There’s nothing quite like packing up the car, bundling the kids in layers, and heading somewhere snowy for a change of scenery. Whether your family’s all about ski days and sledding hills or just craving quiet mornings and a little fresh air, winter getaways have a way of bringing everyone closer.
Here are a few of our favorite spots to soak up the season. They’ve got the views, the snow, and that little bit of winter magic we all need this time of year.
Telluride feels like it was pulled straight from a snow globe. It’s tucked away in a box canyon, surrounded by dramatic peaks and full of charm you can actually feel when you walk through town. It's a little bit rugged, a little bit magical, and a lot of fun for families.
Days here are full of snow-covered adventure, and evenings are for cozying up and soaking in the quiet. If your family loves the outdoors but also appreciates a slower pace, Telluride is worth the trip.
Check out our Telluride Travel Guide for the basics.
Steamboat is a family favorite for a reason - it’s laid-back, friendly, and full of that old-school Colorado charm. There’s plenty of snow, plenty of space, and just enough going on to keep everyone happy without feeling overwhelmed.
It’s the kind of place where your kids can be loud, messy, and totally in their element—and you can actually enjoy the vacation too.
Want to learn more? Take a look at our Steamboat Springs guide for ideas.
Jackson Hole isn’t polished or prim - and that’s exactly what we love about it. It’s wild in the best way, with wide open views, snow-covered everything, and that feeling of being really, truly out there.
If your family leans toward adventure and loves the idea of spotting wildlife, playing hard, and unplugging for a few days, this place delivers. Jackson Hole makes winter feel big and bold and unforgettable.
Start with our Jackson Hole travel guide.
Don’t sleep on a Midwest winter - especially in Traverse City. When the lake freezes and the snow rolls in, this town turns into a cozy, wintery dream. There’s plenty to explore, but it’s the simple stuff that makes it special: sledding, bonfires, ice-covered trees, and downtown shops strung with lights.
It’s a little slower-paced, and that’s what makes it perfect. Families can just breathe, play, and enjoy the season without the pressure to do too much.
Curious about this little gem? Our Traverse City guide is a good place to start.
Vail is big. Like, really big. But somehow, it still manages to feel warm and welcoming - especially if you’re traveling with kids in tow. There’s no shortage of things to do, whether your crew is all in on skiing or just along for the hot cocoa.
It’s definitely on the fancier side, but there’s enough variety to make it work for almost any family - especially if you’re up for a mix of adventure and ease.
Want to get a feel for it? Head to our Vail travel guide to get started.
Wherever You Go, Make It Yours
Winter doesn’t have to be spent indoors. With the right layers and a little planning, these snowy destinations become the backdrop for some of your best family memories - messy, silly, beautiful ones that stick around long after the snow melts.
Before you hit the road, stock up on gear that can handle all the snow angels, sled runs, and cocoa spills at northernclassics.com.