This top-rated Midwestern ski area features 10 lifts and 34 trails that start with the mild (Adele's Alley) and grow to the steep (the black-diamond Narrow Margin). Snowboarders are welcome: there are four terrain parks, one superpipe, one halfpipe, 15+ rails and jibs and five to 10 jumps that are available for both skiers and boarders. If your little on is afraid of the slopes, head to the snowtubing park, which boasts four tubing chutes.

Prices are reasonable: Kids 12 and under ski free when accompanied by a paid adult (generally $40). Seniors ski for $20 on weekdays, "Two-Fer Tuesday" features two lift tickets for the price of one, Thursday is "Student Night" with $15 lift tickets for all students, and Friday is College Day, with $15 lift tickets.

Cascade Mountain boasts the Midwest's only automatic snowmaking system, which allows for a mid-November opening. Special events include the New Year's Eve All-Night Ski Party (ski until 4 a.m.) and the Midwest Open, a two-day superpipe competition. Should you like skiing and surf, check out the nearby Wisconsin Dells (and its indoor waterparks).