the mommy avenger

The holidays are here, and if your family is anything like mine, you’re on the hunt for something magical to make this season unforgettable. Enter Ice Castles—a breathtaking holiday experience that feels like stepping straight into a winter fairytale. With locations across the U.S., these incredible, hand-crafted ice installations are the ultimate destination for creating cherished memories.

This year, I’m especially excited about the Cripple Creek, Colorado, and Midway, Utah Ice Castles. Whether you’re looking to explore an icy wonderland close to home or planning a holiday road trip, these two locations offer some of the most stunning holiday backdrops you’ll ever find.

Cripple Creek, Colorado: A Winter Gem in the Rockies

Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Cripple Creek Ice Castles is a holiday destination like no other. Picture this: towering ice walls that glitter in the sunlight by day and glow with enchanting lights by night. Kids will love exploring ice tunnels, crawling through frozen passageways, and zooming down the thrilling ice slides. For the adults? This is prime photo-op territory!

Cripple Creek also brings a festive charm you won’t want to miss. With historic streets lined with twinkling lights and plenty of holiday cheer, it’s the perfect spot to embrace the season. Plus, it’s easy to make a day of it—plan your Ice Castles visit alongside Cripple Creek’s holiday events or a ride on the historic Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad for the ultimate winter adventure.

Midway, Utah: A Winter Wonderland in the Wasatch Mountains

If you’re dreaming of a White Christmas, Midway Ice Castles in Utah is where it’s at. Surrounded by the snowy peaks of the Wasatch Mountains, this location feels like a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie. Imagine your little ones squealing with delight as they spot an ice throne or crawl through glowing ice caverns. The entire experience is pure magic.

What makes Midway extra special is the variety of winter activities in the area. Before or after your Ice Castles visit, you can go tubing at Soldier Hollow, ice skating at a nearby rink, or simply cozy up with some hot cocoa at one of the charming local cafes.

Plan Your Visit: Tickets and Tips

Ice Castles are a hot ticket—and by that, I mean they sell out quickly! Tickets must be purchased online in advance, and trust me, you don’t want to wait. Visit IceCastles.com to snag your tickets. As opening dates are dependent on the weather, be sure to check back regularly to see official opening dates. Colorado’s dates are set and Utah is on schedule to open by the end of the month. Tickets to Ice Castles would be a great Christmas gifts (hint, hint). Prices vary by day, but if you’re looking for fewer crowds, weekday visits are a great option.

Pro tip: Dress warm! Layers, boots, gloves, and hats are a must because you’ll be surrounded by ice (literally). Also, bring a sled for younger kids—it’s much easier than a stroller on snowy pathways.

Make It a Tradition

Visiting Ice Castles has become a beloved tradition for my family, and I hope it can be for yours too. There’s just something about the crisp winter air, the twinkle of lights, and the magic of exploring icy sculptures that captures the spirit of the season. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa as you wander or snapping a family photo in front of a glowing ice arch, Ice Castles is an experience that will leave you with hearts full and cameras bursting with memories.

This holiday season, let’s step into the magic. Plan your visit to Ice Castles in Cripple Creek or Midway—and make this winter one for the books!