Lean into the winter season with seasonal fun, cozy cabins and family-friendly snowy adventures with these always reliable mountain towns. Whether your family skis, snowboards, snowshoes or none of the above, there’s always something to do and entertain in these family-friendly locales.
Beginning with one of the most obvious, Stowe, Vermont, is a beloved mountain town for good reason. With Mount Mansfield, Smugglers’ Notch State Park and Stowe Recreation Path leading to unbeatable mountain views, you’ll have more than enough activity to lure even your most cozy kids outside. Between the endless outdoor adventure, dining, shopping and family-ready activity for all ages and interests, the stunning landscape isn’t the only draw to Stowe.
Your family doesn’t have to ski, snowboard or even sled to love Bend — as long as you enjoy fresh air and stunning natural beauty, your crew will feel fulfilled in this small Oregon city. While a city, Bend feels more like a small town with rugged terrain and landscapes, including Deschutes River, Cascade Mountains and plenty of ski resorts, boasting more than just slopes. Hike Newberry National Volcanic Monument, deep into the Lava River Cave, or just hang out in the resort by the fire with a hot cup of something and a view of the mountains.
Bend, Oregon. Photo: Rexwholster – Dreamstime.com
For quaint mountain town fun, North Conway, New Hampshire, is one of those welcoming cities with sleepy inns and laid-back outdoor recreation. Perfect for a quiet trip in the mountains with the kids and a welcome retreat from the hectic rushing and planning for the holidays, North Conway offers plenty of activity to entertain, or not.
Synonymous with mountain towns and ski resorts, Aspen boasts year-round attractions, but is especially magical in the winter. Enjoy the beauty of the Colorado Rocky mountains while taking advantage of the ski-ready landscape, lessons for the kids and a variety of slopes for each skill level. If gliding down fresh powder isn’t really your kids’ thing, there’s enough local dining, shopping and historic landmarks to mix into their daily activities.
Christmas lovers, this one does not disappoint. Gatlinburg, Tennessee, boasts small mountain town fun with holiday cheer — picture more lights than even that house on your block. Escape to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and enjoy the wilderness, or head downtown for some city fun. Either way, the extra jolt of holiday cheer may be just what the family needs this winter vacation.
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