9 Festive Winter Activities
7. Winter sleigh ride at the National Elk Refuge in Jackson, Wyoming
The National Elk Refuge provides habitat to 1000’s of elk each winter season. As many as 6000-7000 elk migrate to the area for the food supply, beginning around October-November each year. Horse drawn sleigh rides take you through the elk herd. You will leave with amazing photos and a great history of the area. The majestic snow capped mountains provide the perfect backdrop for a winter sleigh ride.
Taking a sleigh ride in beautiful Jackson Hole is the ideal way to start off your vacation. It’s the perfect treat after a hard day on the slopes or a day out enjoying the multitude of other recreational activities available in the area. Sleigh rides typically start running in mid-November and close up in March or April. Visit the National Elk Refuge website for additional information.
More pics from the National Elk Refuge
8. Skiing, Ice Skating, Dining & Shopping at Heavenly Village
Heavenly Village is the perfect place to start your Lake Tahoe winter vacation. You can easily fill your day up with a range of festive activities including: ice skating, shopping, dining, movies, and of course, skiing! Skiers will rejoice as Heavenly is home to the West’s largest snowmaking system. An average annual snowfall of 360 inches means plenty of opportunity for winter recreation far into the New Year!
Ski season typically runs from November-April. Visit the Heavenly Village Ski Resort Website for details regarding pricing, hours, and special events. For a full listing of dining, entertainment, and shopping options at Heavenly Village, check out the Shops at Heavenly Village directory.
9. Shopping along Chicago’s Magnificent Mile & State Street
Chicago’s Magnificent Mile shopping district is home to some of the best retail shops in the country. During the holiday season, all the trees lining N. Michigan Ave. are illuminated. A romantic holiday horse drawn carriage ride perfectly rounds out an afternoon of shopping.
The shopping doesn’t stop at Michigan Avenue! Don’t forget about State Street, home to Macy’s famous holiday window displays. Locals reminiscence about the flagship Marshall Fields store that use to stand in Macy’s spot (Macy’s will always still be Marshall Field’s to the people of Chicago!).
State Street is also home to numerous other shops and restaurants. Don’t miss out on the annual Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, which includes a festive parade, concerts by top artists, and a fireworks show over the Chicago River. Visit the Magnificent Mile website for information regarding this year’s special events lineup.
**I hope you have enjoyed reading about some of my favorite festive winter destinations. Stay tuned for Part 2 as I continue my winter travel adventures! Check back frequently for updates!
