Looking to shake up your winter plans with a new family adventure?
You’re in the right place.
This guide rounds up the best New England winter getaways for families, including winter resorts, cozy destinations, and easy vacation ideas designed for cold-weather travel.
We’re diving into 7 of the best New England Family Getaways that make planning winter vacations New England families love, feel easy.
From the snowy peaks of New Hampshire’s White Mountains to an oceanside pool in Maine, this is what New England winter is all about.
Explore the Best New England Winter Getaways for Families
Winter trips with kids need options, so these New England getaways focus on places that don’t shut down in the colder months.
You’ll find family resorts, winter-ready towns, and destinations that still feel fun in January and February.
Newport, Rhode Island
Lots of festive food to try at the 10-day Newport Winter Festival.
Embrace the Cold at the
Newport Winter Festival
When winter rolls into Newport, Rhode Island, the town’s temperatures may drop, but the coastal charm doesn’t fade… it gets even more magical.
What makes Newport work in winter is that the town doesn’t shut down, especially during the festival when everything feels active and family-friendly.
For ten days in February (February 13- 22, 2026), Newport, RI, transforms into a lively winter wonderland complete with twinkling lights and plenty of Newport family activities to fill your day.
Picture your kids’ excitement as they watch ice sculptures come to life, race through scavenger hunts, watch Polo on the beach or get lost in the wonder of live magic shows. The festival doesn’t just warm your heart; it fills your days with memories that will last long after the snow melts.
Check out our Newport Winter Activities guide for the best ways to make the most of the season.
Newport Winter Festival Events
Embrace the winter chill while watching ice carving.
- Fun Animal Encounters
- Puppet entertainer duo
- Magician/juggler
- Mad Science Show
- Teddy Bear Snuggle Storytime
- Ice Carving on Long Wharf
- Beach Polo on Second Beach
Newport, RI, is such a fun place for a winter family getaway and remains one of the most charming New England winter destinations for kids.
The whole town feels like a festive playground, with so many activities that the kids… and you, will love.
Newport, RI is one of the best places to visit in New England in the winter for families.
Where to Stay for the
Newport Winter Festival
Newport Harbor Island Resort
Photo Credit: Newport Harbor Island Resort
Now called Newport Harbor Island Resort, this former Gurney’s property is a fantastic choice for families looking to stay on the waterfront.
With so many of the Newport Winter Festival’s events hosted right at the resort, you’ll be perfectly situated to enjoy all the fun without missing a beat.
And if you’re exploring more places to stay in Newport, we’ve put together a guide to the Best Family Hotels in Newport RI.
Indoor Pool for year-round enjoyment! Photo Credit: Newport Harbor Island Resort
Family Amenities at Newport Harbor Island Resort:
- Heated indoor pool and hot tub
- Spacious suites
- Kids Club (ages 3-12)
- Game room
- Room service
- Shuttle to downtown Newport
- Welcome beverage
- Complimentary cribs and cots
- Baby supplies from BabyQuip
If you’re looking for a winter getaway that offers something special, Newport, RI, should be on your list—especially during the Newport Winter Festival.
This is when Newport truly shines, with the festival bringing together the best of winter fun, learning, and entertainment for the whole family. It’s one of those times when the town feels magical, and your visit will be filled with memories you won’t forget.
For all the details on this year’s Newport Winter Festival, check out the link HERE.
North Conway,
New Hampshire
Cranmore Mountain Resort has everything you need for a day of outdoor fun in the White Mountains.
Set in the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, North Conway is the perfect destination for New England families.
For more than a century, North Conway has been a winter haven for families, offering the perfect mix of village charm, scenic beauty, and a wide range of outdoor activities.
North Conway works well in winter because there’s always a mix of snow activities and indoor options if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Top Winter Attractions in
North Conway, NH
- Cranmore Mountain Resort: Cranmore Mountain Resort has everything you need and remains one of the classic winter resorts in New England for families. Ski, snowboard, tube, or enjoy the Winter Mountain Adventure Park, which features a mountain coaster, giant swing, and zip line.
- Kahuna Laguna: An indoor water park that’s perfect for a warm escape in the middle of winter.
- Snow Coach Tour: Take a snow coach tour on the Mount Washington Toll Road for stunning winter views.
- Ice Skating at Ham Public Ice Arena: Glide across the ice at this local rink.
- Living Shores Aquarium: Discover the wonders of marine life—check out our complete Guide to Aquariums in New Hampshire.
- Ryan’s North Conway Airpark: A 5,000 sq ft indoor playspace for kids to jump and bounce.
- Settlers Green Outlet Village: Enjoy tax-free shopping at a variety of stores.
Ready to dive deeper into what North Conway has to offer? Check out our Guide to Things to do in North Conway NH in the Winter for where to stay and all the best tips and recommendations.
New Hampshire is full of quirky and unusual restaurants… These Quirky New Hampshire Restaurants, will put you over the edge.
Stowe, Vermont
Take a ride on the Stowe Gondola Skyride
Picture this… snow-capped Green Mountains, historic covered bridges, and a classic white steeple church setting the perfect scene for your family’s winter adventure.
Now, add in arcades, ice skating, sleigh rides, and heated outdoor pools that will have your kids counting down the days until you arrive.
Welcome to Stowe, where winter fun is around every corner and New England winter vacations feel like a storybook come to life.
Make memories taking a family sleigh ride in Stowe, VT.
Things to Do in Stowe, VT this Winter
- Spruce Peak Village: In true ski style, enjoy ice skating, a performing arts center, and cozy après-ski options.
- Dog Sled Rides: Take a 30-minute evening dog sled ride through the scenic Stowe landscape. Available on Saturday evenings only, with a maximum of 3 people per ride.
- Winter Sleigh Rides: Enjoy a magical sleigh ride through the woods of Stowe.
- Gold Rush Arcade: Have a blast with arcade games and prizes in downtown Stowe.
- Ski, Snowboard, or Tube: Hit the slopes at Stowe, a premier destination for skiing and riding.
- Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour: A short drive from Stowe, this factory tour is fun and educational, with plenty of ice cream samples to enjoy.
- Stowe Cinema Plex: Catch a movie for a relaxing evening.
- Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum: Learn about the history of skiing and snowboarding in Vermont.
- Horseback Riding: Explore the beauty of the Green Mountains on horseback.
- Check out our guide to Horseback Riding in Stowe VT.
- Book one of the Best Airbnbs in Vermont for a cozy stay near Stowe.
Where to Stay in Stowe, VT this Winter
Lodge at Spruce Peak
Outdoor heated pool at The Lodge at Spruce Peak
This winter resort offers slope-side accommodations and all the amenities you’d expect from one of the top family resorts in New England.
I have a personal connection to this place… I married my husband here in 2012 when it was still Stowe Mountain Lodge.
The Lodge at Spruce Peak feels like it’s in the center of all the action (because it is), and you might feel like never leaving the resort other than to take the gondola up the mountain.
Over the years, it’s only gotten better, making it a perfect spot for a winter getaway.
Spruce Peak Rink and outdoor amenities
Some of our favorite Spruce Peak amenities include
- Heated outdoor pool
- Spruce Peak Village on-site
- Kid’s activities and games
- Indoor rock climbing
- Snow biking
- Top New England Spa
- Sleigh Rides
- Dog Sledding
Stowe, Vermont, is the kind of winter getaway that checks all the boxes—adventure, relaxation, and plenty of family-friendly fun.
Whether you’re carving up the slopes, indulging in a scoop (or three) at the nearby Ben & Jerry’s factory, or wandering the postcard-perfect village, Stowe makes winter feel like something straight out of a snow globe.
And when you’re ready to warm up with a great meal, our Most Popular Restaurants in Stowe for Families has you covered.
The Poconos, Pennsylvania
Toddler splash area at Kalahari Resort Poconos
The Poconos in Pennsylvania is a fantastic year-round destination, but it truly shines in the winter.
One of the biggest draws for families, besides the access to some great ski resorts near NYC, is the array of indoor water park resorts that offer a warm and exciting escape from the chilly weather.
Top 3 Indoor Water Parks in the Poconos
Waterslides and lazy river at Great Wolf Lodge Poconos.
- Kalahari Resort Poconos: 220,000 sq ft indoor water park, over 20 water slides, toddler/baby zone, arcade, mini golf course, and more.
- Aquatopia at Camelback Resort: 125,000 sq ft indoor water park, 13 water slides, toddler/baby splash zone, laser tag, and bumper cars.
- Great Wolf Lodge Poconos: 120,000 sq ft indoor water park, 16 water slides, toddler/baby area, MagiQuest game, Build-A-Bear Workshop, and mini golf course.
Beyond the water parks, these winter resorts offer a variety of family-friendly activities like mini-golf, bowling, and arcade games with great prizes for kids of all ages.
Outside the resorts, the Poconos Mountains area is a hub for winter sports, including skiing, snow tubing, and ice skating. Blue Mountain Resort, Jack Frost Mountain, and Camelback Mountain Resort are top spots for family-friendly skiing and snowboarding, offering fun for everyone.
Why Visit the Poconos in Winter?
Snow tubing is a sample of the fun winter things to do in the Poconos.
Winter in the Poconos is all about options. Spend the day skiing, exploring small towns, or hitting the water slides, and then add a little extra fun with the Best Snow Tubing in the Poconos…one of the best ways to enjoy the snow with kids.
The Hamptons, New York
Hook Windmill in East Hampton, NY.
The Hamptons might be famous for its summer glamour and packed restaurants, but winter at the end of Long Island is a hidden gem that offers a serene and peaceful retreat for families.
The Hamptons shine in winter thanks to fewer crowds and a surprising number of year-round attractions that stay open past the holidays.
Favorite Winter Family Activities in the Hamptons
The Big Duck in Flanders, NY is open year-round.
- The Big Duck in Flanders: Start your adventure with a quirky photo op and souvenir stop at this 20-foot roadside attraction.
- Children’s Museum of the East End: If the weather is nice, explore interactive exhibits and play on the 9-hole musical mini-golf course.
- Southampton Ice Rink: Glide across the ice at this classic winter spot.
- Long Island Aquarium: Discover marine life and enjoy indoor exhibits perfect for a chilly day.
- The South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center: Learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife.
- The Clubhouse East Hampton: Bowl a few frames and enjoy the arcade games for indoor family fun.
- Sag Harbor Cinema: Cozy up and catch the latest family-friendly film.
Where to Stay in the Hamptons this Winter
Montauk Blue Hotel
Enjoy year-round swimming at Montauk Blue Hotel
Budget-friendly, cozy rooms with beautiful ocean views and a year-round heated indoor pool make it ideal for relaxing with the family in the winter. (Montauk Blue Hotel Website)
Gurney’s Montauk
Waterfront dining igloos at Gurney's Montauk, NY
Known for its luxurious amenities and stunning location, Gurney’s offers a year-round heated indoor pool that’s a big hit with kids and adults alike, plus spa and dining options to add a touch of luxury to your stay. (Gurney’s Montauk Website)
Winter in the Hamptons offers a unique charm with fewer crowds and plenty of opportunities for quality family time. Pack your bags and get ready to discover a different side of this beautiful area.
Sunday River Ski Resort,
Newry, Maine
Spend some time on the slopes of Maine this winter.
On the peaks of Newry, Maine, Sunday River Ski Resort is the ultimate winter getaway and one of the most popular winter resorts in New England for families.
Spanning eight interconnected peaks, this premier New England ski resort offers an exciting array of options for every level of skier and snowboarder, making it a destination that promises endless winter fun.
Families love skiing and snowboarding at Sunday River Resort.
With 884 acres of skiable terrain, 139 trails and glades, and five diverse terrain parks, Sunday River is a skier’s paradise.
For those looking for something beyond skiing, Sunday River offers plenty of unique winter activities, including:
- Sno-Go Bike Rentals: A fun and exciting way to hit the slopes.
- Twilight Skiing: Enjoy thrilling night runs under the stars.
Sunday River isn’t just a ski resort… it’s a complete winter experience for families. Your kids will love the SnowSports School, where young skiers can build confidence and improve their skills in a supportive environment.
Off the slopes, there’s more to explore with:
- Tubing
- Ice Skating
- Snowshoeing
Don’t miss the Après Glow Winter Trail, a magical half-mile walk through a dazzling wonderland of lights, perfect for creating unforgettable family memories.
(Explore our curated list of top Luxury Family Resorts in Maine.)
Accommodations and Dining at
Sunday River
When it’s time to unwind, Sunday River offers a variety of accommodations to suit your needs:
- Cozy slopeside condos for easy ski-in/ski-out access.
- The family-favorite Grand Summit Hotel, providing comfort, convenience, and close proximity to the slopes.
- A range of amenities designed to enhance your stay.
Dining at Sunday River is also an adventure:
- Over 20 dining options, from quick bites to sit-down meals.
- Many family-friendly restaurants, ensuring even the pickiest eaters find something they enjoy.
Unique Experiences at Sunday River Resort
Sunday River Alpeniglu Snow Igloo
One of Sunday River’s most enchanting attractions is the Alpeniglu Snow Igloo, a unique experience usually only found in European ski resorts. Nestled in the secluded Jordan Bowl, this magical igloo features music, colorful lights, ice carvings, and frosty drinks.
The igloo is open from Friday to Sunday and can be reached by ski or snowboard trails, adding an extra sense of adventure. If you prefer a more relaxed journey, you can take a Snow Cat ride from Sliders Restaurant every half hour between 5-8 pm on weekends.
Explore the Area Around Sunday River Resort
The fun doesn’t stop at Sunday River. The nearby area offers a variety of off-site activities to round out your winter adventure
- Dog Sledding & Cross-Country Skiing: Explore the stunning winter landscape in a new way.
- Bowling & Arcade at River Lanes: Perfect for an evening of family fun.
- Maine Mineral & Gem Museum: Discover the natural beauty of Maine’s minerals and gems.
- Winter Sleigh Rides at Deepwood Farm: A classic winter experience in nearby Albany Township.
- Sunday River Covered Bridge (Artist’s Bridge): Take a picturesque stroll across this historic landmark.
Sunday River Ski Resort is a top-notch winter destination for families. It offers a perfect blend of extensive ski terrain, unique experiences like the Alpeniglu Snow Igloo, and a wide range of activities beyond the slopes.
With cozy accommodations and dining options to suit everyone, Sunday River promises an unforgettable New England winter getaway for all ages.
New England Airbnbs with Indoor Pools
New England family getaways are even better with your own private pool.
For families looking to extend their New England winter getaway with a private, resort-style stay, these Airbnbs with indoor pools offer a flexible alternative to traditional winter resorts.
Imagine the kids splashing in a heated indoor pool, epic game nights in a decked-out rec room, and cozy fireside hangouts… all in one of these incredible New England Airbnbs.
Snow, rain, or sunshine, these rentals are built for nonstop fun. And if you’re looking for one of these magical rentals with indoor pools near NYC… we’ve got you covered.
Cape Cod Winter Getaway:
Airbnb with Indoor Pool
Mashpee Indoor Pool- Photo Credit @ Airbnb
Why fight summer traffic when you can enjoy Cape Cod’s peaceful beauty during the off-season? This luxury Mashpee, MA home has everything you need for a perfect family getaway, no matter the weather. Here’s what you can expect:
- Spacious Accommodations: Four bedrooms and four baths, plenty of room for everyone to spread out and relax.
- Heated Saltwater Indoor Pool: Swim year-round in the comfort of your own private pool.
- Hot Tub: Unwind after a day of exploring with a soak in the hot tub.
- Game Room: Keep the whole family entertained with arcade games, giant board games, and air hockey.
- Weather-Proof Fun: Whether it’s snowing, raining, or even during a power outage, this home is built to keep the fun going.
Enjoy Cape Cod like a local—without the summer crowds, but with all the luxury!
Ready to plan your next off-season adventure? Click here to check out availability and start planning your stay!
Mashpee Livingroom to Pool Access- Photo Credit @ Airbnb
Lots of games to keep you busy in Mashpee, MA- Photo Credit @ Airbnb
A quiet retreat in Mashpee -Photo Credit @ Airbnb
Winter Fun Awaits:
Airbnb With Indoor Pool Near Mystic, CT
Pool entrance in Stonington, CT - Photo Credit @ Airbnb
Why wait for summer when you can enjoy the charm of Mystic, CT, during the winter? This stunning Stonington home has everything you need for a memorable family getaway, no matter the season. Here’s what you can expect:
- Spacious Accommodations: Four bedrooms and three baths, perfect for families or groups of up to 10.
- Heated Saltwater Indoor Pool: Enjoy swimming year-round, even on the coldest days.
- Prime Location: Just a short drive from Mystic Seaport and the Mystic Aquarium.
- Comfort and Convenience: Plenty of space to relax after a day of exploring all that Mystic has to offer.
Want to dine like a local? Don’t miss our Guide to Family Dining near Stonington, CT, and truly embrace vacation mode!
Ready to plan your winter escape? Click here to check availability and start your Mystic adventure!
Nautical style in Stonington, CT- Photo Credit @ Airbnb
Livingroom to pool in Stonington, CT- Photo Credit @ Airbnb
Indoor pool and tiki bar in Stonington, CT- Photo Credit @ Airbnb
North Hampton, NH Winter Retreat: Cozy Airbnb with Indoor Pool
Sunfilled indoor pool in North Hampton, NH- Photo Credit @ Airbnb
Looking for the ultimate winter escape with a large group? This 6-bedroom home in North Hampton, NH, is the perfect getaway, comfortably sleeping 16 and situated on 10 acres of private land—ideal for snow-filled fun.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Expansive Accommodations: 6 bedrooms, 7,000 sq. ft. of space, and plenty of room for everyone.
- Heated Indoor Pool and Hot Tub: Swim and soak year-round in the comfort of your own private retreat.
- Prime Location: Just 2 miles from North Hampton State Park Beach and close to fantastic dining options.
- Private Setting: Enjoy 10 acres of serene winter landscape, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Ready to create unforgettable winter memories? This house has everything you need for a perfect stay!
Click here to check availability and start planning your North Hampton retreat.
Gorgeous private property in North Hampton, NH- Photo Credit @ Airbnb
Viewing room in North Hampton, NH- Photo Credit @ Airbnb
Indoor pool with diving board in North Hampton, NH- Photo Credit @ Airbnb
Explore the Best New England Family Getaways for a Memorable Winter
New England in winter is a wonderland of family getaways in New England, each offering its own unique charm.
Whether you’re enjoying the festive excitement of the Newport Winter Festival, the peaceful off-season beauty of the Hamptons, or the thrilling slopes at Sunday River, there’s something for every family to love.
These destinations truly are some of the best places to visit in New England in the winter.
So, bundle up, gather your loved ones, and embark on a winter adventure that will inspire and delight this season.
Wishing you happy travels and unforgettable experiences.
