Episode 201: Christmas in Red Lodge, Montana
Looking for a holiday getaway that feels straight out of a postcard? This week on The Family Vacationer, we’re taking you to Red Lodge, Montana, a small-town winter wonderland where Christmas magic comes alive.
Red Lodge, once a bustling coal-mining town in the 1800s, is now best known as the gateway to the Beartooth Highway. But come December, it transforms into a festive haven filled with twinkling lights, family traditions, and a community spirit that makes the holidays unforgettable.
Joining us is Sherry Weimer, director of the Red Lodge Chamber of Commerce, who shares why families should plan a Christmas trip to this hidden gem.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- The Red Lodge Christmas Stroll — a Hallmark-worthy tradition with parades, fire pits, caroling, and Santa’s grand entrance.
- Family-friendly winter fun at Red Lodge Mountain, from skiing to skating in the town park.
- The best cozy stops for cocoa, pastries, and kid-approved treats (don’t miss the monster ice cream sandwich!).
- How local shops and restaurants keep the holiday spirit alive with decorated windows, late-night shopping, and tasty surprises.
- Unique Red Lodge holiday experiences, like Santa skiing on Christmas Day.
- Where to stay — from historic hotels to mom-and-pop motels, B&Bs, and Airbnbs.
- Insider tips for planning your family’s first Christmas trip to Red Lodge.
If you’ve ever dreamed of celebrating Christmas in a storybook setting, Red Lodge might just be the perfect destination for your family.
Plan your trip: redlodge.com
Don’t forget — we’ll be circling back to our special Episode 200 in December!
Plus, stay tuned for details on Rob’s upcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, coming soon.
The Family Vacationer
The Family Vacationer is a weekly podcast helping families travel smarter, spend better, and create lasting memories together. Hosted by Rob and Traci, the show features expert interviews, real-life stories, and practical tips for planning meaningful, family-first adventures. From hidden gems to budget hacks, it's a must-listen for parents who want stress-free, joy-filled travel.
Meet the Hosts
Growing up, Rob Jones mainly traveled to Florida for vacation. Those family trips to Orlando and the Gulf Coast are cherished memories that influence him to this day. His entire professional career has involved travel. From working in the music business to event marketing, Rob has traveled to 46 states and five countries. Rob has been married to his wife, Traci, for 16 years and they love to travel with their three children: Ruthie, Nash, and Chase.
Traci's been shaking up the Dawson County School System for four years now, injecting it with her unique brand of energy and enthusiasm. When she's not molding young minds, you'll find her co-conspiring with her sister at Seasonal Events and Design—because who doesn't love a good party?
She's a self-proclaimed beach aficionado, never meeting a sandy shore she didn't instantly click with. And let's not forget her partner-in-crime for the past eighteen years, Rob, who's been keeping up with her antics and their three beautiful troublemakers—Ruthie, Chase, and Nash. Together, they're a whirlwind of chaos, laughter, and love.
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