10 Ski Resorts for Families: The Ultimate Guide

by | Jan 1, 2025 | Uncategorized

The very best of winter holidays

Skiing with your family is one of the best ways to bond, create memories, and enjoy the great outdoors. But not all ski resorts are created equal when it comes to accommodating families. From kid-friendly ski schools to activities beyond the slopes, these ten ski resorts excel at creating a magical experience for families.

Family-friendly resorts around the globe

Avoriaz, France

Why it’s great for families: Avoriaz is a car-free resort, making it safe and stress-free for families. The village is compact, and you can ski directly to most accommodations. It boasts excellent ski schools like École de Ski Français (ESF) and Village des Enfants for young learners. Where to eat: Try Chez Flo in the heart of Avoriaz near the 3S cable car. With its large open deck, it is perfect for groups and families to relax and enjoy a meal together on the slopes. Open all winter season. 
What to do: Visit Aquariaz, a tropical water park with slides and pools, perfect for a break from the slopes.
Where to stay: Pierre & Vacances Premium Residence L’Amara offers family-friendly apartments with stunning views.
Budget: ★★★★★ (Affordable luxury)
Best month to travel: February for reliable snow and family-friendly events.
Season: December to late April

Winter view of Avoriaz, France
Street view of Breckenridge, USA

Breckenridge, Colorado, USA

Why it’s great for families: Breckenridge combines historic charm with modern family amenities. The resort offers excellent beginner terrain and a top-notch kids’ ski school.
 Where to eat: Dine at Downstairs at Eric’s, a family-friendly spot with arcade games and a diverse menu.
 What to do: Explore the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride.
 Where to stay: Beaver Run Resort, offering ski-in/ski-out accommodations and kid-friendly activities. I also love BlueSky Breckenridge Condos. The condos are gorgeous with a generous layout and right next to the Snowflake lift. They are close enough to the Main Street to venture out by foot or grab a ride with the complimentary shuttle service. When I visited, they had the most beautiful, big Christmas tree in the lobby – sheer joy! 
 Budget: ★★★★ (Moderate to upscale)
 Best month to travel: March for warmer weather and plenty of snow.
 Season: Mid-November to late April

Niseko, Japan

Why it’s great for families: Known for its incredible powder snow, Niseko is also family-friendly with English-speaking instructors and non-ski activities like snow tubing.
Where to eat: Head to Ezo Seafoods for fresh sushi and seafood that kids will love.
What to do: Relax in an onsen (hot spring) or take part in snowshoe tours.
Where to stay: The Vale Niseko, offering family suites and a heated outdoor pool.
Budget: ★★★★★ (Luxury)
Best month to travel: January for peak powder season.
Season: Late November to early May

Evening view of Niseko, Japan
Winter street scene in Whistler Blackcomb, Canada

Whistler Blackcomb, Canada

Why it’s great for families: Whistler Blackcomb offers a wide variety of terrain, a world-class ski school, and a pedestrian-only village.
 Where to eat: Try The Old Spaghetti Factory, a hit with kids thanks to its fun atmosphere and affordable meals.
 What to do: Enjoy the bubly Tube Park or the Vallea Lumina nighttime light show.
 Where to stay: The Westin Resort & Spa, located in the heart of the village with family-friendly suites.
 Budget: ★★★★ (Moderate to upscale)
 Best month to travel: February for great snow and fewer crowds.
 Season: Late November to late May

Laax, Switzerland

Why it’s great for families: Laax is known for its Freestyle Academy, offering lessons for kids in skiing, snowboarding, and even indoor freestyle skills.
 Where to eat: Visit Tegia Larnags for Swiss fondue and family-style dining.
 What to do: Check out the sledging trails or the indoor climbing wall.
 Where to stay: rocksresort, a design-forward family-friendly hotel with ski-in/ski-out access.
 Budget: ★★★★★ (Luxury)
 Best month to travel: March for sunny days and excellent snow.
 Season: Early December to mid-April

View of ski slopes in Laax, Switzerland
Ski slopes in Ruka, Finland

Ruka, Finland

 Why it’s great for families: This small, uncrowded resort is perfect for beginners. Plus, families can enjoy husky rides and Northern Lights safaris.
 Where to eat: Colorado Mts. Bar & Grill offers American-style food that kids adore.
 What to do: Try snowmobiling or visit the nearby reindeer farm.
 Where to stay: Ruka Valley, offering ski-in/ski-out family apartments.
 Budget: ★★★ (Affordable)
 Best month to travel: December for a magical Christmas atmosphere.
 Season: Late October to early May

Big Sky, Montana, USA

Why it’s great for families: Big Sky offers wide, uncrowded slopes and family-focused programs, including kids’ ski camps. Looking for some itinerary ideas? Here you go – family-friendly itineraries in Big Sky.
 Where to eat: Carabiner Lounge offers stunning views and kid-friendly options.
 What to do: Visit Yellowstone National Park for a winter wildlife tour. 
 Where to stay: Huntley Lodge, offering free breakfast and a family-friendly atmosphere.
 Budget: ★★★★ (Moderate to upscale)
 Best month to travel: February for excellent snow and fewer crowds.
 Season: Late November to mid-April

Street view in Big Sky Montana
Chalet in Les Gets, France

Les Gets, France

Why it’s great for families: Les Gets is part of the Portes du Soleil ski area and is designed with families in mind. It features wonderful family-friendly slopes for kids and great beginner terrain making every family feel welcome.
 Where to eat: La Paika serves delicious food on a sunny terrace.
 What to do: Try ice skating in the village or visit the Mechanical Music Museum.
 Where to stay: Chalets d’Adelphine, offering family-sized accommodations with a spa.
 Budget: ★★★ (Affordable)
 Best month to travel: February for snow and family events.
 Season: Mid-December to mid-April

Park City, Utah, USA

Why it’s great for families: Park City features extensive beginner terrain, great ski schools, and an easily walkable main street with family-friendly activities.
 Where to eat: Enjoy pizza and pasta at Vinto.
 What to do: Visit the Alpine Coaster or the Flying Eagle Zipline.
 Where to stay: Hyatt Centric Park City, offering large suites and ski-in/ski-out access.
 Budget: ★★★★ (Moderate to upscale)
 Best month to travel: January for great snow and Sundance Film Festival vibes.
 Season: Late November to mid-April

Dusk view of Park City, Utah, USA
Night time view across village an lake, Zell am See, Austria

Zell am See, Austria

Why it’s great for families: This picturesque resort offers gentle slopes for beginners and a beautiful lakeside setting.
Where to eat: Restaurant Adria serves Mediterranean cuisine in the mountains – what’s not to love?
What to do:
Take a boat ride on the lake or enjoy tobogganing.
 Where to stay: Kinderhotel Zell am See, designed specifically for families with activities for kids.
 Budget: ★★★ (Affordable)
 Best month to travel: March for longer days and spring skiing.
 Season: Early December to mid-April

Something for everyone

Whether you’re looking for gentle beginner slopes or exciting activities off the mountain, these resorts promise unforgettable family ski vacations. Make sure to book early for the best deals and availability!

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