our take: One of our favorite warm-weather Christmas adventures

When you’re looking for a warm vacation getaway without much jet-lag, Belize is the way to go.

Our family of six absolutely loved Belize over Christmas vacation last December. We often talk of returning. Just a 4.5 hour non-stop flight from Denver put us in Belize City and from there our adventure began.

This epic winter vacation does not disappoint. Explore ruins, caves, and snorkel or scuba along the Belize Barrier Reef — then book a kayaking excursion around the islands.

All the ancient Mayan sites in Belize are managed by the Institute of Archaeology and have interpretive centers, as well as trained guides to show you around. From Caracol and Cerros to Lamanai and little villages and forest areas — you’ll find Mayan ruins.

We made a bee line to the island of Ambergris Caye. Known for fishing and coconuts, more recently, ecotourism has grown here with scuba diving and snorkeling.

We loved snorkeling in Ambergris Caye over Christmas break

Belize ranks up there for fabulous snorkeling. We even kayaked right from our San Pedro beach condo, just 5 minutes from fantastic coral and colorful fish!

Our family of six soaked up sunshine and beach time in between fishing and snorkeling trips. We chose to save cave tubing, jungle stays, and mayan ruins for another time.

Once called the British Honduras, Belize is an English speaking country.

The beautiful beaches are covered in waving palm trees and colorful sunsets. And the weather is perfect.

Grab your swim suit and snorkel gear, here’s everything you need to know for flying to Ambergris Caye for your Belize family vacation.

Half Moon Caye, Shark Ray Alley, and Hol Chan Marine Reserve are just a few colorful places for excellent snorkeling.

Opt in for hiking, fishing, horseback riding, sailing, and more and you can see why Belize is great for families for families like ours who love outdoor adventures.

Average December temperatures in Belize range from a low of 71°F to a high of 80°F. The days tend to be quite mild and the nights cool, the perfect weather for a warm Christmas vacation in the tropics.

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Cozumel, Mexico — Best for Snorkeling and Teens

Cozumel is a great destination for families over Christmas

As our kids got older, Christmas break became one of the best opportunities for our family to travel.

And Cozumel Mexico is the number two best spot for snorkeling and scuba diving all over the world!

Snorkeling around the shores and reefs of Cozumel is outdoor adventure travel at its finest. And you can do it year round, making Cozumel a dreamy winter time or Christmas holiday vacation.

A popular cruise ship port of call and known for amazing scuba diving, surprisingly most people only visit Cozumel off the boat or as a day trip from Cancun.

But, if you’re looking for a memorable family winter vacations with older kids and teens that includes relaxing and exploring gorgeous, raw beaches — then spend a week in Cozumel on the sparkling Caribbean Sea.

Pack up your snorkel gear and flip flops and get ready to soak up some sun! January and December boasts average day time temperatures of 83°F in Cozumel, Mexico.

Snorkeling in Cozumel over Christmas

Enjoy a stay at the comfy Landmark Resort of Cozumel with a fabulous swimming pool. Bonus: it’s right across the street from the world reknowned Money Bar - a top notch snorkeling spot from shore.

Pro Tip: You don’t need to rent a car with all the island’s taxi drivers at the ready. But one super fun way to get around the island is by scooter. With older teens who can drive, double up and hit the beaches all around the island.

The best way to get to Cozumel is to fly into Cancun, reserve a shuttle to Playa del Carmen, and then take a passenger ferry from Playa del Carmen to the island.

When considering all your options for warm winter vacations for families, consider Isla Holbox, just a couple of hours north of Cancun.

Love the Idea of a Family Adventure But Don't Want to Plan It All Yourself?

I get it. We've traveled as a family of six to places like Belize and Cozumel, and I know how different a trip can feel when you choose the right location, hotel, activities, and pace for your family. If you're dreaming about a warm Christmas escape—or any family adventure—I can help you plan the details and take that work off your plate.

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Aruba - Best for an easy, sunny Caribbean Christmas

Aruba for family vacation over Christmas

Aruba is one of those Caribbean destinations that works any time of year, but there’s something especially fun about visiting during the Christmas season. With warm temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and beautiful beaches, it’s an easy escape from the cold and snow back home.

During the holidays, Aruba takes on an even more festive feel. In the days leading up to Christmas and New Year’s, you may hear the popping of pagara, or traditional firecrackers, throughout the island. It’s a unique holiday tradition that adds plenty of energy to the celebrations.

Many resorts and restaurants host special Christmas dinners and events, so if you’re planning to visit over the holidays, I recommend making reservations well in advance. And with beaches like Palm Beach and Eagle Beach, it’s pretty easy to forget all about wanting a white Christmas!

For families who want a little adventure, spend a day exploring Arikok National Park and take a swim in one of its natural pools. Aruba also has plenty of beachfront resorts and vacation rentals, making it easy to find accommodations that fit your family and travel style.

With frequent flights from major U.S. cities, Aruba is also a relatively easy Caribbean getaway for Christmas break—especially if your family is ready to trade snow boots for swimsuits. And I would love to help your family land in the perfect spot. Work with Tanya.

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Banff, Canada — Best for a Snowy Christmas

Banff in winter

If your family is dreaming of a snowy Christmas, Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies is hard to beat. The combination of snow-covered mountains, festive decorations, and plenty of outdoor adventures makes Banff feel like a real-life Christmas postcard.

By November, Banff is already getting into the holiday spirit, with twinkling lights and seasonal events throughout town. Take the gondola up Sulphur Mountain for incredible winter views, or warm up with a meal at Sky Bistro. The kids may also enjoy holiday activities like visiting Santa, while the clear mountain skies make for some pretty amazing stargazing at night.

Of course, the real draw is being outside in the Rockies. Snowshoeing, winter hiking, skiing, and skating are all great ways to enjoy the area during the holidays. Just remember that winter conditions can change quickly, and some hiking trails are closed or have restrictions, so check current conditions before heading out.

Don't miss Lake Louise, about 45–50 minutes from Banff. It's beautiful in winter and offers skiing, skating, snowshoeing, and plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the snow.

Banff in winter as a family is great

4–6 Days in Banff

• Day 1: Arrive in Calgary, drive to Banff, check in, and explore downtown.

• Day 2: Ride the Banff Gondola, explore Banff Avenue, and enjoy a cozy dinner.

• Day 3: Head to Lake Louise for skating, snowshoeing, skiing, or simply enjoying the scenery.

• Day 4: Spend the day skiing or snowboarding, or try winter hiking/snowshoeing.

• Day 5: Enjoy a slower day with hot springs, dog sledding, or a sleigh ride.

• Day 6: Pick a favorite activity, do some last-minute exploring, and head back toward Calgary.

Short on time? For a 4-day trip, combine Days 4 and 5 and focus on Banff, Lake Louise, and one big winter adventure.

The easiest way to get to Banff is to fly into Calgary International Airport and drive about 90 minutes to Banff. For a special stay, consider Fairmont Banff Springs, or choose a more centrally located option like the Elk + Avenue Hotel.

For families looking for that classic snowy Christmas experience, Banff is definitely one to put on your list.

The top places to stay in Banff National Park are Fairmont Banff Springs and Elk + Avenue hotel. 

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Big Cedar Lodge — Best Christmas Resort

Big Cedar spa - Photo courtesy of Big Cedar / Janet Glaser

Big Cedar on Table Rock Lake offers loads of outdoor family fun year-round, and we’ve been in every season. We were just there again this July and we rented a boat for wake surfing, water-skiing, tubing, and more. Pure joy. Summer at Big Cedar is a blast.

But Big Cedar also knows how to serve up Christmas joy, complete with thousands of twinkling lights, Gingerbread house contests, cookie decorating, scavenger hunts, ice skating and more.

Your family could spend a week at Big Cedar for Christmas — one of the best winter vacations in USA — classy Ozark style.

Splurge on breakfast with Santa and enjoy festive baking with Mrs. Claus. Take a winter workshop with the Elves, then head to Fun Mountain for bowling, cocktails for the adults and more holiday fun!

Grab your beanie and mittens and head to the Swimmin’ Hole for Big Cedar Resort’s ice rink! Skate through the evening as the rink lights up with twinkling holiday lights.

Make your way to a good ole’ fashioned campfire and decorate your own wreath while indulging on s’mores and hot cocoa.

Don’t forget Big Cedar’s Christmas Light Tour. Experience true Christmas magic on the Big Cedar Christmas light tour! Hop on a 25-minute tram tour around the resort and gaze dreamily over 1 million spectacular Christmas lights complete with Christmas music. Then head back to the cozy campfire.

Big Cedar Lodge is home to several top-notch restaurants like Devil’s Pool, plus Osage Restaurant, Arnie’s Barn, and Buffalo’s Bar at Top of the Rock.

We’ve stayed everywhere at Big Cedar: in the lodge, in a cabin, at the Cliffs at Long Creek, Wilderness Club, and Paradise Point. I’d love to help you pick the right spot for you and your crew. —> Work with Tanya.

Pro Tip: Winter temps in southern Missouri can be in the 40s during the day and in the 20s overnight, so pack your winter coats, beanies, and mittens enjoy the splendid holiday fun.

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Frankenmuth, Michigan — Best Small-Town Christmas

Frankenmuth Bridge

If you're looking for a classic small-town Christmas, Frankenmuth, Michigan, is a fun place to put on your list. Often called “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth has strong German roots, and you can see that influence throughout the town in the architecture, food, shops, and holiday traditions.

Frankenmuth is also fairly easy to reach, about a 30-minute drive from Flint Bishop International Airport or roughly 1½ hours from Detroit Metropolitan Airport.

Christmas is a big deal here, and the whole town gets into the holiday spirit. Families can stop by the visitor center for activities like scavenger hunts and holiday information, and kids can even send a letter to Santa.

One of the biggest draws is Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, a massive year-round Christmas store where you could easily spend hours browsing ornaments, decorations, gifts, and personalized Christmas keepsakes. Be sure to save room for some of Frankenmuth’s famous food, too. A chicken dinner at Zehnder’s, homemade fudge, and German-inspired treats are all part of the experience.

For shopping, wander through River Place, where the European-style buildings and cobblestone walkways give the area the feel of a Bavarian Christmas market. The Castle Shops at Bavarian Inn are another fun stop for gifts and souvenirs.

To really soak up the holiday atmosphere, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through town and check out the Christmas lights and decorations along Main Street. Frankenmuth also has plenty of seasonal events and light displays to keep families entertained.

Staying downtown makes it easy to walk to many of the shops, restaurants, and attractions. Families looking for even more entertainment can stay at Zehnder’s Splash Village, an indoor waterpark that's especially appealing when the temperatures drop.

Frankenmuth has that cozy, old-fashioned Christmas feeling that's hard to find in bigger cities. If your family loves twinkling lights, Christmas shops, German food, and a slower small-town pace, Frankenmuth makes for a memorable Christmas getaway.

2–3 Days in Frankenmuth

• Day 1: Explore downtown, visit Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, and enjoy a traditional chicken dinner at Zehnder’s.

• Day 2: Browse River Place and the Bavarian Inn shops, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, and enjoy the Christmas lights and holiday displays.

• Day 3: Let the kids play at Zehnder’s Splash Village, do some last-minute shopping, and grab one more holiday treat before heading home.

Short on time? Two days is plenty to experience the Christmas highlights and get that full Frankenmuth holiday feel.

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Guanacaste, Costa Rica — Best Beach + Adventure Trip

Guanacaste, Costa Rica for Christmas break vacation

Located in the northern part of Costa Rica, Guanacaste is home to pristine beaches, secluded waterfalls, wildlife, volcanic activities and natural hot springs.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing Christmas holiday or a vacation filled with activities, Guanacaste is the perfect place. December is a dry month in Costa Rica with warm sunny days which makes Guanacaste a great place for a family vacation.

The province has series of beaches lining up the north Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Many of them are known for great surfing.

If you are looking for happening beach destinations with lively evenings, go for Tamarindo or Playa del Coco. For quieter beaches and calm evenings, head to Samara or Avellanas.

Away from the beach, you can hike in the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park for exploring the secondary volcanic activities and gorgeous waterfalls. Relax in the Rio Negro volcanic hot springs after the day’s hike.

LLanos de Cortes is another beautiful waterfall in Guanacaste that features among the best in Costa Rica.

You can fly into the Liberia International Airport which is close to the Playa del Coco and Tamarindo beaches.

The range of activities and easy accessibility make Guanacaste one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica. So if you are planning to spend your Christmas and New Year there, try booking months in advance for better deals.

For the best lodging, Tamarindo Diria Resort is a beachfront hotel in the bustling area of Tamarindo. For a quieter stay, consider Drift Away Eco Lodge in Avellanas. Hacienda Guachipelin near Rincon de la Vieja is great for activities.

7 Days in Guanacaste

Day 1: Arrive in Liberia, pick up your rental car, and settle into your beach town.

Day 2: Beach day—swim, surf, or relax on the Pacific coast.

Day 3: Adventure day—visit Rincón de la Vieja National Park for hiking, waterfalls, or hot springs.

Day 4: Take a boat or snorkeling trip and look for dolphins and other marine life.

Day 5: Explore a nearby town, enjoy local food, and have a relaxed afternoon at the beach.

Day 6: Add another adventure such as zip-lining, horseback riding, or a wildlife tour.

Day 7: Enjoy a final beach morning before heading to Liberia for your flight home.

Short on time? Skip Days 5–6 and make it a 5-day trip.

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Need help deciding or planning your next family vacation? I’d love to help.

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New York City — Best Christmas City

New York City over Christmas

New York City is hard to beat at Christmas, especially if your family loves lights, shows, shopping, and that classic holiday excitement.

From the decorated department-store windows along Fifth Avenue to the giant tree at Rockefeller Center, the city feels extra magical in December.

Some of our favorite holiday experiences include seeing the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, ice skating at Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, or Central Park, and wandering through the city's Christmas markets.

The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden is another fun option for families, and Broadway gives you plenty of choices for an evening out.

3 Days in NYC at Christmas

• Day 1: Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue holiday windows, Rockettes, and dinner in Midtown.

• Day 2: Central Park, the American Museum of Natural History, a Christmas market, and Broadway.

• Day 3: 9/11 Memorial and Oculus, holiday shopping, and a festive evening stroll through Manhattan.

December can be cold, so pack warm layers and comfortable shoes. I also recommend booking popular shows, skating reservations, and restaurants well ahead of time, especially if you're visiting during Christmas week.

Flying into NYC is usually the easiest option, and staying in Midtown puts many of the holiday attractions within easy reach.

I can help you find the best lodging, sometimes with amazing perks! Work with Tanya.

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Oaxaca, Mexico: Best for a Cultural Christmas

Oaxaca, Mexico at Christmas for a cultural family vacation

If your family wants a Christmas trip that feels completely different from home, Oaxaca is a destination worth considering. The city has a rich culture, incredible food, and unique holiday traditions that you won't find at a typical beach resort.

Oaxaca de Juárez is easy to reach with a short flight from Mexico City, making it a great option for a winter getaway. December weather is also comfortable, with warm days in the 70s and cooler evenings.

The highlight of visiting at Christmas is Noche de los Rábanos, or Night of the Radishes, held every December 23. Local artists carve oversized radishes into incredibly detailed holiday scenes and figures. What started as a way for vendors to attract shoppers at Christmas markets has grown into a beloved annual tradition and competition.

Beyond the holiday celebrations, families can explore the Zócalo, visit colorful artisan villages, and take a day trip to the ancient ruins of Monte Albán.

Pro Tip: Noche de los Rábanos is a short event and draws big crowds, so arrive early if you want a good look at the incredible radish sculptures.

3–5 Days in Oaxaca

• Day 1: Explore the Zócalo, Santo Domingo, local markets, and the pedestrian streets of the historic center.

• Day 2: Visit Monte Albán in the morning, then explore one or two nearby artisan villages.

• Day 3: Take a food tour or cooking class, browse local shops, and enjoy a relaxed evening in the Zócalo.

• Day 4: Add a day trip to Hierve el Agua or spend more time exploring Oaxaca's artisan villages.

• Day 5: Keep it flexible—enjoy a leisurely breakfast, pick up souvenirs, and experience more of Oaxaca's food and culture.

Visiting over Christmas? Try to be in Oaxaca on December 23 for Noche de los Rábanos (Night of the Radishes), one of the city's most unique holiday traditions.

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Punta Cana — Best Easy All-Inclusive Christmas

Punta Cana all-inclusive at Christmas

Once it is getting cold, everyone is craving sun and warmer temperatures.

Why not plan a beach getaway to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic for a family winter vacation?

Plenty of sunshine, outdoor adventures and spectacular scenery are awaiting you – perfect conditions for a getaway at Christmas time.

It is very easy to get to Punta Cana as there are plenty of non-stop flights from nearly every major city in the US and many international cities.

If your family loves adventure, Punta Cana has plenty of options, from tropical theme parks and ziplining to countryside excursions. For a bigger adventure, rent a car and explore beyond Punta Cana, including Los Haitises National Park, Santo Domingo, waterfalls, and cacao farms.

The Dominican Republic is known for its friendly people and vibrant culture, and getting outside the resort area lets you experience a different side of the country.

Pro Tip: Traveling just before Christmas can be less expensive than the peak season from January through April.

5–7 Days in Punta Cana

• Day 1: Arrive, check into your resort, and spend the afternoon at the beach or pool.

• Day 2: Enjoy a full beach day with snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, or whatever your family is up for.

• Day 3: Take a family-friendly excursion—Saona Island, a catamaran cruise, or a visit to nearby caves.

• Day 4: Slow things down with a resort day. Let the kids enjoy the pool or water activities while you relax.

• Day 5: Get off the resort and experience a little of the local culture, food, and scenery.

• Day 6: Choose another adventure, such as zip-lining, horseback riding, or a wildlife experience.

• Day 7: Enjoy one last morning at the beach before heading to the airport.

Short on time? Five days is plenty for a relaxing Punta Cana getaway. If you have a full week, I like having a couple of slower resort days mixed in with the excursions so it doesn't feel like you’re constantly on the go.

The Dominican Republic is a great holiday destination as it offers something for everyone. Looking for beach and relaxation? I can help you pick the best all-inclusive family resort

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Salt Lake City — Best Ski + City Christmas

Salt Lake City ice castles at Christmas

If your family loves snow and winter activities, Salt Lake City is a great place to spend Christmas. With several ski resorts within an hour of the airport, you can easily build a winter vacation around skiing, snowboarding, and playing in the snow.

Even if your family isn't into skiing, Salt Lake City has plenty to offer during the holidays. Downtown comes alive with Christmas lights, ice skating, and festive displays. You can also venture outside the city for snow tubing and other winter adventures.

For a festive stay, The Grand America Hotel is a popular choice, especially around Christmas when the hotel goes all out with holiday decorations and displays.

With easy access to the mountains and plenty of things to do in the city, Salt Lake City is a great option for families who want a snowy Christmas without having to stay at a ski resort.

4–6 Days in Salt Lake City

• Day 1: Arrive, explore downtown, see the Christmas lights, and enjoy a festive dinner.

• Day 2: Spend the day skiing or snowboarding at one of the nearby resorts.

• Day 3: Try snow tubing, ice skating, or another winter activity.

• Day 4: Take a scenic drive into the mountains and enjoy some snowshoeing or winter hiking.

• Day 5: Explore more of downtown, visit a museum, or take a relaxed family day.

• Day 6: Pick your favorite winter activity for one last adventure before heading home.

Short on time? Four days gives you plenty of time for downtown, one full ski day, and another day of snow-filled fun.

I can help you find the perfect snow lodge for your family. Work with Tanya.

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Sedona, Arizona — Best Active Family Christmas

Sedona Arizona for Christmas hikes

Sedona, Arizona, is one of my favorite ideas for a family winter getaway if you want something a little different from the typical snowy Christmas vacation. The red rock landscape is beautiful year-round, but there's something special about seeing those bright red formations against the winter sky.

For families who love the outdoors, Sedona has plenty to keep everyone busy. There are hiking and mountain biking trails for different ability levels, plus plenty of opportunities for kids to scramble over rocks, look for wildlife, and explore the unique desert landscape.

December temperatures can be chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings, but the dry weather makes it a great time to get outside. One experience I wouldn't skip is hiking Cathedral Rock around sunset. Watching the light change across the red rocks is incredible.

If you want to splurge, Enchantment Resort is a beautiful family-friendly option with guided hikes, pools, spacious accommodations, and kids' activities. Sedona is also easy to pair with other Arizona destinations, making it a great choice for a longer winter road trip.

For an active family that would rather trade snow boots for hiking shoes, Sedona is a fantastic Christmas getaway.

3–5 Days in Sedona in Winter

• Day 1: Explore Uptown Sedona, visit a few scenic overlooks, and catch a sunset at Airport Mesa.

• Day 2: Hike Cathedral Rock or choose an easier family-friendly trail, then explore Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.

• Day 3: Take a scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon and stop at viewpoints along the way.

• Day 4: Try mountain biking, a Jeep tour, or another outdoor adventure.

• Day 5: Visit Red Rock State Park, enjoy a relaxed morning, and do some last-minute exploring.

Short on time? Three days gives you enough time for a couple of great hikes, scenic drives, and plenty of red-rock views.

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Sun Valley, Idaho — Best Classic Ski-Town Christmas

Sun Valley Idaho over Christmas

Sun Valley, Idaho, is a charming ski town that feels like a winter wonderland during the holidays. If your family is looking for a classic snowy Christmas with plenty of outdoor activities, Sun Valley is a great option.

Skiing and snowboarding on Bald Mountain are the big draws, but there’s plenty to do if skiing isn't your thing. Families can try Nordic skiing, fat-tire biking, snowmobiling, ice skating, or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow.

December also brings plenty of holiday events to town. Depending on the year, you may find holiday concerts, Christmas Eve ice skating shows, torchlight ski parades, and festive family celebrations. New Year's Eve brings even more fun, with activities like night skiing, music, fireworks, and other family-friendly events.

For a special stay, the Sun Valley Lodge puts you right in the middle of the action. Just remember that December is cold, with average temperatures often hovering around freezing during the day and dropping well below freezing at night, so pack plenty of warm layers.

You can fly into Friedman Memorial Airport in nearby Hailey or fly into Boise and make the roughly 2½-hour drive to Sun Valley. For families looking for a traditional snowy Christmas filled with outdoor adventures, Sun Valley is a fun choice.

4–6 Days in Sun Valley

• Day 1: Arrive, explore Sun Valley Village and Ketchum, then go ice skating.

• Day 2: Spend the day skiing or snowboarding on Bald Mountain or Dollar Mountain.

• Day 3: Try a different winter activity—Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, or a scenic sleigh ride.

• Day 4: Take a slower day with shopping, lunch in Ketchum, and some time at the resort pool or hot tub.

• Day 5: Head out for another snow adventure, or take the gondola up Bald Mountain for the views and lunch.

• Day 6: Enjoy a final morning in town, grab breakfast, and head home.

Short on time? Four days is plenty for skiing, ice skating, a sleigh ride, and exploring Sun Valley and Ketchum.

Ketchum for Christmas family vacation

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Ready to Turn the Dream Trip Into a Real Trip?

Maybe you're picturing Christmas morning on a Caribbean beach. Maybe your kids would rather wake up surrounded by snow. Or maybe you've found a destination you never would have considered before reading this.

Whatever your family is dreaming about, you don't have to figure out every detail on your own.

As a family travel advisor, I can help you choose the right destination, find the right places to stay, and build a trip around the things your family actually loves to do.

Ready to start planning? Work with me through Fora Travel and let's create a family adventure you'll be talking about for years.

Dreaming of a family Christmas vacation that’s more memorable than staying home? 🎄✈️ From snorkeling in warm Caribbean waters in Belize and Cozumel to snowy adventures in Banff, Christmas magic in NYC, and outdoor escapes in Sedona, these are some of the best family winter vacation destinations for Christmas 2026 and 2027. Get ideas for warm-weather getaways, snowy Christmas trips, family resorts, and festive destinations—plus tips for choosing the right trip for your kids or teens.