The 12 Best Winter Vacation Destinations For Families (2024)

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Melissa Klurman, Contributor

Forbes Vetted

The best winter vacation destinations for families should both keep kids entertained and make adults happy—so it’s not surprising that finding the perfect spot requires some research. Ideal locales can range from a snow-covered wonderland to a warm weather tropical escape, a city break or an off-the-grid adventure getaway.

Mountain lovers and avid skiers should consider Park City and Keystone, while crews who crave winter adventures without the downhill runs will enjoy Iceland and Quebec. Meanwhile, the Bahamas, Honolulu and Key West offer plenty of sunshine and sandy beaches. Below, the best winter vacation destinations for families that are easy to reach from locations around the U.S.—and the best places to stay in each one.

Where To Stay In The Best Winter Vacation Destinations For Families:

Keystone

Keystone, Colorado

Who Will Love It: Snow lovers; active families; new skiers; budget conscious families
All-Star Attractions: Snow Fort; Kids Ski Free program; snow tubing; ice skating; sleigh ride dinner
What Not To Miss: Playing in the world’s largest snow fort
Where To Stay: Hyatt Place Keystone; Keystone Lodge & Spa; Cozy Keystone 2 Bedroom

Keystone is both the closest ski resort to Denver as well as the largest ski resort in Summit County, with more than 3,000 acres of skiable terrain. The destination is home to one of the biggest learn-to-ski programs in the Rockies, not to mention snow tubing and outdoor ice skating in quaint Lakeside Village. Kids will love playing in the largest snow fort in the world, while parents will appreciate the “Kids Ski Free” program (for kids 12 and under when you book a two-night stay). Don’t miss a Sleigh Ride Dinner: an open-air, horse-drawn sleigh through the Soda Creek Valley to a meal that includes stories, live music, hot cider, and a visit from Santa during the holiday season.

Where To Stay:

Hyatt Place Keystone: Perfect for families craving comfort and convenience, the hotel is located in the center of Keystone Village, with easy access to dining spots and ski lifts. There’s free breakfast for everyone, which is a great perk, and suites come with two full bathrooms, a bonus for families.

Keystone Lodge & Spa: All your kids will want to know is that there’s a heated outdoor pool (winter swimming, anyone?), but parents will also appreciate this lodge’s easy access to Keystone Village restaurants and activities, large room layouts, and “grownup” facilities like a steam room and indoor and outdoor hot tubs.

Cozy Keystone 2 Bedroom: For mountain access, it’s hard to beat this Airbnb that offers a shuttle stop right outside the building. Store your gear in the ski locker by the front, then warm up by the fireplace. A set of bunk beds and board games await the kids. You’ll also have access to the clubhouse with a heated indoor pool, hot tub and sauna.

Park City

Park City, Utah

Who Will Love It: Snow lovers; active families; skiers
All-Star Attractions: Park City Mountain; Deer Valley; Historic Main Street; Utah Olympic Park
What Not To Miss: Taking an adrenaline-pumping ride on the bobsled at Utah Olympic Park
Where To Stay: Pendry Park City; Sunrise Lodge, A Hilton Grand Vacations Club; Charming Rustic Cabin

Over the past two winter seasons, Park City has had nearly 128 feet of snow combined, meaning your chances of a great day on the slopes here are high. With two major ski resorts—Park City Mountain and Deer Valley—families can enjoy a variety of slopes for all skill levels. Both resorts offer ski schools, making it easy for kids and beginners to learn. Beyond skiing, Park City offers snow tubing, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides. Learn about even more winter sports at the Utah Olympic Park where teens 16+ can also enjoy a bobsled track. Historic Main Street has Old West vibes and features shops where you can find cowboy gear, family-friendly restaurants and galleries.

Where To Stay:

Pendry Park City: There’s lots to love for families at this slopeside resort in Canyons Village, including stuffed animals at check-in, a kids club and spacious two-bedroom residences with bunk beds that are sure to be a hit with the kids. Outside, Pendry Plaza is an immersive winter wonderland with everything from s’mores to sleigh rides, dog sledding and outdoor ice skating.

Sunrise Lodge, A Hilton Grand Vacations Club: Right at the base of the Sunrise Lift at Canyons Resort, this resort offers ski in/ski out access, plus accommodations ranging from studios with kitchenettes to four-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens, so you’ll have plenty of room to spread out.

Charming Rustic Cabin: This cozy alpine cabin features six bedrooms and seven bathrooms, an outdoor hot tub and an indoor sauna for aprés ski relaxation. There are plenty of ways to entertain yourselves off the slopes, too, including a racquetball court, a pool table and ping pong.

Stowe

Stowe, Vermont

Who Will Love It: Snow lovers; active families; skiers; small-town lovers
All-Star Attractions: Village at Spruce Peak; Stowe Adventure Center; Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour
What Not To Miss: Skating under the start at the Village at Spruce Peak
Where To Stay: Trapp Family Lodge; Stoweflake Resort; The Lodge at Spruce Peak & Residences

Stowe is the quintessential Norman Rockefeller small town—think: covered bridges, red barns, mom-and-pop shops and eateries and snow-covered churches. The cozy area is perfect for families on the east coast, where it’s an easy drive to get to some truly great alpine skiing. Stowe’s Village at Spruce Peak is centered around a 10,000 square foot ice rink which hosts complimentary skating for families.The Stowe Adventure Center houses the Stowe Children’s Ski and Ride school for outdoor fun, Stowe Rocks—a climbing gym that replicates some of the local rock formations—a movie screening area and special teen lounge. For fun off the mountain, the Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour is a sweet afternoon break.

Where To Stay:

Trapp Family Lodge: This Austrian-inspired lodge is owned by the family of the famous von Trapp family from “The Sound of Music,” and you better believe there are sing-alongs and movie viewings to enjoy while you’re here. Multi-room suites, villas and guest houses provide plenty of family accommodation and options.

Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa: This resort has its own trails for snowshoeing, nordic walking and cross-country skiing, plus exciting dog sledding tours. Extra bonus: Red Barn Ice Cream is right across the street.

The Lodge at Spruce Peak & Residences: Stowe’s only ski-in/ski-out luxury lodging, nestled right at the base of Mount Mansfield, this hotel offers a range of multi-bedroom suites, perfect for families to spread out, plus kitchens for quick meal prep, and easy access to alpine skiing and snowboarding at the Stowe Alpine Center.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland

Who Will Love It: Active families; snow lovers; adventure seekers; nature enthusiasts; urbanists
All-Star Attractions: Golden Circle; The Blue Lagoon; Sky Lagoon; National Museum of Iceland
What Not To Miss: Spotting the technicolor Aurora Borealis
Where To Stay: Parliament Hotel, Curio Collection; Fosshotel Reykjavík; Reykjavik Residence Hotel

For families who love to add adventure to their travels, Reykjavik is a perfect fit. Within a short drive of the compact city you can visit the steaming geysers and dramatic waterfalls of the Golden Circle, hike on a glacier and walk through an ice cave, and even swim in natural geothermal pools while watching it snow (try Blue Lagoon with kids over 2, and the newer Sky Lagoon with kids 12 and up). And, of course, there’s the natural phenomenon of the glowing aurora borealis, which you can often spot right from town or on special evening sightseeing tours. In town, check out the views from the top of Hallgrímskirkja Church, stroll down Laugavegur Street for hot cocoa and kid-friendly eats, and learn about local culture at the National Museum of Iceland.

Where To Stay:

Parliament Hotel, Curio Collection: This hotel comprises several historic buildings that have been linked together. Its downtown location is ideal, and there’s even a big town square out front for kids to romp in. There’s also a spa with a pool, steam and salt rooms downstairs that parents can and kids 16 and up can use.

Fosshotel Reykjavik: One of the largest hotels in the city, Fosshotel offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, including spacious suites and connecting rooms, all at reasonable prices. The hotel also features a fantastic breakfast buffet with plenty of options for children. The location is slightly removed from downtown, but is still near several parks and attractions.

Reykjavik Residence Hotel: These apartment-style accommodations located right in downtown are ideal for families. With kitchen facilities, families can prepare meals and snacks, and the spacious living areas allow you to spread out and relax.

Quebec City

Quebec City, Canada

Who Will Love It: Culture lovers; urbanists; winter activities buffs; foodies
All-Star Attractions: Funicular; Ice Hotel; ice skating, tobogganing
What Not To Miss: Rush down the 140 year old toboggan lanes outside the Château Frontenac in Old Québec
Where To Stay: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac; Auberge Saint-Antoine; Chateau Deluxe

Quebec City celebrates winter with tons of frosty fun activities, plus plenty of French flair (and fabulous food). Stroll through Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where kids can marvel at the historic architecture and enjoy hot chocolate, crepes, and croissants at cozy cafés. Take the funicular railway from the Lower Town to the Upper Town for a thrilling ride and beautiful views, then lace up your skates at Place d’Youville for outdoor ice skating. Get an adrenaline rush on the toboggan run with speeds up to 50 miles an hour (parents can ride with kids). Then stop in at the sparkling Ice Hotel (Hotel de Glace) to see the chapel, ice slide, and rooms, all crafted from ice—if you’re especially brave, you can even spend the night.

Where To Stay:

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac: This iconic palace hotel offers a magical experience for families with its stunning, castle-like architecture and luxurious amenities. Kids will love the indoor pool and the scavenger hunt. The hotel also offers family packages and is conveniently located near attractions like the Winter Carnival and Old Quebec.

Auberge Saint-Antoine: In the heart of Old Quebec, Saint-Antoine is the rare luxury boutique hotel that’s happy to see kids. Not only are there spacious rooms that accommodate families, but the hotel will provide pint-size robes and slippers. The hotel offers easy access to the Old Port and nearby attractions.

Château Deluxe: Spread out in this luxurious seven bedroom townhouse right in the heart of Old Quebec. The 19th century home has plenty of charm, but also is completely renovated, with modern bathrooms, Wi-Fi and two big family living spaces, plus a great kitchen for meals at home.

Orlando

Orlando, Florida

Who Will Love It: Theme park fans; sun seekers; active families
All-Star Attractions: Disney World and Universal Studios
What Not To Miss: Catching the active wildlife at Animal Kingdom
Where To Stay: Disney’s Grand Floridian; JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa; RU Incredible Parents (Airbnb)

Once you visit Orlando in the winter and experience its temperate climate, it’s hard to want to come any other time. For Disney fans, winter is the ideal season to visit Animal Kingdom, where the cooler temps make the animals more active and make Kilimanjaro Safaris even more exciting. Although it might not be perfect swimming weather, you can still ride the new Tiana’s Adventure water flume ride in the Magic Kingdom. Over at Universal Orlando Resort, check out the immersive world of Harry Potter and DreamWorks Land, where you'll find characters from Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, and Trolls as well as rides based on those films. And for fun that doesn’t require a pricey ticket, spend time at Disney Springs and Universal City Walk, both filled with entertainment and eateries.

Where To Stay:

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort: It’s hard to beat the location of this 1900s-themed Disney property, right across the lake from Magic Kingdom, and connected by boat, Monorail and walking paths to the park. You can watch the nightly fireworks from multiple spots on the property, and the pools and dining options here are some of the best at Disney.

JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa: This resort recently launched a collection of spacious family suites, including bunk beds for kids, a luxurious connecting room with a king bed for adults, and a separate living area. For teens and tweens, there’s the Kids Conservatory Lounge with games and virtual reality headsets, and the Hidden Garden Kids Club offers daily crafts for the younger ones.

RU Incredible Parents? 7-Bedroom Airbnb: Staying in a home rental doesn’t mean you have to give up fun theme park decor; in fact, this Airbnb has rooms decked out with Frozen, Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Avengers (just to name a few of the seven themed rooms). There’s also a private outdoor pool and extensive indoor and outdoor play areas.

For more options, read our guide to the Best Hotels In Orlando.

Nassau

Nassau, The Bahamas

Who Will Love It: Waterpark fans; swim enthusiasts; animal lovers
All-Star Attractions: Atlantis; Aquaventure; Blue Lagoon Island; Junkanoo Museum
What Not To Miss: Rushing down a waterslide through a shark tank at Atlantis
Where To Stay: Atlantis Paradise Island; Baha Mar Resort; Comfort Suites Paradise Island

The Bahamas is an ideal winter destination for families looking for an easy-to-reach destination from the East Coast. Nassau, in particular, has fun at every turn: Kids will love exploring the vibrant marine life snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, swimming with friendly dolphins, nurse sharks and stingrays at Blue Lagoon Island, building sandcastles on pristine beaches and enjoying the thrilling water slides at Aquaventure. Don’t miss the Fish Fry, a festive area comprising multiple seafood eateries, for local dinner, downtown Nassau for shopping and the Junkanoo Museum for Carnival fun.

Where To Stay:

Atlantis Paradise Island: This resort offers a massive water park, marine habitats, a lazy river, a private beach, and numerous pools, as well as five different on-site properties to choose from. Kids will love the Aquaventure water park, with a water slide that goes through a shark tank, among other highlights.

Baha Mar Resort: For a luxurious stay that still caters to families, Baha Mar on Cable Beach, is the ideal choice. The three different on-site hotel options offer elevated rooms and elevated resort dining, but the family-friendly atmosphere means there’s an expansive water park, beach access and a kids’ club. .

Comfort Suites Paradise Island: The secret to an affordable stay in The Bahamas is this under-the-radar property that provides complimentary access to neighboring Atlantis Resort for the whole family without having to stay on property at the often pricey resort. The suite-style rooms have plenty of elbow room for the whole family, plus there’s a free daily hot American buffet breakfast.

For more options, read our guide to the Best Resorts In The Bahamas.

Cancun

Cancun, Mexico

Who Will Love It: Water sports enthusiasts; beachgoers; sun seekers; culture lovers, foodies
All-Star Attractions: Tulum; Chichen Itza
What Not To Miss: Downtime on the beach
Where To Stay: Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe All-Inclusive Resort; Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort; Club Med Cancun

Easy to reach from much of the western U.S., Cancun offers a mix of stunning beaches, warm weather and vibrant culture, along with some fabulous all-inclusive options for families. Active families can choose from swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear Gulf waters to exploring nearby ancient Mayan ruins like Tulum and Chichen Itza. And for an easy vacation, it’s hard to beat the golden sands and gentle waters of the area's beaches. Don't miss the opportunity to savor delicious Mexican cuisine and experience local traditions with a trip downtown.

Where To Stay:

Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe All-Inclusive Resort: Along with extensive dining and drinks, this all-inclusive property is loaded with activities for kids, including arts and crafts, story times, kids clubs, a teens club with video games and pool and dedicated swimming areas for kids.

Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort: Located in the heart of Cancun's Hotel Zone, this resort, which recently became an all-inclusive, offers an expansive 5,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor CAMP Club by Marriott, which keeps kids engaged all day long with a variety of action-packed and creative activity zones.

Club Med Cancun: This all-inclusive resort focuses on family fun with extensive activities for kids, including a circus school and water sports. The resort offers family-friendly accommodations with bunk beds and cribs, and even has special baby-friendly amenities, plus kids clubs for every age group.

For more options, read our guide to the Best All-Inclusive Resorts In Cancun.

Turks & Caicos

Turks & Caicos

Who Will Love It: Beach lovers; sun seekers
All-Star Attractions: Coral Gardens snorkeling; Grace Bay Beach
What Not To Miss: Spotting sea turtles at Half Moon Bay
Where To Stay: Wymara Resort & Villas; Beaches Turks & Caicos; Beach Enclave

Trade in snow for snow-white beaches in Turks & Caicos, a true tropical paradise ideal for relaxing under swaying palms while the kids build sandcastles. It’s a beach bliss winter vacation, but there’s still lots to keep families occupied, with catamaran sails, whale watching cruises and snorkeling among on the “bright reef” at Coral Gardens. Don’t miss a boat trip to Half Moon Bay, where children can spot playful sea turtles.

Where To Stay:

Wymara Resort & Villas: This resort offers multi-bedroom villas with private pools right on beautiful Grace Bay beach. Take note: Kids are going to want to stay in the five-bedroom Amuse option, which features a two story slide that delivers them right into the warm ocean waters below their bedrooms.

Beaches Turks & Caicos: At this resort, you’ll not only get a spacious room where you and the kids can spread out, but every family gets a nanny to help with child care, there are kids clubs geared at every age range (including a teen disco), and Sesame Street characters appear in shows and at meet-and-greets.

Beach Enclave: For a private beach house that still has resort amenities, the Beach Enclave offers three location options that are great for families including a quiet North Shore location, a Grace Bay option with contemporary villas, and a Long Bay location, with new beach houses along the pristine white-sand beachfront, ideal for families and water-sports enthusiasts.

For more options, read our guide to the .

Key West

Key West, Florida

Who Will Love It: Sun seekers; active families; culture lovers
All-Star Attractions: Shipwreck Museum; Mallory Square; Aquarium; Conch Train; Hemingway House
What Not To Miss: Fort Zachary Beach and its Civil War era fort
Where To Stay: Southernmost Beach Resort; Ocean’s Edge Resort & Marina; The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton

Key West, the furthest point south in the United States, is about a four hour drive from Miami, making it an easy option for families on the East Coast. During the winter, you're guaranteed sunshine, not to mention tropical fun like swimming with dolphins and watching the sunset celebration every night at Mallory Square. There’s plenty to fill days with, including a stop to see the cats at the Hemingway House, a step back into history at the Shipwreck Museum and a look at the colorful fish at the aquarium. The Conch Train is a fun way to take in the town, and kids will love Fort Zachary Beach, which has a sandy play area and a real Civil Era fort to explore.

Where To Stay:

Southernmost Beach Resort: With family-favorite activities like kids’ poolside games and live entertainment, resort adventures from snorkeling and biking to eco tours, Southernmost will keep everyone busy, and happy. There are also palm-fringed pools with private cabanas and a full-service spa for parents to enjoy.

Ocean’s Edge Resort & Marina: The whole family will love this resort’s spacious suites with the private marina for boat fun, and an array of exciting water activities. Active families can try out everything from onsite kayaking and paddleboarding to snorkeling and fishing, or simply enjoy the six pools and sunshine.

The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton: With a private beach, pool, and kids' activities, this resort is perfect for families. The spacious rooms and suites provide plenty of room to relax, and the on-site dining options cater to all tastes. Families can also enjoy nearby attractions like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.

For more options, read our guide to the Best Hotels In Key West.

Oahu

Oahu, Hawaii

Who Will Love It: Sun seekers; beach fans; active families; culture lovers
All-Star Attractions: Luau; Pearl Harbor; Diamond Head; Hanauma Bay
What Not To Miss: An authentic luau with dancing, music, and pig roast
Where To Stay: Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort; Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa; Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk

Families will love visiting Oahu and Waikiki in the winter, where sunny skies and warm temperatures provide the perfect escape from colder climates. Kids can enjoy the soft, sandy beaches and gentle surf at Waikiki, ideal for swimming and beginner surf lessons. Explore the rich culture at the Bishop Museum or take a hike to the stunning Diamond Head crater for breathtaking views. Don’t miss a family-friendly luau, where everyone can experience traditional Hawaiian music, dance, and cuisine.

Where To Stay:

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort: This expansive resort features multiple pools with waterslides, a private beach, and a saltwater lagoon for watersports. There’s also an enormous range of dining options, so even the pickiest eaters will be pleased (and the breakfast buffet could keep you filled up all day).

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa: Kid-friendly activities, amazing entertainment, awesome kids clubs and Mickey in an aloha shirt are just a few of the family-friendly offerings found here. The resort also includes a hearty dose of Hawaiian culture with its theming, including hula and ukulele lessons, lei making and a luau.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk: This all-suite hotel offers spacious accommodations with kitchenettes, making it great for families. Free made-to-order breakfast, an evening reception with snacks, and easy access to local attractions and activities. It's just a short walk from Waikiki Beach.

For more options, read our guide to the Best Resorts In Hawaii.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California

Who Will Love It: Urbanites; active families; culture lovers
All-Star Attractions: Universal Studios; Santa Monica Pier; Griffith Observatory
What Not To Miss: Santa Monica Beach and pier for a day of fun in the sun
Where To Stay: The Hollywood Roosevelt, Loews Hollywood Hotel; The Garland

For families who love a vacation with lots of variety, and don’t want to wear a coat, Los Angeles delivers entertainment, culture and outdoor fun in an almost guaranteed sunny climate. Start out at Universal Studios Hollywood, with a new Super Mario World, big thrill rides and behind-the-scenes movie tours. Stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame, then head to Santa Monica Pier to enjoy the rides, games, and beach atmosphere—great for a family day out.

Where To Stay:

The Hollywood Roosevelt: This historic hotel offers family-friendly rooms and a massive outdoor pool, located near Hollywood attractions. Cabana rooms give you direct access to the pool and outdoor spaces.

Loews Hollywood Hotel: This property offers spacious accommodations and a rooftop pool, as well as a convenient location near Universal Studios. The Loews Loves Family program provides everything from toys and games for kids at check in to baby supplies for your room.

The Garland: Less than two miles from Universal Studios, a prime location is a huge draw for families who decide to stay at The Garland, which runs a complimentary trolley service to and from the theme park. Family Suites feature a kid's nook with bunk beds and a TV while Kids Rooms feature a queen size bed for the parents and are partitioned with a twin bunk.

For more options, read our guide to the Best Hotels In Los Angeles.

About Melissa Klurman, Your Winter Family Vacations Guide

I am an award-winning travel journalist who has looped the globe to find the best spots to take kids on adventures (using my own son for guidance) for Family Traveller, Family Fun, Parents, and Working Mother magazines. In addition to Forbes Vetted, you can find my travel writing covering everything from honeymoons to African safaris to foodie finds at Brides, Martha Stewart Weddings, Saveur, Reader’s Digest, The Points Guy, and TripAdvisor, among others. Follow me on Instagram @mklurman.

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