10 Festive Christmas Vacation Ideas for Big Families

The holiday season, a time of joy and wonder, offers a unique opportunity to step away from the whirlwind of daily life and embrace the magic of togetherness. More than ever, families are choosing to collect memories instead of things, finding that the greatest gift lies in shared experiences and adventures.

This Christmas, imagine swapping the traditional gift-giving routine for the excitement of travel, exploring new places, and creating lasting memories with your family. Let’s explore 10 fantastic Christmas vacation, trip, and weekend getaway ideas across the U.S., promising not just a break from the norm, but a fun family experience and memories that will last a lifetime.

1. Beach Vacations: Sun, Sand, and Santa Hats

Escape the chill of winter and bask in the warmth of a sun-drenched beach this holiday season. For families looking to blend the festive spirit of Christmas with the soothing embrace of ocean waves, beach vacations offer an idyllic alternative. Picture building sandcastles instead of snowmen, strolling along the shore with a backdrop of holiday lights, and enjoying seasonal festivities with a tropical twist.

St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine is famous for its “Nights of Lights” festival, where the historic district and waterfront are illuminated with millions of white lights, creating a magical atmosphere. This old city offers a charming blend of history and holiday spirit, with its cobblestone streets and ancient architecture lit up in festive glory.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach hosts various Christmas events, including the “Nights of a Thousand Candles” at Brookgreen Gardens. The area turns into a winter wonderland with light displays, holiday shows, and festive activities along the boardwalk, making it a great destination for families looking to celebrate the season by the sea.

Newport Beach, California

The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is a dazzling display, with beautifully decorated yachts and boats sailing along the harbor. Families can enjoy the parade from the beach or take a harbor cruise to see the lights up close. The whole area buzzes with holiday cheer, celebrating over 100 years of parade festivities.

Galveston, Texas

Galveston Island transforms into a “Winter Wonder Island” with over 50 days of Christmas events. Highlights include the Festival of Lights at Moody Gardens, which features a mile-long trail of illuminated displays, and the historic Strand district adorned in festive decor, offering a unique blend of Texas charm and holiday spirit.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

The “Holiday Lights at the Beach” event turns the Virginia Beach boardwalk into a spectacular light show, viewable by car or on foot. The festive atmosphere is complemented by live entertainment, holiday markets, and the beautiful backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.

2. Christmas Towns and Events: Where Holiday Magic Comes Alive

As the holiday season unfolds, these towns across the United States transform into enchanting Christmas wonderlands, inviting families to step into a festive fairytale. From the charming streets of historic towns echoing with carols to the magical light displays that turn ordinary settings into extraordinary experiences, each location offers its unique celebration of this joyful season.

Frankenmuth, Michigan: Little Bavaria

Frankenmuth, also known as “Little Bavaria,” offers a year-round Christmas experience but is especially magical during the holiday season. Home to Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store, the town also hosts festive events like holiday light displays and traditional German holiday markets. The whole town is adorned with sparkling lights and decorations, creating a storybook Christmas atmosphere.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania: The Christmas City

Named after the biblical town, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is fondly known as “Christmas City, USA.” This historic town comes alive during the holiday season with its famous Christkindlmarkt, a traditional German-style Christmas market. Families can enjoy live music, arts and crafts, and delicious treats. Don’t miss the “Live Advent Calendar,” the only one of its kind in the country.

Leavenworth, Washington: Bavarian-Style Christmas

Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth transforms into a Bavarian winter wonderland during the holidays. The town’s Christmas Lighting Festival is a highlight, with millions of lights illuminating the village. Families can enjoy sleigh rides, carolers, and a visit from St. Nicholas. The alpine-style architecture and snow-covered mountains provide a perfect backdrop for a festive family getaway.

Santa Fe, New Mexico: Southwestern Holiday Charm

Santa Fe offers a unique Christmas experience with its blend of Native American and Hispanic cultures. The city’s historic plaza is adorned with farolitos (small, sand-filled bags with candles) and bonfires, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The Canyon Road Farolito Walk on Christmas Eve is a must-see, with caroling, street musicians, and hot chocolate stands.

McAdenville, North Carolina: Christmas Town USA

This small town near Charlotte goes all out for Christmas. Known as “Christmas Town USA,” McAdenville features over 375 trees, 200 wreaths, and a lake illuminated by 33,000 lights. The entire town participates in this festive transformation, making it a truly unique and community-focused holiday destination.

3. Christmas-Themed Towns: Where Every Day is a Holiday

Immerse yourself in the year-round yuletide spirit in towns where Christmas is not just a season, but a way of life. These enchanting destinations, with their whimsical names and perpetual holiday cheer, are like pages out of a Christmas fairy tale. Perfect for families seeking a dose of holiday joy any time of the year, these Christmas-themed towns offer a fun visit that captures the essence of the season’s wonder and delight.

Santa Claus, Indiana: America’s Christmas Hometown

Santa Claus, Indiana, proudly lives up to its name, offering a Christmas experience all year round. In December, the town hosts a series of events like the “Santa Claus Christmas Celebration,” featuring a parade, festive lights, and, of course, opportunities to meet Santa himself. The Santa Claus Museum & Village, along with the town’s many Christmas-themed shops, make it a must-visit destination for families seeking the ultimate Christmas town experience.

North Pole, Alaska: A True Winter Wonderland

While not as geographically convenient for most of us, North Pole, Alaska, is a dream come true for Christmas enthusiasts. This small town, where streets like “Snowman Lane” and “Kris Kringle Drive” exist, is decked out in Christmas decorations year-round, including holiday parades in July. The annual “Christmas in Ice” event features ice sculptures and a winter ice park, making it a magical destination for families. Be sure to stop at the Santa Claus house.

North Pole, New York: Home of Santa’s Workshop

This charming village in the Adirondack Mountains offers a nostalgic Christmas experience at the Santa’s Workshop theme park. Here at the oldest continuous ran them park in the country, families can enjoy rides, shows, and a chance to meet Santa and his reindeer. The village embraces its Christmas theme throughout the year and becomes even more special during the holiday season with special events and activities.

Bethlehem, Connecticut: A New England Christmas Treat

Although smaller and less known, Bethlehem, Connecticut, captures the essence of a quaint New England Christmas. The town’s annual Christmas Town Festival features a tree lighting, a Christmas market, and various family-friendly activities. The town’s post office also becomes a popular spot for sending holiday cards with a Bethlehem postmark.

Christmas, Florida: A Sunny Holiday Retreat

Christmas, Florida, offers a unique holiday experience with its subtropical climate. Known for its large, year-round fully decorated Christmas tree, the town provides a laid-back holiday atmosphere. Nearby attractions like the Fort Christmas Historical Park add to the festive experience with pioneer-era Christmas celebrations.

4. Ski Vacations: Snowy Slopes and Tubing Thrills

Embrace the exhilarating joy of winter with a family ski vacation, where snow-covered slopes and tubing fun await. These destinations offer more than just skiing—they are winter wonderlands where families can bond over thrilling downhill runs, laughter-filled tubing adventures, and the serene beauty of snow-laden landscapes. From the majestic peaks of Aspen and Park City to the family-friendly trails of Lake Placid, each location combines the thrill of winter sports with the festive spirit of the season. Whether you’re carving down the slopes or gliding down a tubing hill, these ski resorts provide an unforgettable backdrop for winter memories and holiday cheer.

Aspen, Colorado: A Skier’s Paradise

Aspen is renowned for its world-class skiing and picturesque mountain scenery. Families can choose from four main ski areas: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk (great for beginners), and Snowmass. Each offers a unique skiing experience. For those seeking a break from skiing, Aspen also offers snow tubing opportunities, with specially designed lanes for a fun and thrilling ride down the snow-covered slopes.

Park City, Utah: Diverse Terrain and Family Fun

Park City is another top destination for family ski vacations, known for its expansive ski resorts like Park City Mountain and Deer Valley. These resorts cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. Additionally, the Gorgoza Park in Park City provides an excellent snow tubing experience with seven lighted tubing lanes, perfect for families looking for an alternative or addition to skiing.

Lake Placid, New York: Olympic Winter Wonderland

As the host of two Winter Olympics, Lake Placid is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. The Whiteface Mountain ski resort offers a range of skiing and snowboarding options. For a different kind of thrill, families can head to the Mt. Van Hoevenberg Olympic Sports Complex, where they can enjoy snow tubing on a world-class track.

Breckenridge, Colorado: Historic Charm and Slope-side Fun

Breckenridge offers a unique combination of historical allure and excellent skiing opportunities. With its five towering peaks and numerous trails, it’s a skier’s delight. The town also features a fun park with snow tubing lanes, providing a joyful experience for those who prefer gliding on tubes rather than skis. Don’t miss the Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas.

Stowe, Vermont: East Coast Skiing at its Best

Stowe is known for its charming New England vibe and outstanding ski conditions. The Stowe Mountain Resort provides diverse terrain for skiing and snowboarding. Nearby, at the Smugglers’ Notch Resort, families can enjoy snow tubing on its specially dedicated hill, complete with a magic carpet lift for easy access to the top.

5. Historical Christmas Experiences: A Journey Through Time

Step back in time this holiday season and discover the charm of historical Christmas experiences. In these storied destinations, the past comes alive with twinkling lights, traditional decorations, and celebrations that echo the yuletide customs of yesteryear. From the colonial streets of Williamsburg to the antebellum elegance of Charleston, each location offers a unique window into the history and traditions that have shaped the way we celebrate Christmas today. These towns are not just places to visit; they are time capsules that capture the enduring spirit and warmth of the holiday season, inviting families to create new memories while honoring the past.

Williamsburg, Virginia: A Colonial Christmas

Williamsburg offers a unique Christmas experience with its Colonial Christmas celebrations. The historic area is beautifully decorated with traditional wreaths and garlands. Families can enjoy carriage rides, reenactments of colonial Christmas customs, and musical performances. The Grand Illumination, a fireworks display and lighting ceremony, is a highlight of the season.

Charleston, South Carolina: Southern Holiday Charm

Charleston’s historic charm is amplified during the Christmas season. The city’s Holiday Festival of Lights, one of the largest in the country, features over two million lights. Families can explore beautifully decorated historic homes, take part in holiday markets, and enjoy seasonal performances. The blend of Southern hospitality and festive traditions makes Charleston a captivating holiday destination.

Savannah, Georgia: Historic Squares and Festive Lights

Savannah, known for its gorgeous historic squares and antebellum architecture, offers a picturesque setting for Christmas festivities. The city’s Victorian Christmas Festival brings the past to life with period costumes, carolers, and traditional decorations. The Savannah Harbor Festival of Lights is another attraction, with a dazzling display of lights and holiday activities.

St. Augustine, Florida: A Lighted Historical Wonderland

As the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine provides a historical backdrop to its famous Nights of Lights festival. The city’s Spanish colonial architecture is adorned with millions of white lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Families can enjoy trolley tours, walking tours of the historic district, and holiday-themed cruises along the Matanzas River.

Natchitoches, Louisiana: A Creole Christmas Celebration

Natchitoches, the oldest city in Louisiana, hosts an impressive Christmas festival that has been a tradition since 1927. The city’s historic district and Cane River Lake are illuminated with over 300,000 lights and 100 set pieces. The festival includes parades, fireworks, and tours of historic homes decorated in festive finery, reflecting the unique Creole culture.

6. Theme Park Christmas Celebrations: A World of Festive Fun

The holiday season brings a special kind of magic to theme parks across the United States. Transforming into dazzling winter wonderlands, these parks offer more than just thrilling rides; they become hubs of festive joy, brimming with spectacular decorations, seasonal shows, and unique holiday experiences. From enchanting parades that light up the streets to heartwarming encounters with beloved characters in their festive best, these theme parks create an immersive world where the spirit of Christmas is alive and tangible. Whether it’s the allure of a fairytale castle aglow with holiday lights or the excitement of a Christmas-themed spectacular, families will find an unforgettable blend of adventure and yuletide cheer. Let’s explore the wonder and excitement of the holiday season as it’s celebrated in some of the most iconic theme parks, promising a holiday outing that is both merry and memorable.

Disney World, Florida: A Magical Holiday Kingdom

Disney World transforms into a holiday wonderland with its festive events. The Magic Kingdom hosts “Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party,” featuring parades, fireworks, and live entertainment. Epcot’s “International Festival of the Holidays” showcases holiday traditions from around the world. The parks are adorned with stunning decorations, making it a dream destination for a family Christmas adventure.

Hersheypark, Pennsylvania: A Sweet Christmas Celebration

Hersheypark’s “Christmas Candylane” offers a delightful holiday experience with over 4 million twinkling lights, festive decorations, and themed rides. Families can meet Santa and his reindeer, enjoy holiday-themed entertainment, and indulge in seasonal treats. The nearby Hershey’s Chocolate World adds to the fun with its holiday-themed attractions.

Universal Studios, Florida: A Cinematic Christmas Spectacle

Universal Studios offers unique holiday attractions like “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” decorated in festive finery and “Grinchmas,” inspired by Dr. Seuss’s classic tale. The park features special holiday shows, parades, and an impressive Christmas tree lighting ceremony, providing a cinematic twist to the holiday season.

Dollywood, Tennessee: A Country Christmas

Dolly Parton’s theme park, Dollywood, celebrates Christmas with its “Smoky Mountain Christmas” festival. The park dazzles with millions of lights, holiday performances, and a “Parade of Many Colors.” Families can experience the charm of a country Christmas with special shows, artisan crafts, and seasonal food offerings.

Busch Gardens, Williamsburg: A European Holiday Experience

Busch Gardens‘ “Christmas Town” transforms the park into one of the largest Christmas light displays in North America. Each section of the park represents Christmas traditions from different European countries, offering an immersive holiday experience. Families can enjoy festive shows, holiday shopping, and unique culinary delights.

7. City Lights and Shopping: Urban Winter Wonderlands

Dive into the vibrant heart of the holiday season with a visit to bustling cities that transform into urban winter wonderlands. As the festive spirit takes over, these metropolitan havens light up with dazzling displays and become hotspots for holiday shopping and cheer. From the iconic Christmas tree in New York City to the festive markets of Chicago, and the twinkling lights of San Francisco, each city offers a unique blend of glittering decorations, seasonal festivities, and shopping experiences. These urban escapes provide the perfect backdrop for families to make lasting holiday memories amidst the hustle and bustle of city life.

New York City, New York: The Epitome of Holiday Glamour

New York City during Christmas is a spectacle like no other. The city’s iconic attractions, like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and the holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue, are must-sees. Families can enjoy ice skating at Central Park, visit the holiday markets at Bryant Park and Union Square, and experience the world-famous Radio City Christmas Spectacular.

Chicago, Illinois: A Midwestern Holiday Extravaganza

Chicago’s festive spirit shines through its Magnificent Mile Lights Festival and the Christkindlmarket, a traditional German Christmas market. The city’s Millennium Park hosts an impressive Christmas tree, and the Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a luminous wonderland with its ZooLights event. Shopping along State Street and Michigan Avenue offers a delightful mix of holiday cheer and retail therapy.

San Francisco, California: A Bay Area Holiday

San Francisco’s Union Square becomes a holiday hub with a giant Christmas tree, ice skating rink, and festive window displays at Macy’s. The historic Ghirardelli Square lights up with a majestic tree, and the Embarcadero Center is adorned with twinkling lights. Don’t miss the “Illuminate SF Festival of Light,” featuring light art installations throughout the city.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Historic Holiday Charm

Philadelphia combines its rich history with holiday festivities. The Christmas Village in LOVE Park is inspired by traditional German Christmas markets. The Franklin Square Holiday Festival features a light show, local craft market, and a winter beer garden. For a unique shopping experience, visit the holiday market at the historic Reading Terminal Market.

Boston, Massachusetts: New England’s Christmas Capital

Boston’s historic charm is on full display during the holidays. The Faneuil Hall Marketplace hosts the Blink! light and sound show, while the Boston Common and the Public Garden are beautifully lit with festive lights. Enjoy the holiday shopping scene at Newbury Street and the Prudential Center, along with seasonal performances at the Boston Ballet and the Boston Pops.

8. Mountain Retreats: Serene and Scenic Winter Getaways

Discover the tranquil beauty of winter in our selection of mountain retreats, where serene landscapes and cozy comforts merge to create the perfect holiday escape. Nestled amidst snow-capped peaks and frost-laden forests, these destinations offer a peaceful respite from the holiday rush. From the rustic charm of the Smoky Mountains to the pristine beauty of Lake Tahoe, each retreat promises a blend of outdoor adventure and quiet relaxation. Whether you’re warming up by a roaring fire, exploring snowy trails, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views, these mountain getaways provide an idyllic setting for families to unwind and connect amidst the splendor of winter.

Smoky Mountains, Tennessee: A Rustic Christmas Escape

The Smoky Mountains in Tennessee offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and holiday cheer. Cozy cabins and lodges nestled in the mountains provide a peaceful retreat, with opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. The nearby towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge light up with festive decorations, and Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas offers additional holiday entertainment.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada: A Lakeside Winter Wonderland

Straddling the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe becomes a stunning winter destination during the Christmas season. Families can enjoy the snow-covered landscape, with activities like skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. The towns around the lake, such as South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City, host holiday events and offer cozy accommodations with beautiful lake views.

Asheville, North Carolina: Historic Charm in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Asheville, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is known for the Biltmore Estate, which hosts one of the most spectacular Christmas displays in the country. The estate is beautifully decorated, and the town itself offers a charming holiday atmosphere with local shops, art galleries, and festive events.

Telluride, Colorado: A Picturesque Holiday Destination

Telluride, set in a box canyon and surrounded by towering peaks, offers a postcard-perfect Christmas setting. The town’s historic district is adorned with lights and decorations, creating a charming old-world atmosphere. Skiing and snowboarding are popular, and the Mountain Village gondola offers stunning views of the snow-covered landscape.

Banff, Alberta, Canada: A Magical International Mountain Retreat

Though outside the U.S., Banff in Alberta, Canada, is worth considering for those seeking an international mountain retreat. The Banff National Park offers breathtaking scenery, and the town is a winter wonderland with its Christmas markets, ice skating, and hot springs. The annual Banff Christmas Market and the Banff Gondola’s Mountaintop Christmas are highlights.

9. Cruise Adventures: Celebrating Christmas on the High Seas

Cruise adventures provide a unique way to experience the holiday season, combining the excitement of travel with the joy of Christmas celebrations. Whether it’s a tropical getaway or a cultural journey through Europe’s Christmas markets, these cruises offer something special for every family.

Caribbean Christmas Cruises: Tropical Festivities on the Ocean

Caribbean cruises during the Christmas season offer a perfect blend of warm weather and festive celebrations. Major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Disney Cruise Line decorate their ships with holiday themes and organize special events like Christmas dinners, carol singing, and visits from Santa. Families can enjoy the sun-drenched beaches of the Caribbean islands along with holiday-themed entertainment onboard.

European River Cruises: A Cultural Christmas Journey

For a more cultural holiday experience, European river cruises provide an opportunity to explore the famous Christmas markets of cities along the Danube and Rhine rivers. These cruises often feature stops in historic cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Cologne, where families can enjoy the festive atmosphere, traditional crafts, and local delicacies of European Christmas markets.

Alaskan Winter Cruises: A Snowy Wonderland

Though less common, some cruise lines offer winter cruises to Alaska, presenting a unique way to experience the stunning winter scenery and wildlife of the region. These cruises might include holiday-themed activities and excursions like dog sledding or northern lights viewing, providing a memorable Christmas adventure.

Mexican Riviera Cruises: A Festive Escape to the Pacific

Mexican Riviera cruises are a great option for families seeking a balance of adventure and relaxation. During the Christmas season, these cruises offer special holiday shows, Mexican-themed Christmas celebrations, and stops at vibrant ports like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, where the holiday spirit meets the charm of Mexican culture.

Disney Christmas Cruises: A Family-Friendly Festive Fantasy

Disney’s Christmas cruises are specially tailored for families, featuring beloved Disney characters in holiday attire, themed parties, and festive decorations. The ships offer unique holiday entertainment, special meet-and-greets, and even a “snowfall” experience, making it a magical Christmas adventure for children and adults alike.

10. Weekend Vacations at Indoor Waterparks: Affordable Holiday Fun

These indoor waterpark resorts offer an affordable and exciting vacation option for families, especially during the holiday season when they’re adorned with festive decorations and offer special Christmas events. This combination of fun and festivity makes them a great choice for a memorable weekend getaway.

Great Wolf Lodge: A Nationwide Family Favorite

Great Wolf Lodge, with locations across the United States, is renowned for its indoor waterpark fun. During the Christmas season, these resorts transform into winter wonderlands with their “Snowland” celebration. From November through early January, families can enjoy indoor snow showers, visits from Santa, holiday crafts, and themed activities, all while basking in the warmth of the heated indoor waterpark.

Kalahari Resorts: A Tropical Holiday Escape

Kalahari Resorts, found in destinations like Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wisconsin, offer massive indoor waterparks and a variety of family-friendly activities. Over the holidays, these resorts are festively decorated and offer special events like holiday cookie decorating, festive light shows, and themed entertainment, making it a perfect escape for families looking for waterpark fun with a holiday twist.

Aquatopia at Camelback Resort, Pennsylvania: A Mountain Retreat with Water Fun

Located in the Pocono Mountains, Aquatopia is an impressive indoor waterpark that’s part of Camelback Resort. During the Christmas season, the resort features holiday-themed activities, including light displays, Santa meet-and-greets, and seasonal workshops. The combination of exhilarating water rides and festive cheer offers a unique holiday experience.

Schlitterbahn Galveston, Texas: A Warm Holiday Getaway

Schlitterbahn in Galveston offers an indoor waterpark experience with a Texas twist. Their holiday celebrations include special events, dazzling decorations, and festive entertainment. The heated indoor park allows for water fun regardless of the weather, making it an ideal winter escape for families.

Wilderness Resort, Wisconsin Dells: The Waterpark Capital

Wilderness Resort in Wisconsin Dells, known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” offers not one but several indoor waterparks. The resort embraces the holiday spirit with decorations, holiday-themed activities, and special events for families. It’s a great destination for those looking to combine the thrill of waterparks with the joy of the holiday season.

This holiday season, we encourage you to step out of the ordinary and explore the extraordinary. Whether you’re seeking a traditional Christmas experience, a winter wonderland adventure, or a unique festive celebration, there’s a perfect holiday getaway waiting for you and your loved ones. So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of the season, and get ready to make lasting memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Ready to plan your holiday adventure? Start exploring these magical destinations today and give your family the gift of travel and togetherness this Christmas!