Best Family Friendly Hotels for Christmas and New Year

Introduction: Making Holiday Memories That Last

The holiday season is a magical time, especially when shared with family. Christmas and New Year’s Eve offer a unique opportunity to create lasting memories, and what better way to do that than by escaping to a family-friendly hotel? Choosing the right accommodation can transform your holiday from stressful to spectacular. This guide will explore some of the best family-friendly hotels for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, focusing on locations, amenities, activities, and overall festive atmosphere.

We’ll delve into a variety of options, from snow-covered resorts offering winter wonderland experiences to sun-kissed destinations perfect for escaping the cold. We’ll also consider hotels that go above and beyond in creating a truly magical Christmas and New Year experience for families, including special events, themed decorations, and kid-friendly entertainment. So, buckle up and get ready to discover your family’s next holiday haven!

Section 1: North American Winter Wonderlands

1.1 The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs, Colorado

The Broadmoor is an iconic luxury resort nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. During the Christmas and New Year season, The Broadmoor transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with stunning decorations, dazzling light displays, and a festive atmosphere that permeates every corner of the property. The hotel boasts a variety of family-friendly activities, making it a perfect choice for creating unforgettable holiday memories.

Christmas at The Broadmoor: Expect a spectacular Christmas show featuring world-class performers, holiday-themed dining experiences, and opportunities to meet Santa Claus. The hotel’s grounds are adorned with millions of twinkling lights, creating a magical ambiance that will delight children and adults alike. Ice skating is also available on the resort’s outdoor rink, adding to the wintery charm.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations: The Broadmoor offers a range of New Year’s Eve celebrations to suit all ages. From elegant galas for adults to kid-friendly parties with games and entertainment, there’s something for everyone. A spectacular fireworks display over Cheyenne Mountain provides a breathtaking finale to the year.

Family-Friendly Amenities: The Broadmoor features multiple swimming pools (including indoor options for those chilly days), a movie theater, a bowling alley, and a dedicated kids’ club. The hotel also offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding (weather permitting). With its luxurious accommodations, exceptional service, and a plethora of activities, The Broadmoor is an ideal destination for a memorable family holiday.

1.2 Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada

Nestled on the shores of the stunning Lake Louise in Banff National Park, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise offers a truly magical Christmas and New Year experience. The breathtaking scenery, combined with the hotel’s festive atmosphere and exceptional service, makes it a popular choice for families seeking a winter wonderland getaway.

Christmas at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise: The hotel is beautifully decorated for Christmas, with towering Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and festive displays throughout the property. Guests can enjoy traditional Christmas dinners, caroling, and visits from Santa Claus. The frozen Lake Louise provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities such as ice skating, ice carving, and horse-drawn sleigh rides.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations: The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hosts a variety of New Year’s Eve celebrations, including elegant dinners, live music, and fireworks over the lake. Kid-friendly activities and entertainment are also available, ensuring that the whole family can enjoy the festivities.

Family-Friendly Amenities: The hotel features a swimming pool, a kids’ club, and a variety of outdoor activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The concierge can also arrange for dog sledding tours and other exciting adventures. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise provides a luxurious and unforgettable holiday experience in a stunning natural setting.

1.3 Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, Nashville, Tennessee

While not a traditional “winter wonderland” in the snowy sense, Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville offers an extraordinary holiday experience with its annual “A Country Christmas” celebration. This massive resort transforms into a festive spectacle with millions of twinkling lights, elaborate decorations, and a variety of holiday-themed attractions.

Christmas at Gaylord Opryland: The resort’s signature attraction is ICE!, a walk-through exhibit featuring larger-than-life ice sculptures carved from millions of pounds of ice. Other holiday activities include ice skating, snow tubing, carriage rides, and a Christmas fountain show. The resort also offers a variety of holiday-themed shows and performances, ensuring that there’s always something to see and do.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations: Gaylord Opryland hosts a grand New Year’s Eve celebration with live music, dancing, and a spectacular fireworks display. The resort also offers family-friendly New Year’s Eve packages with kid-friendly entertainment and activities.

Family-Friendly Amenities: The resort features multiple swimming pools (including indoor and outdoor options), a water park, a spa, and a variety of restaurants and shops. The sheer size and scope of Gaylord Opryland ensure that there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Its festive atmosphere and wide range of activities make it a perfect destination for a memorable holiday getaway.

Section 2: European Christmas Markets and Festivities

2.1 Hotel de Rome, Berlin, Germany

Berlin during Christmas is a magical experience, with numerous Christmas markets popping up throughout the city. Hotel de Rome, a luxury hotel housed in a former bank, offers a sophisticated and family-friendly base from which to explore the festive atmosphere. Its central location provides easy access to the city’s most popular Christmas markets and attractions.

Christmas at Hotel de Rome: The hotel itself is beautifully decorated for Christmas, with a grand Christmas tree in the lobby and festive touches throughout the property. Guests can enjoy special Christmas menus in the hotel’s restaurants and bars. The hotel also offers a concierge service that can help families plan their Christmas market visits and other holiday activities.

Exploring Berlin’s Christmas Markets: Berlin boasts a wide variety of Christmas markets, each with its own unique charm. From the traditional Weihnachtsmarkt am Gendarmenmarkt to the more modern Winterwelt am Potsdamer Platz, there’s a Christmas market to suit every taste. Families can enjoy traditional German Christmas treats, such as gingerbread, mulled wine (for the adults!), and roasted almonds, while browsing the stalls for unique gifts and souvenirs.

Family-Friendly Amenities: Hotel de Rome features a swimming pool, a spa, and a kids’ club. The hotel also offers a babysitting service, allowing parents to enjoy some time to themselves. Its luxurious accommodations, central location, and family-friendly amenities make it an ideal choice for a Christmas getaway in Berlin.

2.2 The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna, Austria

Vienna is renowned for its elegant Christmas markets and festive atmosphere. The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna, located on the Ringstrasse, offers a luxurious and centrally located base for exploring the city’s holiday delights. The hotel’s impeccable service and opulent surroundings create a truly memorable Christmas experience.

Christmas at The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna: The hotel is beautifully decorated for Christmas, with a grand Christmas tree in the lobby and festive displays throughout the property. Guests can enjoy special Christmas menus in the hotel’s restaurants and bars. The hotel also offers a concierge service that can help families plan their Christmas market visits and other holiday activities.

Vienna’s Christmas Markets: Vienna’s Christmas markets are among the most famous in the world. The Wiener Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz is the largest and most popular, offering a wide variety of crafts, gifts, and food. Other notable Christmas markets include the Weihnachtsmarkt am Spittelberg and the Art Advent market on Karlsplatz. Families can enjoy traditional Austrian Christmas treats, such as Vanillekipferl (vanilla crescent cookies) and Glühwein (mulled wine), while browsing the stalls for unique gifts and souvenirs.

Family-Friendly Amenities: The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna features a swimming pool, a spa, and a kids’ club. The hotel also offers a babysitting service, allowing parents to enjoy some time to themselves. Its luxurious accommodations, central location, and family-friendly amenities make it an ideal choice for a Christmas getaway in Vienna.

2.3 Disneyland Paris, France

While not strictly a hotel, Disneyland Paris deserves a mention for its spectacular Christmas celebrations. Staying at one of the Disneyland Paris hotels allows families to immerse themselves in the magic of Disney during the holiday season. The parks are transformed into a winter wonderland, with festive decorations, special shows, and character meet-and-greets.

Christmas at Disneyland Paris: Disneyland Paris celebrates Christmas in style, with festive decorations, parades, and shows. The park is adorned with twinkling lights, towering Christmas trees, and festive displays. Guests can enjoy special Christmas-themed parades and shows featuring their favorite Disney characters. Meeting Santa Claus is also a highlight for many children.

New Year’s Eve at Disneyland Paris: Disneyland Paris hosts a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration with a special fireworks display over Sleeping Beauty Castle. The park is open late, allowing guests to enjoy the rides and attractions well into the night.

Family-Friendly Amenities: The Disneyland Paris hotels offer a range of family-friendly amenities, including swimming pools, kids’ clubs, and themed restaurants. The convenience of staying on-site allows families to easily access the parks and enjoy all the holiday festivities. While potentially crowded, the sheer magic of Disney at Christmas makes it a worthwhile experience for many families.

Section 3: Sun-Kissed Holiday Escapes

3.1 Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Hawaii, USA

For families seeking a warmer holiday getaway, the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on the Big Island of Hawaii offers a luxurious and relaxing escape. While lacking the traditional snow-covered landscapes, the resort embraces the holiday spirit with festive decorations, special events, and a focus on creating unforgettable family memories.

Christmas at Four Seasons Hualalai: The resort is beautifully decorated for Christmas, with festive displays and twinkling lights throughout the property. Guests can enjoy special Christmas menus in the resort’s restaurants, as well as a variety of holiday-themed activities, such as lei-making classes, ukulele lessons, and hula dancing. Santa Claus even makes a special appearance, arriving by outrigger canoe!

New Year’s Eve Celebrations: The Four Seasons Hualalai hosts a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration with live music, dancing, and a fireworks display over the ocean. The resort also offers family-friendly New Year’s Eve packages with kid-friendly entertainment and activities.

Family-Friendly Amenities: The resort features multiple swimming pools, a kids’ club, a spa, and a golf course. The resort also offers a variety of water sports activities, such as snorkeling, diving, and surfing. With its luxurious accommodations, stunning ocean views, and a plethora of activities, the Four Seasons Hualalai is an ideal destination for a relaxing and memorable family holiday.

3.2 Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

Atlantis, Paradise Island, in the Bahamas, is a mega-resort offering a vast array of activities and attractions for families. While not specifically themed for Christmas or New Year’s, the resort’s warm weather, stunning beaches, and diverse entertainment options make it a popular choice for families seeking a sunny holiday escape.

Holidays at Atlantis: Atlantis offers special holiday packages and events, although the focus is less on traditional Christmas themes and more on celebrating the season with sunshine and fun. The resort typically features festive decorations and offers special holiday menus in its restaurants.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations: Atlantis hosts a grand New Year’s Eve celebration with live music, dancing, and a spectacular fireworks display over the ocean. The resort also offers family-friendly New Year’s Eve parties with kid-friendly entertainment and activities.

Family-Friendly Amenities: Atlantis boasts an impressive array of family-friendly amenities, including multiple swimming pools, water slides, a marine habitat, a movie theater, and a kids’ club. The resort also offers a variety of water sports activities, such as snorkeling, diving, and jet skiing. With its sheer size and scope, Atlantis offers something for every member of the family.

3.3 The Breakers, Palm Beach, Florida, USA

The Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida, is a historic luxury resort that offers a classic and elegant holiday experience. While not a traditional winter wonderland, the resort embraces the holiday spirit with festive decorations, special events, and a focus on creating cherished family memories in a warm and sunny setting.

Christmas at The Breakers: The resort is beautifully decorated for Christmas, with a grand Christmas tree in the lobby and festive displays throughout the property. Guests can enjoy special Christmas menus in the resort’s restaurants, as well as a variety of holiday-themed activities, such as gingerbread house decorating and caroling. The resort also hosts a traditional Christmas Eve service in its chapel.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations: The Breakers hosts a sophisticated New Year’s Eve celebration with live music, dancing, and a fireworks display over the ocean. The resort also offers family-friendly New Year’s Eve packages with kid-friendly entertainment and activities.

Family-Friendly Amenities: The resort features multiple swimming pools, a kids’ club, a spa, and a golf course. The Breakers also offers a variety of activities for families, such as tennis, croquet, and bicycle rentals. With its luxurious accommodations, stunning oceanfront location, and a plethora of activities, The Breakers is an ideal destination for a memorable family holiday.

Section 4: Tips for Planning Your Family Holiday Hotel Stay

4.1 Book Early

Holiday travel is incredibly popular, so it’s essential to book your hotel well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak periods like Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Booking early not only ensures that you get your preferred room type but also often allows you to take advantage of early booking discounts.

4.2 Consider Your Budget

Holiday travel can be expensive, so it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Consider all costs, including accommodation, flights, meals, activities, and souvenirs. Look for hotels that offer inclusive packages or special deals to help you save money. Remember to factor in potential exchange rates if traveling internationally.

4.3 Read Reviews

Before booking a hotel, take the time to read reviews from other families. This can give you valuable insights into the hotel’s amenities, service, and overall suitability for families with children. Pay attention to reviews that mention specific aspects of the holiday experience, such as Christmas decorations, holiday activities, and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

4.4 Check for Family-Friendly Amenities

When choosing a hotel, make sure it offers amenities that cater to families with children. This may include a kids’ club, a swimming pool, a playground, a game room, and a babysitting service. Also, consider the availability of cribs, high chairs, and other baby equipment.

4.5 Plan Your Activities

Before you arrive at your destination, research the activities and attractions that are available in the area. This will help you make the most of your holiday and ensure that everyone in the family has something to look forward to. Book any tours or activities in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.

4.6 Pack Appropriately

Depending on your destination, you’ll need to pack accordingly. If you’re heading to a snowy destination, be sure to pack warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves. If you’re traveling to a sunny destination, don’t forget to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Also, remember to pack any necessary medications and travel documents.

4.7 Communicate with the Hotel

Once you’ve booked your hotel, don’t hesitate to contact them with any questions or special requests. This will help ensure that your stay is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Let them know if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, and inquire about any special holiday events or activities that they may be offering.

4.8 Be Flexible

Even with the best planning, things can sometimes go wrong. Be prepared to be flexible and adapt to unexpected changes. Remember that the most important thing is to spend quality time with your family and create lasting memories.

4.9 Embrace the Holiday Spirit

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and togetherness. Embrace the festive atmosphere and enjoy all the special moments with your family. Participate in holiday activities, sing carols, and spread cheer wherever you go.

4.10 Capture the Memories

Don’t forget to capture the memories of your holiday vacation. Take lots of photos and videos to document your experiences. You can also create a scrapbook or photo album to preserve your memories for years to come. These memories will become treasured reminders of your special family holiday.

Section 5: Alternative Family Holiday Ideas

5.1 Rent a Vacation Home

Instead of staying in a hotel, consider renting a vacation home. This can be a great option for families who want more space and privacy. Vacation homes often come with fully equipped kitchens, allowing you to prepare your own meals and save money on dining out. They also offer a more home-like atmosphere, which can be especially appealing during the holidays.

5.2 Go on a Cruise

A cruise can be a fantastic option for a family holiday, especially during Christmas or New Year’s. Cruise ships offer a wide range of activities and entertainment for all ages, including swimming pools, water slides, kids’ clubs, live music, and shows. Many cruise lines also offer special holiday-themed cruises with festive decorations, holiday meals, and visits from Santa Claus.

5.3 Visit Family or Friends

Instead of traveling to a hotel or resort, consider visiting family or friends who live in a different city or country. This can be a great way to spend quality time with loved ones and experience a new culture. You can also save money on accommodation and meals by staying with family or friends.

5.4 Take a Road Trip

A road trip can be a fun and adventurous way to spend the holidays with your family. Plan a route that takes you through scenic landscapes and interesting towns. You can stop at roadside attractions, national parks, and other points of interest along the way. Be sure to pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the car.

5.5 Stay Home and Create Your Own Holiday Magic

Sometimes, the best holiday memories are made at home. Instead of traveling, consider staying home and creating your own holiday magic. Decorate your house, bake cookies, watch holiday movies, and spend quality time with your family. You can also volunteer at a local charity or organize a holiday-themed event for your community.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Family Holiday

Choosing the right hotel for your family holiday can make all the difference in creating a memorable and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re seeking a snow-covered winter wonderland, a sunny beach escape, or a festive city break, there are countless options to choose from. By considering your budget, preferences, and the needs of your family, you can find the perfect hotel to make your holiday dreams a reality.

Remember to book early, plan your activities, pack appropriately, and embrace the holiday spirit. And most importantly, cherish the time you spend with your loved ones and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy holidays!