Family Travel Itineraries for Holiday Seasons

Explore diverse family travel itineraries for the holiday season to create cherished memories.
By Taylor

Introduction

Planning a family trip during the holiday season can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many options available, having a clear itinerary can help ensure that everyone enjoys the experience. Below are three diverse examples of family travel itineraries for holiday seasons that cater to different interests and destinations. Each example includes practical details to help you create memorable moments with your loved ones.

1. Magical Winter Wonderland: A Trip to the Colorado Rockies

This itinerary is perfect for families who love snow sports and cozy winter activities. The Colorado Rockies offer breathtaking scenery and plenty of opportunities for fun in the snow.

Start your trip in Denver, where you can rent a car and head to Breckenridge, a charming mountain town known for its ski resorts.

Day 1: Arrival in Denver

  • Arrive in Denver International Airport.
  • Pick up your rental car and drive to Breckenridge (about 1.5 hours).
  • Check into a family-friendly hotel or cabin.
  • Enjoy a cozy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Skiing and Snowboarding

  • Breakfast at the hotel.
  • Head to Breckenridge Ski Resort for a day of skiing or snowboarding.
  • Book a family ski lesson for beginners.
  • Break for lunch at one of the on-site cafes.
  • Continue skiing or enjoy snow tubing in the afternoon.
  • Dinner in town and a stroll through the festive holiday lights.

Day 3: Winter Activities

  • After breakfast, visit the nearby ice skating rink for some family fun.
  • Try snowshoeing or take a guided snowmobile tour.
  • Have a picnic lunch in the snow (pack sandwiches and hot chocolate).
  • In the evening, enjoy a sleigh ride followed by hot cocoa by a fire.

Day 4: Departure

  • Enjoy breakfast before checking out.
  • Drive back to Denver, stopping at scenic spots for photos along the way.
  • Return the rental car and prepare for your departure flight.

Notes:

  • Consider booking accommodations that offer kitchen facilities to save on meals.
  • Look for family ski packages for discounts on lift tickets and rentals.

2. Tropical Holiday Escape: A Family Vacation in Hawaii

If your family prefers sun over snow, this Hawaiian itinerary offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, ideal for creating lasting memories.

Fly into Honolulu, Oahu, and immerse yourselves in the island’s beautiful beaches and rich culture.

Day 1: Arrival in Honolulu

  • Arrive at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.
  • Rent a car and check into a beachfront hotel.
  • Relax on the beach or explore nearby shops.
  • Dinner at a local restaurant featuring Hawaiian cuisine.

Day 2: Exploring Oahu

  • Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
  • Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial for a historical tour.
  • Head to Waikiki Beach for the afternoon; take a surfing lesson together.
  • Dinner at a beachfront restaurant with a sunset view.

Day 3: Adventure Day

  • Early breakfast, then drive to the North Shore.
  • Stop at famous beaches like Waimea Bay or Sunset Beach to watch surfers.
  • Enjoy lunch at a local food truck (try the garlic shrimp!).
  • Visit the Dole Plantation for a pineapple tour and a garden maze.
  • Return to Honolulu for a traditional Hawaiian luau in the evening.

Day 4: Relaxation and Departure

  • Spend your last morning relaxing at the beach or pool.
  • Check out of the hotel and grab some souvenirs.
  • Return the rental car before heading to the airport for your flight home.

Notes:

  • Look for family-friendly resorts that offer kid’s clubs or activities.
  • Consider adding a day trip to the Big Island for volcano tours if time allows.

3. Cultural Exploration: A Family Journey in Washington, D.C.

For families interested in history and culture, this itinerary showcases the best of Washington, D.C., with educational stops and fun activities.

Fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and explore the nation’s capital.

Day 1: Arrival in D.C.

  • Arrive and check into a hotel near the National Mall.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.
  • Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant near your hotel.

Day 2: Museums and Monuments

  • Breakfast at the hotel.
  • Visit the National Museum of American History in the morning.
  • Walk to the Lincoln Memorial and reflect on its significance.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch on the National Mall (bring sandwiches and snacks).
  • In the afternoon, visit the National Gallery of Art.
  • Dinner and an evening stroll past the illuminated monuments.

Day 3: Exploring More of D.C.

  • After breakfast, take a guided bike tour of the city to see more landmarks.
  • Visit the U.S. Capitol and take a tour of the building.
  • Lunch at a nearby café.
  • In the afternoon, explore the National Museum of Natural History.
  • Consider attending a holiday performance at the Kennedy Center in the evening.

Day 4: Departure

  • Enjoy breakfast before checking out.
  • Visit the National Zoo for a few hours.
  • Return to the airport for your departure flight.

Notes:

  • Look for family passes for museums to save on entry fees.
  • Consider using public transportation to get around easily; it’s family-friendly and efficient.