The Intrepid Museum is a long-time favorite at my house. Though my son is grown and in college, it's still his favorite NYC museum given its collection of military history and the unique vessel it calls home—a decommissioned Essex-class aircraft carrier dating to the Second World War. So, when my younger daughter and I were invited to join a recent Operation Slumber overnight experience, we excitedly packed our bags and shipped out for an all-night adventure at one of the handful of museums offering sleepover experiences in NYC.

A visit to Waterdrinker Family Farm's Winter Wonderland on Long Island is a fun-filled day bursting with holiday cheer, as the Manorville farm undergoes an exciting holiday transformation for the Christmas season. 

My family had never visited for the holidays, and my kids loved every minute of merriment. From a giant blow-up snow globe to ice skating under twinkling lights to roasting marshmallows by a cozy fire pit, this farm is a true holiday destination. The experience is a welcome addition to our annual list of Christmas traditions. 

Read ahead for all the details to plan your own Christmas adventure to Waterdrinker's Winter Wonderland. For even more merry festivities, check out our Guide to Holiday and Christmas Events for Long Island Kids and our Guide to Pick Your Own Farms on Long Island. 

See what Maine has to offer on a 3-day Christmas getaway!

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.