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14 Best Christmas Vacations for Families That Are Off the Beaten Path

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14 Best Christmas Vacations for Families That Are Off the Beaten Path

There’s something truly magical about a Christmas vacation with your family. This special time of year is perfect for going somewhere special, sharing traditions and holiday cheer, and taking time to be together. Even if you don’t celebrate Christmas, you can still take a family vacation together. 

1. Spend Christmas at a Winter Wonderland in Nashville

The Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, TN, is a magical winter wonderland that’s filled with wonder and magic for the whole family. From their Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer themed ice attraction to their concerts and family snow tubing, you’ll be enthused by the holiday spirit.

Key Information: Rooms start at $360 – You must have a ticket or be a resort guest to access the holiday attractions – Stroller-friendly, but wagons may not be brought into the ice attraction.

Good To Know: There are so many Christmas attractions that you definitely want to plan in advance and take advantage of the ticket bundling options.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Fannie Mae Dees Park

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Adventure Science Center

Read Parents Full Reviews on Gowhee.

2. Take the Polar Express Through the Grand Canyon

Experience the magic of Christmas this holiday season when you ride the Polar Express together. You’ll get to drink hot chocolate, hear the classic holiday story, meet Santa, and receive your first gift of the Christmas season during this wonderful family festive experience.

Key Information: Tickets start at $57.00 – Complete vacation package starts at $357 for 2 adults and 1 child – Train ride lasts 90 minutes

Good To Know: The Ultimate Polar Express Package lets you stay at the hotel, provides breakfast and dinner, and a ticket to the train experience—it’s the best way to book this holiday experience.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Montezuma Castle National Monument

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Out Of Africa Wildlife Park

Read Parents Full Reviews on Gowhee.

3. Go Dogsledding in Montana

Santa has his reindeer, but if you want to fly through the snow this Christmas, there’s no better way than on a dogsled! Spend your family vacation at the Resort at Paws Up, where you can experience the majesty of the American west and the exhilarating thrill of being pulled behind a team of happy huskies as they dash through snow drifts.

Key Information: Booking starts at $2,182 for 2 adults and 1 child – Minimum two night stay – Booking is all inclusive

Good To Know: In addition to dogsledding, you can also ride horses and snowmobiles over the hundred of miles of trails on the resort property.

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4.Enjoy All the Winter Sports in Colorado

There’s a reason that travel writers love talking about Colorado– it’s one of the best places for winter sports in the world! If you have an active, outdoorsy family, you will absolutely love the no frill, local’s favorite Ski Cooper Mountain. There, kids of all ages and adults can enjoy the famous Colorado natural snow, without the crowds.

Key Information: Food Onsite – Budget Friendly – Great for all ages – Changing table onsite

Good to know: Head to the nearby town Leadville, CO, for great food and more outdoor activities like the local Ice Rink.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Silver Lama Market & Eatery

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Beau Jo’s Pizza

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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Keystone Resort Playground

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Brekenridge Escape Rooms

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5. Eat Christmas Dinner in a Life-Size Gingerbread House in the Wisconsin Dells

Enjoy the best of both worlds when you stay at Great Wolf Lodge in the Wisconsin Dells. It’s summer year-round in the waterpark, but during the winter, the lodge is transformed into a winter wonderland where you can play in the snow and eat inside one of the world’s largest gingerbread houses… made from REAL gingerbread!

Key Information: Rooms start at $229.99 – Santa visits on the weekends – Free use of cribs and rollaway beds

Good To Know: The indoor water park has slides and play areas for young children, so the whole family can participate.

6. Wander Through Millions of Christmas Lights at Hersheypark

Christmas is the perfect time to visit the Hersheypark theme park. Each year the park is decked out with over five million Christmas lights. If that isn’t enough, you can also visit with Santa and meet and pet his sweet, gentle reindeer.

Key Information: Stay at the Hershey Lodge for early park access – Rooms start at $199 – Lots of dining options

Good To Know: Hersheypark’s 13 roller coasters each receive a themed overlay for the holiday season. However, most of the park’s rides are kid friendly and gentler than the coasters!

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7. Take an 8-Day Tour of Germany’s Best Christmas Markets

 

Germany’s Christmas market tradition has created many similar traditions in the United States, but nothing compares to the grand Bavarian traditional markets. Enjoy a whirlwind Christmas vacation that takes you through the Black Forest to celebrate Christmas with twinkling lights, Glühwein, and the magical Christmas traditions of Germany. 

Key Information: Tour starts at $1,778 per person – 11 meals included – Itinerary includes 9 cities

Good To Know: All travelers must be fully vaccinated for Covid-19.

8. See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska

The dancing, shimmering Northern Lights are a magical experience that many will go their whole lives without seeing. This Christmas, travel to Pike’s Lodge in Alaska for a family vacation to see the magic of nature together.

Key Information: Holiday package starts at $129 a night – Package includes room, breakfast, and a gift from Santa – Minutes away from the Fairbanks International Airport

Good To Know: Every evening, the lodge holds an ice cream social from 6-8 PM. Even in winter, kids love ice cream!

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9. Spend Christmas in Canada at Chateau Whistler

Whistler is one of Canada’s favorite destinations for the best Christmas vacations for families. Spend your Christmas in luxury at the Chateau Whistler, where you can enjoy amazing skiing and resort activities. You can even have a real Christmas tree set up in your room– the resort will provide all the ornaments and decorations you need.

Key Information: Rooms start at $486 for double occupancy – Access to Whistler Blackcomb, the number 1 ski resort in Canada – Daily fire and hot chocolate in the evenings

Good To Know: The resort puts out a holiday activity guide to make planning easier.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Glenburn Soda Fountain

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Ball Breakers

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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Galloway Park

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Riley Park

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10. Have a Cowboy Christmas in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Celebrate winter cowboy-style in Jackson Hole. Your experience can include sleigh riding, snowshoeing, winter wildlife safaris, nightly campfires, dogsledding, and more. 

Key Information: Room rates vary widely based on lodging type – Lodging types range from hotel rooms to 3 bedroom condos and townhouses – Complementary to-go breakfast

Good To Know: Spring Creek Ranch offers special in-room dining options if you’re visiting on Christmas.

Available on

11. Explore Park City, Utah’s Christmas Cheer

The Utah ski town of Park City is home to family fun throughout the holiday season. Keep your eyes peeled for Santa on the ski lifts, and get ready for snowy fun throughout the month of December. Whether you’re staying in a lodge or at one of the many vacation homes available for rental in Park City, you and your family can enjoy being together and playing in the snow on your Christmas vacation.

Key Information: Rates vary widely by rental type – 1-day all access lift tickets start at $119 – Equipment rental available

Good To Know: Many of the local resorts offer ski schools so even the littlest kids can join in the fun.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Ice Castles

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Dear Valley Resort Ski School

Read Parents Full Reviews on Gowhee.

12. Forget the Snow, Make 2022 a Beachy Christmas in the Florida Keys

If you think that the weather outside is frightful, then you’ll find the beautiful sandy beaches and warm gulf breezes of Hawk’s Cay delightful! You can experience all the fun of Christmas, including visits with Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, and much more

Key Information: Holiday package rooms start at $288 – Six restaurants on site with lots of kid friendly dining options – Childcare available

Good To Know: For an extra special Florida experience, Hawk’s Cay has a dolphin encounter program—the only one of its kind at any resort in the mainland United States.

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13. Stroll Through Nantucket Looking for Santa

Bring your family to take part in Nantucket’s 48th annual Christmas Stroll and look for Santa as he comes in on a Coast Guard vessel and rides up Main Street in a vintage fire truck! The island has lots of shopping and dining opportunities that the whole family will enjoy, and the White Elephant will welcome you and make your holidays incredible.

Key Information: Rooms start at $425 – The stroll weekend is December 2-4, 2022 – Stroller and wagon-friendly

Good To Know: Find the perfect Christmas gifts at the Santa’s Village Marketplace, held downtown during the stroll weekend.

14. Spend Christmas in the Peach State

Georgia’s Sea Island Resort is home to a Christmas party like none other. There are festive feasts, family activities, and much more. The special Christmas events run from the 24th to the 26th of December, making it the perfect place to celebrate the whole holiday as a family.

Key Information: Rooms start at $699 – Minimum 3 night stay – Resort access included in room rate

Good To Know: The Sea Island Resort has multiple properties, but the Lodge and the Cloisters are the two that offer the Christmas party experience.

Did you get some great ideas for your holidays trip?

Pay it forward and share this awesome list with friends and family so they can get inspired too!

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26 Fun things to do in Colorado with kids https://gowhee.com/fun-things-to-do-in-colorado-with-kids/ https://gowhee.com/fun-things-to-do-in-colorado-with-kids/#respond Tue, 04 Oct 2022 11:01:57 +0000 https://gowhee.com/?p=11487
2 Boys looking down from the Telluride gondola . things to do in Colorado with kids blog cover
2 Boys looking down from the Telluride gondola . things to do in Colorado with kids blog cover
Ride in Telluride Gondola. Source: Gowhee App

26 Fun things to do in Colorado with kids

Colorado is know for it’s great outdoors and high altitudes, but did you know that there are tons of fun things to do with kids as well? From amazing farm experiences to unique children museums, you can enjoy an array of activities in all weather. 

Families of the Gowhee App, shared and recommend their favorite spots.

1. Experience the Ranch lifestyle at C Lazy U ranch.

With all its red rocks and rich cowboy history, Colorado is the perfect place to experience the ranch lifestyle, go horseback riding and take in a more laid-back vacation.
C Lazy U ranch/resort offers great horseback riding programs for kids 3+, and the accommodations are perfect for families to spread out.

Info: The all-inclusive for camps, activities, and 3 bedroom cabins is $749/ night. Complimentary laundry onsite. Kids’ equipment for activities is offered.

Good to know: They have programs all year long with winter activities and even a photographer onsite ready to capture the perfect family portraits.

2. Take a space shuttle to an imaginary planet.

The John McConnell Math and Science Center is a hands-on museum for kids and adults alike. It has over 100 interactive and educational exhibits about many sciences and a Space Shuttle Simulator.

Info: Tickets start at  $7.00 – Open Tuesday – Saturday – Birthday parties available

Good to know: The average visit is 2 hours. Admission is good for the entire day so if you want to leave to grab lunch somewhere, you can return with no additional fee.

>>> Find more places for kids to learn about science on Gowhee App

3. Start a forest adventure at the Children’s Museum of Denver

This kids’ haven is a hug and whimsical indoor/outdoor play space for ages 5+. They have a separate play area for little ones as well. Kids can climb, build, craft or pretend-play. For the most adventurous family members, the playground includes a zipline and slides.

Info: Free for up to 1 year old and $15 for 2+. Recommended time onsite 1-3 hours.

Good to know: In the winter they have a whole winter wonderland vibe with an ice rink and other snow-themed activities.

Children museum's outdoor forest playscape
Forest playscape at the Children's museum of Denver. Source: Gowhee App

4. Visit Santa’s Workshop

Ride the Candy Cane Coaster. Go down the Peppermint slide with the whole family. Learn a little history along the way as you ride Santa’s train along the edge of the park. This place has rides for every age group.

Info: Tickets are 25$ 2 & under are free but need an accompanying adult with a wristband to ride. 

Good to know: Over the summer park entry is free. There are infant-friendly rides like a whimsical, vintage carousel

5. Spend some time with creepy crawlers at the May Natural Museum

This is a straight-up BUG museum! If you have kids that are fascinated by what we might call “creepy crawlers”, then this museum is a must-see. It houses The World’s Largest Private Insect Collection. 

Info: Adults tickets are $8, 5 years old, and Under are Free with their Family. Open from May 1 to October 1.

Good to know: You could stay at the nearby Golden Eagle Campground, also owned by the May family, which provides beautiful photo opportunities and quick access to many of the area’s top attractions.

6. Ride the Telluride Gondola

Apparently, some kids have said this gondola ride is “better than a ride at Disneyland!” You’ll have to decide for yourself! Take the “G” from town to Mountain Village, grab some lunch, check out the slopes (in winter), or hit the bouldering rock (in summer), and then head over to the playground near Poacher’s Pub

Info: FREE for the whole family, runs about every 5 minutes. The ride from Telluride to Mountain Village takes approximately 13 minutes.

Good to know: You can enjoy a great little playground right next to the station before or after your trip up. In summer, from Telluride unload at the top (Station St. Sophia) where you can visit the Nature Center, open daily from 9 am-4 pm from early June to September.

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7. Spend the day at Bananas Fun Park

This park has it all. From miniature golf, go go-karting, laser tag, crawl, and an indoor arcade, to a whole inflatable playland! 

Info: All Day pass starts at $27.50. Restaurant available onsite. Special birthday packages are available.

Good to know: There is an aqua play center called Coconut Cove, which opens in late May.

8. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

This isn’t just a zoo where you simply look at animals. Here, you can explore innovative exhibits, enjoy fun events and discover the many attractions offered. Feed giraffes, chickens, goats, and budgie birds as you learn about the animals in one of the many animal demonstrations. 

Info: Tickets start at $10.75 – Advanced reservation required.

Good to know: Peanut products are used throughout this facility as part of the animal enrichment and training programs, so parent’s with kids that have allergies be prepared. 

9. Discover about Cliff Dwelling in Manitou Springs.

Explore the ancient cliff dwellers overlooking the historic town of Manitou Springs. Browse through two museums featuring cultural displays that show you the magic and mystery of the Native American culture.

Info:  Adults  $12.00, Children under 3 are FREE. Food is available onsite in the summer. Pet friendly.

Good to know: There are coupons available on the website

10. Eat a picnic with nature and Art at the Flower Gardens of CSU.

The gardens of Colorado State University are the perfect setting for a picnic with kids. They will be wowed by the giant tomato soup sculpture, with lots of room to run around and have fun voting for their favorite flower.

Info: Free. No bathroom onsite. No food on site so come prepared.

Good to know: Visit in the summer to get the full experience with the colors of the flowers.

>>> Discover kid-friendly gardens and parks near you.

11. Go sand sledding at the Sand Dunes National Park.

Take the 0.7-mile hike from the main Dunes Parking Area to get to the small or medium-sized slopes. Young kids can find smaller slopes at the base, while teens and adults may prefer longer slopes near the top of the first high ridge of dunes. 

Info: Annual Pass  $45, Private Vehicle Pass for 7 days $25. There are some free entrance days on a few holidays which are listed on the website.

Good to know: The National Park does not rent sand sleds or sandboards; these may be rented or purchased at retailers in the San Luis Valley. Some retailers are a 45-minute drive away from the dunes in the off-season. Plan to rent gear before arriving at the park.

12. Slide down the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool

This local gem might just end up becoming your new favorite pool! They have heated pools all year round and amazing slides in the summer.

Info: It is $26 for ages 13+ and $18 for kids. Kids area available – Food onsite and party amenities available.

Good to know: You can rent cabanas all year long to lounge by the pool

Find family fun experiences in 60+ countries, with new destinations and locations added daily

 Find fun places for kids- AND parents- near you or around the world
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13. Get dinner on a rooftop at Treeline Restaurant

You will go to Treeline for the breathtaking views and you will stay for the food! The menu is local and fresh and offers some great options for kids. The vibe inside is cozy and the patio views are out of this world.

Info: Entrees are around $10-$15 – Kids’ menu available – Highchair and changing table onsite.

Good to know: The staff is super friendly and always have activities for kids (i.e pipe cleaners) to keep them entertained.

14. Take an afternoon ski at the Ski cooper


If you are going to Colorado for a ski trip, then head over to this local’s favorite. All-natural snow, with very few lift lines and a great variety of terrains and levels. It is a great affordable ski spot the family will love.

Info: You can find day passes as low as $35 for kids. Restaurants are onsite.

Good to know: The parking lot is right by the entrance so there is no shuttle or gondola required to hit the slopes.

>>> Find more family-friendly ski resorts here.

15. Escape an avalanche at the Breckenridge Escape rooms

Escape an avalanche, find bigfoot or trap a collector ghost in one of these beautifully done Mountain Time escape rooms. It is super fun for all ages and creates bonding time as a family.

Info: $42/per for families. Restaurants can be found nearby.

Good to know: If you are celebrating a birthday, they can even hide the gift in the room for you!

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16. Explore the local hiking trails

Colorado offers some of the most interesting vistas in the country. To take it all in, go and explore some of the numerous kid-friendly trails in the area such as the Bear Lake Nature Trail. The 0.8mil trail around the lake is toddler-friendly and offers beautiful views of the emerald lake.

Info: Day pass is $25 with parking onsite. There is a bathroom onsite, shade, and outdoor seating available.

Good to know: Pets are not permitted here, so if traveling with pets, we recommend heading to the Sally Barber Mine Hiking trail instead.

17. Become a gold hunter at the Sawmill museum


This historic museum is great to learn a bit more about the mining days of the wild west. They also offer a kid-friendly gold panning experience to experience the thrill of finding gold in the stream onsite.

Info: Site visit is Free with a suggested donation. The gold panning experience is open June-September.

Good to know: For kids who love tech, they also have a virtual reality immersion experience available on the app store: 1888 Breckenridge”.

 

18. Spend an afternoon at the Vail Ski Resort

Vail has more than skiing to offer! You can spend the afternoon on the ice rink, enjoy the European vibe of the village, stay warm at the library, or head over to the playground with a pirate ship theme.

Info: Accessible for Wheelchairs and Strollers, Food onsite, Bathroom with a changing table available.

Good to know: There is an amazing indoor play space/museum in one of the villages called Imagination Station.

 

19. Enjoy a local brew at the Dillon Dam Brewery

American-style restaurant and pub serving lunch and dinner with over 70 menu items and up to 20 DAM beers on tap! Come for the great food, hand-crafted lagers and beers, and the family atmosphere. 

Info: Happy Hour and 1/2 price appetizers daily from 3-6 pm

Good to know: Gluten-friendly and vegetarian options.  

>>> Discover kid-friendly breweries and wineries near you.

20. Go back in time at the Colorado Railroad museum 

Explore a 15-acre railyard with over 100 locomotives, passenger and freight cars, and cabooses. Activity backpacks and tours are available

Info: $10 adults, $5 ages 2-17, $8 seniors ages 60+; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday-Sunday

Good to know: Every first Tuesday of each month they host a great family-friendly event inspired by children’s storybooks.

Also available on

21. Eat a famous Mountain pie at Beau Jo’s Pizza

When in Colorado you must try a Colorado Mountain Pie Pizza! This local joint is famous for its 3lbs (mostly cheese) pizza with a very unique history (involving a mammoth and a turtle, read it here!).

Info: The mountain pie is $25. Kids menu and high chair available.

Good to know: Desert is built-in since the large white crust can be drizzled with honey after you eat the pizza.

22. Go on the highest Hot Air Balloon ride in the country.

The Colorado hot air balloon company takes the whole family on an experience of a lifetime! You can discover the views thousands of feet above the ground, with snacks and classical music. The departure points are already between 9,000 and 10,000 feet above sea level, you are looking at 360-degree views of some of the highest peaks in the area.

Info: Cost is $275 / person. Open for children 5+

Good to know: The season for hot air ballooning is May through October, weather permitting.

23. Learn about LIFE at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science

Located near the Denver zoo, this kid-friendly museum offers fabulous exhibits for all ages like IMAX theater, children’s playroom with water tables, arts & crafts, dinosaur dig, and more.

Info: Adults $19.95 and kids $14.95. It is wheelchair and stroller accessible. They have food onsite.

Good to know: You can enjoy the museum at night for a fun experience on Fridays.

Discover More things to do in Colorado with kids

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24. Learn about the local agriculture at the Fort Collins Museum

This Discovery museum is a fun play space for kids of all ages. It highlights northern Colorado agriculture and includes animals, musical instruments, and human evolution exhibits.

Info: It is $12.50 for adults and $9.50 for kids.

Good to know: The digital dome theater puts on shows for kids regularly and even organizes special interactive exhibits like a dance party with lasers.

25. Play at the Twin Silo Park playground 

Amazing park with community gardens, paved trails, an orchard, a BMX park, pickleball courts, a dog park, a playground that includes the tallest slide in Fort Collins, and so much more. Recognized as one of the coolest playgrounds in the country!

Info: Free. Restrooms are available but close at 6 pm. Port-o-let toilets remain available on the east side of the park by the pickleball courts and BMX track.

Good to know: Shaded tables for parents under the barn next to the toddler play area. 

26. Take a Break and a Brew at Red Leg

Red leg Brewing Company has both indoor and outdoor spaces that are completely fenced in. 

Info: Food onsite. Kid zone available. Wheelchair accessible and changing table in the bathroom.

Good to know: There are 3 igloos with seats, blankets, and heaters inside, perfect to take a break and maybe score nap time for overstimulated kids.

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