- 3,006 families polled.
- McDowell Sonoran Preserve – Gateway Loop (Scottsdale) emerged in #1; followed by Watson Lake Loop (Prescott) + Sabino Canyon Paved Road Walk (Tucson).
Every Christmas, families across America head outside for a touch-football game or a quick run around the block – but those traditions tend to leave out the people who actually want the fresh air most: the youngest kids, grandparents, and anyone too full from lunch to sprint down a field.
So for 2025, SportsbookReview.com, a leading sports review site, carried out a nationwide survey of 3,006 families to uncover the best Christmas Day walks in every state – gentle routes that count as a light workout, bring the whole family along, and still feel like a festive tradition.
Arizona’s top three 2025 Christmas Day walks for the family are:
#1 McDowell Sonoran Preserve – Gateway Loop, Scottsdale
The Grand Canyon State’s top Christmas Day walk is the McDowell Sonoran Preserve – Gateway Loop. The full loop is long, but most families stick to the first, flatter section out toward Inspiration Viewpoint. It’s classic Arizona desert: saguaros, warm winter sun, and just enough incline to count as exercise. Nobody feels left behind, and you still get that “we actually did something today” glow before the leftovers come back out.
#2 Watson Lake Loop, Prescott
Those granite boulders make the lake look like another planet, and walking the easier southern stretch gives you the views without scrambling over rocks. Families often take it slow, stopping for photos, but there’s enough undulation to work off at least one serving of pie. It’s peaceful, quirky, and perfectly family-friendly.
#3 Sabino Canyon Paved Road Walk, Tucson
Because it’s paved, it’s often the go-to when you’re balancing grandparents, toddlers, and the post-lunch slump. The canyon walls rise dramatically on each side, and the road offers gentle climbing that’s doable even for people who swear their joints “don’t do hills anymore.” It feels scenic without demanding much from anyone.
Some other standout routes from other parts of the country included:
Central Park Reservoir Loop, New York City
A Christmas Day staple for many New Yorkers. The path is mostly flat, beautifully maintained, and full of sweeping skyline views. Families can do half the loop or the whole thing, depending on energy levels. Grandparents enjoy the easy terrain; kids enjoy darting ahead; and everyone gets that quick, refreshing mood lift that only Central Park seems to deliver.
Bayfront Park to Marina Walk, Sarasota, Florida
A breezy waterfront stroll with palm trees, bobbing boats, and almost no elevation whatsoever. Grandparents can manage it comfortably, kids can zigzag around the art installations, and everyone gets the unmistakable lift that comes from warm sea air – even in December.
Gray’s Lake Trail, Des Moines, Iowa
A lovely, flat lakeside loop (or half-loop) that works for absolutely everyone. On colder days, the lake takes on a dramatic winter look, and the bridge lights often add a subtle festive atmosphere. Easy footing, easy pace, and a welcome sense of space.
Heartland of America Park Riverwalk, Omaha, Nebraska
A gentle waterfront walk with fountains, bridges, and plenty of open space for kids to burn off energy. The smooth, accessible paths make it ideal for grandparents or anyone easing themselves along after a big lunch. Even in winter, the river brings a calm, reflective mood – just make sure to wrap up warm.
Virginia Beach Boardwalk, Virginia Beach, Virginia
Practically built for family-friendly winter strolling. It’s flat, breezy, and scenic, with the Atlantic rolling beside you. Kids love the freedom of the wide boardwalk; older relatives enjoy the steady rhythm; everyone benefits from the crisp sea air. Even a short out-and-back feels like a proper Christmas tradition.
Waterfront Park River Path, Portland, Oregon
An iconic Portland stroll that’s surprisingly lovely on a winter afternoon. The smooth, flat path lets mixed-ability groups walk together comfortably, while the river views add a calm, understated charm. Families like it because it’s scenic without being strenuous, and grandparents can set the pace with ease.
Infographic showing the top family-friendly Christmas Day walks in every state
Commenting on the findings, James Bisson, the Editor-in-Chief of SportsbookReview.com, said: “Christmas Day can be chaotic indoors, but a gentle walk is one of the rare activities that genuinely works for every generation. These routes stood out because they’re beautiful, accessible, and still feel festive – no sweatbands required. It turns out the best way to work off Christmas lunch isn’t to play a game of backyard football, but a relaxed family stroll that everyone can enjoy.”
