Every family has their own Christmas traditions. Some of these traditions have been handed down through the years from parents and grandparents. Some things families do are all their own.
Most children have a little over a week during the Christmas season in which they become bored right after the presents are opened. If you are lucky enough to live in a warm weather climate, your kids can go outside with their new cruiser skateboards. But the child who has to stay indoors because of the storms is the one that deserves a winter getaway.
Why not begin a new family ritual and take your kids out of the normal and plan a destination Christmas this year? Here are 5 destinations that you and your children will enjoy year after year.
1. Branson, Missouri
Each year, thousands of people travel to Branson, Missouri to enjoy more than five million lights on display. The main attraction is the theme park Silver Dollar City. There are seasonal shows throughout the town, as well as the world’s largest toy museum. These many holiday happenings are great for children of all ages. Stay in a log cabin with a warm fireplace and hot chocolate after listening to a story told by Mrs. Clause herself.
2. New York City, New York
There are so many things to see and do with children in the Big Apple. Don’t miss the Radio City Rockettes, the New York Hall of Science where there are over 1500 Gingerbread Houses, enjoy wandering carolers, delicious foods, and a brisk skate at the Rockefeller Plaza. There are many places to stay and so much to do in the city that never sleeps. Although, you’ll want your kids to sleep at some point. Stay at one of the many kid-friendly hotels near all the activities so you can skip the ride and enjoy walking and window shopping.
3. Williamsburg, West Virginia
Busch Gardens opens the Winter Wonderland named for the most famous reindeer of all, Rudolph. You can get up close and pet reindeer as well as take a stroll down Sesame Street’s Forest of Fun. There are Christmas themed games, shows, and so many activities for the entire family.
4. Grapevine, Texas
Known as the Christmas Capital of Texas, Grapevine is home to more than 1,500 events commemorating the season. Various transportation is offered as a special event. Families can ride the train, dubbed The North Pole Express, or sit back and watch the Twinkle Light Boat Parade in the evening. There are old movies and swimming in the Great Wolf Lodge which is transformed into a “Snowland” of water.
5. Indianapolis, Indiana
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis erects a giant 47-foot Yule Slide each year where children, and adults, can slide down to the winter wonderland below. Other things to explore include pretend ice-fishing, a Giant Snow Globe, and the Snow Castle. Santa Clause and his elves are there daily and in the evenings, there is a two mile track of lights on display that families enjoy from their car.
By starting a new tradition of destination travel, you are gifting your family memories that will last much longer than the latest toy or electronic gadget. Take lots of pictures, but remain in the moment and enjoy the precious time with your family.
