Best Family Hotels for Christmas Vacation
Christmas is a time for family, joy, and creating lasting memories. What better way to celebrate the holidays than with a magical vacation at a family-friendly hotel? Choosing the right hotel can transform your Christmas getaway from ordinary to extraordinary. This article delves into some of the best family hotels for Christmas vacations, highlighting what makes them special and why they might be the perfect choice for your family this holiday season.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Family Hotel for Christmas
Before diving into specific hotel recommendations, it’s important to consider the factors that make a hotel truly family-friendly, especially during the Christmas season. These considerations will help you narrow down your options and choose a hotel that caters to your family’s unique needs and preferences.
Location, Location, Location
The location of the hotel is paramount. Are you dreaming of a snowy mountain escape, a sunny beach getaway, or a vibrant city experience? Consider your family’s interests and choose a location that offers activities everyone will enjoy. Hotels near Christmas markets, ski resorts, or theme parks are always popular choices.
Kid-Friendly Amenities
Look for hotels that offer a wide range of kid-friendly amenities. These might include kids’ clubs, game rooms, swimming pools (indoor ones are great for winter!), playgrounds, and special children’s menus. A hotel that caters to children will keep them entertained and allow parents to relax and enjoy their vacation.
Festive Activities and Entertainment
During Christmas, many hotels go above and beyond to create a festive atmosphere. Look for hotels that offer special Christmas-themed activities such as visits from Santa Claus, Christmas carolers, holiday crafts, gingerbread house decorating, and festive storytelling. Live entertainment is also a big plus.
Dining Options
Consider the dining options available at the hotel. Does it offer a variety of restaurants to suit different tastes? Are there kid-friendly menus and options for picky eaters? A hotel with a fantastic Christmas dinner buffet or a special holiday brunch can be a real treat.
Room Size and Configuration
Ensure that the hotel rooms are large enough to comfortably accommodate your family. Suites or connecting rooms are ideal for families who need extra space. Also, consider the availability of cribs, rollaway beds, and other amenities for young children.
Budget Considerations
Christmas vacations can be expensive, so it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Look for hotels that offer special Christmas packages or discounts for families. Consider booking in advance to secure the best rates.
Top Family Hotels for a Magical Christmas Vacation
Now that we’ve covered the key considerations, let’s explore some of the top family hotels around the world that offer unforgettable Christmas experiences.
1. The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
The Broadmoor is a luxury resort that goes all out for Christmas. The entire resort is beautifully decorated with twinkling lights, festive garlands, and towering Christmas trees. The hotel offers a wide range of Christmas-themed activities, including a Christmas Eve dinner, a Christmas Day brunch, and a holiday show. Kids will love the Broadmoor’s kids’ club, which offers supervised activities and games.
The Broadmoor boasts stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, providing a picturesque backdrop for your Christmas vacation. The resort features multiple swimming pools (both indoor and outdoor), a state-of-the-art fitness center, a spa, and several restaurants ranging from casual to fine dining. The Christmas festivities include ice skating shows, gingerbread village displays, and visits from Santa Claus himself.
For accommodation, The Broadmoor offers a variety of options from standard rooms to spacious suites. Consider booking a suite for extra space and comfort, especially if you have young children. The resort’s impeccable service and attention to detail ensure a memorable and stress-free Christmas vacation for the whole family.
2. Hotel del Coronado, San Diego, California, USA
For a Christmas vacation with a beachy twist, the Hotel del Coronado is an excellent choice. This iconic hotel, located on Coronado Island near San Diego, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays. The hotel’s beachfront location provides a unique setting for Christmas celebrations, with palm trees adorned with lights and a giant ice-skating rink overlooking the ocean.
The Hotel del Coronado offers a variety of Christmas-themed activities, including holiday movies on the beach, ice skating, and visits from Santa Claus. The hotel also hosts a spectacular Christmas Eve dinner and a Christmas Day brunch. Kids will love building sandcastles on the beach and playing in the ocean (weather permitting, of course!).
The hotel features multiple restaurants, ranging from casual beachfront eateries to upscale dining establishments. The rooms and suites are elegantly decorated and offer stunning views of the ocean or the San Diego skyline. The Hotel del Coronado provides a perfect blend of festive cheer and beachside relaxation, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a unique Christmas vacation.
3. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Orlando, Florida, USA
For a truly magical Christmas experience, look no further than Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. This luxurious resort, located at Walt Disney World in Orlando, is decked out in its holiday finest during Christmas. The lobby features a towering gingerbread house that is truly a work of art. The resort offers a variety of Christmas-themed activities, including caroling, storytelling, and visits from Santa Claus.
Staying at the Grand Floridian provides easy access to all of the Disney theme parks, allowing you to experience the magic of Disney during the holidays. The parks are beautifully decorated for Christmas and offer special holiday parades, shows, and fireworks. The resort itself boasts multiple swimming pools, a spa, and several restaurants, including character dining experiences.
The rooms and suites at the Grand Floridian are spacious and elegantly decorated, with many offering views of the Magic Kingdom. The resort’s exceptional service and attention to detail ensure a memorable and magical Christmas vacation for the whole family. However, be prepared for higher prices during the Christmas season, as this is a very popular time to visit Disney World.
4. Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff, Alberta, Canada
Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the Fairmont Banff Springs is a stunning castle-like hotel that offers a truly enchanting Christmas experience. The hotel is beautifully decorated with twinkling lights, festive garlands, and towering Christmas trees. The surrounding snow-covered mountains create a breathtaking backdrop for your Christmas vacation.
The Fairmont Banff Springs offers a wide range of Christmas-themed activities, including ice skating, sleigh rides, and visits from Santa Claus. The hotel also hosts a spectacular Christmas Eve dinner and a Christmas Day brunch. Kids will love the hotel’s kids’ club, which offers supervised activities and games. The nearby Banff National Park offers opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
The hotel features multiple restaurants, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. The rooms and suites are elegantly decorated and offer stunning views of the mountains. The Fairmont Banff Springs provides a perfect blend of luxury, natural beauty, and festive cheer, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a memorable Christmas vacation in the mountains.
5. The Plaza Hotel, New York City, New York, USA
For a classic Christmas in the city experience, The Plaza Hotel is an iconic choice. This legendary hotel, located on Fifth Avenue in New York City, is beautifully decorated for Christmas and exudes timeless elegance. The hotel’s location provides easy access to all of the city’s holiday attractions, including the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, the holiday windows on Fifth Avenue, and the Christmas markets in Bryant Park and Union Square.
The Plaza Hotel offers a variety of Christmas-themed activities, including afternoon tea with Santa, gingerbread house decorating, and festive storytelling. The hotel also hosts a spectacular Christmas Eve dinner and a Christmas Day brunch. Kids will love exploring Central Park, which is just steps away from the hotel, and visiting the nearby toy stores.
The hotel features multiple restaurants, ranging from casual cafes to upscale dining establishments. The rooms and suites are elegantly decorated and offer stunning views of Central Park or Fifth Avenue. The Plaza Hotel provides a perfect blend of luxury, history, and festive cheer, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a classic Christmas in New York City.
6. Ashford Castle, Cong, County Galway, Ireland
For a fairytale Christmas, consider Ashford Castle in Ireland. This stunning 800-year-old castle hotel offers a unique and unforgettable holiday experience. The castle is beautifully decorated for Christmas with twinkling lights, festive garlands, and roaring fireplaces. The surrounding grounds offer opportunities for exploring the Irish countryside.
Ashford Castle offers a variety of Christmas-themed activities, including falconry demonstrations, horse-drawn carriage rides, and visits from Santa Claus. The hotel also hosts a spectacular Christmas Eve dinner and a Christmas Day brunch. Kids will love exploring the castle’s secret passages and playing in the gardens. The hotel’s staff goes above and beyond to create a magical and memorable Christmas for every guest.
The castle features multiple restaurants, ranging from casual pubs to fine dining establishments. The rooms and suites are elegantly decorated and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Ashford Castle provides a perfect blend of history, luxury, and festive cheer, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a truly unique Christmas vacation.
7. Four Seasons Resort Whistler, Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
If your family loves skiing and snowboarding, the Four Seasons Resort Whistler is an excellent choice for a Christmas vacation. Located in the heart of Whistler Village, this luxurious resort offers easy access to world-class ski slopes. The resort is beautifully decorated for Christmas with twinkling lights, festive garlands, and roaring fireplaces.
The Four Seasons Resort Whistler offers a variety of Christmas-themed activities, including skiing lessons, snowshoeing tours, and visits from Santa Claus. The resort also hosts a spectacular Christmas Eve dinner and a Christmas Day brunch. Kids will love the resort’s kids’ club, which offers supervised activities and games. After a day on the slopes, relax by the fireplace or enjoy a spa treatment.
The resort features multiple restaurants, ranging from casual bistros to fine dining establishments. The rooms and suites are elegantly decorated and offer stunning views of the mountains. The Four Seasons Resort Whistler provides a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and festive cheer, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a Christmas vacation in the snow.
8. Omni Mount Washington Resort, Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, USA
The Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, offers a classic New England Christmas experience. This grand hotel is nestled in the White Mountains and is beautifully decorated for the holidays. The resort offers stunning views of the surrounding snow-covered landscape and a variety of winter activities.
The Omni Mount Washington Resort provides a wide range of Christmas-themed activities, including horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice skating, and visits from Santa Claus. The resort also hosts a Christmas Eve gala dinner and a Christmas Day brunch. Kids will enjoy the resort’s arcade and indoor pool. The Bretton Woods ski area, located right next to the resort, offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
The resort features multiple restaurants, offering a variety of dining options from casual to fine dining. The guest rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, with many offering spectacular mountain views. The Omni Mount Washington Resort offers a memorable and festive Christmas vacation in a beautiful New England setting.
9. Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas
For a warm and sunny Christmas escape, Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas is a fantastic option. While it may not be a traditional snowy Christmas, the resort embraces the holiday spirit with festive decorations and special events. Imagine celebrating Christmas on pristine beaches with turquoise waters!
Atlantis offers a wide array of activities for families, including water parks, marine exhibits, swimming pools, and a dedicated kids’ club. During Christmas, the resort often hosts special events such as holiday-themed shows, festive dinners, and visits from Santa (who might be wearing a Hawaiian shirt!). The warm weather allows for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports.
The resort boasts numerous restaurants, catering to a variety of tastes. From casual beachfront eateries to upscale dining experiences, there’s something for everyone. Atlantis Paradise Island offers a unique and memorable Christmas vacation for families looking to escape the cold and enjoy a tropical holiday.
10. LEGOLAND Hotel, Carlsbad, California, USA
For families with LEGO enthusiasts, the LEGOLAND Hotel in Carlsbad, California, is the ultimate Christmas destination. This hotel is completely themed around LEGOs, from the lobby to the guest rooms. During Christmas, the hotel is even more festive with LEGO-themed holiday decorations and special events.
The LEGOLAND Hotel offers a variety of activities for kids, including LEGO building workshops, character meet-and-greets, and access to LEGOLAND California theme park. During the holidays, the park features special LEGO-themed Christmas displays and events. Kids will be thrilled to celebrate Christmas surrounded by their favorite LEGO characters and creations.
The hotel features multiple restaurants, all with kid-friendly menus. The guest rooms are themed around different LEGO lines, such as pirates, kingdoms, and LEGO Friends. The LEGOLAND Hotel provides a fun and unforgettable Christmas vacation for LEGO-loving families.
Planning Your Christmas Vacation: Tips and Considerations
Once you’ve chosen the perfect hotel for your Christmas vacation, it’s time to start planning the details. Here are some tips and considerations to help you ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip:
Book Early
Christmas is a peak travel season, so it’s essential to book your hotel, flights, and activities well in advance. This will help you secure the best rates and availability.
Pack Appropriately
Consider the climate of your destination and pack accordingly. If you’re heading to a snowy location, be sure to pack warm clothing, including coats, hats, gloves, and scarves. If you’re going to a warm destination, pack swimwear, sunscreen, and light clothing.
Make Reservations for Christmas Dinner
If you plan to dine at the hotel’s restaurant on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, make reservations well in advance. These meals tend to book up quickly.
Plan Activities in Advance
Research the activities and attractions available at your destination and plan your itinerary in advance. This will help you make the most of your vacation time.
Be Prepared for Crowds
Christmas is a busy time for travel, so be prepared for crowds at airports, hotels, and attractions. Be patient and allow extra time for travel and activities.
Consider Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can protect you against unexpected events such as flight cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage. Consider purchasing travel insurance to provide peace of mind during your vacation.
Embrace the Holiday Spirit
Most importantly, remember to embrace the holiday spirit and enjoy your time with your family. Christmas is a time for joy, laughter, and creating lasting memories. Let go of stress and focus on making the most of your vacation.
Creating Lasting Christmas Memories
A Christmas vacation can be more than just a getaway; it can be an opportunity to create lasting memories with your family. Here are some ideas for making your Christmas vacation truly special:
Take Family Photos
Capture the magic of your Christmas vacation with plenty of family photos. Take photos in front of the Christmas tree, during activities, and at special events. These photos will be cherished memories for years to come.
Start a Christmas Tradition
Create a new Christmas tradition during your vacation. This could be anything from decorating gingerbread houses to singing carols around the fireplace.
Give Back to the Community
Consider volunteering at a local charity or donating to a food bank during your vacation. This is a great way to teach your children about the importance of giving back and spreading holiday cheer.
Unplug and Connect
Take a break from technology and focus on connecting with your family. Put away your phones and tablets and enjoy quality time together.
Reflect on the Meaning of Christmas
Take time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Discuss the importance of family, love, and gratitude.
Conclusion
Choosing the right family hotel can make all the difference in creating a magical Christmas vacation. Whether you’re dreaming of a snowy mountain escape, a sunny beach getaway, or a vibrant city experience, there’s a hotel out there that’s perfect for your family. By considering the factors discussed in this article and planning your trip carefully, you can create a Christmas vacation that your family will cherish for years to come. So, start planning your Christmas getaway today and get ready to create some unforgettable memories!
