Thinking about the best places to go for Thanksgiving? Well, it’s not an ordinary tour; it’s about making memories that you’ll never forget. Imagine replacing your regular holiday program with one that takes place in a spectacular new location. Whether you’re breathing in the mountain air, basking on a tropical beach, or experiencing the wonder of a Thanksgiving parade in a vibrant city, there are endless possibilities with this holiday.
Why make the same old traditions when you can do something special this Thanksgiving? In this guide, we dig up the best places to toast the season, giving you every reason to pack your bag and turn Thanksgiving into a tale to tell. Curious where you should go? Let’s dive in!
Aspen, Colorado
Think Thanksgiving, but with snow-covered peaks looming around you. For top-drawer skiing, lovely lodges, and culinary holiday banquets to warm the soul, try Aspen. It’s one of the best places to go for Thanksgiving.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Tucked away in the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is home to rustic cabin retreats that are perfect for families or couples looking for the best places to go for Thanksgiving. Hike trails, sip hot cocoa beside the fire, or take in seasonal events that make this town feel like a magical holiday movie.
Stowe, Vermont
With postcard-worthy scenery, Stowe is one of the best places to go for Thanksgiving. Take in the last of the fall foliage, visit picturesque villages, and dine on farm-to-table dinners with local ingredients.
New York City
For swollen balloons, marching bands, and celebrity performances, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a bucket-list adventure. Then, get to know the city’s iconic attractions and holiday markets.
Chicago, Illinois
Start Thanksgiving with the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. The city’s deep-dish pizza gets a holiday makeover, and restaurants serve up varied Thanksgiving menus. Be sure to stop and enjoy those stunning skyline views!
San Francisco, California
San Francisco offers both urban excitement and a wealth of natural beauty that makes it a perfect choice for best places to go for Thanksgiving. Catch a Thanksgiving dinner cruise on the bay, or tap into the city’s eclectic food scene. The cool autumn air gives every endeavor a celebratory feeling.
Maui, Hawaii – One of the Best Places to Go for Thanksgiving
Skip turkey and enjoy a tropical feast in Maui. With luaus, white-sand beaches, and outdoor activities, including snorkeling and hiking, this island offers a dream location for a laid-back Thanksgiving. You may checkout the details of Hawaii tour here.
Miami, Florida
Relax on the sand at Miami’s beaches, then cruise up the coast to a waterfront Thanksgiving dinner. With its vibrant nightlife and art deco charm, the city is one of the best places to go for Thanksgiving.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a mix of southern hospitality and coastal beauty. Indulge in a Thanksgiving dinner featuring fresh seafood and stroll the city’s historic streets and picturesque harbor.
The best Thanksgiving travel destinations for families
Orlando, Florida
Thanksgiving at Disney World? Yes, please! As one of the most magical places on earth, Orlando is a place where families come together to create memories for a lifetime during these culminative holiday moments.
Williamsburg, Virginia
For a traditional Thanksgiving, travel back in time in Williamsburg. With reenactments, colonial-style feasts, and hands-on things to do, it is a fun and educational place to be for all ages.
San Diego, California
San Diego: With perfect weather and beautiful beaches, as well as family-oriented attractions such as the world-famous zoo, San Diego is one of the best places to go for Thanksgiving.
Plymouth, Massachusetts
As the home of Thanksgiving, Plymouth offers a historical glimpse into the holiday. It also provides reenactments, walks through museums, and a sense of stepping into history.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Thanksgiving in New Orleans means jazz music, Cajun-inspired dishes, and parties in the streets. It’s a holiday jubilee with a twist you won’t soon forget.
Sedona, Arizona
For a meditative and peaceful Thanksgiving, be enveloped—literally—by Sedona’s glorious red rocks. Experience al fresco feasts, hiking trails, and wellness retreats.
Advice on Thanksgiving Travel
Thanksgiving is one of the most crowded travel times of the year, so planning the best places to go for Thanksgiving is exciting, but a little bit of preparation can go a long way. Here are some tips to help you make your holiday trip as seamless, safe, and fun as possible:
Book early for the best deals!
Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year, and flights, hotels, and rental cars typically book up quickly. For the best prices and availability, make sure to plan at least 2–3 months in advance of a deployment. Use price-comparison tools to save money, and try to fly on less popular travel days—such as Monday or Tuesday.
Choose an accommodation with care.
Find accommodations that reflect your travel style. You have more options if you book early—it could be a mountain lodge, a beach resort, or a hotel downtown. If you’re traveling with your family, vacation rentals or Airbnb properties can provide more room—and a kitchen to prepare your own Thanksgiving dinner.
Avoid Peak Travel Times
Thanksgiving travel is at its height the Wednesday before and the Sunday after the holiday. Try to schedule your travel for less crowded days if possible. Early morning or late night flights avoid crowds and delays.
Pack smartly and light.
Airports and roadways clog up at Thanksgiving, so traveling light will save you time and hassle. Flying with a carry-on allows you to bypass the long lines at baggage claim, and just be sure to keep travel essentials—snacks, chargers, and travel documents—at hand.
Consider Travel Insurance
Things like unexpected delays, cancellations, or emergencies can derail your plans. Travel insurance provides peace of mind and a financial cushion in situations like this—and in what’s typically a very busy season.
Plan for Festive Dining
Reservations for an old-fashioned Thanksgiving dinner at your destination should be made in advance. Many of the most renowned restaurants and resorts offer special holiday meals, which often fill up quickly.
Be flexible and patient.
It can be stressful to spend Thanksgiving traveling, whether that means crowded airports or unpredictable weather. When you’re on the move, nothing can be more frustrating than a minor tactical error, so it’s crucial to plan ahead and pack extra patience in your suitcase. Ensuring a relaxed approach to boarding a flight and factoring in additional time for road trips can simplify your journey.
Leverage Technology
Check the status of your flights, snag last-minute deals, or navigate new cities using apps. Apps including Google Maps, Airbnb, and Hopper can help make Thanksgiving travel easier.
Prepare for the weather.
If you are planning to travel for Thanksgiving, which falls in late fall, you should consult the weather forecast for your region. Pack lots of layers, warm clothes, or even swimsuits if you’re going to a tropical destination.
Enjoy the Journey
Clearly, Thanksgiving is about being thankful and together. And even if that journey isn’t always smooth, think about the experiences and memories you’re making in the process. Play road trip games, eat local, or take scenic detours to make the most of your adventure.
Now that you’ve got these tips in hand, you’ll be ready to survive Thanksgiving travel hell—and actually enjoy your Thanksgiving trip.
Conclusion
Ultimately, where you decide to spend Thanksgiving should be mostly about making wonderful memories with the people you love most. Whether you’re dressed in capes while searching the holiday sights of a snow-blanketed mountain town, taking a break on a tropical beach, or getting down during a dynamic scene in a bustling city, we have a place for you.
Thanksgiving is more than a holiday—it’s a time to come together, reflect on what you have, and celebrate in whatever way you know is best for you. Break free from your routine, prepare your belongings, and transform this year’s Thanksgiving into an exciting journey filled with unexpected delights, gratitude, and unique experiences. Armed with the tips and destinations in this guide, you are now ready for the best places to go for Thanksgiving.
Let your journey begin!
FAQs
Q.-Which are the best places to go for Thanksgiving?
A.-Orlando, Williamsburg, and San Diego top the list of family fun and entertainment.
Q.-Where can I find warm-weather getaways for Turkey Day?
A.-Yes! Maui, Miami, and Charleston are hot, sunny getaways for the holiday.
Q.-Turkey on Thanksgiving decor?
A.-Many hotels, especially in cities and resorts, offer full Thanksgiving feasts.
Q.-Thanksgiving Day Parades: Where are the best?
A.-New York City and Chicago both boast phenomenal Thanksgiving Day parades.
Q.-How far in advance should I purchase Thanksgiving travel tickets?
A.-To secure the best rates and accommodations, it is advisable to start planning approximately 2-3 months in advance.