The Best Family Winter Vacation Destinations for a Cozy, Snow-Filled Getaway

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When it comes to vacations in the winter, I’m all over the place. Sometimes I want to escape the cold temperatures and travel to tropical locations where I can enjoy some sunshine and drinks on the beach. But other times, I truly love embracing the cold. I dream of winter vacation destinations where I feel like I’m in a hallmark movie–think charming mountain town, a good chance of snow and a 100% chance of hot toddies by a cozy fire.

So, if your idea of the perfect winter vacation involves snowflakes drifting past a cabin window, twinkle lights glowing in small towns, and your kids bundled up for days filled with sledding, skating, and hot chocolate breaks—this list is for you. These winter vacation destinations celebrate the season in all its frosty glory and make it easy for families to enjoy cold-weather fun together. From alpine villages to national-park towns, here are the best family winter vacation spots that feel like they’re straight out of a storybook.

And, if you haven’t decided if you want to embrace the cold or escape it, check out this list of the best vacation destinations in January. It was a great mix of both cold-weather towns and warm-weather spots to choose from.

1. Park City, Utah – One of the best winter vacation destinations for skiers and snowboarders

Why it’s great: Park City is basically a winter playground. It has a quaint, historic downtown, one of the largest ski resorts in the country, and tons of family-friendly activities.

Things to do:

• Ski or snowboard at Park City Mountain or Deer Valley
• Tube at the insanely fun Woodward Park City
• Wander the festive Main Street
• Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride

Where to stay:

• Hyatt Centric Park City – Ski-in/ski-out convenience and large suites
• Montage Deer Valley – A splurge, but incredibly family-friendly with a kids’ club, bowling alley, and cozy mountain lodge atmosphere
• Marriott’s Summit Watch – Spacious villa-style rooms right on Main Street

2. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Why it’s great: Rugged, breathtaking, and very “Old West meets winter magic.” Plus, it’s a gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Jackson Hole is popular year-round, but it’s definitely one of the best winter vacation destinations.

Things to do:

• Ski at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (great terrain for various levels)
• Take a winter wildlife tour to see elk, moose, and bison
• Sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge
• Ice skate in the Town Square beneath those iconic elk antler arches

Where to stay:

• Snow King Resort – Close to everything and great for families
• The Wort Hotel – Historic, charming, and right in the heart of town
• Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole – Ski-in/ski-out luxury with a heated outdoor pool, on-mountain convenience, a fantastic kids’ program, and some of the best mountain views in the valley
• Hotel Terra – Eco-friendly and modern, slopeside in Teton Village

3. Lake Placid, New York

Why it’s great: This Adirondack village looks like it was designed to shine in winter—think frozen lakes, tall pines, Olympic history, and endless charm.

Things to do:

• Skate on the Olympic Oval
• Try bobsledding at the Olympic Sports Complex
• Ski at Whiteface Mountain
• Explore Mirror Lake by foot, sled, or even a dogsled ride
• Warm up in the adorable downtown shops and cafés

Where to stay:

• Mirror Lake Inn – Classic Adirondack coziness with amazing views
• Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort – Eco-friendly, spacious, and right on the lake
• Crowne Plaza Lake Placid – Great for families and walkable to town

4. Leavenworth, Washington – One of the best winter vacation destinations on the west coast

Why it’s great: It’s a Bavarian-style village tucked into the Cascade Mountains—and it looks straight out of a snow globe in winter. It’s incredibly festive and very family-oriented.

Things to do:

• Visit during the Christmas Lighting Festival (it’s magical!)
• Go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing
• Tube at the Leavenworth Winter Sports Club
• Take a sleigh ride through snowy farmland
• Wander through the charming Bavarian shops and bakeries

Where to stay:

• Bavarian Lodge – Right in the center with cozy lodge vibes
• Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort – Peaceful, artsy, and nature-focused
• Icicle Village Resort – Very family-friendly with large rooms, mini golf and more

5. Breckenridge, Colorado

Why it’s great: A quintessential ski town with Victorian charm, lots of family-friendly terrain, and one of the cutest main streets in the Rockies. It’s one of the best ski resorts in Colorado for good reason!

Things to do:

• Ski Breckenridge (tons of beginner and intermediate terrain)
• Stroll Main Street for hot cocoa and shopping
• Check out the Breckenridge Ice Castles (when open)
• Try sledding or tubing at Carter Park
• Take the free gondola for fun views

Where to stay:

Check out a full list of top hotels in Breckenridge here.

• Beaver Run Resort – Slope-side with tons of amenities
• The Village at Breckenridge – Ski-in/ski-out and walkable to Main Street
• Grand Colorado on Peak 8 – Modern, upscale, and packed with kid-friendly features

6. Stowe, Vermont

Why it’s great: It’s one of New England’s most iconic winter towns—quiet, charming, cozy, and full of scenic beauty. Perfect for families who love classic winter vibes.

Things to do at this winter vacation destination:

• Ski at Stowe Mountain Resort
• Visit the Trapp Family Lodge (yes, from The Sound of Music family!)
• Sleigh ride through snowy meadows
• Explore covered bridges and scenic trails
• Sip hot cocoa at adorable local cafés

Where to stay:

• Trapp Family Lodge – Alpine charm and tons of winter activities
• Topnotch Resort – Upscale, with indoor pools great for families
• Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa – Centrally located with lots of amenities; breakfast included.

7. Whistler, British Columbia (Canada) – One of the best winter travel destinations in Canada

Why it’s great: It’s one of North America’s top winter destinations for a reason. Whistler Village is pedestrian-friendly, packed with family activities, and incredibly beautiful.

Things to do:

• Ski at Whistler Blackcomb—amazing terrain for all levels
• Zipline through snowy forests
• Go snow tubing at the Coca-Cola Tube Park
• Explore the magical, walkable Whistler Village
• Check out the indoor playground at the Whistler Adventure Zone

Where to stay:

• Fairmont Chateau Whistler – Iconic and very family-friendly
• Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre – Spacious suites with kitchenettes
• Four Seasons Resort Whistler – Warm, luxurious, and great for kids

8. Big Sky, Montana

Why it’s great: Wide-open spaces, scenic mountain views, and a relaxed vibe that’s great for families who want fewer crowds but tons of adventure. Once you arrive, you’ll quickly see what makes Big Sky one of the best winter vacation destinations in the U.S.

Things to do:

• Ski or snowboard Big Sky Resort
• Take a winter wildlife safari into Yellowstone National Park
• Go snowmobiling in the surrounding mountains
• Try Nordic skiing or guided snowshoe tours
• Warm up by the fire with hearty Montana comfort food

Where to stay:

• Village Center at Big Sky Resort – Family-friendly, slopeside accommodations with condo-style units, ski-in/ski-out access, and direct connection to shops, restaurants, and the core base area
• Huntley Lodge – Classic, cozy mountain lodge
• Residence Inn by Marriott/ The Wilson Hotel – Modern, affordable, and right in town

Final Thoughts on the Best Winter Vacation Destinations

A winter vacation can be one of the most magical trips your family takes—especially when you lean into the nostalgia and fun of snowy destinations. You can also take advantage of the many long weekends and holidays off of school.

Whether you’re skiing down alpine slopes, exploring quaint main streets under twinkling lights, or snuggled up by the fire after a day of adventure, these destinations offer everything you need for a warm and memorable winter escape.

For more ideas for your next vacation, check out these popular posts:

• Exploring Mammoth Mountain Village
• Fun Things to do in Big Bear, Besides the Ski Resorts
• The Best New Years Eve Hotels for Kids
• Ski Resorts Where Kids Ski Free
• Magical Christmastime Hotels for Families
• 10 Mountain Towns That Are Perfect for a Family Vacation
• The Best Family-Friendly Ski Resorts in North America

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