Every year, my friends head to Andorra for a ski trip.
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I grew up in Missouri, which means I have a very tenuous relationship with winter sports. It’s not due to lack of cold—I think it comes down to a few other factors.
First, we have a good amount of hills but no mountains in MO. Second, Missouri has big down-home vibes—locals are more likely to buy ATVs than snowboards.
So, when it’s time for that Andorra trip, I turn into a little après-ski fairy. I bring a book, make friends with the bartender, and curl up near the fireplace.
I’m left to my own devices until my Dutch, Italian, Spanish, and English friends wander back into the warm glow of the lodge. And that’s not going to change anytime soon.
That being said, I get the appeal of a snowy escape to the slopes—especially during Christmas.
A ski resort (and its lodge) is one of those places where Christmas really comes alive. From the chugging fireplace to the scent of mulled wine to the leagues of fresh powder, skiing is closely tied to all forms of winter cheer, especially in Europe and North America.
In other words, spending Christmas at a ski lodge should be on your radar—whether or not you want to strap on those skis.
Top US ski resorts open for Christmas: at a glance
- Best luxury resort: Viceroy Snowmass, Colorado
- Best for a classic Christmas experience: Park City Mountain Resort, Utah
- Top pick for hardcore skiers: Grand Targhee Resort, Wyoming
- Best ski town: Stowe Mountain Resort, Vermont
Top 4 picks: US ski resorts open for Christmas
Viceroy Snowmass, Colorado
This ultra-luxury choice is one of the best on the continent—not just in the US. Over Christmas, you can expect a five-star treatment that includes a range of festive activities. (They also offer a Menorah lighting experience!)
From carol-singing to themed cocktails, it’s all about the details. There are even snowman-making competitions. On Christmas and New Year’s Eve, you can also enjoy special dining menus from Toro Snowmass.
The more you zoom in at Viceroy, the more Christmas cheer you find.
Park City Mountain Resort, Utah
Park City is a well-known quantity for diehard skiers around the US—but did you know that the Park City Mountain Resort (also popular) has a well-rounded list of holiday events? Most are Christmas-themed, including its daily tree lightings, ice carvings, photos with Santa, and more.
The festivities culminate on December 20th when you can enjoy a fireworks display over the mountain. It’s followed by a party with free churros, live music, and more Santa photo ops.
Grand Targhee Resort, Wyoming
Known as the ‘powder king of Wyoming’, the main appeal of this high-altitude resort is its endless leagues of fresh powder. If you’re a snob about snow and want some deep powder, this might just be your mecca. And the resort places a huge emphasis on finetuning its operations with skiers and snowboarders in mind.
Most of their events calendar includes live music from local favorites like Triple Lindy and Batdorf & the Brother Wolf. I don’t know if you can tell by the names, but those are both homegrown, folk groups that are sure to please just about any music lover. On Christmas day, you can join a Christmas dinner with tons of menu options—just be sure to reserve ahead of time.
And don’t forget about the NYE Rail Jam party over New Year’s Eve. This event includes tons of action at the rail park where athletes freestyle to bring in the new year.
Stowe, Vermont
My last recommendation isn’t an actual resort; it’s a town that has multiple ski resorts to choose from, along with plenty of Christmas activities. (Après-ski fairies, rejoice!)
In terms of local entertainment, you can enjoy a Monkeys on Eggnog show on the local brewery grounds, along with other unique activities like the Taste of Vermont Food Tour and even library flash tattoos.
In terms of Christmas cheer, you can expect a classic buffet on the big day, followed by a sled dog meet and greet, snowshoe and tubing tour, and other unique events all in the center of town.
Seriously, the calendar is chock-full of excuses to pack up and head to Stowe, Vermont. All you need to do is choose the resort that’s right for you. Shop around for budget picks or luxury stays; regardless of your choice, you won’t go wrong.
