Christmas vacation can be a wonderful thing, even if you aren't traveling anywhere while the kids are out of school. In fact, I find it almost more relaxing to stay home, let the kids enjoy their new gifts, and plan day trips out and about in the metroplex. Especially because finding things to do with kids in Dallas-Fort Worth during winter break isn't much of a challenge. The weather (most years) tends to be agreeable to outdoor adventures; if you aren't totally Christmased out, lots of holiday lights and Christmas light displays are still going strong, and indoor playgrounds and play spaces are bountiful.

This list of winter break fun includes some of the best events going on in DFW right now, so take a look and make the most of those days before the kids head back to school.

Try outdoor dining in the winter with igloo dining in Connecticut!

Calamigos Guest Ranch is beautiful any time of the year. The sprawling oaks set amongst the hills in this rustic and rejuvenating slice of Heaven is the perfect getaway from the hectic melee of the big city. From the time I drove through the entrance, it felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders; Calamigos Guest Ranch is a breath of pure, crisp winter air, and almost lets you forget the panic over unfulfilled Christmas wish lists, teacher gifts, and holiday obligations. 

While I’d recommend a short staycation at Calamigos in June, October, or February, December also stands out for its festive atmosphere. Right now, this magical spot is bedecked in Christmas lights and has lots of holiday fun for the whole family. In fact, Calamigos offers lots of Christmas programming for hotel guests and members leading up to the big holiday!

Check out our list of other incredible hotels for families in Los Angeles, plus an article on festive hotels near Los Angeles that will blow your mind. Wondering what do in Malibu? We have our Top 25 Things to do in Malibu guide to keep you busy during your stay. 

Hidden gem holiday events for seasonal family fun.

Winter in the Washington, DC area can be a parenting challenge in the best of times, but there's no stopping us! I am here to help you keep boredom at bay during the colder months with this ultimate winter bucket list.

With so many things to do in DC and nearby during the colder months—from outdoor activities like ice skating and snow tubing to indoor fun such as trampoline parks and tons of free museums—even the most finicky kids will remain entertained until the warmer weather returns.

Here are 21 things to do in DC to cross off your winter bucket list with kids. For even more fun, check out our Winter Activities Guide for DC Kids and our Guide to Indoor Playgrounds, Play Spaces, and More Indoor Fun for Kids in DC. We're also adding more fun events to our events calendar each day.

Hidden gem holiday events around Houston. 

Enjoy the Christmas holiday in San Francisco and the Bay Area minus the food prep and cleanup. These great area restaurants are open on Christmas Day. 

Atlanta’s holiday season is in full swing with holiday light shows, pictures with Santa, and Polar Express rides, but that doesn’t mean your family has to do the same thing every year. Why not mix it up and try something different or unusual?! Start new family traditions at these unusual Christmas events and lesser-known holiday activities in Atlanta. Read on for our list of Atlanta's unusual and underrated Christmas and holiday activities, including pop-ups, performances, and more.