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15 Cozy Winter Travel Inspo (great for families)

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Last Updated on 01/16/2025 by Nell Marie

There’s something magical about packing up your family for a winter vacation, where the chill in the air is filled with possibilities for adventure and cozy memories.

So, if your kids are eager to sled down snowy hills, learn to ski for the first time, or simply sip hot cocoa by a roaring fire, winter getaways offer something special for every member of the family.

For those who prefer escaping the frost, there are also sunny destinations that let you trade snow boots for flip-flops.

No matter what kind of adventure you’re seeking, here are 15 perfect winter travel destinations for families with little kids, where fun, relaxation, and bonding moments are guaranteed.

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winter travel inspo

Winter Travel Inspo

Winter is such a fun time for a family vacation! There’s something special about the season that makes it perfect for creating memories, whether you’re building snowmen, hitting the slopes, or enjoying holiday lights and festivities.

Plus, winter often comes with fewer crowds at some spots, which means less stress and more time to relax and enjoy each other.

Many destinations also go all out for families this time of year, offering kid-friendly activities, cozy places to stay, and seasonal fun you can’t get any other time.

If you’re chasing snowflakes or heading somewhere sunny, winter is the perfect excuse to pack up and make some unforgettable family memories.

1. Aspen, Colorado

aspen colorado

Aspen is the perfect winter destination for families, offering a variety of activities that cater to all ages.

For young skiers, there are specialized ski schools that teach beginners in a fun and relaxed environment.

If your kids aren’t quite ready to hit the slopes, they can enjoy sledding on the designated hills, snowshoeing, or building snowmen in the fresh powder.

After a day of snowy adventures, cozy up in one of Aspen’s family-friendly cabins, complete with roaring fireplaces and stunning mountain views.

Don’t forget to visit Snowmass Village, where there are fun activities specifically designed for little ones, from interactive snow parks to ice skating rinks.

Read the ultimate guide to Aspen, Colorado here.

2. Orlando, Florida

disney world

Orlando might not be a traditional winter destination, but it’s a perfect spot for families who want to escape the cold.

Visit Walt Disney World or Universal Studios for an unforgettable experience. Both parks go all out during the holiday season, with festive decorations, themed events, and parades that the kids will love.

The warm weather makes it an ideal location for outdoor fun, whether it’s meeting beloved characters or taking a spin on family-friendly rides.

Orlando also has plenty of resorts with pools, so you can enjoy a break from the parks and relax in the sunshine.

Read the ultimate guide to Orlando, Florida here.

3. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

lake tahoe

Lake Tahoe offers a little bit of everything for families seeking winter fun. It’s a great spot for snow play, where kids can make snow angels or enjoy tubing at the local resorts.

If you have budding skiers, several family-friendly resorts have beginner slopes that are perfect for little ones to practice their skills.

When the kids are ready for a break from skiing, you can explore snowshoeing trails, visit the ice skating rink, or take a scenic gondola ride.

Many of the resorts have cozy, kid-approved amenities, like hot cocoa stations and indoor play areas, ensuring everyone stays happy and warm.

Read the ultimate guide to Lake Tahoe here.

4. Whistler, Canada

whistler canada

Whistler is a winter paradise for families, known for its welcoming atmosphere and abundance of snow-filled activities.

The pedestrian village is perfect for strolling, with shops, restaurants, and attractions that are easy to explore with kids in tow.

For outdoor fun, the whole family can enjoy ice skating, snowshoeing, and tubing down the hill.

Younger kids will love the family-friendly ski slopes that are easy to navigate, and there are also snowboarding schools for older kids.

Whistler’s snowy landscape and vibrant village make it a memorable destination for a family vacation.

Read the ultimate guide to Whistler, Canada here. Don’t want to ski? Check out this guide.

5. Great Wolf Lodge (Multiple Locations)

great wolf lodge

If you’re looking for a family getaway that lets you escape the cold without sacrificing fun, the Great Wolf Lodge is the place to be.

This indoor waterpark resort chain has locations all over the U.S., offering year-round fun with water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.

Each lodge has themed suites designed to make the experience even more exciting for kids, with interactive activities, character meet-and-greets, and fun events like nightly storytimes.

So, if it’s snowing outside or sunny, the Great Wolf Lodge guarantees that the whole family can splash around, stay warm, and create lasting memories together.

Read the 10 secrets for the best Great World Lodge getaway here.

6. Banff, Canada

banff canada

Banff is a winter wonderland nestled in the Canadian Rockies, offering a variety of outdoor activities for families.

Snowshoeing through the winter forest is a peaceful and fun way for families to enjoy the beauty of nature, while kids can enjoy sleigh rides and tobogganing.

For a truly magical experience, take the family on a gondola ride up the mountains to catch breathtaking views of the snowy peaks.

After a day of exploring, warm up by soaking in the natural hot springs in Banff, where the whole family can relax and unwind while surrounded by snowy landscapes.

Read the ultimate guide to Banff, Canada here.

7. Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg is a great family destination during the winter season, especially for those who enjoy history and holiday traditions.

Experience a colonial Christmas, with festive decorations, candlelight tours, and special events at the Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area.

Busch Gardens’ Christmas Town is a must-see, where kids can enjoy light displays, visit Santa, and ride roller coasters dressed in their winter best.

Williamsburg also offers family-friendly dining and cozy inns, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and holiday magic.

8. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Located in the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a fantastic winter destination for families who want a mix of outdoor adventure and indoor fun.

Winter hikes through the Smokies offer an opportunity to enjoy the crisp air while spotting wildlife and enjoying the winter scenery.

At Ober Gatlinburg, families can enjoy snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.

Inside, the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers a warm and fascinating escape, where kids can see everything from colorful fish to playful penguins.

The charming downtown area also features family-friendly attractions like mini-golf and arcades.

Read the ultimate guide to Gatlinburg, TN here.

9. Park City, Utah

Park City is an excellent destination for families with little kids, offering a range of winter activities that everyone can enjoy.

The resort’s ski schools provide beginner-friendly lessons, and several slopes are perfect for younger skiers to practice their skills.

For families who want to take a break from skiing, Park City also offers sleigh rides, snowshoeing, and even dog sledding for an unforgettable winter experience.

The town’s festive atmosphere, with its local shops, restaurants, and winter festivals, makes it an easy choice for a memorable family vacation.

Read the ultimate guide to Park City, UT here.

10. Reykjavik, Iceland

iceland

Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, offers a magical winter experience for families looking for something unique.

Visit the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa for a relaxing soak in warm waters while surrounded by snow-covered lava fields.

Families can also explore ice caves, visit glaciers, or take a guided tour to see the Northern Lights—an experience that will leave both kids and parents in awe.

Reykjavik itself is small and easy to navigate with kids, featuring cozy cafes and museums like the Icelandic National Museum, which offers kid-friendly exhibits on the country’s history.

Read the ultimate guide to Iceland here.

11. San Diego, California

For a winter vacation without the chill, San Diego offers an inviting warm-weather getaway.

The family can enjoy the city’s beautiful beaches, where the kids can play in the sand or dip their toes in the water.

The San Diego Zoo is a must-visit, with exhibits and animal encounters that are fun for both young kids and adults.

Balboa Park also has tons of hands-on museums like the Fleet Science Center and the San Diego Air & Space Museum, which are perfect for curious little minds.

12. Stowe, Vermont

stowe vermont

Stowe is a charming town in Vermont, known for its picturesque snowy landscapes and family-friendly atmosphere.

It offers a range of winter activities for the whole family, including ice skating on outdoor rinks and horse-drawn sleigh rides through the scenic countryside.

Stowe’s ski resort has slopes that are perfect for first-time skiers, and the resort’s friendly instructors make learning to ski an enjoyable experience for kids.

The town itself is quaint, with cozy restaurants and shops that make it easy to relax and enjoy the beauty of winter.

Read the ultimate guide to vacationing in Vermont here.

13. Kalahari Resorts (Multiple Locations)

water park

Kalahari Resorts are perfect for families who want to enjoy a winter vacation with a twist. These indoor waterparks are an oasis of fun, with everything from water slides and wave pools to lazy rivers and splash pads.

The resort also features themed accommodations, arcades, and family-friendly dining options.

Whether you’re looking to escape the cold or just want a fun-filled trip, Kalahari’s indoor waterparks provide the perfect environment for families to enjoy together, no matter the weather outside.

Read the guide here.

14. New York City, New York

new york city

New York City is magical during the winter months, especially for families who want to experience the excitement of the holidays.

The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is a must-see, and ice skating in Bryant Park is a fun winter activity for all ages.

Families can also enjoy kid-friendly Broadway shows, like The Lion King or Aladdin, or explore the city’s many museums, like the American Museum of Natural History, where children can marvel at dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits.

The city’s festive atmosphere and endless activities make it an unforgettable winter destination.

Read the guide to NYC here.

15. Honolulu, Hawaii

honolulu hawaii

For families looking to escape the cold, Honolulu offers a warm winter paradise.

Kids will love the island’s beautiful beaches, where they can snorkel in calm waters, build sandcastles, or learn to surf.

There are plenty of cultural activities for the whole family, like hula dancing lessons and visiting historic sites such as the Pearl Harbor Memorial.

Honolulu also has family-friendly resorts with pools, luaus, and other fun activities that allow for relaxation and exploration all year round.

Read the guide to Honolulu, Hawaii here

Closing Thoughts

No matter what kind of winter getaway you’re dreaming of, there’s a perfect destination waiting for your family.

If you’re chasing snow-covered adventures in Aspen, cozying up at an indoor waterpark, or escaping to sunny beaches in Honolulu, these spots offer something special for everyone.

The best part?

It’s all about making memories together—laughing on the slopes, exploring new places, or just enjoying a warm cup of cocoa after a day of fun.

So pack your bags, grab the kids, and get ready for a winter vacation your family will never forget!

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