5 Best Winter Vacations for Families in the Cold Weather Months

When the weather outside is frightful, it can be very tempting to hop on a plane and escape reality for a little while. Whether you’re interested in embracing all that winter has to offer or would prefer to steal away to a warmer climate, here are the five best winter vacations for families.

1. LAPLAND, FINLAND

If your family wants to dive headfirst into a winter wonderland, look no further than Lapland, Finland. Lapland is not only where you’ll find Santa’s hometown, but it’s also a great spot to gaze at the Northern Lights

Photo by Flickr user Chris

2. CHARLESON, SOUTH CAROLINA

Charleston, South Carolina, is quickly becoming one of the hottest destinations in the United States, and it is a great spot to head when the weather gets cold. While Charleston summers may be too hot to handle, their winters are fairly temperate and make strolling around this historic city much more pleasant. Enjoy a southern brunch at Hominy Grill, then take the kids to the South Carolina Aquarium – both of these popular spots are way less crowded in the winter, making it one of the best winter vacations for families.

Photo by Tara Molloy

3. BRECKENRIDGE, COLORADO

From its clean mountain air to freshly powdered slopes, Breckenridge, Colorado, is one of the best winter family vacations you can take. Breckenridge Ski Resort offers skiing and snowboard lessons for kids (or adult beginners!) from world-class instructors against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Even if winter sports aren’t your thing, Breckenridge still offers plenty to do. Check out the Mountain Top Children’s Museum or plan your visit around the Breckenridge Snow Sculpture Championship.

Photo by Flickr user Ryan Fonkert

4. BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA

If you’re ready to ditch winter entirely, head south of the equator and take in some sunshine in Brisbane, AustraliaYou’ll find everything while here, from pristine beaches and relaxing parks to a koala sanctuary that little ones will love.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Fun things for kids to do in brisbane

Photo by Carolynn

5. BUCERIAS, MEXICO

Each year at the end of January, hundreds of people gather in Bucerías, Mexico, for a weeklong celebration of Our Lady of Peace. The festival concludes on January 24th with a blessing of the town’s fishing fleet, to bring good fortune to the fishermen for the coming year. It’s the perfect place to go if you want to flee the cold weather and infuse a little culture into your winter family vacation.

Bucerias with kids

Photo by Josie Landucci