Think outside the box with these family-friendly vacations. We have absolutely loved all of our vacations to these little known areas. Our 10-year old son’s #1 vacation is Finland!
Sections
3
Santa Village - Rovaniemi, Finland
Quebec City Winter Carnival
Crystal River, Florida
Santa Village - Rovaniemi, Finland
Who can resist a visit to see Santa? This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and my 10-year old son’s #1 vacation.
One of the most magical places to visit for the whole family!
Santa Claus Village
Meet Santa and send him a letter at the Post Office.
Meet Santa Claus at Santa Claus Village Rovaniemi - Arctic Circle
Loved staying directly in the village! Our rental was right beside the perfect sledding hill!
Santa Claus Holiday Village Rentals
They also have a webcam here where your family and friends can watch!
Cross the Arctic Circle in Santa Claus Village Rovaniemi
This place is responsible for getting my husband hooked on espresso.
Loft Cafe - Santa Claus Village
This was one of our favorite spots because it has a store attached!
Christmas House Café-Restaurant - Santa Claus Village
Rovaniemi is such a beautiful place. Take a look at some fun things to do in the area, and don’t forget to book a Northern Lights tour.
Things to do in Rovaniemi Finland - 20x Tourist Attractions
Warm snow boots are a must!
Kids Winter Waterproof Snow Boots Slip Resistant
These are great for the winter when you're walking around the village.
Hand Warmers Rechargeable 2 Pack
Love these boots! They were very comfy!
HOBIBEAR Women's Waterproof Winter Snow Boots
Don't forget a plug adaptor! We needed one that handled multiple countries as we were coming from the US and traveling through London to Finland. Be prepared!
Universal Travel Adapter 5.6A 3 USB C 2 USB A
My kids love these more than a regular scarf.
Neck Warmer for Kids 2 Pack
This is a great backpack for travel and is approved as a carry-on for air travel.
Travel Backpack
Quebec City Winter Carnival
Spend several days at the Winter Carnival in Quebec City. The carnival is held every February and is a great experience for families. Be sure to check out all the festivities from the night parade to the ice sculptures.
If you love the snow, this is a great vacation for the family!
Winter Carnival | Carnaval de Québec | February 6 to 15, 2026
We loved this quaint little hotel! It's within walking distance of almost everything.
HOTEL MARIE ROLLET - Updated 2025 Prices & Reviews (Quebec/Quebec City)
Be prepared for the cold! And for taking your winter layers on and off constantly.
Guide to dress well in winter for Quebec
One of the most photographed hotels in the world!
FAIRMONT LE CHÂTEAU FRONTENAC - Updated 2025 Prices & Hotel Reviews (Quebec/Quebec City)
This hotel is highly rated!
MONSIEUR JEAN - HÔTEL PARTICULIER - Updated 2025 Prices & Hotel Reviews (Quebec/Quebec City)
Make sure you get warm boots!
Kids Winter Waterproof Snow Boots Slip Resistant
Warm gloves are an absolute necessity in the snow.
Kids Waterproof Winter Thinsulate Warm Gloves
Buy these! We weren't prepared and had to buy the hand warmer packets from a store in Quebec.
Hand Warmers Rechargeable 2 Pack
I love these boots. They were great in the cold and comfy!
HOBIBEAR Women's Waterproof Winter Snow Boots
My kids love these more than a regular scarf.
Neck Warmer for Kids 2 Pack
Crystal River, Florida
The Crystal River area could be a trip in itself, or do like our family did and drive down from Orlando. Swimming with the manatees is incredible!
You can’t miss the manatees while visiting Crystal River.
A Guide to Seeing Manatees in Crystal River, FL
Book the manatee tour with the glass-bottomed kayaks! You won't be disappointed.
Get Up And Go Kayaking - Crystal River
Lots of good places to eat.
THE 10 BEST Restaurants in Crystal River (Updated November 2025)
You can't go to Florida without visiting the beach.
Fort Island Gulf Beach
Love Kennedy Space Center! It's about 2.5 hours away from Crystal River. We've taken the kiddos twice.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Great for beach days or water parks; take photos without worrying.
Waterproof Phone Pouch Case for iPhone 13-17 Pro Max
