10 Fabulous Places to Spend the Holidays with Kids

Has holiday party chatter gotten you thinking about a winter family getaway before the season ends? Look no further than these Ciao Bambino-vetted properties, sure to deliver whoops of joy to all and ripe for making memories that will keep your family riding high into 2016 and beyond.

Best Holiday Destinations for Families

Hotel del Coronado, California

Winter sun seekers rave about this picturesque property with a gorgeous beach and plenty of onsite amenities. Families will enjoy water sports, children’s programs, multiple restaurants and an eager-to-please staff — and the resort’s beachfront ice skating rink is a treat during the holidays. Those looking for adventures farther afield can take advantage of all that San Diego has to offer — but be warned, you may not want to leave your beautifully appointed rooms.

Omni Mount Washington Resort, New Hampshire

In search of an old-fashioned hotel atmosphere with a wide range of accommodation options? Look no further than the Omni Mount Washington in New Hampshire. Guests will enjoy the shuttle service to nearby Bretton Woods for skiing, as well as the onsite kids’ club and year-round indoor/outdoor pools. Sprinkle in a little extra winter cheer with an excursion to nearby Santa’s Village.

The Breakers, Florida

Succumb to the lure of the ocean at The Breakers in Palm Beach, an idyllic spot to call home on a winter vacation. In addition to the sun-drenched oceanfront setting, kids will be delighted with the extensive amenities, including a kids’ club (with themed days during the holiday season), an arcade, a movie theater and a playground. Parents will also enjoy the choice of family or adults-only pools. Special holiday teas, brunches and more add to the festive air.

Langham Place 5th Avenue, New York

If you’re ready to be dazzled by the holidays in New York City, Langham Place 5th Avenue is the perfect Midtown oasis, with all of Manhattan at your doorstep. After full days of sightseeing and shopping, your family will savor this full-service property, complete with personal assistants for each guest, a spa and thoughtful winter touches like afternoon hot cider. Special holiday packages are available and the Langham staff is happy to arrange amenities such as an in-room Christmas tree or outings such as a private tour of holiday sites around the city.

Sonnenalp Resort of Vail, Colorado

Dreaming of sugarplums and snowflakes? Vail is calling — and the Sonnenalp Resort will make you feel like you’ve landed in an inviting European mountain lodge. Nestled in the heart of Vail Village, Sonnenalp offers a kids’ club and an indoor/outdoor pool, plus activities such as cookie decorating and Santa Claus visits. It’s also steps away from restaurants and shops, and a quick shuttle ride to the ski area.

Boston Harbor Hotel, Massachusetts 

If a break in Beantown sounds up your alley, then consider making the Boston Harbor Hotel your winter haven. Ideally situated on the waterfront, this lovely property will make exploring Boston a breeze. Kids will enjoy the welcome gift and games, and the heated indoor pool will warm everyone up after sightseeing. Take advantage of the Winter on the Wharf program for ice skating and more.

Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa, Vermont

Stowe is an appealing and accessible East Coast winter destination, and a stay at Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa makes for a splendid holiday treat, from a Winter Olympics-style competition for kids to a Christmas Eve reading of The Night Before Christmas. This family-run property, with an eye on outstanding service, has an award-winning spa, plenty of onsite activities and a complimentary shuttle to the Stowe ski area.

Montage Laguna Beach, California

Itching for a break to sunny SoCal? Montage Laguna Beach has the stellar service, gorgeous oceanfront locale, and targeted toddler, kids’ and teen club offerings to make everyone in the family happy. Holiday family photo sessions and seasonal spa treatments will win parents’ hearts. You may never want to leave this stunning setting, but you can easily hop on the hotel shuttle for access to nearby restaurants and shopping for a change of pace.

Hawks Cay Resort, Florida

If you close your eyes and envision being whisked away to the warm and colorful Florida Keys, then Hawks Cay Resort is the choice for you. The whole family will defrost in no time flat as you relish this property’s West Indies vibe, complete with saltwater lagoon and pools, a kids’ club and onsite dining. Kids will be talking about the dolphin experience and the pirate pool, plus the special Elf-Tuck In, for months!

The Sagamore Resort, New York

It’s hard to go wrong with a winter retreat to the Adirondacks, or with the Sagamore Resort. This historic grand dame has been welcoming guests for more than 100 years, and it doesn’t disappoint. Kids will enjoy the indoor pool and the winter children’s programming, including movie nights and gingerbread house making. Meanwhile, parents will be beckoned by the spa and salon as well as the new Ice Bar & Lounge.

Relevant Links:

Browse family-friendly ski trips and winter vacation ideas on Ciao Bambino

Winter holidays in Europe

Dreaming of Christmas in Tuscany

Editor’s Note: Photos courtesy of the individual properties pictured.