Christmas is one of the most enjoyable times of the year, especially for the kids. They get to feast on sumptuous dishes, make snowmen and get loads of presents. It’s also the perfect way to spend some quality time with the children. Kids get at least two weeks of holidays during Christmas, so most of the families turn Christmas time into an enjoyable vacation. If you are planning the same, then here are the ten places that pour with cheer during the Christmas.
- Orlando:
Orlando is our number one destination to travel with kids during Christmas. From the Holidays at the Universal Orlando Resort to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, Orlando is at its best during the Christmas. You will find cheer everywhere you go, especially the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom. And we love the LEGOLAND Florida too. The Christmas Bricktacular is held here on December weekends. You will be amazed seeing the Lego buildings decked with festive decorations. Note- the prices will be very high during the Christmas. So make sure you come well prepared.
- New York:
New York is one of the best cities to go Christmas vacationing with kids. The city sparkles brightest during the holidays. Arrive here mid to late November and see the city transformed into a festive beauty with unique traditions, decorations, and events. Is your kid fond of skiing? Then the Rockefeller Center’s ice rink would be the perfect place for him. The rink has been around for more than 77 years. The tree at the Rockefeller Center is one of the most famous Christmas trees in the world. You can also call it the centerpiece of the citywide Christmas display. And the carriage ride through the Central Park is a must here,, especially with the children.
- Disney Cruise:
You all must be aware of Disneyland, but are you aware of Disney cruises? We bet you’re not! Every year, the Very Merrytime Cruises take place on the voyages of the Disney Cruise. The ship sails aboard in the late November and goes on until early January. The tour ranges from three to seven nights with itineraries. You will also get a chance to check out Castaway Cay, the private island of Disney.
- Colonial Williamsburg:
Is your child a history buff? Then we would suggest you to visit the Colonial Williamsburg. Here, you will get a chance to step back in time and see how the holidays were celebrated about two to three centuries ago. The historic buildings of the Revolutionary City are decorated beautifully with garlands, wreaths, and candles, which add a festive glow to the evening walks. The traditional activities to indulge in Colonial Williamsburg include special events and walking tours that can help your kid discover the customs and traditions of Williamsburg Christmas. The place also hosts many concerts and performances along with dining events.
- San Francisco:
San Franciso is no less than a fairytale land during Christmas. There will be a nip in the air, but will be warm enough to explore the city. The holiday lights look absolutely gorgeous. San Francisco turns into a children’s wonderland during Christmas. It especially appeals to literature lovers. More than 700 performers play the fictional and historical figures from the Dickens’ Era in the Great Dickens Christmas Fair. A visit to the fair will give an educational and entertaining experience not just for children, but the entire family.
- The Polar Express:
Train journeys are one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a fun filled time with children while celebrating the magic of Christmas. The Polar Express trains operate on the historic railways that overflow with Christmas charm along the scenic routes. In Polar Train Express, Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus and their band of elves join in the fun for the family oriented train rides. Make sure you book the tickets in advance as the tickets to the Polar Express sell off very quickly. Tell your kids to watch the movie or read the book before hopping on the train. And make them wear pajamas, just like the boy in the story.
- Lapland:
For many people, especially children, Rovaniemi in Lapland is the Christmas headquarters. Christmas is the season when the top tourist destinations and family resorts of Lapland are decked in brightest of decorations to welcome the guests. You can also enroll your little one in cooking classes. There, he can learn to make gingerbread cookies with Mr. Santa Claus. And trust us, she is very friendly. You can also enroll him in the Elf School. He will have a gala time with these tiny creatures.
- Netherlands:
The whole of the Netherlands is kid friendly during Christmas, but Valkenburg mainly, transforms into a Christmas market. Valkenburg is considered another resident of Santa. There is something about the decoration here makes even the residents stand and gawk like a tourist. As a visitor, your child will be delighted to see his room full of presents. Do not forget to go for a reindeer sleigh ride here. Amsterdam has an old-school approach to Amsterdam. The city twinkles with white lights during the Christmas, which reflects from the canals of the city, creating a magnificent display. In Amsterdam, Sinterklaas arrives on the 5th of December with all the goodies for children. But he distributes the gifts on the Christmas Eve only.
- Santa Claus:
Don’t be surprised! Santa Claus is actually the name of the town in Indiana. Even CNN considers it as one of the ten places to spend Christmas. Santa Claus boasts as the only post office in the world to offer a Santa Claus postmark. Isn’t that amazing? And do you know who replies to those letters? It’s none other than the little elves, Santa’s assistants. These elves respond to more than half a million letters every year. The names of the streets of Santa Claus include the Candy Cane Lane, Christmas Boulevard, and Mistletoe Drive. Then, there are over 20 statues of Santa Claus in this town, which offers seasonal photo ops. The Santa Claus town also hosts an annual Santa Claus Christmas Celebration, which includes several exciting events. It seriously cannot get any better!
- Hershey, Pennsylvania:
Which kid does not love chocolates? At least we don’t know even a single child who does not like chocolates. Hershey’s Pennsylvania is famous all year round, but becomes a fun destination during Christmas. The Hershey Park holds an annual marquee event, which includes Christmas shows and many other festive events. If you’re planning to visit the Hershey this year, then make sure to visit the Hershey Park Christmas Candyland event. The event will take place on the 13th of November and will go on until 31st December. The park features 30 kid’s rides. The Little Elves Workshop is also worth taking part.
No matter what kind of memories you wish to create this year, these ten festive getaways will surely please kids and parents alike. You can enjoy the comforts of house by booking a cottage or a service apartment. Which of these places do you believe would please your child the most?