Amazing Ski Vacation Destinations for Families
When it's time to choose the perfect family-friendly ski destination, there are several resorts in the US and Canada to consider. Key factors such as beginner-friendly amenities, childcare services, comfortable accommodations, and diverse dining options all dictate what makes the best ski vacations for families. This post will explore some amazing family ski trip locations, highlighting why each should be on the radar and what families who visit can expect.
Top Family Ski Vacations
1. Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia, Canada
Family-Friendly Features: Whistler Blackcomb’s extensive terrain caters to all ski levels, and its world-renowned ski school makes it an excellent choice for beginners.
Off-Snow Fun: Beyond skiing, families can enjoy the Whistler Olympic Park, explore the pedestrian-friendly Village, or experience other winter fun like ice skating or dog sledding.
Where to Eat: Between the Rendezvous Lodge, Roundhouse Lodge, Marlin's, Dusty's and GLC, there is variety of dining options with breathtaking mountain views, catering to all tastes with their family-friendly menus.
Where to Stay: Stay at one of our family-oriented properties by Lodging Ovations, which offers direct ski-in/ski-out access and rooms equipped with kitchens.
2. Keystone, Colorado, USA
Family-Friendly Features: Keystone is another perfect ski spot for families, with daily activities for kids and an unreal Mountaintop Snow Fort to explore. The resort offers night skiing, extending the fun on the slopes and allowing for more time to enjoy the snow. Three peaks offer a wide range of trails for all abilities and an excellent ski school. Keystone’s childcare services cater to children from 2 months to 12 years.
Off-Snow Fun: Off the slopes, the Keystone's two ice rinks offer family skating fun, or check out the Mountaintop Snow Tubing.
Where to Eat: Labonte's Cabin offers a unique dining experience that’s fun for the whole family.
Where to Stay: Stay at the River Run Condominiums for convenient access to the slopes, dining, and shopping, all tailored for family convenience.
3. Park City, Utah, USA
Family-Friendly Features: As the largest ski resort in the US, Park City offers an unparalleled skiing experience. It’s perfect for families with a wide variety of runs, an excellent ski and snowboard school, and numerous family-oriented activities. Licensed childcare is available at the Little Adventures Children’s Center.
Off-Snow Fun: The Historic Main Street Park City offers a variety of shopping and entertainment options and there are numerous events and festivals throughout the year.
Where to Eat: Summit House and Red Pine Lodge offer great on-mountain dining experiences with family-friendly menus, ensuring you’re energized for the adventures that await.
Where to Stay: Stay at the Grand Summit Hotel for ski-in/ski-out convenience or the family-friendly Silverado Lodge
4. Vail, Colorado, USA
Family-Friendly Features: Vail caters to all levels, from gentle beginner runs in Golden Peak to the legendary Back Bowls for families who like to adventure. Lessons are available for kids as young as three.
Off-Snow Fun: Ice skating in Vail Village is always a hit, and world-class shopping options are scattered throughout the Village and Lionshead.
Where to Eat: Grab a hearty meal at Mid-Vail or enjoy the mountaintop dining experience at The 10th, which offers a refined menu suitable for the whole family.
Where to Stay: Stay at the Arrabelle for luxury accommodations or choose from various condos and vacation rentals.
5. Breckenridge, Colorado, USA
Family-Friendly Features: Breckenridge offers a unique mix of historic charm and modern ski amenities. Its Five Peaks boast a variety of terrain, including beginner-friendly Peak 9 and more challenging slopes on Peaks 6 and 7. The ski school here is solid for kids and adults, and childcare is available at the Breckenridge Child Care Center.
Off-Snow Fun: Take a break with the family at the Mountain Top Children’s Museum and enjoy the sights on the scenic BreckConnect Gondola.
Where to Eat: The Lodge at Breckenridge and Sevens Restaurant are great spots to enjoy a family meal with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
Where to Stay: Choose from a variety of accommodations, including the ski-in/ski-out One Ski Hill Place and the family-friendly Village at Breckenridge.
6. Beaver Creek, Colorado, USA
Family-Friendly Features: Beaver Creek is the epitome of luxury and family-friendly skiing. The resort is well-known for its top-notch ski school, exceptional customer service, and meticulously groomed slopes. The dedicated learning areas and friendly ski school staff ensure a stress-free learning environment for kids, and the Small World Play School offers childcare services.
Off-Snow Fun: Families can enjoy the Thursday Night Lights fireworks, ice skating, and Hawk's Nest Cabin.
Where to Eat: Spruce Saddle Lodge and Talons offer excellent dining choices with special menus for children.
Where to Stay: Options include the luxurious Osprey and the family-centric Beaver Creek Lodge.
7. Stowe, Vermont, USA
Family-Friendly Features: Stowe is a family gem on the East Coast, known for its charming New England landscapes and family-oriented atmosphere. A wide variety of terrain makes it an ideal destination for families of all skill levels. Childcare is available for ages 24 months to 4 years, and the resort offers beginner programs that introduce young skiers and snowboarders to the snow in a fun, supportive environment.
Off-Snow Fun: Off the slopes, families can explore the quaint town of Stowe, named one of the Top 10 Small Towns in America, or enjoy ice skating at the outdoor rink at Spruce Peak Village Center. The Stowe Recreation Path also offers a scenic setting for winter walks and cross-country skiing, while a plethora of shops and boutiques dot the Mountain Road and bustling downtown.
Where to Eat: Located on Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak, The Cliff House Restaurant offers stunning mountain views and a menu that caters to all ages, while the Midway Café offers a warm and inviting respite for kid-friendly lunch breaks in between runs off the Mansfield Gondola.
Where to Stay: Whether you are looking for 5-star ski in/ski out accommodations, a quant bed & breakfast, or private house rental, Stowe offers a wide variety of lodging to suite the needs of every guest.
Family Ski Resorts Guide
Here are some tips to help you make the most out of a family trip to any of the resorts mentioned above:
- Book Early: Secure accommodations, ski lessons, and childcare services in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
- Package Deals: Look for package deals that include lift tickets and lodging options for savings. We recommend purchasing an Epic Pass in advance for the best benefits and additional savings across food, lodging, lessons, rentals and more.
- Check Age Policies: Confirm age policies for ski schools and childcare services to plan accordingly.
- Family Amenities: Consider properties that offer ski-in/ski-out convenience, as well as those with family-friendly amenities such as swimming pools, game rooms, and easy access to dining options.
- Prepare for the Altitude: Make sure to acclimate to the altitude gradually to avoid altitude sickness. Staying well-hydrated and resting upon arrival can help your body adjust.
- Family Downtime: Ski vacations can be exhilarating but exhausting. Plan some downtime away from the slopes to relax and recharge. Many resorts offer spas, shopping, and leisure activities that the whole family can enjoy.
