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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

Read Parents Full Reviews on Gowhee.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 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

Read Parents Full Reviews on Gowhee.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 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.

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30+ Fun things to do in Utah with kids https://gowhee.com/30-fun-things-to-do-in-utah-with-kids/ https://gowhee.com/30-fun-things-to-do-in-utah-with-kids/#respond Thu, 20 Jan 2022 17:23:40 +0000 https://gowhee.com/?p=11378

30+ Fun Things to do in Utah With Kids

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Utah is known for its scenic drives, great salt lakes, and famous ski slopes. When planning some fun things to do in Utah with kids, the Gowhee App helps find unique spots, recommended by local parents and families who visited the state.

Here is a list of the best places to visit with kids, recommended by local and visiting parents.

Wagon resort in Zion Park
Wagon kid-friendly resort in Utah. Source: Gowhee App

1. Create your own Genealogy tree at The FamilySearch Center

The Discovery Center section is a family-friendly area with many interactive ways to help people learn more about themselves and their ancestors. 

Info: Hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday

Good to know: There is even a children’s play area in the Discovery Center.

>>> Discover more fun things to do in Utah with kids, here.

 

2. Slide down water slides in Cowabunga Water park

Just south of Salt Lake City, you can soak up that Utah sunshine, one of the many things to do in Utah With Kids. Kids can check out all the different attractions like their lazy river or their thrilling water slides.

Info: You will need to make a reservation

Good to know: The Cowabunga Kid’s Cove area has cabanas for rent.

 

3. Take a dip in natural Meadow hot springs 

There are 3 natural pools with three different temperature levels, two of which are amazing to swim in and enjoy the scenery. 

Info: Free – Best for kids 2 and older – No bathroom.

Good to know: The first pool might be a little cold for kids but the other two are perfect for a swim.

Family taking a dip into a natural spring.
Dipping in a natural spring in Utah. Source: Gowhee App

30+ fun things to do in Utah with kids

5.Take an educational tour of the Bean life Science Museum.

Public exhibits and educational programs about plants and animals are offered here with the goal of promoting understanding and appreciation of the earth.

Info: FREE + Free parking

Good to know: Check their scheduled events such as Family Nights.

>>> Find kid-friendly museums and culture spots in Utah here. 

6. Grab a scone at the Brooker’s Ice cream shop

The owners are history buffs and they’ve developed dozens of flavors and delicious treats based on the founders of the United States.

Info: It is stroller-friendly and wheelchair accessible.

Good to know: Service members can get a 10% discount with their ID.

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7. Discover and learn at the Museum of Natural Curiosity

This museum located is one of the must-do things to do in Utah With Kids if you are in Thanksgiving point is beautifully done. There are over 400 unique exhibits and experiences, like climbing the 45ft monkey head.

Info: Wheelchair accessible and they provide sensory sensitive amenities for kids.

Good to know: There is a whole water area so plan extra layers if kids get wet.

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8. Walkthrough a ghost town in Fresco, Utah

See the remnants of a wild mining town whose history will spark a lot of conversations with the kids. 

Info: Frisco, Utah, is just off route 21, 15 miles west of Milford.

Good to know: The charcoal kilns are the most notorious landmark and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

 

9. Hit the slopes at the Brian Head Ski Resort 

From the ski slopes, you will see the red stone desert and the most unbelievable views. You can even go snow tubing here!

Info: Kids under 10 yo ski for FREE

Good to know: These slopes are easy-to-ski for all levels which makes it the perfect ski resort for families. 

10. Take a great Family shot in Canyonland National Park.

The Green River outlook is accessible by car and offers jaw-dropping scenery, perfect to capture an amazing family picture.

Info: There is a fee at the entrance of the park to drive up.

Good to know: You are on a cliff, so watch out for the little ones.

11. Bring baseball-loving kids to the Patriot park

With many things to do in Utah With Kids, don’t forget to take a break. This whole playground structure is themed after the sport and you can find a baseball field and a pickleball court right beside it. 

Info: Free – Dog friendly and all of the amenities you need such as bathroom and food nearby

Good to know: There are tons of picnic tables and covered spaces.

>>> Find this playground exact spot and others on the Gowhee App.

Boy enjoying a baseball themed playground.
Packing light makes traveling with kids much easier. Source: Thefamilyfuntour (family travel influencer)

12. Get your thrill on at the Lagoon Amusement Park 


Enjoy the
heart-racing 50 rides and attractions, take a trip through the Wild West in Pioneer Village, or sing along with the best shows in town. 

Info: Save $5 on a regular single-day passport (normally $79.95) by purchasing online.

Good to know: Lagoon’s R.V. Park and Campground offer convenient access to the amusement park, with free park admission to Lagoon when you book your campground reservations.


13. Walk amongst the sharks at the Love and Living Planet Aquarium

Be surrounded by sharks in the 40-foot underwater tunnel, touch stingrays and sea stars, search for the Giant Pacific octopus, and check out different animal habitats.

Info: Online tickets are $21.95. The Aquarium is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Good to know: Reservations required. Masks are required when indoors or queueing outdoors.


14. Slide in the sand at the Sand Dune Arch Trail


The trail near Sand Dune Arch and Broken Arch, located at the northern end of Arches National Park, has lots of sand to roll in and play with along the way for the little ones. 

Info: The easy hiking trail is only 1.7 miles round trip

Good to know: It can be really hot depending on the time of year so come prepared since there are no concessions or bathrooms around.

Bison herd in Utah National park
Herd of bison in the Antelope Island State Park. Source: Gowhee App

15. Check out a majestic bison

At the Antelope Island State Park, you can hike, mountain bike, or horseback ride the park’s backcountry trails with breathtaking views. But your kids will remember the bison!

Info: Dogs are allowed in most areas, but must be on a leash.

Good to know: Plan on bringing a baby carrier to get around with little ones.

16. Have some indoor water fun at the Sand Hollow Aquatic Center


There is a competition and diving pool, lap pool, a leisure pool with a zero-depth entry area, interactive children’s water toys, a water walk, and a water slide.  

Info: Youth (17 & Under) $5.00, Adults (18 – 61) $6.00, Toddlers (3 & Under) are FREE

Good to know:  Also offered are Water Aerobics, Paddle-board Yoga, and Swim Lessons.

>>> Find tons of theme parks and water fun places for kids, globally.

17. Check out real Dinosaur bones in Vernal UT

Utah Field House is comparable to a natural history museum, with hands-on exhibits and activities like digging for fossils and exploring the dinosaur garden.

Info: Day-use fee: $8 adults, seniors, and children (6 – 12 years): $4.00, Age five and under are free

Good to know: There is a Vernal, UT area visitor center conveniently located inside the museum.

 

18. Check out an abandoned cowboy camp 

When you start hiking on the Cave Spring Trail with the kids, you will stumble upon an old cowboy camp. 

Info: The trail is free and parking can be found on site. Adapted for kids of all ages.

Good to know: Climb the wooden ladder and be rewarded with amazing views of the Canyonlands. 

Boy climbing a woden ladder over a cliff in Utah park
Wooden Ladder to access to the breathtaking view of the Cave Spring Trail. Source: Gowhee App

19. Stay the night in an old wagon at the Zion Wildflower resort


This is glamping at its best! From the cozy wagons with comfy bunk beds for kids and gorgeous sunset views, the whole family will leave with memories that will last a lifetime. 

Info: Playground onsite, Resort fee is 25$

Good to know: The resort fee includes a s’mores bag but you need to bring your marshmallows.

>>> Discover other kid-friendly accommodations in the Gowhee App

20. Dive into art with the kids at Kayenta Art Village.


Enjoy a hands-on pottery or painting class and participate in special events and performances year-round

.Info: The village is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Good to know: At Xetava Gardens Café, you can grab a cup of coffee or a bite to eat after a long day of hiking.

21. Take a Mandatory pit stop in Hole N’ the Rock


While on the road, Hole N’ the Rock offers great 
things to do in Utah with kids. Take a 12 minute guided tour of this unique home carved out of a huge rock in Utah’s Canyonlands Country.

Info: The home, unusual gift shop, and trading post are open all year.

Good to know: The kids will love the petting zoo on site.

22. Go lunch with a zookeeper at the Hogle zoo in Salt Lake City


Learn about the animals and how they are cared for at the
“Lunch with a Keeper” program.

Info: Wheelchair accessible. The Zoo is open 7 days a week.

Good to know: They provide a full-service party planning with the caterer.

Scenery of the cecret lake in Utah
Hike around the Cecret Lake. Source Gowhee App

23. Try to take a pic of a Moose at the Cecret Lake

Although not a swimming lake, the hike to Cecret Lake is a great family-friendly experience.  If you are lucky enough to see a moose, pause and capture the memory. 

Info: 1,7 miles long. The bathroom is available at the parking lot.

Good to know: There are signs giving details about the wildlife, plants, and geology so you can make this an educational hike. It can be crowded depending on the season.


24. Take a Caribbean beach day at the Rendez-vous beach

Enjoy a day on the sandy beach located in Bear lake state park, nicknamed “the Caribbean of the Rockies”. With amazing colors from the calcium carbonates suspended in the water.

Info: The beach access is open from May 1st to late October. – Dog-friendly – Bathroom on site.

Good to know: In the summer you can enjoy all the fun water activities with water sports equipment rental and concession stand.

>>> Discover tons of family beaches worldwide, here.


25. Go Snow Tubing in Soldier Hollow Nordic Center

Each time slot gives you 2 hours of fun snow tubing. With pretty fast hills, you are sure to make older kids happy.

Info: Kids 3 years old + 

Good to know: Book online in advance! It gets pretty crowded.


26. Spend the day in an Ice Castle

Enter a magic winter wonderland, filled with ice walls, and slides. This Ice Castle is particularly large.

Info: Book a time slot in advance and stay as long as you like.

Good to know: It is a really fun place to visit with kids during the day of course, but going at night, with glowing lights all around, offers another dimension to it.

Discover More Fun things to do in Utah with Kids Here

Try the Gowhee App for FREE today.

27. Hike Zion national park with a kid-friendly hike.

The 1.2 mile round trip trail called Lower Emerald Pool Trail, in Zion park makes for an amazing hike for kids of all ages.

Info: 7 days pass per vehicle is $35. Lots of shaded spots.

Good to know: There is no parking for the park, so you will have to use the free shuttle system so make sure to look at the calendar and plan accordingly.

28. Stay in for the day at the Cliff Lodge Resort


This mountain lodge offers ski-in and ski-out amenities, a heated pool, a eucalyptus steam room, or their daily yoga class with views of the mountains. To keep the luxurious experience going, grab a bite at any of the seven fine dining options.

Info: Connecting rooms available – Tub in the room – Crib on demand and high chairs available.

Good to know: Enjoy all the adults’ amenities while kids are at the KIDS CLUB having fun!

29. Ride a real bobsled at the Utah Olympic park


Enjoy a Wintery
Bobsled experience while a professional pilot takes you on a thrilling ride down the 2002 Olympic track.

Info: $195 per person

Good to know: 16+ years of age and 100+ lbs. to ride

30. Mine your gem at the Topaz Mountain


Hands-on mining experiences
looking for Utah Topaz, Bixbyite, and other minerals. Keep everything you find!

Info: Hours of operation are generally from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily

Good to know: All sites are in the desert, so be sure to bring plenty of water and plan for a day in the sun.

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