Last Updated on September 17, 2025 by Tori Pines
It’s time to take advantage of your kids’ Christmas break from school and go on an awesome vacation. But you’re not sure where to go this year, the same old places sound boring. I have you covered with the best list of places to go for Christmas with kids, all within the USA. Because Europe and Mexico might sound incredible, but that’s not always possible. But this list has 15 incredible places to spend your holiday break, so that you won’t even need to travel to another country to have an epic time!
There’s just something even more magical about the holiday season when you have kids, isn’t there? Between the twinkling lights, festive traditions, and the promise of Santa’s arrival, Christmas feels even more special through their eyes. If you’re looking to take that holiday magic up a notch this year, planning a Christmas getaway makes it that much better! From snowy wonderlands that look like they’re straight out of a storybook to sunny escapes where you can trade in the hot cocoa for ice cream, there are so many incredible places to celebrate the holidays as a family. In this guide, I’m sharing the very best destinations to go for Christmas with kids. It’s places that will make the season unforgettable and maybe even start a new family tradition!
Map of the Best Places to go for Christmas with Kids
1. Helen, GA
I must start off the ultimate list of places to go for Christmas with kids with my absolute first choice, Helen, Georgia! If you’re looking for a Christmas getaway that feels like stepping into a storybook, then look no further! This tiny Bavarian-style village, just 1.5 hours from Atlanta, goes all out for the holidays and is such a magical place to visit with kids. For everything you need to know about Christmas in Helen read my article!
The season officially kicks off the weekend after Thanksgiving with the Lighting of the Village. There’s a huge Christmas tree, thousands of twinkling lights, festive music, and of course, a visit from Santa himself. The whole downtown glows, and your kids will be wide-eyed the entire time. But don’t worry if you can’t make the event, the festivities and lights run through New Year.
On weekends, don’t miss the Christkindlmarkt, Helen’s version of a traditional German holiday market. You’ll find stalls filled with handmade gifts, ornaments, and plenty of delicious treats. It’s such a fun way to get into the Christmas spirit (and maybe cross a few things off your shopping list, too!).
Families also love the Helen Christmas Parade, where floats, marching bands, and Santa roll right through the middle of town. And if you want something a little different, check out Victorian Christmas at Hardman Farm. The historic home is beautifully decorated, and kids will love the lights, music, and holiday activities.
And the older kids will beg to ride the Georgia Mountain Coaster over and over again! It sits on the side of the mountain overlooking downtown. It’s beautiful and thrilling and so much fun for the kids and parents to enjoy.
When you’re ready to burn off some energy, Helen is surrounded by beautiful nature. Take a short hike to Anna Ruby Falls or explore one of the nearby mountain trails. It’s the perfect balance of holiday fun and outdoor adventure.
For your stay, you can book a hotel right in town so you’re walking distance from everything, or go for a cozy cabin rental in the mountains. Either way, you’ll feel like you’re living inside a Christmas card.
2. Leavenworth, WA
Imagine your kids’ faces lighting up as you step into a real-life Christmas village, with Bavarian-style buildings, twinkling lights everywhere, and snowy mountains in the background. That’s exactly what you’ll find for Christmas in Leavenworth, Washington! It’s a tiny town in the mountains of Washington state that transforms into a holiday wonderland every December.
Leavenworth is one of the most festive towns in the U.S., and during Christmas, it feels like stepping straight into a snow globe. The downtown glows with over half a million lights, carolers sing holiday classics, and you’ll even find chestnuts roasting over an open fire. Families can sip hot cocoa (or glühwein for the grown-ups) while wandering the streets, and kids will love popping into the Nutcracker Museum, which houses more than 7,000 nutcrackers from around the world.
If your family loves the snow, this is the perfect place to play. Go sledding, snowshoeing, or try tubing at nearby parks like Lake Wenatchee State Park. Back in town, you can warm up with a hearty Bavarian meal. Pretzels, sausages, and German-style comfort food at spots like Cured by Visconti are always a hit.
For your stay, the Bavarian Lodge is a great family-friendly choice, with cozy rooms and incredible views of the surrounding Cascade Mountains. After a day of holiday adventures, it’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the festive atmosphere.
Leavenworth is pure Christmas magic for kids and adults alike, a snowy, storybook getaway your family will be talking about for years to come.
3. Pigeon Forge, TN
Pigeon Forge is one of the most fun and family-friendly places to spend Christmas in the mountains! Just 35 miles from Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson Airport, this small Tennessee town is bursting with holiday lights, kid-approved attractions, and plenty of mountain charm.
In December, the whole town glows with festive decorations, and the crisp mountain air (usually 30–50°F) adds to the holiday vibe. Kids will be wide-eyed at the sight of the 200-foot-tall Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, which lights up in red and green for Christmas. The views from the top are incredible, and it’s one of the most photographed spots in town.
Pigeon Forge is close to one of the best Polar Express rides in the country! Your kids will love hopping on the train and heading straight to the North Pole with hot cocoa and Santa sightings along the way.
Of course, no family Christmas trip to Pigeon Forge is complete without visiting Dollywood. Their Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration features over five million lights, holiday shows, seasonal treats, and all the theme park rides kids love. It’s pure magic!
For dinner and entertainment rolled into one, check out Dolly Parton’s Stampede. Their Christmas show is packed with live music, special effects, and horses, plus a four-course feast served right at your seat. It’s one of the most popular holiday experiences in town, especially with kids.
And if you really want to lean into the Christmas spirit, book a stay at the Inn at Christmas Place, Pigeon Forge’s only Christmas-themed hotel. With festive decorations year-round and plenty of family-friendly amenities, it’s the perfect home base for your holiday getaway.
From theme park fun to mountain views and twinkling lights, Pigeon Forge makes for a Christmas vacation your kids will be talking about long after the holiday season ends.
4. San Antonio, TX
Looking for a Christmas getaway that’s packed with family fun and festive cheer in a GORGEOUS setting? San Antonio is the place to be! From dazzling light displays to heartwarming holiday traditions, this city knows how to celebrate the season. We took our 5 month old there one year just before Christmas and had so much fun!
For holiday magic, head to SeaWorld San Antonio’s Christmas Celebration, featuring one of the largest light displays in Texas, festive shows, and visits from Santa Claus. Or, experience the thrill of Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, where the park transforms into a winter wonderland with holiday lights, shows, and special appearances by Santa.
Don’t miss the enchanting Zoo Lights at the San Antonio Zoo, where you can wander through miles of dazzling lights, enjoy festive music, and hop aboard the Holiday Express for a musical journey through the zoo.
And for a truly unique experience, visit the Natural Bridge Caverns for “Christmas at the Caverns,” where you can enjoy holiday-themed tours and activities in a stunning underground setting.
But the best part? Staying at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa is an absolute must. This resort goes all out for the holidays with its annual Hill Country Christmas, running from late November through early January, and there’s something magical for every member of the family. There’s ice slides and beautifully carved winter scenes, a real snow tubing hill and Santa himself!
With so many festive events and activities, San Antonio is the perfect destination for a memorable Christmas with your little ones!
5. Denver, CO
Looking for a festive family getaway in a snowy spot? Denver is bursting with holiday cheer and kid-friendly fun that will make your Christmas vacation so much fun.
A must-see is the Polar Express Train Ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum. This enchanting experience brings the beloved story to life with a train ride to the North Pole, complete with hot cocoa, cookies, and a visit from Santa. It’s a heartwarming tradition that captures the magic of Christmas.
For an indoor winter wonderland, head to the Gaylord Rockies Resort in Aurora. From mid November to early January, the resort hosts an immersive exhibit with over 6,000 hand-carved ice sculptures, thrilling ice slides, and other festive activities like gingerbread decorating and photos with Santa.
Don’t miss the Denver Botanic Gardens’ Blossoms of Light, where the gardens transform into a glowing spectacle with over a million lights. It’s a beautiful and serene way to enjoy the holiday season.
With so many festive activities, Denver offers a magical Christmas experience for families. Whether you’re riding the Polar Express or strolling through twinkling lights, there’s holiday magic around every corner.
6. Boston, MA
Boston is full of festive cheer during the holidays, and it’s an amazing city to explore with kids at Christmas! Sure, there’s a lot of history they might find slightly boring, but there’s also super fun activities and delicious seafood! From twinkling lights to interactive museums and seasonal shows, there’s something magical around every corner. I grew up here and spent many many Christmases in Boston as a kid and love all my memories from here, and I know your kids will too.
Start your holiday adventure at the Museum of Science, where the annual Winter Lights and seasonal exhibits bring hands-on learning to life. Kids will love interactive displays, planetarium shows, and holiday-themed experiments that keep them engaged while getting into the Christmas spirit.
A visit to Boston isn’t complete without a Duck Tour. During the holidays, the city adds festive lights and decorations to the tour, giving kids a unique way to see the city both on land and in the water. It’s fun, educational, and a great way to keep little ones entertained.
Of course, no Boston Christmas is complete without seeing The Nutcracker. The Boston Ballet’s production is a classic holiday tradition, and children are mesmerized by the sparkling costumes, magical sets, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic music. It’s a perfect way to introduce kids to the magic of ballet and holiday storytelling.
Other family-friendly stops include the Boston Common Holiday Lights, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, and wandering the streets to see the city’s twinkling decorations. Warm up with hot chocolate or cider while strolling, and don’t forget to snap some festive family photos!
With museums, performances, lights, and unique city adventures, Boston makes for an unforgettable Christmas getaway with kids. It’s the perfect mix of holiday magic and family fun!
7. New York, NY
New York City might be one of the busiest places in the world, but at Christmas, it completely transforms into a magical holiday playground for families. From over-the-top decorations to festive markets to iconic holiday traditions, visiting NYC with kids at Christmas is an experience they’ll never forget. I’m proof, I’ll never forget the year my parents treated us to a trip to New York City for Christmas, it was one of the best holidays of my childhood!
Getting to New York is easy, with three major airports (JFK, Newark, and LaGuardia). Once you arrive, bundle up, December weather is usually pretty cold, and sometimes you’ll even get lucky with a white Christmas.
The city is packed with holiday fun for families. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a must-see, and kids will love ice skating beneath the sparkling lights during a night in New York City. Another favorite? The incredible Christmas lights in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn. Whole blocks are covered in decorations so bright and bold it feels like Christmas exploded! Holiday markets like the ones at Bryant Park and Union Square are also fun stops where kids can browse festive stalls and maybe snag a warm pretzel or hot cocoa.
Be sure to catch the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, and stroll past the decked out windows at Macy’s!
If you’re planning a special family meal, you can’t go wrong with classic New York pizza at Joe’s Pizza or even a kid-friendly diner like Ellen’s Stardust Diner where the servers sing and dance on the tables, it’s SO much fun. We also loooove eating at Eataly for some of the best and most authentic Italian food in the states!! But if you want a splurge night, The View, a rotating restaurant overlooking Times Square will blow your kids away! I remember dinner here as a little girl at Christmas and thought it was the most special dinner ever.
For where to stay, families love hotels near Times Square or Central Park, so you’re close to the action. If you want to go all out, The Plaza Hotel is one of the most iconic places to spend the holidays, and kids will love that it’s the very hotel featured in Eloise at the Plaza (and Eloise at Christmastime!) and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.
From skating and sightseeing to simply soaking in the dazzling lights, Christmas in New York is an unforgettable family adventure that will leave your kids wide-eyed with holiday wonder.
8. Nashville, TN
If you’re looking for a festive family Christmas getaway, Nashville is full of magical holiday fun that kids (and adults!) will love. From twinkling lights to seasonal shows and Santa sightings, the city really knows how to get into the Christmas spirit. I live in Nashville, so I’m biased, but I truly love spending Christmas here with my kids!
My #1 must-see for families is the Gaylord Opryland Resort (and as you’ll see in the list below, I think it’s worth visiting all of the Gaylord hotels in the country at Christmas!). From early November through early January, the resort transforms into a HUGE winter wonderland with over three million lights, ICE! (an indoor ice sculpture exhibit), ice tubing, bumper cars on ice, gingerbread decorating, and a snowman scavenger hunt. Santa is there too, so don’t forget your camera! We have so much fun wandering with cocoa in hand and letting the kids marvel at the lights display!
Our new favorite thing to do in Nashville at Christmas now that we have kids is Zoolumination at the Nashville Zoo. There’s over 100 giant Chinese lanterns shaped like animals that light up the paths, and an entire Christmas village. It’s colorful, fun, and includes many live animals to spot along the way! Plus, Santa is here on select nights!
Another favorite is Cheekwood Holiday Lights. The estate and gardens light up with over a million sparkling lights, and there are fun activities for kids like s’mores stations and holiday crafts.
Finally, don’t miss the Dancing Lights of Christmas at the Wilson County Fairgrounds. This drive-thru light show has synchronized displays, plus Santa’s Village and a petting zoo, so your little ones can enjoy the holiday magic without ever leaving the car (or take a short walk if they want!).
A few other kid-friendly ways to spend Christmas in Nashville include Christmas shows at the Grand Ole Opry, a ride on the General Jackson Show Boat and Nashville’s Nutcracker! Plus, Broadway is kid-friendly during the day, so you can explore the classic Honky Tonks with kids in tow. But for more ideas be sure to read my post all about Christmas in Nashville.
With so many kid-friendly events, Nashville makes a holiday trip feel truly special. Whether you’re exploring sparkling gardens, visiting Santa, or marveling at giant lanterns, this city is full of Christmas memories waiting to be made.
9. Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., transforms into a festive haven during the holiday season, offering families a magical experience filled with lights, music, and cherished traditions.
A must-see is the National Christmas Tree located on the Ellipse near the White House. This iconic tree is adorned with handmade ornaments from all 50 states and U.S. territories. The surrounding Pageant of Peace features nightly musical performances, fun for visitors of all ages.
Yet another one of the places to go for Christmas with kids that has a fun Zoo event, head to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo` for ZooLights. From late November through early January, the zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland with over 500,000 lights, animated displays, and live music. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the season and see the animals in a new light.
No holiday season is complete without experiencing the magic of The Nutcracker. The Washington Ballet presents this classic ballet at the Warner Theatre, captivating audiences with its enchanting story and beautiful choreography. It’s a perfect introduction to the arts for young children and a cherished tradition for families.
As I mentioned above, I’m a huge fan of the Gaylord Hotels’ holiday displays, so you can’t miss the one in DC! The Gaylord National Resort at National Harbor, hosts the annual Christmas at Gaylord National celebration from mid November to early January. This immersive experience brings beloved holiday traditions to life with dazzling displays, festive activities, and interactive exhibits.
With its festive lights, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities, Washington, D.C., offers a memorable Christmas experience for families seeking holiday cheer.
10. Anaheim, CA
I couldn’t make a list of places to go for Christmas with kids without including the beloved Anaheim, California! Of course the main reason we go is for Disneyland, but there are so many other great things to do during the holidays! Plus, you could make this just one stop on a much longer Southern California road trip!
A must-see is the Disneyland Resort, where the holiday season runs from mid November through early January. The park is decked out with thousands of twinkling lights, garlands, and festive decorations. Families can enjoy classic attractions with a holiday twist, such as Haunted Mansion Holiday and “it’s a small world” Holiday. The A Christmas Fantasy Parade brings Disney characters to life, and nightly fireworks light up the sky during the Believe… in Holiday Magic show.
For an enchanting off-park experience, head to Enchant Christmas at Santa Anita Park. From mid November to late December, this award-winning holiday event features the world’s largest Christmas light maze, an ice skating trail, snow slides, and festive photo opportunities.
Our favorite spot to eat in Anaheim is the Anaheim Packing District Food Hall. There are tons of delicious local restaurants jammed into one huge building. You and the kids can all pick out something different to eat and then sit together. It’s so much fun and the food is really so good. I personally love ZeroZero39 Pizzeria for authentic Roman street food style pizza that is to die for.
Whether you’re exploring Disneyland’s festive attractions or wandering through the luminous pathways of Enchant Christmas, Anaheim offers a holiday experience that will create lasting memories for the whole family.
11. Oahu, HI
Sometimes the best places to go for Christmas with kids means snowmen, sledding, and hot cocoa by the fire. But other times you just want to escape to somewhere warm and fun where your kids can trade snow boots for swimsuits. That’s when it’s time to hop on a flight to Oahu, Hawaii for a tropical holiday your whole family will never forget.
Flights can take anywhere from 5 to 12 hours depending on where you live in the States, but don’t let that scare you off. With school out for winter break, it’s the perfect chance to make the trip! Oahu’s winter days are warm and sunny, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot humpback whales right off the coast.
Oahu has a great mix of family-friendly attractions and unique island experiences that kids (and parents!) will love. There is SO much to do on Oahu! During the holidays, the island hosts fun celebrations like the gorgeous light displays at Honolulu City Lights and ’Twas the Light Before Christmas, festive markets like the Holiday Art Fair, and even a Gingerbread Display at the Moana Surfrider. And the classic Ala Moana Hula Shows turn festive all month long!
Of course, beach days will be a big part of the trip, but make sure to get out and explore too! Drive up to the North Shore where it’s much less touristy and more authentic to try the famous Giovanni’s Shrimp, watch the sunrise from Diamond Head, hike some of the other awesome trails on Oahu, or and learn to surf on Waikiki Beach! It’s the perfect mix of adventure and family bonding time.
Where you stay can shape your trip, too. I personally love the Sheraton Waikiki, but the Hilton Hawaiian Village is great for families. And don’t forget the food! Kids will love digging into Hula Pie at Duke’s (trust me, it’s the best thing you can eat on the islands). For dinner, Marugame Udon is always a hit with kids.
No matter how you spend your days, relaxing at the beach, chasing waterfalls, or soaking in holiday festivities, oahu makes for a magical and memorable Christmas with kids.
12. Grand Canyon, AZ
If you’re looking for places to go for Christmas with kids that includes more outdoor adventure, the Grand Canyon is an incredible destination for families. The winter months bring a peaceful, snow-dusted wonderland to the South Rim, perfect for exploring without the crowds. Plus, the crisp air and sparkling vistas make every hike or viewpoint feel extra magical. We went to the Grand Canyon recently with our toddler and had the BEST time showing her one of the most incredible destinations in the US!
One of the best family experiences during the holidays is the Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express in nearby Williams, Arizona. Kids (and adults!) will love boarding the vintage train in their pajamas for a 90-minute ride to the “North Pole.” Along the way, they’ll enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and a reading of the classic holiday story. Santa even makes a personal stop, handing out keepsake gifts to every child. It’s pure holiday magic!
Back at the canyon, there’s still plenty to do. Bundle up and explore the Rim Trail for easy walks with jaw-dropping views, or check out the visitor center for fun educational exhibits about the park. Many local lodges and hotels decorate for the season, creating cozy spots for hot chocolate or a warm family meal after a day of exploring. We stayed at the Thunderbird Lodge and loved the views of the canyon from our window!
Whether it’s your first trip to the Grand Canyon or a return visit, winter brings a quieter, cozier side of the park. Pair that with a ride on the Polar Express, and you’ve got a Christmas adventure your kids will remember forever.
13. Orlando, FL
It wouldn’t be a list of places to go for Christmas with kids if I didn’t include the ever-so-popular Orlando, Florida. It’s obvious why this city is included on like every list of places to take kids, but Christmas is just that much more special! Sure, it will be packed with everyone else enjoying their Christmas vacation, but it’s worth it, I promise!
First stop, Disney World to see the parks decked out in all of the lights and holiday decor. Some of the rides even change slightly for the Christmas season! There’s a special holiday show at each park this time of year like the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom and Candlelight Processional at Epcot. And don’t miss the holiday-themed treats like gingerbread cookies and peppermint churros!
The other parks like Seaworld and Universal are worth visiting too for their special holiday decor and events too!
In downtown Orlando you can enjoy other events and activities. I recommend the Holiday Train ride around Lake Eola Park and the Merry Market. You can see light displays at “Now Snowing in Celebration” and “Oh, What Fun! Holiday Festival!”
And as usual, I highly recommend staying at the Gaylord Palms! Another Gaylord hotel with incredible lights display and events. Wander the atrium and admire the gorgeous lights, go ice skating, or race the kids down the sledding hill!
14. Asheville, NC
Asheville, North Carolina, is one of the most magical places to celebrate Christmas with kids. Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, this artsy, vibrant town transforms during the holidays into a festive mix of twinkling lights, cozy mountain vibes, and family fun.
You can fly into Asheville’s small airport (with plenty of connections from the East Coast) or make it a road trip if you’re coming from the Southeast. Once you’re in town, plan to stay a few nights, there’s so much to see and do during the holiday season.
The biggest Christmas highlight for families is the Biltmore Estate. This massive mansion and grounds are decked out with trees, garlands, and thousands of lights. Kids will love exploring the grand rooms decorated in full holiday splendor, and the whole family can stroll through the glowing gardens after dark. Special events, carolers, and seasonal treats make it an extra magical experience.
Downtown Asheville is also a great spot for families. You’ll find street performers, unique shops, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants. Many local spots go big with holiday decorations, and there are seasonal markets where kids can browse crafts and goodies. For a sweet stop, check out French Broad Chocolate Lounge for hot cocoa or decadent desserts.
Asheville is also close to one of the same Polar Express I mentioned in the Pigeon Forge section above! Your kids will love hopping on the train and heading straight to the North Pole with hot cocoa and Santa sightings along the way.
As for where to stay? I think it’s totally worth it to splurge on the Grove Park Inn. Their famous gingerbread competition each Christmas will blow the kids away!
With its mountain scenery, festive atmosphere, and the one-of-a-kind Biltmore Christmas, Asheville is a holiday getaway that will wow the kids and leave parents loving it just as much.
15. Myrtle Beach, SC
If your family loves the idea of celebrating Christmas by the ocean, Myrtle Beach is a fantastic place to go! Imagine opening presents in the morning and then heading straight to the beach to play in the sand. It’s the perfect way to mix holiday traditions with a fun family getaway. My family has spent many Christmas days here and love it every time.
Myrtle Beach is already known as a family-friendly destination with so many great things to do in Myrtle, and during the holidays it gets even more festive. One of the top things to do in December is the Night of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens, just a short drive away. The gardens glow with thousands of lights and candles, holiday music fills the air, and there are festive treats like hot cocoa and cider. Kids will be in awe wandering through the magical displays, it’s truly a holiday highlight.
Back in town, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is a fun place to stroll, grab a bite, and enjoy the ocean views and holiday light display. For food, there are tons of family-friendly options in the area including Bubba’s Fish Shack and River City Café are casual favorites, while spots like Sea Captain’s House offer a more classic Myrtle Beach experience.
For where to stay, families love the resorts along the oceanfront for easy beach access and great pools. The Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes is a top pick, with big rooms, family amenities, and plenty of space to relax between holiday outings.
With twinkling lights, beach days, and festive events, Myrtle Beach is a warm and wonderful place to spend Christmas with kids.
No matter which destination you choose, the holidays are all about making memories with your little ones. From magical theme parks to snowy mountain towns or sunny beach escapes, there’s something special waiting for every family. So pack your favorite holiday sweaters, grab the cocoa, and get ready to create a Christmas your kids will remember for years to come.
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