If you are looking for family vacation Christmas ideas, you have come to the right place. While staying home during the holiday season has its advantages, there is always something unique about waking up on Christmas day away from everything familiar. Whether you are dreaming of warm weather or winter wonderlands, we have gathered the perfect holiday travel ideas for you. And, word to the wise, you may want to book a Christmas getaway bus rental along with accommodations to avoid peak travel time and savor each minute of your Christmas family holidays without worrying about driving.
#1. Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Get into the holiday spirit in a true winter wonderland. Steamboat Springs, CO, tops our list of best Christmas holidays for families who enjoy skiing but want something more. Spend Christmas in a charming mountain town straight out of “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Whether you enjoy cozying up by the fire with a mug of hot chocolate (and some extra marshmallows on top), going on romantic sleigh rides, or embracing all winter sports, Steamboat Springs has something for you. Do not forget to make reservations for your Christmas dinner if you want to eat out since restaurants tend to fill rapidly.
#2. New York City, New York
The Big Apple certainly knows how to embrace the Christmas spirit, and a visit to the most famous city in America makes for a fun Christmas vacation for the whole family. NYC embraces the holiday magic with a flurry of Christmas activities. From a family-friendly show on Broadway to admiring the twinkling lights throughout the city, there is something for everyone. Take advantage of your vacation to reenact your favorite Hallmark movie by going ice skating under the Rockefeller Christmas tree (or book tickets to attend the tree lighting ceremony) and admiring the light displays on 5th Avenue.
#3. Leavenworth, Washington
If you are wondering where to travel at Christmas with family, may we suggest Leavenworth, WA? This charming city is straight out of a European fairy tale, making it the perfect setting for some of the best Christmas vacations in the US if you would like to add some international flavor to your family's Christmas without paying for expensive plane tickets. The Christmas season is the perfect time to visit this Bavarian-themed town, with 500,000 Christmas lights on display and live music and holiday concerts galore. The Bavarian Ice festival in January concludes the festivities if you are looking for a later getaway.
#4. Stowe, Vermont
If you are dreaming of a white Christmas, then Stowe, VT, is one of the best places to take kids for Christmas. Families visiting the area love staying at the Von Trapp lodge, settled by the Von Trapp family of the Sound of Music fame. Located close to the slopes, Stowe offers a plethora of fun winter activities, such as alpine and cross-country skiing and ice skating, but you can also opt for a more restful holiday season and opt to sip hot cocoa by the fire and build a gingerbread house instead.
#5. Yosemite National Park, California
If you are looking for ideas for Christmas vacations for families who enjoy the outdoors, then Yosemite National Park may be one of the best places to visit for Christmas with families. Save yourself a trip to the north pole by enjoying a sleigh ride to Curry’s village, or hit the slopes.
#6. Grand Canyon, Arizona
The Grand Canyon may not be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking about Christmas holiday destinations with family, but it is the perfect time to explore a famous site without crowds. You can even hop on the Polar Express for a visit to Santa Claus.
#7. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Christmas time is the perfect time to explore the charming little town of Gatlinburg. Nestled in the heart of the Smokies, Gatlinburg features arts and crafts Christmas markets for last-minute presents, a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, and a Christmas parade, making for one of the best Christmas getaways.
#8. El Paso, Texas
Head south for your next Christmas break to discover the traditional celebrations in the weeks leading to Christmas in El Paso, Texas. Featuring Christmas markets and public posadas, a traditional party taking place every night for nine days leading to Christmas Eve, El Paso turns into a real Christmas city every year.
#9. St. Augustine, Florida
If you want to take advantage of your Christmas vacation to escape the cold weather, then St Augustine, the oldest city in America, maybe one of the best Christmas breaks for families. Featuring glorious Christmas decorations in the historic district and fun historical tours, this sunny city has something for everyone. If you have beach bums in the family, head down the Florida keys, all the way to Key West. Of course, you can also include a day trip to some of Florida's amusement parks, like Disney World, and make it one of the best Christmas vacations for families.
#10. Chicago, Illinois
If you do not feel like traveling this holiday season, have no fear, for Windy City has plenty to offer. It is the perfect occasion to play tourist in your own town, checking out the Christmas markets for some last-minute gifts, planning a trip to Santa Claus Village in Dundee, IL, or even booking a babysitter and dressing up for a cheeky wine tasting in that bar you have been meaning to check out for years. The holidays can be stressful, and sometimes, going back to the essentials is just what you need to start the new year on the right foot.
Conclusion
These ten destinations are only some of the few among many options for fun Christmas vacations. Other possibilities include skiing or riding in Jackson Hole, WY, or Park City, UT, having some family fun at Silver Dollar City, or visiting the National Christmas Tree in Washington DC in all its glory. No matter what your ideal Christmas vacation looks like, booking a Christmas vacation charter bus rental for all your destinations near and far is the best way to pack in some extra family time without having to worry about driving or flying. Contact us for a personalized quote today!
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