the mommy avenger

Winter in Colorado has a way of reminding us to slow down, bundle up, and actually enjoy the season instead of rushing through it. And if you’re looking for a place that fully embraces the magic of winter — the kind that makes kids wide-eyed and adults forget how cold their toes are — Ice Castles in Cripple Creek, Colorado is it.

From the moment you arrive, it feels like you’ve stepped out of real life and into a storybook. Towering walls of ice rise up around you, glowing softly as if they’re alive. Every archway, tunnel, and frozen fountain is made entirely of ice, grown and shaped into a frozen kingdom that feels almost impossible — and yet there it is, sparkling right in front of you.

Cripple Creek itself adds to the charm. The historic mountain town feels cozy and festive, especially in winter, and the Ice Castles fit right in like they’ve always belonged there. As you walk toward the entrance, you can feel the anticipation build. Kids tug on gloves and bounce in place. Parents pull out phones, already knowing this is one of those moments worth capturing.

Once inside, the magic really begins.

You wander through icy corridors that twist and turn, each one revealing something new. There are tunnels that feel like secret passageways, towering caverns that echo with laughter, and frozen slides that instantly become the highlight for kids — and let’s be honest, for grown-ups too. The ice isn’t just white and cold. It glows. Soft blues, purples, and pinks shimmer through the walls, making everything feel dreamlike, especially as the sun goes down and the lights really come alive.

This is one of those rare family experiences where everyone is genuinely having fun at the same time. Little ones feel like explorers in a frozen world. Older kids race ahead to see what’s around the next corner. Parents get to slow down, take it all in, and actually enjoy being present. It’s not rushed. It’s not loud. It’s magical in a quiet, awe-filled way.

What makes Ice Castles so special is how immersive it is. You’re not just looking at ice sculptures — you’re inside them. You can touch the walls, hear the crunch of snow under your boots, and feel the cool air on your cheeks as you wander through a space that feels completely removed from everyday life. For a little while, schedules, screens, and stress fade away, replaced by wonder and shared smiles.

This year, families in Colorado have even more reason to celebrate, with Ice Castles now offering multiple locations across the state. That means more opportunities to make it part of a winter tradition, whether it’s a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a stop during a mountain vacation. No matter which location you visit, the experience carries that same sense of enchantment and care that makes Ice Castles feel truly special.

A few mom-to-mom tips: dress warm and wear good boots. Take your time. Let the kids lead the way. And don’t rush the photos — some of the best moments happen when you’re just standing there, soaking it all in, watching your kids experience something that feels truly magical.

Ice Castles isn’t just a fun activity. It’s something you remember. It’s the kind of winter experience your kids will talk about long after the snow melts. The kind that becomes part of your family story.

And in a season that can sometimes feel long and cold, that kind of magic is worth every layer.

Book your tickets now for a fun winter destination in Cripple Creek or other locations throughout the United States.

_{*we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own.*}