Compiled by Kendall Harshberger

Although family vacations are traditionally planned far in advance, it does not always have to be that way. According to a survey conducted by the YPartnership/Harrison group, a marketing research organization, about three in 10 Americans took last-minute trips last year, a statistic that is rising.  Even more, one out of every four of these Americans took trips to nearby destinations, avoiding extensive travel. If your family doesn’t have the time or money to plan a large trip this winter break, or if you’re just lazy procrastinators, try some of these nearby holiday excursions.

Santa Claus, IN

With a name itself a tribute to the big guy, this town in southern Indiana is a popular holiday destination, especially for those with younger siblings. According to the website of Roadside America, an online guide to sightseeing in the United States, one of the attractions these tourists often visit includes the Santa Claus Museum, where visitors can learn the history of this town. One of the more famous items in this museum is the typewriter used to answer countless letters to Santa in the early 1900s. Another place to take a look at is Santa’s Candy Castle, the oldest attraction in the town. It closed in the 1970s but was restored and reopened in 2006. The castle includes a museum, a candy shop with the world’s largest selection of candy canes, over two dozen flavors of hot chocolate and, of course, Santa Claus himself. Other attractions to note include the Drippy Snowman mini-golf course and the oldest Santa Claus statue, built in 1935. Santa Claus is the best choice for those who have younger siblings in town and would like a more leisurely day-trip.

Where to go: Santa Claus Museum
Where to eat: Santa’s Candy Castle
Time: about three hours
Distance: about 200 miles

Chicago, IL

For those families seeking some out-of-state holiday fun, Chicago is a viable option, as there are numerous activities that would satisfy a tourist’s every holiday need. The traditional German Christkindland market, Chicago’s largest open-air market and full of holiday foods and activities, is open in Daley’s Plaza until Dec. 24. Also, the Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier is open through Jan. 2. This indoor holiday festival, containing over 170,000 square feet, provides a plethora of holiday attractions such as rides, live entertainment and ice skating. For those who aren’t the festival type, many plays such as the classic “A Christmas Carol” are going on throughout the city at both the amateur and professional level for the duration of the season. Other traditional activities are available, also, like ice skating in Millennium Park, going to Santa’s House in Daley’s Plaza or just perusing the holiday sales downtown. Chicago is a day-trip away, with many options for families with a variety of interests.

Where to go: Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier
Where to eat: German Christkinland market
Time: about three hours
Distance: about 180 miles

Paoli, IN

Paoli Peaks is the place to go in Paoli for the more adventurous families. The resort offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding hills in Indiana, with difficulty levels ranging from the easiest (mainly family and beginner trails) to the most challenging (for those more experienced rider). Also, there are lessons offered in both skiing and snowboarding in Paoli’s Ski/Board School. For those who aren’t exactly in touch with their sense of balance, the resort also offers Arctic Blast Snow Tubing. Paoli’s website boasts slopes over 700-feet long with 400-foot long Wonder-Carpet strips to ease your climb back up the hill. Paoli Peaks does have a ski lodge for daytime needs only and does not have night accommodations available; however, there are over 1,000 hotel rooms within a half-hour drive. Overall, Paoli is a great place for families interested in an active, sport-driven trip.

Where to go: Paoli’s Ski Resort
Time: about two hours
Winter activities: Skiing, snow boarding and snow tubing
Distance: about 100 miles

Ft. Wayne, IN

For those looking for a way to literally brighten up the holiday season the best place to visit is Ft. Wayne. With several light displays throughout the city, it is not hard to get into the holiday spirit. From Nov. 22 to Dec. 31,  you can view the wonderful light displays at the Fantasy of Lights at Franke Park. This holiday attraction has over 75 light displays and plenty of holiday activities. The cost for admission is $5 per car or $25 for the bus or trolley. While in Ft. Wayne you should also check out the Festival of Trees at the Embassy Theatre. The cost for admission is $5 for adults and $3 for kids 12 and under.

Where to go: Fantasy of Lights at
Franke Park
While in town: Drive through downtown Ft. Wayne for various holiday activities
and events
Time: about two hours
Distance: about 120 miles