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30 perfect thanksgiving vacations.

Trade holiday headaches for a more relaxing break.

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Escape the holiday hoopla, and be grateful for a far-from-home getaway.

Ah, Thanksgiving. Pumpkin pie, roasted turkey, football games and time with friends and family are top draws for celebrating the time-honored holiday at home. But if the prospect of navigating crowded airport terminals and bumper-to-bumper traffic to spend time with extended family and engaging in contentious political discussions (or cooking the bird and all the trimmings) has you pining for an alternative escape, fret not. With some help from seasoned travel pros, we've pinpointed unexpected places to spend a stress-free Thanksgiving. So ditch the turkey, gravy and green bean casserole for a sunny locale, urban retreat or snowy getaway over the long weekend.

Budapest, Hungary

For deal-chasers, "Europe is the place to go over Thanksgiving," says Wendy Perrin, founder and editor of travel-planning site WendyPerrin.com. Autumn marks a low season, yet the weather is still comfortable and rates are relatively less expensive compared to spring and summer. And in Budapest , you can admire striking architecture, soak in heated thermal baths and embrace European charm and Hungarian culinary specialties at charming cafes around Castle Hill. Best of all, in Budapest, you can start your holiday shopping early at brightly lit Christmas markets. Pick up a few gifts and admire the dazzling light displays at the Christmas Fair at Basilica (beginning on Black Friday), and the Christmas Market on Vorosmarty Square.

Park City, Utah

If you're longing for a winter wonderland, consider forgoing apple pie this Thanksgiving for some quality time on the slopes and around a roaring fire in Park City's snow-globe-like setting. Over the holiday weekend, there are plenty of festive, kid-friendly traditions at top resorts in the area, from cookie decorating to tree-lighting ceremonies. And with ski season beginning on Wednesday, Nov. 22, powder seekers can tackle well-groomed trails at Park City Mountain Resort before checking out the charming shops and eateries in Canyons Village and strolling along Main Street. Thrill-seekers can also enjoy exhilarating bends and curves on a toboggan-style bobsled ride at Utah Olympic Park.

Itching for a warm-weather escape? If you're looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation – from wildlife-viewing to an adrenaline-pumping zip line above Monteverde's Cloud Rainforest to lounging in a hammock beneath swaying palms – Costa Rica is an ideal escape. While you'll be visiting at the tail end of rainy season, you can take advantage of a few off-season benefits. Aside from fewer tourist crowds and verdant landscapes, you can also secure discounted lodging rates and flights. Plus, you can swap stuffing and mashed potatoes for fresh fruit and morning yoga sessions, and embrace Costa Rica's "pura vida" (pure life) philosophy with wellness-minded activities and nutritious cuisine.

Whether you want to lounge on golden sands, hike along the Blue Mountains or climb the legendary Dunn's River Falls waterfall, there are plenty of ways to embrace Jamaica's picturesque Caribbean scenery and laid-back vibes. "Hurricane season officially ends November 30, so traveling on or before Thanksgiving means you'll be catching the final low rates of the Caribbean's shoulder season before the snowbirds arrive," says Lindsey Olander, editor at travel site Jetsetter.com. Even better, in November and December, temperatures hover in the 70s and mid-80s, and you can secure discounted resort rates. "For sun-seekers, I'd recommend Jamaica in November, which was (thankfully) spared from recent hurricanes," Olander adds.

Quebec City

If you can't make it to France this fall, you can still enjoy a European-inspired setting and plenty of charm in Quebec City , Perrin says. Francophiles and foodies alike can delight in French-inspired gastronomy at top dining institutions. Plus, the centuries-old structures and quaint cobblestone streets and bistros add to the city's enchanting atmosphere. History buffs can check out Battlefields Park, the Citadel and the Notre-Dame Basilica, while nature lovers can stroll along the serene Terrasse Dufferin. And although temperatures dip into the 30s and 50s at this time of year, you can still admire brilliant maple trees and seize upon shoulder-season discounts.

Asheville, North Carolina

While Asheville may conjure images of microbreweries and the awe-inspiring Blue Ridge Parkway, there's much more to experience over Thanksgiving. Along with temperatures hovering in the mid-50s and 70s, "you've got the fall foliage," Perrin says, with peak leaf-peeping opportunities in early November. Plus, there's the 8,000-acre, decked-out Biltmore Estate, which has a unique history and elaborate holiday displays. Perrin suggests checking out the dazzling wreaths, lights and decorated evergreens at the annual Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration. What's more, you can check out the intricate winning entries from a national gingerbread competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn, Perrin adds.

For a winning mix of culture, history and modern allures, set your sights on Amsterdam for the holiday weekend. You can brush up on the past at the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum Foundation in Leiden, Holland, located near the Dutch capital. After getting a history lesson, visit world-class museums throughout Amsterdam, from the Van Gogh Museum to the Anne Frank House. If you don't mind chilly temperatures in the 40s, November also marks an enticing time to visit, given reduced crowds and plenty of flight and accommodation deals. Make the most of your trip by enjoying a canal-lined stroll and carving out some time to unwind in Vondelpark.

The Big Island, Hawaii

"Hawaii is usually a really great deal in the fall," Perrin says. You can spend your days trekking through tropical rainforests, lounging on black sands at Punaluu Beach, exploring state parks and hiking captivating volcanoes. Catching sight of the fiery lava at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must, as is checking out a quintessential luau, snorkeling and admiring the views from Mauna Kea. With daytime temperatures in the high 60s to low 80s and low-priced accommodations (including resorts with kid-friendly amenities), November marks an ideal time to visit. Even better, you can feast on traditional Thanksgiving culinary offerings at resorts throughout the island.

Whistler, Canada

Whether you want to enjoy the early ski season – along with enticing gear and accommodation deals as well as faster lift lines – or you're looking to embrace Whistler 's still-pleasant temperatures in the 40s and 50s, you won't mind forgoing turkey for days on the slopes. The official ski season kicks off Nov. 23, and since Thanksgiving in Canada takes place in October, you won't have to worry about battling heavy crowds. Check out the charming pedestrian-only Village Stroll in Whistler Village, and pop into galleries, shops and restaurants to charge up for more adventurous cold-weather activities. When you're ready to get your heart racing, enjoy snowboarding, skiing, snowshoeing and other active pursuits.

The Cotswolds, England

"The Cotswolds region in south-central England is beautiful any time of year, but arguably it's most picturesque in the fall, when the ivy blanketing its tiny towns and cottages turns brilliant red and yellow hues, and residents begin throwing logs in their stone fireplaces," Olander says. You won't miss home as you explore the area's striking walking trails, like the 102-mile long Cotswold Way National Trail, which weaves past beautiful hills, quaint villages and storied churches. "Restaurants here may not serve your family’s traditional Thanksgiving spread, but their home-cooked, often farm-to-table dishes hit the spot," Olander adds. What's more, there are plenty of affordable inns to pick from, making it easy to keep your budget intact.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Picture the Cape, and serene sands, clam shacks and shingled cottages likely come to mind. But while the warmer months offer an enticing beach break for East Coasters, the shoulder season offers its own draws: reduced crowds and attractive packages. If you can brave the crisp temperatures, with daytime highs in the 40s and 50s, you can enjoy a historic setting and traditional Thanksgiving meal, Perrin says. The peak foliage season will have wrapped up, but you can embrace peaceful surroundings. Immerse yourself in nature on one of the Cape's scenic trails along the Cape Cod National Seashore before refueling with clam chowder and unwinding in a budget-friendly bed-and-breakfast or inn.

Scottsdale, Arizona

For a warm-weather holiday break with desert scenery, high-end resorts and postcard-worthy landscapes, consider Scottsdale. You can indulge at a decadent spa (think: prickly pear and honey-infused body treatments), kick back in a poolside cabana or commune with nature and enjoy mountain biking and hiking at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. For more recreation, check out the nearby Camelback Mountain. After getting your adrenaline fix, refuel with a memorable meal at an acclaimed restaurant such as Virtù or Roaring Fork. Best of all, in late November, you'll avoid summer's scorching triple-digit temperatures and likely land a reasonably priced rate at a top resort before the peak winter season.

"A trip to Iceland might not seem so practical in November, but if you don't mind being a bit cold, it's a perfect place to get away," Olander says. The low season ushers in dwindling crowds, discounted accommodation rates and the opportunity to explore Iceland's can't-miss cold-weather attractions, she explains. Highlights include soaking in the otherworldly Blue Lagoon, exploring icy glaciers and bar-hopping in Reykjavik. "And what could be more magical than catching the northern lights?" she adds, emphasizing that the winter months mark an ideal time to catch the natural phenomenon, as the skies are darkest and clearest. For more adventure, join the Golden Circle tour.

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

Make the pilgrimage to Colonial Williamsburg, and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time, Perrin says. Learn about the country's revolutionary heritage with the "Come, Ye Thankful People Come" event at the Hennage Auditorium, when Cliff Williams and John Turner re-enactors recite Thanksgiving songs and hymns the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. If you have a sweet tooth, don't forget to pick up a pecan, apple, pumpkin, rum cream or apple-cranberry pie at Raleigh Tavern Bakery. For more of a history lesson, make your way to Jamestown to delight in Foods and Feasts of Colonial Virginia – a three-day extravaganza that recounts how traditional Revolution-era meals were prepped and other historical details.

Charleston, South Carolina

For a fun holiday weekend, flee to Charleston for an old-fashioned, all-American atmosphere, Perrin says. Temperatures hover in the 60s and 70s, ideal conditions for exploring can't-miss attractions and antebellum architecture throughout the city, from the Nathaniel Russell House to Magnolia Plantation & Gardens. Plus, you can delight in a memorable Thanksgiving meal at one of the city's acclaimed restaurants, she adds. When you're not enjoying a Spanish moss-canopied stroll or taking a horse-drawn carriage in the Historic District, you can pop into charming boutiques along King Street. Best of all, there are plenty of holiday happenings, including the annual Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park and the Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble 5K.

New Orleans

The Big Easy delivers more than jazz, blues, beignets, Sazeracs and stellar po'boys. You can join the fray in the French Quarter before feasting on a Cajun-inspired turkey day staple: turducken (a turkey stuffed with chicken and duck), typically paired with cornbread and gravy. For more holiday festivities, attend the Bayou Classic Thanksgiving Day Parade on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. And when you need a respite, meander through the Garden District. Already dreaming of a white Christmas? Admire the dazzling displays during the annual Celebration in the Oaks in City Park, when bright lights adorn hundreds of oaks throughout the park, beginning Nov. 24.

Gorgeous weather year-round makes San Diego an alluring beach break at any time, Perrin says, but in autumn, tourist crowds and accommodation rates drop. And while the Southern Californian retreat may be more renowned as a microbrewery mecca and low-key surf town, it's easy to pull off a family-friendly holiday getaway – complete with beachside lounging, hiking at Torrey Pines and exploring Balboa Park – without busting your budget. For those looking to get into the Thanksgiving spirit, there are a variety of turkey trot 5K races and feasts throughout the city. At the famous Hotel del Coronado, for example, you can enjoy a pre-fixe Thanksgiving meal with live music.

Florence, Italy

With low-season crowds (and prices), Europe's cultural meccas beckon to those looking for a world-class weekend getaway over the holiday, Perrin says. In Florence, you can check out world-renowned art institutions like the Uffizi Gallery without battling swarms of tourists. Plus, you can score tickets to top theater and opera performances. Even better, when you're not admiring iconic art, you can escape to the enchanting hills of Tuscany, leisurely sip distinguished bottles of Chianti and soak in the city's sophisticated restaurant and shopping scenes. And though you can expect chillier temperatures in the 40s and 50s, if you don't mind the crisp weather, you'll be rewarded with off-season hotel rates and shorter attraction lines.

Savannah, Georgia

With antebellum architecture, horse-drawn carriages, Spanish moss-lined streets and historical treasures, Savannah delivers on Southern charm. And in mid-November, you can take advantage of shoulder-season discounts, pleasant temperatures in the 50s to 70s and even a twinkling tree-lighting ceremony followed by the Boat Parade of Lights on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Take in more of the city's genteel charms on Black Friday as you explore the City Market, check out River Street or people-watch in photogenic Forsyth Park in the Historic District. What's more, over the long weekend, you can count on mouthwatering low country cuisine, from shrimp and grits at Cotton & Rye to biscuit buns and scones at Back in the Day Bakery.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

If you're itching to embrace the great outdoors over the holiday break, Joshua Tree National Park packs plenty of dry air, desert scenery and spectacular hikes, Perrin says. For postcard-worthy views, make your way to Keys View lookout. Fuss-free, frugal-minded vacationers seeking cost-effective accommodations may consider an Airstream (via Airbnb) at Kate's Lazy Desert near the park entrance, while campers can stake out a spot at one of the 44 sites at Hidden Valley Campground, which offers easy access to top trails. Best of all, the park's striking desert landscapes and two distinct ecosystems – the Colorado and the Mojave – are 140 miles west of Los Angeles. Skip shopping on Black Friday to join a ranger-led program or take a hike.

Getty Images | Aurora Open

Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara's consistently pleasant temperatures in the mid-50s and upper 60s, reduced nightly room rates and mix of fashionable boutiques and acclaimed restaurants appeal to those craving an escape-it-all getaway far from the holiday stress back home. Grape-seekers can enjoy leisurely wine tastings and gallery-hopping at the Funk Zone, while shoppers stroll along State Street to stock up on holiday presents. When you're not attending a yoga class, you can enjoy strolls along the harbor in the dubbed "American Riviera" before delighting in a farm-to-table meal at an acclaimed dining institution such as Brophy Bros, The Lark or Opal Restaurant & Bar.

(Getty Images | Moment RF)

Whether you want to explore ornate palaces, catch an opera or peruse an elaborate Christmas market, Austria's cosmopolitan capital is a great choice for the holiday weekend, Perrin says. After all, you won't miss stuffing or Black Friday shopping as you savor roasted chestnuts, seasonal delights and handcrafted goods beneath twinkling lights at the Viennese Christmas Market outside City Hall. A number of Christmas markets and cultural happenings take place throughout Thanksgiving weekend, Perrin adds. The Viennnese Christmas market begins on Nov. 18, and the Christmas Village Belvedere Palace begins on Nov. 24. And while temperatures dip, if you can brave the 30- and 40-degree temperatures, you can score reasonably priced accommodations in November.

Lisbon, Portugal

While Lisbon lures travelers with its bargain-friendly rates and affordable attractions year-round, in fall you can embrace thinning crowds and comfortable temperatures lingering in the 50s and 70s through the end of November. Visit Alfalma to admire in the city's elaborate tile-laden sidewalks. Next, make the pilgrimage to postcard-worthy Sintra to admire picturesque villas and palaces along the hilly cobblestone streets. When you're ready to refuel, savor an authentic Portuguese meal followed by a pasteis de nata – a sweet custard pastry and an enticing alternative to pumpkin pie. At the end of the day, retire to one of Lisbon's affordable boutique hotels or take in iconic fado music in the Alfalma district.

Newport, Rhode Island

For an idyllic New England getaway with coastal scenery and fall colors, plan your escape to Newport. While temperatures can dip into the 30s, you can take advantage of thinning tourist crowds and plenty of pampering. At the enchanting Castle Hill Inn, there's an elaborate Thanksgiving spread – complete with littleneck clams, turkey and pie. Plus, with the Thanksgiving Package promotion, you can enjoy a two-night stay, a Thanksgiving feast, breakfast and afternoon tea – along with a half bottle of Cabernet – at a fixed rate. For more activity, check out the shops along Thames Street and take a brisk stroll along the Cliff Walk trail before warming up by a crackling fire at The Chanler.

Miami Beach

Celebrate the long weekend with some quality time catching up on R & R by the pool, the beach or at top shopping meccas on a sunny escape to Miami Beach. Thanks to swift recovery efforts following Hurricane Irma, major hotels, resorts, museums, nightlife venues and shops are open for business. Whether you want to check out striking art deco buildings on Ocean Drive, rent a beach chair on South Beach or simply stay put in a cabana at your hotel, there are plenty of ways to unwind and dodge the holiday routine (and countless hours of meal prep). What's more, you can embrace an American feast and celebrate the holiday at acclaimed restaurants without lifting a finger. At StripSteak by Michael Mina at Fontainebleau Miami Beach, for example, you can enjoy holiday staples such as glazed carrots and roasted turkey.

Richmond, Virginia

With its storied sites, Southern charm and burgeoning culinary scene, Richmond is an enticing Thanksgiving escape for foodies, culture vultures, history lovers and outdoorsy types alike. Along with trendy art- and design-centric hotels like the Quirk Hotel, there are plenty of opportunities to embrace the great outdoors. Cross the James River to Belle Isle for a memorable bike ride or picnic, or enjoy blazing fall colors in Shenandoah National Park (about 90 miles west of Richmond off Interstate 64). And if you opt for a history-filled vacation, get a sense of Richmond's genteel attractions like the Jefferson Hotel and the Valentine Museum. When you're ready to refuel, enjoy traditional Southern cuisine – including fried chicken and biscuits with sausage gravy – at The Roosevelt.

Portland, Maine

For a mix of requisite New England charm and history, it's hard to match Portland. You can admire the area's craggy coastlines, Victorian homes and picturesque Portland Head Light before retracing pilgrims' footsteps and heading to Popham Colony, an early American settlement that some believe was formed in 1607, before Plymouth Rock in 1620. Set along the Kennebunk River, approximately 25 miles northeast of Portland, the colony features a boulder with the sign "Popham Rock." For modern allures, base yourself in Portland and retreat to the Press Hotel before enjoying a leisurely meal. The Holy Donut and the Highroller Lobster Co. are a couple of must-visit eateries. Cap off your feast with a pub crawl in the East Bayside neighborhood.

Pink-hued sands, world-renowned golf courses and captivating oceanfront scenery offer the perfect antidote to the holiday grind. And while the weather in this mid-Atlantic island will be chillier at this time of year, with daytime temperatures hovering in the 60s and 70s, you'll be rewarded with reduced accommodation rates. Whether you want to explore unspoiled coral reefs, hit the links at Port Royal Golf Course or enjoy leisurely strolls in historic St. George – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – you'll be grateful for some time in the sun rather than making the pilgrimage to your in-laws' house. What's more, you can enjoy duty-free shopping or pampering at the spa before savoring a traditional rum-infused cocktail and delicious Bermudian culinary specialties (sampling traditional fish chowder is a must).

In November, London draws visitors with its festive Christmas markets, mild daytime temperatures, colorful autumn foliage and enticing flight and hotel deals ahead of the peak winter tourist season. If you're a history buff, you can catch the acclaimed hit musical "Hamilton" at Victoria Palace Theatre throughout November. What's more, culture seekers can explore can't-miss institutions such as the National Gallery, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. For more time outdoors, explore lively Borough Market or meander to Notting Hill's Portobello Road Market to pick up vintage gifts and classic English antiques. For more world-class shopping, head to Oxford Street. And if you're feeling nostalgic for a traditional Thanksgiving feast, you'll find quintessential American trimmings like pumpkin pie and roasted turkey at top restaurants throughout the city.

Annapolis, Maryland

With striking coastal scenery along the Chesapeake Bay, delicious blue crabs and crisp autumn air, Annapolis offers a refreshing change of scenery. Admire the colonial architecture and cobblestone streets in Historic Annapolis before grabbing a bite at one of the area's fine dining establishments (Cantler's Riverside Inn, O'Learys Seafood Restaurant and Chick & Ruth's Delly are longstanding crowd-pleasers). And on Black Friday, after you stroll along the city's charming brick streets, peruse the boutique shops and galleries along Main Street in Historic Annapolis to pick up a few holiday gifts. Afterward, visit Dock Street in Ego Alley to people-watch on a bench, grab a bite to eat and admire the sailboats bobbing in the water.

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21 of Our Favorite Thanksgiving Getaways 2023

Make the most of your Thanksgiving break with a great getaway. Practice yoga surrounded by hummingbirds, explore a USS battleship or eat your fill of po' boys and gumbo on a Cajun food trail.

Related To:

Looking for the best places to go for Thanksgiving while you're off from work or school? Have your turkey and dressing down the road, or on the road, with one of the Thanksgiving vacation ideas we've rounded up. Some are laid back while other Thanksgiving getaways are packed with adventures, and you can do most of them in three or four days. Choose one that's right for you (We've got the best Thanksgiving getaways for families, too.), even if you have to take off a little more time to travel.

Read up on these Thanksgiving vacation ideas before you go. Some attractions may close for the season or the holidays, and others may be too cold for some activities.

Find Your Vibe in Lake Tahoe, Nevada

Find Your Perfect Vibe in Lake Tahoe, Nevada

If you can’t make it to Nevada on Oct. 14, 2023, when the highly anticipated “Ring of Fire” eclipse will be visible over parts of the state, head to Lake Tahoe instead. Take the spectacular scenic drive on the Lake Tahoe Loop and plan to stop along the 145-mile-long route to lounge on a beach, hike the Tahoe Rim Trail or dip your toes in the crystal-clear water. The north shore, home to one of Nevada’s largest public beaches, feels laid back, and its Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort boasts a private beach and pier. For a livier vibe, check out South Lake Tahoe’s Zephyr Cove Resort, where you can parasail, play golf and find more activities. The luxurious Edgewood Tahoe Resort, also on the south shore, will offer a Thanksgiving -inspired menu on the 2023 holiday.

Photo by: Travel Nevada/Nevada Dept. of Transporation

Travel Nevada/Nevada Dept. of Transporation

If you can't make it to Nevada on Oct. 14, 2023, when the "Ring of Fire" eclipse will be visible in some areas, head to Lake Tahoe for one of the best Thanksgiving vacations instead. Drive the scenic Lake Tahoe Loop and stop along the way to lounge on a beach, hike the Tahoe Rim Trail or dip your toes in the clear water. The north shore , home to one of Nevada's largest public beaches, feels laid back, and its Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino boasts a private beach. For a livelier vibe, check out South Lake Tahoe's Zephyr Cove Resort , where you can parasail, golf and find more activities. The luxurious Edgewood Tahoe Resort , also on the south shore, will offer a 2023 Thanksgiving-inspired menu.

Visit a Volcano in Costa Rica

Climb Lava Trails in the Jungle in Costa Rica

Prices in Costa Rica are typically lower in November (high/dry season starts in December) and crowds are down. he island is less than 3 hours by plane from Miami and about five from New York, and Vamos Rent-A-Car is available at either of the two international airports. The Arenal Volcano area, shown here, is one of the most popular places to visit thanks to its mineral-rich hot springs, rainforest trails and delicious local and international cuisine. Hike an ancient lava flow, zipline, ride horses, go sloth-spotting or just admire the scenery. More to do in other regions: explore a cacao plantation or take a guided tour to learn about medicinal plants, rare fungi (some are bioluminescent) or the country's 116+ bat species.

Photo by: Visit Costa Rica

Visit Costa Rica

Costa Rica is one of the best places to go for Thanksgiving because the prices and crowds are usually down. It's less than three hours by plane from Miami and about five from New York. Pick up a vehicle from Vamos Rent-A-Car at either of the two international airports and drive three hours to Arenal Volcano National Park , shown here, to enjoy its mineral-rich hot springs, rainforest trails and safari floats. Hike an ancient lava flow, zipline or go sloth-spotting; it's a fun Thanksgiving getaway for families. More to do in Costa Rica: Visit a cacao plantation or take a guided tour to see medicinal plants, rare fungi (some are bioluminescent) and more than 116 species of bats.

Chase the Lights in Iceland

Chase the Northern Lights in Iceland

November is one of the best times of year to see Iceland's Aurora Borealis, a natural display of dancing waves of light. Combine your time off at Thanksgiving with a few vacation days, and you can also see ice caves, frozen waterfalls, glaciers afloat in lagoons and a snowy, otherworldly landscape on a 6-day tour of Iceland: Reykjavik & the Northern Lights. The tour starts in Reykjavik, sometimes called "the greenest city on Earth," and goes on to Iceland's "Golden Circle," known for its natural wonders, and ends on the South Coast, home to a volcano, black sand beaches and a magnificent waterfall.

Photo by: GAT Jonatan Pie/EF Go Ahead Tours

GAT Jonatan Pie/EF Go Ahead Tours

Iceland is also one of the best places to go for Thanksgiving, when you can often see the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. Combine your holiday time with a few vacation days, and take a 6-day tour of Iceland: Reykjavik & the Northern Lights to see ice caves, frozen waterfalls, glaciers and the snowy, other-worldly landscape. The tour starts in Reykjavik and includes Iceland's "Golden Circle," known for its natural wonders. It ends on the South Coast, home to a volcano, black sand beaches and a magnificent waterfall.

Take a Family Getaway to Mobile, Alabama

You don't have to skip Thanksgiving with Grandma if you take her with you. Mobile, Alabama, has something for all ages, from green spaces to rooftop restaurants and bars, to trail walks and botanical gardens. Explore the Mardi Gras museum to discover the city's ties to the New Orleans festival, or pop into a museum dedicated to history, art or maritime explorations. "America's Amazon," the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, is also here; weather and season permitting, you can kayak, canoe or fish. Shown here: the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, which is open daily except on Christmas Day.

Photo by: Tad Denson/Visit Mobile

Tad Denson/Visit Mobile

Don't skip Thanksgiving with Grandma. Take her with you to Mobile , where there's something for everyone, from green spaces to rooftop restaurants to the Mobile Carnival Museum , which highlights Mobile's Mardi Gras traditions. Pop into other museums dedicated to history, art or maritime explorations or, weather and season permitting, kayak, canoe or fish in "America's Amazon," the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta . Shown here: the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park , open daily except Christmas Day.

Stroll, Shop and Dine in Greer, South Carolina

Shop, Stroll and Dine Downtown: Greer Station, SC

Greenville, South Carolina's neighboring city, Greer, is on track to become the South's "next big small town." (From Greenvllle, South Carolina,named One of HGTV's Best Small Towns in America, Charming Greer Station, drive less than 10 miles to its neighboring city, Greer. Greer is on track to become the South's "next big small town" thanks to fantastic shopping at local boutiques and a redesigned downtown area, shown here, inspired by cities in Montreal and Europe. Now free of curbs and gutters, its brick-paved street invites visitors to walk from stores to restaurants to almost weekly special events. Explore the 12-acre city park and amphitheater, watch for trains that run through downtown and admire the turn-of-the-century architecture (over 40 buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places). Save time for the brewery, the many independent eateries and the food trucks that open on weekends.

Photo by: Visit Greenville SC

Visit Greenville SC

From Greenville, South Carolina, named one of HGTV's Best Small Towns in America, drive less than 10 miles to charming Greer Station , on track to become the South's "next big small town." Inspired by cities in Europe and Montreal, the downtown area has been redesigned with brick-paved streets that invite pedestrians to explore boutiques, restaurants and breweries. And almost every week there are frequent special events. Explore a 12-acre park and amphitheater, watch for trains and admire turn-of-the-century architecture (more than 40 buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places).

Escape to Horse Country in Ocala, Florida

Take a Luxurious Escape to Horse Country in Ocala, FL

Ocala/Marion County, Florida, is the official "Horse Capital of the World." The World Equestrian Center (WEC), pictured here, is a world-class, multi-indoor and outdoor facility for horse shows; the complex includes a luxury hotel, seven restaurants and over two dozen upscale shops. Check out the 80 Schonbek Swarovski crystal chandeliers, the 6-foot-tall stuffed Coach bear, the original Toys 'R Us Geoffrey and a $15,000 rocking horse. This paradise for horse lovers, boasts an in-house master sommelier and front desk staff dressed from head to toe in Ralph Lauren. Olympians often visit and actor John Travolta is said to be a regular. Come before Thanksgiving for the USEF Hunter Jumper Grand Prix, scheduled for Nov. 8-12 and Nov. 15-19, or see the events calendar here.

Photo by: Andrew Ryback Photography

Andrew Ryback Photography

Ocala, in Marion County, is the official "Horse Capital of the World." It's also home to the World Equestrian Center (WEC), pictured here, a world-class, multi-indoor and outdoor facility for horse shows. The WEC complex includes a luxury hotel, restaurants and upscale shops. (Check out the 80 Schonbek Swarovski crystal chandeliers and $15,000 rocking horse.) This horse lover's paradise boasts an in-house master sommelier and front desk staff in Ralph Lauren attire. Olympians often visit, and John Travolta is said to be a regular. Come before Thanksgiving for the 2023 Premier Hunter/Level 6 Jumper competition; see the dates on the WEC events calendar .

Go Cajun in Coastal Louisiana

Get Your Cajun on in Coastal Louisiana

Instead of turkey and stuffing, celebrate Thanksgiving with fresh seafood and party vibes in coastal Louisiana, which includes Lafourche Parish, St. Tammany Parish and Jefferson Parish. Need to choose just one? Try Thibodaux, Louisiana's Cajun Bayou. When you're hungry, hop on the Cajun Bayou Food Trail. Make time to stop on the Louisiana Oyster Trail or feast around town on a crawfish boil and popular foods like etouffee and gumbo. When you're full, relax on a swamp tour or learn to play the washboard in a Cajun music Jam. Let all that good food settle before you go paddleboarding on the bayou. Rather catch your dinner? Charter a boat and go fishing.

Photo by: Louisiana's Cajun Bayou

Louisiana's Cajun Bayou

Instead of turkey and cranberry sauce, celebrate Thanksgiving with fresh seafood in coastal Louisiana , which includes Lafourche Parish, St. Tammany Parish and Jefferson Parish. Time to visit just one? Try Thibodaux, Louisiana's Cajun Bayou. When you're hungry, hop on the Cajun Bayou Food Trail , the Louisiana Oyster Trail or feast in restaurants and cafes on crawfish, étouffée and gumbo. When you're full, catch a swamp tour or play the washboard in a Cajun Music Jam . Rather catch your dinner? Charter a boat and go fishing.

Find Music for Your Ears in Macon, Georgia

Catch a Show in The Next Big Music City: Macon, GA

Move over, Nashville. Macon, GA, is known as The Next Big Music City. It’s where native little Richard first sang on stage, Otis Redding grew up, the Allman Brothers Band lived and James Brown cut a demo that landed his first record deal. Today, the world=class Macon Pops Orchestra plays everything from southern rock to funk. They perform live on the Saturday after Thanksgiving to launch the annual Holiday Light Show Extravaganza, when more than 500,000 twinkling lights dance in time to music from the Macon Pops symphony. Macon celebrates its bicentennial in 2023 with a downtown revitalization that includes about a dozen art galleries, 30 entertainment venues, over 55 restaurants, and more than 3 dozen shops & boutiques. https://maconpops.com/

Move over, Nashville. Macon aims to be the next big music city. It's where native Little Richard made his stage debut, Otis Redding grew up, the Allman Brothers Band lived and James Brown landed his first record deal. Today, the world-class Macon Pops Orchestra plays everything from Southern rock to funk. In 2023, they'll perform live on the Saturday after Thanksgiving at Macon's Holiday Light Show Extravaganza while more than 500,000 twinkling lights "dance" with the music. Macon also celebrates its Bicentennial in 2023; check out the revitalized downtown area featuring art galleries, 30 entertainment venues, more than 55 restaurants and dozens of shops and boutiques.

Camp Out in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Camp in Hot Springs, Arkansas

On a budget? Camp at one of ten RVC Outdoor Destinations sites across the U.S. Choose from a cabin, cottage, yurt, standard tent site or glamping tent or an RV hookup. Some accomodations are pet friendly, but see the website for rules for your furry friends. Catherine's Landing, near Hot Sprigns National Park in Arkansas, is pictured here. Take the Big Foot Trail, where you're likely to see armadillos, deer and bunnies, ride a zip-line over this 400-acre property and explore the one-mile frontage on lovely Lake Catherine. You'll only five minutes from the historic city of Hot Springs if you're crave an urban outing.

Photo by: RVC Outdoor Destinations

RVC Outdoor Destinations

Looking for the best Thanksgiving getaways for families? Camp at one of RVC Outdoor Destinations ' RV resorts and campgrounds across the U.S. Choose a cabin, cottage, yurt, standard tent site, glamping tent or an RV hookup. Catherine's Landing , five minutes from historic Hot Springs, Arkansas, is shown here. Hike the Big Foot Trail and watch for armadillos, deer and bunnies. Zipline over the 400-acre grounds or explore a mile of water frontage on clear Lake Catherine.

Golf and Relax on Amelia Island, Florida

Golf and Play on Amelia Island, Florida

Unlike most Florida destinations, Amelia Island boasts a rare maritime forest ecosystem; it also offers 13 miles of uncrowded beaches. Plan a golfer's getaway on the island's courses, which are surrounded by magnificient live oaks, wax myrtles and other lush landscaping and welcome players of every skill level. Dine on fresh seafood under the stars at Beech Street Grill, catch some tunes at a live music venue, bike along a beautiful trail or book a fishing trip or wildlife tour while you soak up the sun and fresh air.

Photo by: AmeliaIsland.com

AmeliaIsland.com

Amelia Island is home to a rare maritime forest ecosystem and 13 miles of uncrowded beaches, making it an especially nice Thanksgiving getaway for families. Play golf surrounded by magnificent live oaks, wax myrtles and other lush landscaping; all skill levels are welcome. Dine on fresh seafood under the stars at Beech Street Grill , take the kids biking, charter a fishing trip, book a dolphin tour or just bask in the sunshine.

Soak Up History, Art and Culture in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Soak Up History, Art and Culture in Milwaukee, WI

Celebrate the season with a visit to Milwaukee’s Bronzeville neighborhood, the heart of the city’s African American community. It’s undergoing major redevelopments, such as the acclaimed America’s Black Holocaust Museum, a historical and memorial museum. In 2022, the New York Times listed Bronzeville as one of 52 places for a changed world, where “travelers can be part of the solution.” Look for the mural shown here, "Mother Africa," on the Wisconsin Black Historical Society building located at 2620 West Center Street; then visit the diverse restaurants and shops on and around Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Drive. Bronzeville is in the 6th district of the city of Milwaukee.

Photo by: Visit Milwaukee

Visit Milwaukee

Milwaukee's Bronzeville neighborhood, in the heart of the city's African-American community in the 6th district, is a great destination for a family getaway. In 2022, the New York Times called Bronzeville one of 52 places for a changed world , where "travelers can be part of the solution." Attractions include America's Black Holocaust Museum , an acclaimed historical and memorial museum, and the "Mother Africa" mural, shown here, on the Wisconsin Black Historical Society building at 2620 W. Center St. Don't miss the diverse restaurants and shops on and around Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. Check the Bronzeville website for details about special events.

See Reefs, Rainforests and Ruins in Belize

Discover Ruins, Reefs and Rainforest in Belize

History buffs, nature lovers and beachgoers: use some extra time off for a 9-day Thanksgiving getaway to Belize, located in the northeastern corner of Central America in the Caribbean Sea. Explore its Mayan ruins (shown here), rainforests teaming with wildlife like spider monkeys and colorful birds and the spectacular Belize Barrier Reef. You can also fly non-stop from various major U.S. cities and take a 12-minute plane ride or 75-minute water taxi to Ambergris Caye, the largest Belizean island. The award-winning Victoria House Resort and Spa sits at the edge of the reef and offers luxurious accommodations like villas with private pools and a 3500-square-foot spa and fitness facility.

Photo by: EF Go Ahead Tours

EF Go Ahead Tours

History buffs, nature lovers and beachgoers: Take some extra time for a 9- or 12-day Thanksgiving getaway to Belize , located in Central America on the Caribbean Sea. Explore its Mayan ruins (shown here), rainforests teeming with colorful birds and other wildlife and the stunning Belize Barrier Reef . From Belize, take a 12-minute plane ride or a 75-minute water taxi ride to Ambergris Caye , the largest Belizean island. The award-winning Victoria House Resort and Spa sits at the edge of the reef and offers luxurious accommodations like villas with private pools and a 3500-square-foot spa and fitness facility.

Make Waves in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

Hit the Beach in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, AL

Most beach towns settle down when fall arrives, but Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, in Alabama, are great places to find the sun and fun and enjoy a warm Thanksgiving getaway. Stroll some of the 32 miles of white sand beaches on this island on the northernmost coast of the Gulf of Mexico, enjoy a leisurely bike ride or book a tiki cruise and sip a tropical drink while you sightsee and chill out to some good tunes.

Photo by: Art Meripol

Art Meripol

Families love Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama . You'll find 32 miles of white sand beaches on this 27,000-acre island on the northernmost coast of the Gulf of Mexico. Head to Gulf Shores if you enjoy biking, nature and craft beers (adults only, of course). Visit Orange Beach if you'd rather boat, fish or shop. Take a sightseeing tiki cruise and hang out in a hammock or hit the links . Bring sand buckets for the kids.

Discover Charming Spartanburg, South Carolina

Spartanburg, S.C.

Spartanburg, South Carolina was once a mill town, but now it's a bustling city known for art, culture, a culinary scene that blends Southern cooking with international flavors and lots of outdoor experiences. The downtown area is a designated cultural district, and it's where you'll find music venues, world-class art galleries, museums and more. Visit the only BMW museum in North America, sip a cocktail at Initial Q, an upscale smokehouse, or hike, bike, picnic or ride horses in Croft State Park. Look for the historic Clock Tower in Morgan Square, shown here, where you'll also find live music, specialty shops and boutiques and public art.

Photo by: Sam Dean/Visit Spartanburg

Sam Dean/Visit Spartanburg

Once a mill town, Spartanburg is now a bustling city known for art, outdoor experiences and a growing culinary scene that blends Southern cooking with international flavors. It's a great Thanksgiving getaway for families. The downtown area is a designated cultural district with music venues, world-class art galleries, museums and other attractions. Visit the only BMW museum in North America, sip a cocktail at Initial Q , an upscale smokehouse and bar, or hike, picnic and ride horses in Croft State Park . Look for the historic Clock Tower in Morgan Square, shown here, where you'll find live music, boutiques and public art.

Make a Splash in Bermuda

Dive Into Bermuda

Pink sand beaches, turquoise waters and a mix of British and American culture draw visitors to Bermuda, an archipelago of islands (seven main islands and numerous smaller ones) in the western North Atlantic. Visit one or all of three regions: historic St. George's and the East End has a delightful, historic village vibe. Hamilton and Central Bermuda are liverier and more cosmopolitan. The Royal Navy Dockyard and West End is popular for its maritime history and incredible views. Fly from Atlanta or Boston to arrive in under three hours, or from New York to land in about 90 minutes, but you'll probably want a couple of extra days if your flight takes longer. Although the island is just 21 square miles, you'll want to explore the beaches, historic sites, galleries, golf courses and live music venues.

Photo by: Howarth Photography, Ltd.

Howarth Photography, Ltd.

Pink sand beaches, turquoise water and the British/American culture draw visitors to Bermuda , an archipelago of islands in the western North Atlantic. Visit one or all of three regions. Historic St. George's and the East End has a historic village vibe. Hamilton and Central Bermuda are more cosmopolitan. The Royal Navy Dockyard and West End is popular for its maritime history and incredible views. Fly from Atlanta or Boston to arrive in under three hours, or from New York in about 90 minutes.

Get Back to Nature in Western Montana

Experience the Towns and Mountains in Western Montana

The mountainous lands between Glacier Park in the north and Yellowstone Park in the south make up Western Montana, a great place for outdoor activities or just enjoying the scenery. Pan for sapphires in Philipsburg, flyfish in Bozeman, mountain bike in Whitefish ore Museum of the Plains Indians in Browning or go rock climbing in the Bitterroot Corridor. If you’d rather relax, pick sweet cherries in Flathead Valley, star gaze or enjoy live theater in Bigfork or Whitefish. Shown here: The Resort at Paws Up , an authentic--and luxurious--working ranch in Greenough, Montana, about 35 miles northeast of Missoula.

Photo by: Stuart Thurlkill

Stuart Thurlkill

Western Montana spans the mountainous lands between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park . Explore Missoula, the biggest town, or Bozeman, Livingston and others for outdoor adventures like hiking, wildlife watching and horseback riding. Pan for sapphires in Philipsburg, tour Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park or stroll historic Last Chance Gulch , the main street in Helena, the capital city. Flyfish in a clear river, see the Museum of the Plains Indians in Browning or go rock climbing in Bitterroot . If you'd rather kick back, go stargazing, take a helicopter or airplane tour or see live theater in Whitefish . Shown here: The Resort at Paws Up , an authentic — and luxurious — working ranch in Greenough, about 35 miles northeast of Missoula.

Experience the New York Adirondacks

Explore the Adirondacks Region in Northern New York

Made up of twelve distinct regions, the Adirondacks region offers almost limitless things to see and do. Adirondack Park, "New York's largest playground,' is the largest park in the continental U.S. and an ideal Thanksgiving getaway for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore its waterfalls, paddle its waterways, climb mountain trails for panoramic views or explore the Lake Placid Olympic Center and other museums with the whole family. Browse for regional crafts in charming villages, take a steamboat cruise or ride the Adirondack scenic railroad.

Photo by: VisitAdirondacks.com

VisitAdirondacks.com

Made up of 12 different regions, the Adirondacks has countless things to see and do for a great Thanksgiving getaway. Adirondack Park , a protected wilderness area comprised of over 6 million acres, is an ideal destination for photographers, hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. Relive past Olympic Games at the Lake Placid Olympic Museum or ice skate indoors year-round at the Lake Placid Olympic Center . Save time to shop for crafts in delightful villages, ride your motorcycle on rural roads or ride the Adirondack Scenic Railroad .

Play at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park in Lampe, Missouri

Experience Dogwood Canyon Nature Park in Lampe, MO

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is a 10,000-acre nature preserve in the Ozark Mountain region. It offers extraordinary fishing for rainbow trout in its spring-fed waters, and kids as young as four can try their luck. Catch and release your fish or catch it and keep fishing. If it's more fun, feed the fish instead at the Glory Hole; it's near a big waterfall and you can overlook a trout-filled pool. Cast a line for bass with or without a guide at Table Rock Lake, launch a pedal boat, ride horses, hit the trails on foot or mountain bike, look for wildlife or just take in the rugged scenery, handcrafted bridges, bluffs, creeks and other natural wonders.

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is a 10,000-acre nature preserve in the Ozark Mountains. It's another terrific Thanksgiving getaway for families. Kids as young as 4 can fish for rainbow trout in its spring-fed waters. If it's more fun, feed the fish at a trout-filled pool. Cast a line for bass (with or without a guide) at the lake, ride horses , hit the trails on foot or mountain bike, take a wildlife tour or just savor the rugged scenery.

Explore Croatia's Cities and Coast

Take a Budget-Friendly Getaway to Croatia

Use your Thanksgiving holiday and some extra days to visit Croatia in southeast Europe. Take a 9-day tour of Zagreb, the capital city, and Split, a coastal city known for its mix of traditional and modern culture. If you can stretch your trip to 11 days, add Dubrovnik, where ancient stone walls surround Baroque buildings in its UNESCO-listed Old Town (it was the site for"King's Landing" in the Game of Thrones television series). November is off-season, so the prices and crowds are down. It's also wine season, so celebrate at the national winemaking festival called Martinje.

Photo by: EF Go Ahead Tours/Unsplash/Boer Boudewijn

EF Go Ahead Tours/Unsplash/Boer Boudewijn

You'll need your Thanksgiving holiday and a few more days to visit Croatia in southeast Europe, but a guided tour is worth it. For a memorable Thanksgiving vacation, book a nine-day trip to Zagreb , the capital city, and Split , a coastal city known for its museums and historic sites. Stretch your trip to 11 days and add Dubrovnik , where ancient stone walls surround Baroque buildings in its UNESCO-listed Old Town. (You might recognize Dubrovnik as "King's Landing" from the Game of Thrones television series.) November is off-season, so prices and crowds are usually down. It's also wine season. If you're there on Nov. 11, 2023, celebrate at the annual winemaking festival, Martinje.

Find Your Bliss in St. Lucia

Bring an appetite for St. Lucia's authentic island food, sunscreen for the beaches and a sense of adventure for its boat tours, jungle biking, horseback riding and the every Friday-night street party that's been going on for 50 years. This lovely Caribbean island is a great Thanksgiving getaway for a long weekend; direct flights are available from Atlanta, Miami, Boston and other major cities. Unwind with a chocolate-making class (cacao trees flourish in the rich, volcanic soil), raise a glass of rum punch on a sunset cruise or bathe in a hot, muddy pool at Sulfur Springs. Stay at luxurious Windjammer Landing, shown here, and practice Hummingbird Yoga where the colorful birds hang out. Try Windjammer Landing's first-of-its-kind Underwater Breathwork Programme for an underwater therapeutic experience; see the website for availablity.

Photo by: Windjammer Landing

Windjammer Landing

Popular with honeymooners and anyone who craves a beach getaway, St. Lucia , a Caribbean island is located about four hours from Miami by air. Bring an appetite for authentic island food, sunscreen for the beach and a sense of fun for boat tours, jungle biking , horseback riding and the Gros Inlet every-Friday-night street party that's been going on for 50 years. Chill out with a chocolate-making class (cacao trees flourish in the volcanic soil), sail on a catamaran at sunset or dip into a hot mudbath at Sulfur Springs . Stay at luxurious Windjammer Landing , shown here, and practice hummingbird yoga where the tiny birds hang out. Try Windjammer Landing's first-of-its-kind Underwater Breathwork Programme for an underwater therapeutic experience; see the website for availability.

Have Revolutionary Fun in Williamsburg, Virginia

The best leaf-peeping in Virginia may be over by late November, depending on the weather (check here for )But there’s still plenty to see and do on a Thanksgiving getaway. Williamsburg, in the middle of the Eastern Seaboard, draws visitors to its battlefields and historic towns. Kingsmill Resort is a good base for activities like hiking and biking; it also features two championship golf courses, a large indoor pool and a million-dollar spa. Shop the Williamsburg Farmers Market from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays through December or look for arts and crafts, produce and baked goods, also on Saturday mornings, at Yorktown Market Days. Catch the Foods & Feasts of Colonial Virginia from Nov. 26-28, 2023 to explore 17th- and 18th-century foodways. On Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, pick up discounts at Michael Kors, Nautica and other stores at Williamsburg Premium Outlets.

Photo by: Brian Newson/The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

Brian Newson/The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

Williamsburg, Virginia

The best leaf-peeping in Virginia may be over by late November, but there's still plenty to see and do on a Thanksgiving getaway. Williamsburg, in the middle of the Eastern Seaboard, draws visitors to its battlefields, historic towns and its popular living history museum, Colonial Williamsburg . Kingsmill Resort is a good base for activities and boasts two championship golf courses, a large indoor pool and a million-dollar spa. Shop the Williamsburg Farmers Market from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays through December or look for arts and crafts, produce and baked goods, also on Saturday mornings, at Yorktown Market Days . Catch the Foods & Feasts of Colonial Virginia at the Jamestown Settlement and American Revolution Museums at Yorktown from Nov. 24-25, 2023, to explore 17th- and 18th-century foodways. On Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, pick up discounts at Michael Kors, Nautica and other stores at Williamsburg Premium Outlets . Again, check for days and times of operations for these and other attractions around the holiday.

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15 Best Thanksgiving Getaways for Families or Couples

In case you plan to skip the whole stressing over a big dinner thing.

So, put away Grandma’s pumpkin pie recipe , break out those weekenders , and fire up your out of office. We’ve combed all of the USA to find 15 of the best places to go for Thanksgiving. Where are you headed?

Bend, Oregon

300 days of sunshine make this picturesque, small city on the Deschutes River a favorite of outdoor adventure lovers. But aside from exploring the high desert and the Cascades Range, there’s also a dozen craft breweries to sample, plus top-quality art museums and galleries. Hotel Signature Bend is an affordable, yet uber-chic spot to post up for the holiday.

Asheville, North Carolina

This charming city in the Blue Ridge Mountains has long been known for its bucket-list breweries, thriving art scene, stunning drives, hikes, and Biltmore, America’s largest home , built by George Vanderbilt. The late fall is an ideal time to visit: temperatures are mild, the travel rates are the best of the year, and it’s easier than any other season to land hard-to-get restaurant reservations, with plenty of outdoor seating available for those looking for it. Snag a room at Kimpton’s Hotel Arras , a 128-room boutique hotel that's perfectly located downtown so you can easily stroll to the area's many breweries, but has a romantic outdoor bar with a fire table so couples who prefer cocktails can say in. If you are in town for the microbrews, don't skip the pumpkin ale at Catawba or the taco truck at Rabbit, Rabbit .

Branson, Missouri

If holiday cheer is your thing, there's probably nowhere better in the country to get your fix than Branson. The destination is even known as America’s Christmas Tree City, with over 1,700 trees that are already sparkling starting at the beginning of November. Bring the wilderness indoors with a stay at Big Cedar Lodge , which features on-site fishing and five golf courses. They’ll also be hosting their annual Tom Turkey scavenger hunt the day after Thanksgiving: families get to explore the whole property while hunting for clues.

Texas Hill Country

Texans have a special place in their heart for this region, which stretches over the central and southern portions of the state. It’s not hard to see why: there are beautiful rolling hills, bubbling spring-fed rivers, and of course, some of the best barbecue in the whole country . The entire family will be happy at Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa , which is located just 20 minutes outside of Austin. The 4,000 acres are perfect for social distancing, and amenities include seven restaurants, four golf courses (plus mini for the kids!), and s’mores served every night at sunset.

Hudson, New York

Sometimes dubbed “Brooklyn North,” this vibrant city in the state’s Hudson Valley is beloved for its phenomenal farm-to-table restaurants, hip art galleries and furniture stores, and easy access to the region’s many hiking trails, including the 736-acre Greenport Conservation Area . Design-loving couples will dig newly opened The Maker Hotel , which features 11 rooms fitted with velvet throws and local art, as well as a restaurant housed inside a glass conservatory.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

While this town may be best known for its skiing, its close proximity to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks truly makes it ideal for anyone who loves natural beauty. The late-fall “shoulder season” is an ideal time to visit: the weather is dry, the National Parks are still open but without the crowds, and you might even get to see the yearly elk bugling (Google it). Book a stay at The Lodge at Jackson Hole , which boasts an all-season indoor-outdoor pool, plus chic rooms outfitted in a classic Western style.

Palm Springs, California

November is an ideal time to visit this colorful city in the Sonoran Desert, where temperatures hover in the high 70s and there is zero rainfall. Spend your days ogling midcentury modern architecture, hiking in stunning Joshua Tree National Park, or taking a high-flying ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway . For an adults-only escape, look into the affordable and design-forward Villa Royale , but families will love the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells , which includes two new dueling 30-foot waterslides and a 450-foot lazy river.

San Diego, California

Located on the Pacific coast and absolutely crammed with beaches, picture-perfect parks, and some of the best Mexican restaurants north of the border, it’s little wonder this city is popular with everyone from families, to retirees, to honeymooners. After a visit to the world-class San Diego Zoo , catch some zzz's at the eco-friendly Pearl Hotel in Point Loma, or the Pendry San Diego , which boasts five separate dining spaces.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

There is no passport necessary for this Caribbean getaway. While the whole island is full of beautiful beaches, intriguing tropical forests, and historical sites, the perfect base is the capital city of San Juan. There, you can not only explore the romantic streets of Old San Juan, but access the dreamy sands of Condado and Isla Verde beaches. Stay at the centrally located Condado Vanderbilt Hotel , a recently restored resort originally built in 1919. Holiday programming includes gingerbread cookie decorating for the kids, and how to make the island-favorite mojito cocktail for adults.

South County, Rhode Island

Newport may be the most well-known getaway in Rhode Island, but don’t sleep on the South County area. Enclaves like Watch Hill and Weekapaug offer tranquil ocean views, superb seafood (don’t miss the Rhode Island-favorite stuffies ), and plenty of water activities like boating and fishing. Book a stay at the family-friendly Weekapaug Inn or at The Break Hotel in Narragansett for a chic, beach house-vibe. And for a special holiday treat, visit Ocean House’s Fondue Village , which will transport you to Switzerland for an afternoon.

South Walton, Florida

Located on the state’s splendid Gulf Coast, South Walton is a peaceful and relatively under-the-radar locale that’s ideal for Thanksgiving getaways. The area’s 16 beach towns were all purposely built to be less dense than other Floridian beaches, plus 40 percent of the land here is preserved, making for over 200 miles of hiking and biking trails. Spend your holiday at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Resort & Spa , which is perched directly on the white sands of the Gulf of Mexico. Two pools, family suites with bunk beds, and an affordable rate will make for a (hopefully) stress-free Thanksgiving.

Traverse City, Michigan

The late fall is a wonderful time to visit this city “Up North” on the shores of Lake Michigan: There’s generally enough snow to ski or snowshoe, but it’s also temperate enough to explore the charming town. Visitors can also take advantage of a number of seasonal promotions , which offers discounted rates on hotels, as well as a savings on dining, wineries, and shopping. Spend the night at Tamarack Lodge , which has the feel of an old-school grand lodge and is located right on the shores of East Grand Traverse Bay.

Tucson, Arizona

Another sun-drenched city, Tucson has a whopping 350 days of sunshine a year, not to mention some of the best stargazing in the country and hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails. But, if nature isn’t your thing, Tucson was also named the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2015, which basically means you can’t go wrong with any restaurant in town. There's no shortage of accommodations—rent an Airbnb or heck out newly-opened The Tuxon for your holiday getaway, a modern boutique hotel in the heart of the city.

Litchfield County, Connecticut

There are few places more beautiful in the fall than New England, and none may be as picturesque as this lush area of northwestern Connecticut. Located an easy driving distance from many East Coast cities, it’s famed for its rolling hills, charming towns, and loads of historical sites. Gilmore Girls fans also know it as the bucolic setting for the show, and the Mayflower Inn & Spa as the inspiration for The Independence Inn, where Lorelai worked in early seasons.

Williamsburg, Virginia

This historic pocket of Virginia between the York and James Rivers may be best known for Colonial Williamsburg , but there are plenty of other activities in the area if you’re not a Revolutionary War buff. Artisanal breweries and distilleries abound, the Williamsburg Premium Outlets are a perfect way to jumpstart holiday shopping, and scenic hikes like the Powhatan Creek Trail are peaceful this time of year. The Williamsburg Lodge, Autograph Collection is an ideal place to stay for Thanksgiving.

Juliet Izon is a New York-based freelance writer who focuses on travel, food, interior design, and entertainment.

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31 Enjoyable Thanksgiving Vacation Ideas for Families in the USA (2023)

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With Thanksgiving right around the corner, it’s time to start planning your holiday vacation. Do you need some Thanksgiving vacation ideas for families? With so many places and things to do in the United States, it can be difficult to narrow down your Thanksgiving vacation ideas – especially if you have young children or extended family that you’re traveling with.

I love getting away for Thanksgiving. While it’s nice to be at home, it’s also nice to not have to cook, clean, and get away from our daily responsibilities. Plus, with limited family nearby, we are often searching for where to go on Thanksgiving.

While you could go abroad since this is an American holiday, and avoid the crowds, I still think the best places to go for Thanksgiving in the USA is in this list.

To help you pick the best family vacation Thanksgiving, I put together this list of 31 Thanksgiving getaways 2023, from history-packed adventure to laid-back relaxation on the beach, so that no matter your personality type or interests, there’s something here for you to enjoy on this coming Thanksgiving!

When you’re searching, do you search for Thanksgiving getaways for families near me? I’ve tried to include Thanksgiving getaways in the South, East Coast vacation spots for families, Midwest vacation spots for families, and more. Sometimes finding the best Thanksgiving trips for families in the USA means staying close to home too.

Table of Contents

Historic Destinations

There’s something about visiting the best destinations for Thanksgiving by traveling to the United States’ historic areas to remind you of all we have to be thankful for. Because Thanksgiving has some origins in the first Americans, it only makes sense to visit those with the family. But not all historic destinations on our list have pilgrim beginnings. Some have a history in traditional parades, while others are historical Native American stories.

1. New York City

New York City is possibly everyone’s number one choice for where to visit for Thanksgiving. It is often rated as one of the best family Thanksgiving vacations.

The iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been kicking off the holiday season for over 100 years. It is certainly on my bucket list to visit during that time! The parade route is 2.5 miles long from Central Park to Herald Square. Set up along the route early to watch the parade.

Since this is one of the best places to visit during Thanksgiving weekend, be sure to book early to enjoy all the vibrant city has to offer. Imagine starting your Black Friday shopping along 5th Avenue!

Other enjoyable highlights include ice skating in Rockefeller Center . If you can, stay for the tree lighting ceremony in Rockefeller Center that happens shortly after Thanksgiving weekend . It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. Holiday highlights include Radio City Music Hall, Majestic holiday windows on 5th Ave., and an overall festive feeling about the city .

Marriot Vacations offers an all-inclusive Thanksgiving vacation package.

Check prices and availability of the Westin New York at Times Square.

2. Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a notable city that is filled with history and culture. With all the culture here, it’s my favorite pick for one of the best family vacations for Thanksgiving. After watching the oldest Thanksgiving Day Parade, head out to the streets of Philadelphia to take in more history .

Visit the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, The Ben Franklin Museum (a personal favorite), Betsy Ross home, and the American Revolutionary Museum.

Take a tour of the historic buildings, enjoy some of their famous cheesesteaks, or head to one of their many museums to learn more about America’s heritage.

Where to Stay: The AKA Rittenhouse Square – Check Prices and Availability here.

Parker House Rolls are a popular side dish for Thanksgiving menus, so why not visit the original home? Parker House Hotel, now an Omni Parker House , originated the roll in 1874.

Be sure to take a walking tour after Thanksgiving dinner to learn more about the founding fathers. It was one of the highlights of our trip to Boston. And if you don’t want a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, try some traditional New England dishes such as clam chowder and baked beans at Legal Seafood on Long Wharf or Boston Chowda Company in the North End.

Boston is a very walkable city, but be sure to bundle up for your November family vacations here. It will be chilly!

Where to stay: The Omni Parker House – Check Prices and Availability Here.

Consider Detroit for your family Thanksgiving trips. It is easily accessible in the Midwest.

America’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been running in Detroit as long as the Macy’s parade. Detroit has seen quite a renaissance of late and visitors to Woodward Avenue will not be disappointed seeing this parade. In fact, the 2022 theme of the parade is “Our Great City! Detroit!!” It kicks off on Thanksgiving day on November 24th , on the corner of Woodward and Kirby Street.

Where to stay: MGM Grand Detroit – Check Prices and Availability

5. Williamsburg Virginia

Want to know what the first Thanksgiving dinner looked like? Dig into the old cooking techniques at the Jamestown Settlement Museum at Yorktown. Discover how the native Powhatan Indians cooked through demonstrations.

I think Williamsburg is one of the best kid-friendly Thanksgiving getaways. History and exciting attractions all in one place. Don’t forget that it’s home to Busch Gardens Williamsburg .

Get a Historic Triangle ticket that offers unlimited admission to Jamestown Settlement, Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown Battlefield, and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.

If Historic Williamsburg has always been on your list of places to take the family, you won’t be disappointed.

Where to Stay: Kingsmill Resort

6. Plymouth, Massachusetts

Experience one of America’s most beautiful New England coastal towns. Plymouth is a great destination for anyone looking to get away from it all, with a picturesque town center and beaches just steps away. Plymouth Rock is just across the street from Plymouth Bay.

Plymouth’s Thanksgiving celebration is still going strong with so many events to attend and restaurants to visit. Visit Thanksgiving Day in America’s Hometown to see Pilgrim Hall Museum, Plimoth Patuxet Museums, Plymouth Rock, National Monument to the Forefathers, and more.

Check all the events here at See Plymouth.

Plymouth’s close proximity to Boston means you can visit both locations in one vacation.

Where to stay: Hotel 1620 Plymouth Harbor

7. St. Augustine, Florida

Want to spend your Thanksgiving vacation in Florida , but still get some history? St. Augustine is your place. As the oldest city in the US, there is history on every corner. A Thanksgiving reenactment meal takes place in September, during Founders Day, but you can take in a meal at one of these culinary delights.

You might ask if Florida is good to visit during Thanksgiving. Because we’re focused on St. Augustine and not the crowded theme parks, I’d say yes.

This city is a perfect destination for those who enjoy history and want to experience it firsthand. St. Augustine was founded by the Spaniards. This unique city has preserved many of its historical landmarks and attractions, including Castillo de San Marcos fort, which was built by Spanish forces as protection from encroaching British military forces. The fort is still standing today and offers visitors a chance to explore its 16th-century architecture.

Plus, if you’re in town during Thanksgiving, you’ll experience the Night of Lights , a signature Christmas event. The town lights up with a million lights starting November 20th.

Stay in any of the Bed and Breakfasts in St. Augustine to be close to the historic city center.

8. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia has a lot to offer visitors during the Thanksgiving holiday. In addition to its historic squares, cobblestone streets, and Victorian homes, it has a variety of restaurants and plenty of family-friendly attractions. Favorites include Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room and the Prohibition Museum , complete with a speakeasy!

Savannah is one of the best places to spend Thanksgiving and we’ve done it a few times. We love roaming the moss-draped tree-lined streets this time of year.

Where to stay: Any home rental near Forsyth Park makes everything walkable. Look at this stunning Victorian home that is enough for a multi-family vacation.

9. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina is one of the best warm-weather Thanksgiving vacations. The small town has lots of attractions, which will make the whole family happy. For instance, head over to the Appalachian Mountain Club for a hike and see some beautiful fall foliage. Or visit Fort Sumter National Monument, explore with your kids, and learn about America’s Civil War.

The colorful city also has plenty of restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving Day. So find one that suits your taste buds and enjoy a delicious meal while watching football or playing board games with your loved ones!

Where to stay: Charleston is another location that’s great for a big family.

Many home rentals are available in the historic district .

10. Galena, Illinois

This historic small town, 85% of which is a national historic district, is the perfect place for Thanksgiving family vacations. Galena is a short drive from many midwest cities, including Chicago, Milwaukee, and Des Moines, making it a reasonable place to spend the long weekend.

Galena is a hidden gem. Plus being in the midwest makes it one of the cheapest places to visit during Thanksgiving in the USA.

The Galena State Park is one of the best places to hike, bike, and explore on foot. This park offers hiking trails that range from easy to moderate difficulty and scenic river views. The Stone Mill Village is a great spot to grab a cup of coffee or lunch before exploring downtown Galena. When you’re hungry after all your exploring, head back down Main Street for dinner at Starved Rock Brewery.

Where to stay: The Galena Inn is a former Victorian Mansion and a 10-minute walk to the historic district.

Stay here on your own, or invite the whole family to rent rooms as they have a lovely common area as well.

11. Taos, New Mexico

Taos is a picturesque town that is home to many pueblo villages. One of the top things to do there is take a tour of one of these villages , learn about their history and Native American culture, and then spend some time shopping at local artisans’ markets.

Taos also has plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, fly fishing, skiing or snowboarding on nearby mountain peaks, or just playing around in nature. It definitely ties in with our active vacations below.

Taos would be one of the best Thanksgiving vacations for families due to the history not normally depicted on television. Plus, the temperatures would be warmer (but not too warm) than those temps you may have in the colder parts of the US.

Where to stay: The El Monte Sagrado Resort and Spa has a lovely mix of nature and location.

12. San Antonio, Texas

For a Thanksgiving vacation infused with rich history, vibrant culture, and Texan warmth, look no further than San Antonio, Texas. This captivating city along the banks of the San Antonio River offers a unique blend of heritage, scenic beauty, and family-friendly attractions that make it an exceptional holiday destination. Easily this is one of the best places to go for Thanksgiving in Texas.

When it comes to accommodations, consider booking your stay at the Hotel Valencia Riverwalk , a luxurious boutique hotel nestled in the heart of downtown San Antonio. The hotel’s elegant decor and spacious rooms provide a comfortable base for your family’s Thanksgiving adventure. It’s conveniently located on the iconic River Walk , ensuring easy access to the city’s top attractions.

Start your Thanksgiving exploration with a visit to the historic Alamo , where you can immerse yourself in the story of Texas independence. Meander along the picturesque River Walk, lined with restaurants, shops, and vibrant street performances . For a dose of culture, explore the colorful Market Square, where you’ll find an array of unique shops and eateries.

When it’s time for your Thanksgiving meal, indulge in San Antonio’s Tex-Mex flavors. Try the iconic puffy tacos at Ray’s Drive Inn or feast on enchiladas at La Fonda on Main. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the beautifully lit River Walk, enjoying the festive atmosphere.

San Antonio’s mild November weather allows for outdoor adventures as well . Consider a day trip to the scenic Texas Hill Country, where you can explore wineries, go hiking, or simply soak in the natural beauty of the region. With its blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, San Antonio promises a Thanksgiving vacation that will leave your family with lasting memories.

Football Games

For some, the Thanksgiving Day football tradition has become a beloved annual event, where old records and rivalries are celebrated inside the stadiums, in homes, and around the globe.

Whether it’s the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys playing each other or a special college matchup, Thanksgiving football games provide a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of Turkey Day and the holiday season to watch some of the greatest athletes in the world.

13. Detroit

If you’re in Detroit for the parade, stay for the annual football game. The Detroit Lions have always played on Thanksgiving Day since the late 70s. This can easily be combined with the Detroit Thanksgiving Day parade mentioned above.

The Dallas Cowboys also hold this tradition. Even if you’re not a big football fan, there’s something about seeing a game in person. The energy and team spirit is contagious. Plus, who says Thanksgiving dinner needs to be a turkey? Stadium hot dogs and beers sound like a good alternative to me. (Soft drinks and hot chocolate for the kids of course.)

15. Seattle, Washington

In 2023 the Seahawks will have a game at home against the 49ers.

Celebrating Thanksgiving in Seattle is a treat for both food enthusiasts and football fans alike. The Emerald City offers a unique blend of Pacific Northwest charm, delectable cuisine, and a passionate sports culture that makes it an ideal destination for a memorable holiday getaway.

For your stay, consider booking a room at the iconic Fairmont Olympic Hotel , situated in the heart of downtown Seattle. This historic luxury hotel boasts elegant accommodations and excellent dining options, including a Thanksgiving feast at The Georgian restaurant. It’s also conveniently located near many attractions, making it an excellent base for your Thanksgiving adventure.

Active Thanksgiving Vacation Ideas

Looking for Thanksgiving vacation ideas with the kids that get them out into nature and burning off all those Thanksgiving calories? Perhaps an active destination is for you.

16. Park City

Kick off the ski season in Park City, Utah. Park City is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities and amenities. In fact, Park City has been honored as one of America’s best ski towns for families by National Geographic. In order to ensure that your holiday is hassle-free, it’s a good idea to book accommodation and skiing lessons early.

The Montage Dee r Valley is a popular ski-in and ski-out resort. With 6 restaurants on-site, and indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, this will be a hit with the family.

17. Jackson Hole

Want to horseback riding over your Thanksgiving vacation? Head to Wyoming.

One of the things that Wyoming is most known for is its mountains and there are plenty of hiking trails and skiing slopes to choose from. Jackson Hole is a popular destination because it offers visitors a variety of activities and scenery, including some of America’s most spectacular natural beauty.

There are over thirty ski resorts within a few hours’ drive from Jackson Hole.

however, seek out a dude ranch vacation here if you can. While many operate only in the summer, a handful are year round. Brooks Lake Lodge is open year-round, just outside of the Teton Mountains.

18. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Families looking to enjoy a break from their routine might consider a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The national park is located in Tennessee and North Carolina and is home to over 1,200 species of flora and fauna.

There are more than 800 miles of trails which will provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. This is a great location for hiking, fishing, or just sitting around campfires with loved ones.

Speaking of campfires, this would be a great fall camping destination. Rent an RV from RV Share if you don’t have your own and set up camp at Greenbrier Campground in Gatlinburg for a full-service camping experience.

Truly any of the National Parks would make a perfect choice this time of year. Crowds are also always lower. This area would also be great for some Thanksgiving road trip ideas, driving through the park, or along the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s late in the year, but you may even see some color.

19. Galveston, Texas

Near peak and peak colors are still around in late November if you’re looking for beautiful fall foliage in Galveston. Galveston and Galveston Island have a little of everything, active, history, and relaxing beaches. Nestled along the Texas Gulf Coast, it’s easy to explore by land or water. The city has been a popular tourist destination since its earliest days when European settlers arrived.

A variety of attractions await you here, including historical sites like the Historic Downtown Strand District, golf courses, and Moody Gardens. You could even stay at the Moody Gardens Hotel, one of the best family resorts in Texas .

Or go serving, kayaking, or fishing for a different kind of Thanksgiving adventure. For those who want to escape the crowds at home but don’t want too far from their loved ones, this would be a good place to spend Thanksgiving with your family.

The Casa Del Mar Beachfront Suites will give you easy access to the ocean, and the Hotel Grand Galvez has the best Sunday Texas Brunch.

20. Lake Tahoe

Another gorgeous ski town, consider Lake Tahoe for your Thanksgiving vacation ideas. It’s a popular ski destination, but you won’t be disappointed with the charming towns that dot the Lake Tahoe shoreline. I’d personally recommend North Lake Taho as it’s a little less congested. On clear days, enjoy views of 14,000ft peaks from Mt Rose ski area—you’ll be sure to take tons of pictures!

Stay in a lakefront townhome, like this one that sleeps 8 . Guaranteed to keep you warm on chilly nights.

21. Rapid City, South Dakota

I wasn’t sure if I was going to put Rapid City in my Thanksgiving vacation ideas , but the town has a lot to offer. The small charming town would be lovely to walk through this time of year. Plus, you can’t go wrong hiking the Cathedral Spires in the Black Hills . We enjoyed our vacation during the summer, so Thanksgiving would not disappoint.

Families looking for fun things to do this Thanksgiving can consider spending some time in Rapid City. Plan an extended stay at one of the area’s luxury hotels, such as The State Lodge in Custer State Park , and enjoy all the park offers. Start by exploring the natural wonders of Jewel Cave National Monument before riding horseback on a trail with Custer State Park Adventures . Be sure to drive through Custer State Park too to see the herd of buffalo.

Relaxing Thanksgiving Family Vacation Ideas

Do you run around all school year? Maybe Thanksgiving is the perfect time to take a relaxing vacation and enjoy some downtime with the family.

22. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Late November is a great option for visiting the Gulf Shores of Alabama. Beautiful beaches, OWA Adventure park nearby, and did I mention beautiful beaches?

While non-traditional, Gulf Shores make for the best Thanksgiving family vacations because you can relax and still enjoy the beautiful weather.

Especially during this time of year, Gulf Shores does not have many crowds, so in some places, like the Beach Club Spectrum Resort , you’ll practically have the beach to yourself. Plus, you have a full kitchen and living room area to spread out and make your own Thanksgiving meal if you’d like.

If you’re seeking out warm Thanksgiving destinations, you can’t go wrong with Gulf Shores.

23. Freeport, Maine

Freeport, Maine is a wonderful way to have a relaxing Thanksgiving vacation. This small town and the Haraseeket Inn is completely charming. Trust me, you’ll never want to leave. Plus, the Broken Arrow Tavern dining will be sure to. give you a traditional Maine Thanksgiving feast. The Thanksgiving Grand Buffet is sure to have lobster stew, clam chowder, scallops, and maybe even some pumpkin pie.

You can read my review of Freeport, Maine here. I really enjoyed my time in Freeport and I can imagine bringing my family back to experience the area. Because of the location, crowds, and great food, I think it’s one of the best places to visit during Thanksgiving with family.

24. Sedona, Arizona

Thanksgiving vacation ideas for families don’t have to be complicated. If you’re looking for a relaxing, low-key trip this holiday season, consider checking out Sedona Arizona.

The town is surrounded by beautiful red rock formations and natural hot springs. You can go hiking or horseback riding, or just relax with your family at one of the many hotels around town. Many of them offer spa treatments and other luxuries that will make you feel like royalty during your stay.

Even if you don’t visit during Thanksgiving, consider Sedona for family vacations in November.

Foodie-Focused Thanksgiving Ideas

Let’s face it, Thanksgiving is all about food. But it doesn’t have to be turkey and cranberry sauce. These foodie favorites will offer a traditional Thanksgiving meal true to their own area.

25. Napa Valley, California

As the leaves begin to paint the rolling vineyards with vibrant autumn hues, Napa Valley emerges as a splendid Thanksgiving vacation destination that seamlessly blends scenic beauty with the elegance of wine country living. Nestled in Northern California, this region is renowned for its world-class wineries and captivating landscapes, making it an ideal spot for families seeking a tranquil yet indulgent holiday experience.

For your stay in Napa Valley, I recommend the Silverado Resort and Spa , a family-friendly oasis amidst the vineyards. This upscale resort offers spacious suites and condos, perfect for accommodating families . It boasts a host of amenities, including swimming pools, tennis courts, and a championship golf course. Parents can unwind at the spa while the kids enjoy the on-site activities. Plus, the resort’s proximity to renowned wineries like Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars and Opus One Winery ensures a delightful wine-tasting experience.

Thanksgiving in Napa Valley is a gourmet affair. Many wineries and restaurants offer special Thanksgiving meals featuring local ingredients and fine wine tasting. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor a delectable feast at The French Laundry, a three-Michelin-star restaurant in Yountville. Additionally, explore the scenic Napa Valley Vine Trail by bike, take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards, or embark on a relaxing wine train journey through the valley.

26. Lafayette, Louisiana

Cajun Thanksgiving is on the menu in Lafayette. This is one of the few places where you’ll still get peak fall foliage as well. From walking around historical sites to tasting the best seafood around, this city offers great things for everyone.

Come enjoy Southern hospitality and culture when visiting Lafayette . One of their popular dishes includes fried oysters and shrimp which come with fries, slaw, and tartar sauce.

I visited Lafayette in November and the weather was perfect. If you can, consider Louisiana as one of the best family vacations in November.

27. New Orleans

New Orleans is a perfect destination to celebrate this festive time of year. The city offers plenty of family-friendly attractions . Make sure to schedule some free time to stroll through the French Quarter to soak up all the sights and sounds of America’s most exciting city.

Yes, you can do the French Quarter with the kids. Grab a beignet, come chicory coffee, and take in music on every corner.

There are also countless food options here, from traditional southern dishes to international cuisine. If you can’t find something on your list of favorites then there’s a good chance it doesn’t exist!

28. Portland, Maine

Escape to the charming coastal town of Portland, Maine, for a Thanksgiving vacation that combines picturesque landscapes with a delectable culinary scene. Located in the northeastern corner of the United States, Portland offers a cozy and laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for families looking to unwind and enjoy a coastal retreat.

Trust me, this would be the best New England Thanksgiving getaways you can do.

For a family-friendly Thanksgiving vacations stay, I recommend the Press Hotel , a boutique hotel housed in a historic newspaper building. I got a chance to visit here when I took a trip to Portland a few years ago. Its unique and stylish decor, along with spacious accommodations, will make your stay comfortable and memorable. The hotel’s central location in the Old Port district allows easy access to Portland’s attractions and dining options.

Thanksgiving in Portland is a delightful celebration of fresh seafood and traditional New England flavors . Many restaurants offer special Thanksgiving menus featuring local lobster, clam chowder, and cranberry dishes. Be sure to try the sumptuous Thanksgiving Grand Buffet at the historic Haraseeket Inn in Freeport , a cherished tradition for locals and visitors alike. If it’s anything like their daily buffet, it’s incredible!

During your stay, explore Portland’s vibrant arts scene, visit the iconic Portland Head Light lighthouse, and stroll along the cobblestone streets of the Old Port, where boutique shops and artisanal stores beckon.

29. Portland, Oregon

Portland, Oregon is also foodie’s dream. Dozens of restaurants in this city specialize in all sorts of cuisines, from Thai to Ethiopian.

One Portland favorite is Pok Pok, which does traditional Thai food with a modern twist. Though it’s famous for its noodle soup, you can also order dishes like chicken wings tossed in fish sauce or pork neck curry with rice noodles and kaffir lime leaves.

If you’re looking for something other than Asian cuisine, consider trying Voodoo Doughnut. If you’re not familiar with their doughnuts yet, think deep-fried dough coated in glazed icing and decorated with cream cheese frosting or candy sprinkles.

30. Memphis, Tennessee

The most popular food during a Memphis Thanksgiving is barbeque! The perfect thing to eat on this holiday is slaw, potato salad, and bbq sauce. For dessert, you can enjoy pumpkin pie or sweet potato pie.

If you would like to see something a little more exciting then head over to Beale Street where you can see live music at any time of day! It doesn’t matter what type of music you’re looking for because it will be playing.

And if you still have an appetite after all that turkey dinner, be sure to stop by Paula Deen’s Southern Kitchen Restaurant on Friday morning between 10:00 am and noon for her traditional buffet brunch.

31. Newport, Rhode Island

The historic Newport mansions are a must-see, and many of them have been turned into museums. The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff are some of the most famous. Go to Fort Adams State Park to explore Fort Wetherill and wander through Echo Hill Children’s Farmstead. The nearby Newport Country Club is a great place to enjoy golf on a scenic course.

Visit or Stay Castle Hill Inn for a traditional Thanksgiving meal. The three-course dinner is served all day.

Be sure to check the best hotels in Rhode Island for other Thanksgiving options. You can’t beat spending fall and Thanksgiving in this stunning state.

How can I plan a Thanksgiving vacation that includes a traditional Thanksgiving dinner?

To plan a Thanksgiving vacation with a traditional dinner, look for restaurants or resorts that offer special Thanksgiving meals to ensure your family can enjoy the holiday feast away from home.

What are some unique Thanksgiving vacation ideas for families?

Unique Thanksgiving vacation ideas include visiting Napa Valley for a wine country experience, exploring Native American culture in Taos, New Mexico, or celebrating Cajun-style in Lafayette, Louisiana.

Should I Fly or Drive for a Thanksgiving Vacation?

Flying versus driving is a personal preference. If you have limited time, I would recommend driving. But if you’re crossing the country, flying makes more sense.

Do I need Travel Insurance for US Vacations?

If you are a US citizen, you should still get travel insurance when traveling in the US. If last year’s flight delays taught us anything, it’s that you cannot predict problems.

What are some popular Thanksgiving vacation destinations for families?

Popular Thanksgiving vacation destinations for families include New York City for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, historic cities like Philadelphia and Boston, and coastal getaways like St. Augustine, Florida

Are there Thanksgiving vacation packages for families?

Yes, many travel providers offer Thanksgiving vacation packages for families, which often include accommodations, meals, and special holiday activities.

What are some budget-friendly Thanksgiving vacation ideas for families?

Budget-friendly Thanksgiving vacation ideas for families include camping trips, road trips to nearby destinations, and renting cabins or vacation homes for cost-effective getaways.

Are there Thanksgiving vacation ideas that combine tradition with adventure?

Absolutely! You can combine traditional Thanksgiving celebrations with adventure by choosing destinations that offer activities like skiing, hiking, or exploring national parks.

What are some warm-weather Thanksgiving vacation destinations in the United States?

Warm-weather Thanksgiving vacation destinations in the United States include Savannah, Georgia, and San Antonio, Texas, offering pleasant climates for holiday getaways.

What activities can families enjoy during a Thanksgiving vacation?

Families can enjoy a variety of activities during a Thanksgiving vacation, such as visiting historical sites, hiking, exploring national parks, attending parades, and enjoying outdoor adventures.

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20 Thanksgiving Getaways: Fun Alternatives to Grandma’s

Thanksgiving means turkey and pumpkin pie, family Thanksgiving traditions, and early-bird shopping on Black Friday. But it is also a rare break in the school schedule where traditional schooling families find themselves with five or more days off. So if you want to ditch the annual Thanksgiving dinner at Grandma’s, or just take advantage of a chance to get away without pulling the kids out of school, here are a few Thanksgiving getaways that you can squeeze into a holiday break.

When putting together this list I relied on my own experience and recommendations from others to find destinations, both domestic and international, that met the following criteria:

• The destination can be explored in five days, including travel time assuming families could depart either the Tuesday evening before Thanksgiving and return by the Sunday night after Thanksgiving.
• Since many school districts give a full week off and some families are ok with kids missing 1-2 days of school, I’ve also included some destinations that might require a bit more travel time but this is a great time to visit popular international destinations when the airfare is inexpensive and the destinations aren’t crowded since they don’t celebrate this U.S.-based holiday.
• The weather at the destination is generally pleasant in November. This doesn’t mean laying out on the beach or wearing shorts, but it isn’t too snowy or rainy (no guarantees of course!) I have included some destinations where the weather is colder or possibly snowy, but I’ve noted that as it adds to the charm or the activities at that time of year.
• Where possible, I tried to include destinations that have special activities or events happening during that time of year.

10 Thanksgiving Getaways in the United States

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

While you can often find cheap flights to Europe, or even Asia, during this time of year, depending on where you are traveling from you may prefer to stay domestic for a Thanksgiving getaway.

1. New York City, New York

If you want to see the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, you will need to bundle up and stake out a spot along Central Park West or 6th Avenue. However, my favorite thing to do when we spend Thanksgiving in NYC is to head over to the Museum of Natural History in the afternoon before Thanksgiving and watch them inflate the balloons in the late afternoon and evening.

While you are in town, you should plan on catching a Broadway show . Our favorites for younger kids have been the Lion King and Wicked (not a big fan of Alladin but I’d like to see Frozen) and for teens, Hamilton and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

If you plan on exploring some of the main tourist attractions and museums, like the Empire State Building, 9/11 Memorial, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Museum of Natural History, I would recommend grabbing a New York CityPASS to save money on these attractions — and get to skip the line at many!

Where to Stay

• The Knickerbocker Hotel (perfect for Broadway shows)
• The New York Hilton Midtown (right on the parade route!)
• Check NYC special hotel offers on TripAdvisor

2. Jamestown & Williamsburg, Virginia

Did you know that Virginia lays claim to the first Thanksgiving? There you can celebrate the holiday where Colonists first settled in America and learn a little history at the same time. You can enjoy a Thanksgiving feast the way the original settlers did, at the  Foods & Feasts of Colonial Virginia  event at the Jamestown Settlement and American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.

At Jamestown Settlement , kids can learn how food was gathered, preserved, and prepared by Powhatan Indians and English colonists with clay pots and iron kettles. Historical interpreters will bake bread and demonstrate open-hearth cooking of pudding, pies, and pottage, based on historical recipes of the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

For those looking for a traditional dinner, Williamsburg has plenty of restaurants at Colonial Williamsburg including Williamsburg Lodge and  Christiana Campbell’s Tavern , where guests can experience historical dining traditions.

While in the area, families can enjoy exploring Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown Settlement, Busch Gardens, and other attractions in nearby Newport News and Hampton. Hamilton fans will also appreciate the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, which tells the stories of citizens and soldiers during the nation’s founding with comprehensive indoor exhibits and outdoor living history areas.

Where to stay

• Kingsmill Resort
• Williamsburg Lodge
• Hampton Inn and Suites , Williamsburg Historic District

3. Boston, Massachusetts

Most people associate the first Thanksgiving with New England. Of course, we now know more about the legends and myths surrounding this holiday, but Boston is still a great spot to celebrate Thanksgiving and learn some real history while you are at it.

Unfortunately, you will have just missed the prettiest of the fall foliage and Boston will be starting to settle in for winter. Luckily there are plenty of ways to warm up including the Museum of Science, Boston Children’s Museum, the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum , the Museum of Fine Art, and the New England Aquarium.

While you are there, plan some day trips from Boston including Plymouth to visit Plymouth Rock and maybe even have Thanksgiving Dinner at the Plimoth Patuxet Museums in a recreated 17th Century village. Other popular day trips include Salem and Gloucester .

• John Carver Inn & Spa, Plymouth
• Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Harbor on Tudor Wharf , Boston
• Hyatt Regency , Boston Harbor

4. Hilton Head, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island in South Carolina is a great family destination at any time of the year, but during Thanksgiving, the heat and humidity have subsided and it is the tail end of hurricane season, making the weather usually delightful.

The live oaks draped in Spanish moss give the island its lush feel. Beneath the trees, vacationers can ride along miles of bike trails, kayak through the marshes and waterways, or go horseback riding. Of course, there are beaches, golf courses — traditional and putt-putt depending on your skill, and the Pinckney Nature Preserve to fill sunny days with fun.

Restaurants on the island specialize in seafood, low-country cuisine, and barbecue. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a traditional Thanksgiving meal. In fact, Hilton Head celebrates the holiday with a Thanksgiving scavenger hunt, a Turkey Trot race, and Caramel Apple Festival. And there is an annual community dinner at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks.

• Vacation homes in Hilton Head
• Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort
• Hilton Head Marriott Resort & Spa

5. St. Augustine, Florida

I know there are many claims to the First Thanksgiving, but St. Augustine , Florida has documented that the first Thanksgiving took place there on September 8, 1565, years before the Pilgrims. Spanish explorer Don Pedro Mendez de Aviles came ashore in 1565 to claim Florida for Spain and established the first St. Augustine settlement along the shores of what is now the Fountain of Youth Archeological Park.  

The land was the home of the Native Timucua Indians in the village they called Seloy. One of the first things the Spanish explorers did was serve a meal of celebration and they invited the Timucua Indians to join them. The adjacent Mission Nombre de Dios, celebrates the landing with a recreation of the formal mass of Thanksgiving.  

During Thanksgiving, St. Augustine also shines brightly with the glow of three million tiny white lights during St. Augustine’s “Nights of Lights” celebration. There are many ways to enjoy the city at this time of year, from Old Town Trolley tours, carriage rides, harbor tours, or guided walks.

• Casa Monica Resort & Spa , An Autograph Collection Property (so you can use Marriott points!)
• Embassy Suites St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort (breakfast included!)
• DoubleTree by Hilton St. Augustine Historic District

6. Orlando, Florida

I know it seems like theme parks would be overcrowded and crazy during the Thanksgiving Weekend. However, we went to Universal Orlando at Thanksgiving a few years ago and we were surprised that it wasn’t nearly as crowded as we expected, especially on the Sunday after Thanksgiving.

Even if you aren’t into theme parks, there are plenty of other Orlando attractions (both indoor and outdoor) that can make for a fun vacation. Plus it is nice to visit when the weather isn’t sweltering!

• Margaritaville Resort Orlando (which has its own H20 Live waterpark )
• Cabana Bay Resort at Universal Orlando
• Waldorf Astoria Orlando

7. Chicago, Illinois

Why head to the Windy City in November? To get into the holiday mood and to explore this dynamic city without the summer crowds or (hopefully) the winter snow. Chicago really does it up big when it comes to Christmas and it all starts in November, giving plenty to do in Chicago at Christmas .

But before Christmas gets into full swing, the Windy City has one of the best Thanksgiving Day parades in the U.S. Be sure to bundle up and stake out a spot along State Street for this three-hour-long spectacle featuring massive balloons, marching bands, equestrian units, drum lines, dance troupes and local and national celebrities.

Chicago lights up for the holidays and you can see Christmas trees from around the world at the Museum of Science and Industry, go ice skating on the Maggie Daley Skating Ribbon, have lunch at the famous Walnut Room at Macy’s, catch a parade, and shop at the Chicago Christmas Market.

There is so much else to see in Chicago that I would recommend grabbing a Chicago CityPASS and maximizing your time . Take in the view from the SkyDeck at the Willis Tower, watch the Beluga whales at the Shedd Aquarium, and check out the dinosaur bones at the Field Museum.

• Four Seasons Hotel Chicago
• The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel
• Hilton Chicago, Magnificent Mile Suites

8. Western Montana

If you are looking for a western Thanksgiving with beautiful views under the big skies of Western Montana , The Paws Up Resort has put together a  Thanksgiving Vacation Inclusive Package . The Resort at Paws Up is Montana’s premier luxury ranch resort, set on 37,000 acres in the Blackfoot River Valley.

The Thanksgiving Feast for All Five Senses at The Paws Up Resort includes fireside s’mores, football games, wagon rides, and of course, the grand Thanksgiving feast. Extended families can spread out in a luxury home in the Wilderness Estates with three master suites, a loft game room, a cook’s kitchen, and a natural timber fireplace. 

Family activities include hayrides, horseback riding, ATV tours, laser tag, touch football, hiking, arts and crafts by the fire, and even a petting zoo. Foodies will enjoy wine tasting and the Turkey day cuisine of Executive Chef Sunny Jin and guest chef and BBQ legend Sam Huff.

9. Santa Monica, California

With sandy beaches, clean outdoor spaces, and temperatures reaching a high of 67 degrees in November, Santa Monica is an ideal family destination for a Thanksgiving break. There is an abundance of activities for families for a Thanksgiving holiday break, including the famous Santa Monica Beach and Pier.

Families with young children will enjoy exploring the Cayton Children’s Museum, splashing around at the Annenberg Community Beach House or Tongva Park, or exploring the Heal the Bay Aquarium. Third Street Promenade features street musicians, dinosaur fountains, shopping, and the Downtown Santa Monica Farmers Market.

Older children will enjoy bike riding along the beachfront path and strolling through the art and architecture at the Getty Center. Nearby, thrills await at Disneyland and California Adventure, or Warner Bros. Studio.

• Hotel Shangri-la , Santa Monica

10. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

I’ve experienced firsthand how Philadelphia gives New York a run for its money when it comes to Philadelphia at Christmas . But did you know that Philly also has the longest-running Thanksgiving Parade in the country at nearly 100 years?

The 6abc Dunkin’Thanksgiving Day Parade begins at 20th Street and John F. Kennedy Boulevard and ends at the Philadelphia Museum of Art on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The parade includes massive floats, choirs, dance groups, marching bands, and more. It finishes off with the arrival of Santa to kick off the holiday season.

While in Philadelphia, you can also soak in all of the historical sites and plan a day trip to Longwood Gardens to see the lights and holiday flower displays.

• Kimpton Hotel Monaco
• Residence Inn by Marriott Center City

10 International Thanksgiving Getaways

Thanksgiving week can be an excellent time to take an international vacation, especially if you are able to swing a full week off. Most of these destinations also work well for a five-day trip. This year in particular I’ve seen a ton of excellent flight deals to Europe from major U.S. cities.

I subscribe to Scott’s Cheap Flights to get daily alerts on flight deals. Sign up for the free or premium subscription to find out about great flight deals too!

1. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Three to five days is the perfect amount of time for exploring Amsterdam and surrounding towns. Temperatures are usually in the 40s, with a chance of rain, so dress appropriately, but you won’t run into the same crowds at this time of year. Given the over-tourism that is impacting the city, visiting during the low season is much preferred, even if the weather isn’t ideal.

There is plenty to do in and around Amsterdam with teens , but younger kids will also enjoy feasting on pancakes during a canal cruise and exploring the NEMO Science Museum.

• Doubletree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station
• Hampton by Hilton Arena Boulevard
• Hotel Estherea

Last Thanksgiving we had a family vacation in Aruba and it was a perfectly relaxing, tropical getaway and a great way to decompress after a busy fall. With direct flights from many U.S. cities, you can be on the beach in a matter of hours to maximize your vacation time.

The hotels along the two-mile Palm Beach offer beautiful oceanfront beaches and many have water activities like wave runners, windsurfing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. You can also schedule excursions such as snorkeling or scuba diving, or explore the desert side of the island on off-road adventures.

Just avoid leaving on Saturday as you may find long lines at the airport due to the cruise ship schedules. Either way, we recommend being at the airport three hours early as you will clear the U.S. border and passport control in Aruba.

• Hyatt Regency Aruba Spa and Casino
• Aruba Marriott Resort and Casino
• The Ritz-Carlton Aruba

Halfway between the U.S.’s East Coast and Portugal, the archipelago of the Azorean Islands is a short direct flight from Boston. The jetstream keeps the waters around the islands temperate, even if the air temperatures are a little cooler. This adventure paradise offers scenic views and a unique version of Portuguese culture.

São Miguel is the largest island and it is easy to spend a full week there, exploring the different regions. If you are really ambitious, you can also spend a day or two on Pico (amazing wines!), São Jorge, and/or Terceira. See my tips about planning a trip to the Azores .

• Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort
• Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
• Sensi Azores Nature and Spa

Bermuda may not offer tropical climates in November, but you can enjoy its beautiful pink sand beaches even when it isn’t sunbathing weather. Plus its location off the coast of North Carolina means you can find short, direct flights from Boston, New York, Washington DC, and Atlanta.

If you stay at a beach resort, you can book excursions to see the historic parts of the island, enjoy the aquarium, visit some of the many caves, or take a guided bike tour. Even though non-residents can’t rent cars, you can rent small little electric vehicles if you need to get around.

• Fairmont Southampton Beach, Spa, and Golf Resort
• Hamilton Princess & Beach Club
• Rosewood Bermuda

5. Dublin & Northern Ireland

Ireland is a short hop from the U.S. east coast and you can usually find affordable flights into Dublin or Shannon. It is easy to do three days in Dublin and then add in a couple of days for a lovely castle or estate stay, such as at the Mount Juliet Estate near Waterford.

Alternatively, you could spend two days in Dublin and then cross over to Northern Ireland (especially great for Game of Thrones fans) and visit Belfast and the beautiful Causeway Coast .

• Conrad Dublin
• The Morgan Hotel
• The Davenport

6. London, England

Five to seven days is a perfect length of time to spend in London . From palaces to museums to all sorts of Harry Potter experiences , themed afternoon teas, and giant toy stores, there is something for everyone.

Late November is a great time to visit London because U.K. schools aren’t on break and hotels will be more affordable. Also, all of London’s holiday festivities are just kicking in, like Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. You get all the advantages of London at Christmas without the crowds.

• The Royal Garden Hotel
• Athenaeum Hotel
• St. Ermin’s Hotel, Autograph Collection

7. Paris, France

Paris in November is quite lively, with new art exhibits on display and theater performances in the evening. While the days are shorter and it is a little cool, the temperatures are warmer than NYC and there is plenty to do inside.

With direct flights from many U.S. cities, it is the perfect time to enjoy the City of Light when hotel room prices aren’t as outrageous and the streets aren’t swarmed with tourists. And if you get chilly, just pop into Angelina’s for a hot chocolate and explore some of the off-the-beaten-path museums.

• Hotel Brighton
• Hotel Relais Saint Germain
• Citadines Saint Germain des Pres Paris

8. Reykjavik, Iceland

In November, the days are short in Iceland and the air is cold, but you have a chance to see the Northern Lights. There are still plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy from ATV riding on black sand beaches, to super jeep tours , to glacier hikes and exploring ice caves.

If you visit Iceland in the winter , it is better to base yourself in Reykjavik and take day trips or take guided tours vs. self-driving, as conditions can be extremely unpredictable. Book a group tour with my partner Hidden Iceland and save 10 percent with code WE3TRAVEL.

• Alda Hotel Reykjavik
• Fosshotel Reykjavik
• Hilton Reykjavik Nordica

9. Quebec City, Quebec

You don’t have to cross the pond to get some European flair. Quebec City is a great city for kids because it is so walkable and charming in the Old City. It may be too early for the Ice Hotel , but there are still museums, shops, and waterfalls to explore, all while practicing your French.

Keep in mind that Quebec City can get very cold so be prepared and dress in layers! But you won’t be competing with Canadians on holiday and the prices are to your advantage if you are coming from the United States.

• Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
• Hilton Quebec

10. Marrakech, Morocco

Morocco might seem far for a Thanksgiving getaway but with direct flights from New York to Casablanca in seven hours, it is closer than you think. From Casablanca, it isn’t far to the cosmopolitan city of Marrakech, where you can soak in Moroccan food and culture.

If you have a week to spend, you can also fit a visit to either Fes or overnight in the desert into your Morocco itinerary . For help planning your trip, contact my partner EPIC Travel and receive a free VIP welcome gift when you mention you were referred by WE3TRAVEL.

• Four Seasons Marrakech

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: November 2, 2022

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The 35 Best Thanksgiving Towns in America

These destinations go big on Turkey Day charm.

From waterside locales dotted with palm trees to postcard-perfect small towns with amazing leaf peeping , these destinations will make for the best Thanksgiving vacations for 2023. Whether you’re looking for all-inclusive resorts or secluded cabins that’ll fit the whole family, there’s guaranteed to be an idea here that suits your needs. Especially if you’re looking for Thanksgiving vacation ideas for couples or in the South (hello, Texas and Georgia!)—we’ve got those in spades!

So what do you say—why not shake things up and try something a little different this year? From apple picking to pretty porch spotting , embrace all the best things about fall in a new place this holiday. Whether you spend a lot on a luxury resort or a little on a cheap place to visit during Thanksgiving, we guarantee you’ll be grateful for the new perspective, the shared memories, and a delicious slice of pie that you didn’t have to spend hours making yourself. Here’s to wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday!

Charlottesville, Virginia

Home to the University of Virginia, this picturesque college town offers a bucolic blend of historic buildings, rolling pastures, and plenty of wineries and cideries. Leave the cooking to the pros with a pre-fixe Thanksgiving dinner at Keswick Hall or The Quirk , then walk off your meal with a leisurely stroll along the pedestrian-only Downtown Mall.

Hermann, Missouri

The jewel of the Missouri Rhineland wilkommens fall visitors with wineries, wurst houses, and dozens of other delightful ways to enjoy its German heritage. A self-guided walking tour of the historic downtown (or a bike ride along the 140-mile Katy Trail) is a lovely way to get your heart rate up before the big meal, and you’ll love cozying up in the sleeping quarters outfitted in antiques at the Inn at Hermannhof (pictured).

Lambertville, New Jersey

Also known as “The Antiques Capital of New Jersey,” this former factory town is now a flourishing country outpost for antiques and the arts—and a postcard-perfect home base for small-town hopping along the Delaware River. Catch an indie flick in an old supermarket at Acme Screening Room , or enjoy aperitifs while wandering Black Shed , a 28-acre destination garden center that is also home to a full bar and 100 free-range show chickens.

Lake Placid, New York

Lake Placid isn't just picturesque, idyllic, and peaceful, it's also a lot of fun around the holidays. Fish, hike, bike, or camp in the area, or visit the Lake Placid Olympic Museum (the Winter Olympics were held here in 1932 and 1980). While snow isn't a given, it is a possibility here this time of year, so pack your winter coat and gloves!

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Learn the history of this working seaport , explore the local boutiques , or visit Strawbery Banke Museum , which covers 300 years of American history on ten acres. Don't forget a lobster dinner while you're in town!

Santa Barbara, California

Known as the American Riviera, Santa Barbara is a stunning destination. With pretty beaches, mountains, and nearby vineyards (pictured!), it has everything you need for a relaxing, romantic weekend getaway, any time of year.

Canterbury, New Hampshire

New Hampshire's famous Hackleboro Orchards stays open through Thanksgiving, so you'll have plenty of time to enjoy apple picking before your holiday dinner. If the weather allows, bring your own blanket and enjoy a picnic before entering the orchards, or cozy up with some warm cider and donuts made fresh at the nearby barn.

Leavenworth, Washington

Known for its iconic holiday celebrations , this West Coast town kicks off the festivities Thanksgiving weekend with Christkindlmarkt, a Bavarian-style Christmas market. Visit the town's distilleries and breweries or the wineries and cider houses , then go shopping at some of the unique boutiques with cuckoo clocks, music boxes, beer steins, and other Bavarian treasures.

Hawley, Pennsylvania

BOOK NOW Nestled in the Poconos, Hawley is the home to several beloved resorts. From Woodloch to Silver Birches, there are plenty of cozy places to have a Thanksgiving meal. These resorts have a host of holiday activities, including a scavenger hunt , special bingo games, horseback riding , and more.

Park City, Utah

It's not exactly a tiny town, but Park City still boasts all the appeal of a town half its size—and the Utah city is where it's at come Thanksgiving. Take a bobsled ride, enjoy window shopping, or curl up by the fire at one of the town's amazing resorts.

Killington, Vermont

BOOK NOW Why not spend Thanksgiving surrounded by the most gorgeous fall foliage you've ever seen? This Vermont area is known for having the boldest shades of reds, yellows, and oranges in the U.S. While in town, participate in the annual Turkey Trot, or try the famous Chocolate Espresso Bread Pudding Muffins at Sunup Bakery.

Georgetown, Colorado

BOOK NOW Speaking of fall foliage, for the most mesmerizing post-Thanksgiving hike, head to the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway . Walk through the bright yellow Aspen groves and take in the incredible autumn sights.

New York, New York

It doesn't get more iconic than the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade . Instead of watching the bash on television this year, take your family to see their favorite characters fly through the skies in person. It's sure to be an unforgettable experience—followed by a delicious dinner at one of the city's many, many restaurants.

New Paltz, New York

BOOK NOW Located in both the Catskills and the Hudson Valley, the Mohonk Mountain House is truly an East Coast treasure every autumn. The resort always has something fun to do, from axe-throwing to board games. For Thanksgiving, you can enjoy a variety of family-friendly holiday activities, as well as a delicious buffet.

Winterset, Iowa

Winterset is the covered bridge capital of Iowa . Meander through the countryside to see these historic gems (which inspired the book and movie The Bridges of Madison County , starring Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep), and don't miss the Iowa Quilt Museum . The town's other claim to fame is being the birthplace of John Wayne , and it has the only museum in the world dedicated to him.

Long Beach, California

BOOK NOW If dressing up in costumes with friends and family is your ideal way to celebrate a holiday, the famous Long Beach Turkey Trot will become a favorite tradition. The best part? The event raises money for the nonprofit Community Action Team .

Grapevine, Texas

It may be known as the " Christmas Capital of Texas ," but it's also a heck of a lot of fun around Thanksgiving. Grapevine offers beautiful holiday decorations and a Light Show Spectacular for kids of all ages.

Plimoth Plantation, Plymouth, Massachusetts

BOOK NOW Plimoth Plantation , a re-creation of the original 17th-century colony, is the ultimate Thanksgiving destination. Walk around the English Village , the Plimoth Grist Mill , the Wampanoag Homesite , and more. You'll gain a new appreciation for our history.

Savannah, Georgia

This beautiful coastal town is delightful in fall when the sultry summer temperatures have faded. There's plenty of hospitality, too, amid the history of this Southern lady. Visit Old Fort Jackson , window shop one of the many boutiques or art galleries , and stroll through the historic Bonaventure Cemetery .

St. Louis, Missouri

Missouri is known for its annual Ameren Thanks-for-Giving Parade . The family-friendly event has it all—music, giant balloons, and even a visit from Santa! Your kids are sure to love every moment of this lively parade.

Taysha Murtaugh was the Lifestyle Editor at CountryLiving.com.

Arricca Elin SanSone has written about health and lifestyle topics for Prevention, Country Living, Woman's Day, and more. She’s passionate about gardening, baking, reading, and spending time with the people and dogs she loves.

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10 Best Places to Spend Thanksgiving

You'll be grateful you don't have to cook, that's for sure.

Dromoland Castle, Ireland

Ireland is as close for New Yorkers as the West Coast, which is just one of many reasons to give your Thanksgiving celebrations a little Irish twist this year. Hop across the Atlantic to the sprawling and majestic Dromoland Castle in breathtakingly scenic County Clare, where you'll be met with incredible landscapes, proximity to the famous Cliffs of Moher, and 450 acres of property grounds to explore. Spend a long weekend taking full advantage of Dromoland's activities list, which includes falconry, archery, clay shooting, and golf, before feasting on a Thanksgiving meal that highlights the best of fresh Irish produce.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

The turquoise waters of Caribbean-side Mexico are so easy to reach for East Coasters, making the Riviera Maya picture perfect for a long weekend (or more). At Etéreo, an Auberge Resort , the the culture of Mexico takes center stage, with a sprinkling of wellness thrown in for good measure. On the extensive list of Thanksgiving experiences: gratitude rituals, cacao ceremonies, sound baths, Mayan calendar readings, tequila and Mexican wine tastings, cooking classes, and game nights. And of course there is a feast on Thursday that incorporates American traditions, with a Mexican twist. Think turkey served with a chile jus, homemade chicharron with a side of cranberry sauce and gravy, and chipotle glazed carrots.

Read Reviews Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection

Tuscany, Italy

Thanksgiving in Tuscany—it has a nice ring to it, no? Take advantage of the 5,000-acre oenophile and foodie playground that is the Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco . The long weekend program may include truffle hunting, a cooking class, a tour of Castiglion del Bosco's winery, and, of course, a Thanksgiving feast. Counter all the indulgence with afternoons at the spa, a round or two of golf, and hikes around the breathtakingly picturesque estate, which dates back to the 13th century.

Read Reviews Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco

Adirondacks, New York

Holding court for more than a century on picturesque Lake George in the Adirondacks, the 140-year old Sagamore Resort is a quintessential American getaway, with an itinerary of Thanksgiving and holiday activities to match. Think: football games and the Macy's parade streaming in the rec room and a sumptuous Thanksgiving buffet in the ballroom, plus gingerbread house-making, holiday movie marathons, and tree-lighting for the rest of the weekend. Round it all out with the resort's many activities, from golf and hiking, to horseback riding and yoga.

Read Reviews Sagamore Resort

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Thanksgiving is a wildly popular holiday on Kiawah Island , arguably one of the most luxurious of the small islands dotting the coastal South. Spend the long weekend at the island's grande dame hotel, the five-star Sanctuary , or opt for one of its many private villas and homes. There will be a veritable bounty of Thanksgiving-related activities to fill your itinerary, from a turkey trot and turkey scavenger hunt to holiday mug painting and an oyster roast and BBQ. As for the main feast, you have your choice between reserving a to-go meal to have in the privacy of your own villa, or a table at one of the resort's four restaurants.

Read Reviews The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island

Massignac, France

A French chateau for Thanksgiving? Pourquoi pas? Domaine des Etangs , a new Auberge Resort in the Cognac region, is a perfect home base—one that dates back to the 13th century, by the way—for exploring the quiet countryside. There's a spa with Roman-inspired baths, a floating tennis court to test your forehand and balance, and 2,500 acres of land for bike rides, woodland strolls, and picnics. And yes, there will be great food: a cozy holiday meal at the hotel restaurant, Dyades, with warming ingredients like chestnuts and mushrooms foraged on site and, of course, truffles.

Read Reviews Domaine des Etangs, Auberge Resort Collections

Saratoga, Wyoming

For a taste of a wild western Thanksgiving that feels straight out of Yellowstone (minus the drama), consider bringing the whole family to Brush Creek Ranch . The team at the all-inclusive property has curated an impressive list of extra experiences and activities for the long weekend. Think: turkey trots and llama hikes, gratitude yoga and meditation, line dancing, Bordeaux wine tastings and multi-course dinners, a class with a National Geographic photographer, and even a Black Friday mercantile sale. In other words, something to keep the whole family entertained.

Read Reviews Brush Creek Ranch

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Maldives 

Why not take this opportunity to go all out for Thanksgiving 2023 and get a head start on the winter holiday season? Go off the grid at the incredibly luxurious Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi , where all accommodations are private, palatial villas with huge infinity pools, plenty of outdoor space, and panoramic ocean views. You can choose between one situated on the beach, on a reef, or over the ocean on stilts. Whatever option you go for, you'll be made to feel like you're the only ones on the entire island (with five-star service)—if this isn't the most geotag-brag of a Thanksgiving weekend, what is?

Sea Island, Georgia

Another one of those beautiful islands sprinkled along the coastal South, Sea Island is a veritable institution that has been around for almost a century. And it's quintessentially American, which the huge list of Thanksgiving activities makes very clear. Bingo night, chapel service, a turkey trot, Friday morning HIIT classes, wine tastings, and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony are among the happenings that week. Plus there will be no fewer than three separate feasts that will be prepared on Thanksgiving day at the property's restaurants.

Read Reviews Sea Island

Turks & Caicos

Turn Thanksgiving into the perfect balance of indulgence and wellness at Amanyara , the Aman portfolio's Turks & Caicos property. There will be a beachfront coconut and rum bar to provide refreshments—along with masterclass with Clase Azul tequila—plus other pop-up dining experiences like tapas and caviar one night, or tacos and margaritas another. Don't worry, you'll have plenty of opportunities to burn off the extra calories. Choose from trail runs, sunrise yoga, pickleball tournaments, Thai stretch classes, aqua tai chi, volleyball, and soccer drills. And of course don't skip the spa.

Read Reviews Amanyara

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

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By: Author Robyn Robledo

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2024

Looking for some outdoor adventure for your Thanksgiving Weekend? This blog is filled with great ideas for camping, hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, skiing/snowboarding, and relaxing this holiday weekend.

1 | Keystone, Colorado

If you’ve been itching all summer to get back on the slopes, Keystone, Colorado is a perfect Thanksgiving weekend destination. With Denver only an hour’s drive away, it’s easy to fit in 4 days of adventure on the slopes. We love Keystone resort for the gorgeous views at the top of the mountain and the great food and lodging in Keystone village. As a bonus, kids ski for free when you stay at the resort. Just be sure to get in line for the gondola early as the line can get long but the crowds seem to disperse when you are on the runs.

Related Blog : Complete Guide to Keystone Resort

2 | Durango, Colorado

Another great Colorado destination is the mining town of Durango. Purgatory Resort may be open for skiing and snowboarding just in time for the long weekend. And if skiing isn’t what you had in mind for the Thanksgiving weekend, there’s much more to explore around Durango. Take a ride on the famous Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, drive the Million Dollar Highway to Silverton or Ouray, or check out the numerous hikes, mountain biking, and rock climbing.

Related Blog: 30 Epic Things To Do In Durango

3 | Maui, Hawaii

If sunshine, nice restaurants, poolside drinks, and an excursion or two are what you are looking for over the Thanksgiving Weekend, then head to Maui. Some of our favorite things to do in Maui include driving the Road to Hana , whale watching, snorkeling Honolua Bay, and driving the west side of the island, finishing off with hiking the Waihe’e Ridge trail.

Related Blog: 18 Memorable Things To Do In Maui

4 | San Diego, California

Another great warm-weather destination is our hometown of San Diego. My favorite reason to head to San Diego is to surf. Thanksgiving weekend often brings great swell all along the California Coast. If you’re planning on surfing, be sure to bring a wetsuit . After a morning surf sess, we always head to one of these awesome coffee shops . There are so many rad areas in San Diego such as Gaslamp District, Little Italy, North Park, and Pacific Beach. Don’t forget there’s the world-famous San Diego Zoo, Sea World, and Belmont Park. Other outdoor adventures in San Diego include SUP Mission Bay, hiking Torrey Pines, or just hanging out and watching the sunset from the beach (Ocean Beach Pier or Coronado are our favs).

Related Blog: Ultimate Travel Guide to San Diego

5 | Kauai, Hawaii

While Maui is typically the best Hawaiian island for sunshine, our favorite island is Kauai. We love how quiet and green the north side of the Garden Isle is. It’s also the starting point to one of the most beautiful backpacking trips, The Kalalau Trail . We love the vibe of Hanalei Bay but we often go to Kauai and save a ton of money by camping here. Kauai’s resort lined south side has more sun and might be better for some well-earned relaxation this Thanksgiving weekend.

Related Blog: 5 Epic Days in Kauai

6 | Great Smoky Mountain National Park

For a scenic mountain getaway on the east coast this Thanksgiving weekend, head to the Great Smoky Mountains. I was a little shocked that the surrounding area of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg is very touristy (seriously, think Las Vegas). If you want a nice hike that is less crowded, we loved Mount LeConte via Bullhead trailhead. You may also want to check out the

Related Blog: Best Hikes East Coast

7 | Florida Keys & Everglades

If sunshine and turquoise waters sound like a great way to spend a long weekend, then fly into Miami and in just an hours drive, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to a tropical getaway. Plus, Florida is fully open for business, making it the perfect destination this Thanksgiving!

Related Blog : Florida Road Trip Itinerary

8 | Bentonville, Arkansas

I love the small-town feel of Bentonville, Arkansas. With a great mix of epic mountain biking trails, a beautifully paved greenway, artisan restaurants, and museums there’s plenty to explore in Arkansas this Thanksgiving weekend.

Related Blog: 16 Things To Do Bentonville

9 | Alta Resort, Utah

An even easier ski resort to get to this Thanksgiving Weekend is Alta and Snowbird. Fly into Salt Lake City and have Alta Shuttle take you directly to the Alta Lodge for an adrenaline packed weekend of fun. We loved the incredible views and food at Alta Lodge and the jacuzzi overlooking the slopes was a perfect way to end our days at Alta.

Related Blog: Guide To Alta Resort

10 | Grand Canyon, Arizona

What better way to burn off that Thanksgiving feast than by hiking the Grand Canyon. Depending on the weather, you can just hike part of the Grand Canyon or power out a day hike to the canyon floor and back.

Related Blog: How to Hike from South Rim to River to South Rim in One Day

11 | Bend, Oregon

There’s so much outdoor adventure to explore in Bend and the surrounding area. Drive the Cascade Highway and do a hike. Don’t miss out on the views of Smith Rock. And our favorite, mountain biking at Phil’s Trailhead.

Related Blog: 4 Day Bend Oregon Itinerary

12 | Moab, Utah

Moab is a very popular Thanksgiving weekend destination. With great hiking, rock climbing, and off roading you’re sure to find an adventure that fits your style. Plus, Moab is a hub for Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse State Park.

Related Blog: Best Hikes in Arches National Park

13 | Joshua Tree & Death Valley, California

While California’s coastline is beautiful, and there is plenty of fun to be had in the Sierra Mountains, one of our favorite winter things to do in California is explore the deserts of Joshua Tree and Death Valley. Joshua Tree is fun for camping, rock climbing and hiking and I love the incredibly scenic views of Artist’s Paint Pots and Zabriskie Point. But my absolute favorite is camping and star gazing in either location.

Related Blog: Southern California Road Trip From Beaches to Mountains to Desert

14 | Seeley Lake, Montana

For a totally different experience this Thanksgiving weekend, fly into Missoula and drive north an hour to Seeley Lake. We had the most amazing time staying at Tamaracks Resort ice fishing, fat biking, and snowmobiling. And if the snow is too thin for that don’t worry, there’s plenty of fishing, hiking, and relaxing to do in the Mission mountains.

Related Blog: 7 Things To Do In Seeley Lake This Winter

15 | Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is a great destination for Thanksgiving weekend. The ski crowds haven’t arrived and you can explore north up into Grand Teton National Park. Depending on the amount of snow you can hike or rent snowshoes to go explore the outdoor trails. We like to go west into Driggs, Idaho and visit Grand Targhee . After a day playing, head into Jackson Hole to enjoy the music, art galleries, boutiques, and great restaurants.

Related Blog: Road Trip Grand Teton to Glacier National Park

16 | Spearfish Canyon, South Dakota

For a relaxing and romantic getaway this Thanksgiving, fly into Rapid City and spend your time exploring the Black Hills. Drive through Custer State Park and see the buffalo roaming. Hike at Sylvan Lake . See Mount Rushmore. Explore the Needles Highway. Spend at least one night at the Spearfish Lodge before finishing your Black Hills tour by stopping in Spearfish and Sturgis.

Related Blog: 25 Things To Do in the Black Hills of South Dakota

17 | Big Sur, California

Escape the city this Thanksgiving weekend and head up Highway 1. The views of the coast are enough to take your breath away! Check out the quaint towns from Cambria to Carmel-by-the-Sea and enjoy the picturesque McWay falls or maybe explore the trails at Julia Pfeiffer State Park. There are a lot of nice  surf breaks along the California Coastline . If you have time, extend the road trip further north and explore  Mendocino .

Related Blog: Big Sur Road Trip

18 | St George, Utah

St George is a great place to visit for Thanksgiving weekend. Last year we spent most of the winter in St George because there is so much to do nearby. All the area around St George is great for hiking and it’s a must that you spend at least half a day in Zion. Even if it snows there is still plenty to see in Zion in the Winter. We spend a lot of time in St George because the rock climbing is fabulous. Many people go love visiting nearby Hurricane for its world class MTB.

Related Blog: Best Hikes Zion

November is a great time to check out the North Shore of Hawaii. We absolutely love to surf Haleiwa and Chun’s Reef and then head over to Pipeline and watch the experts and pros shred. Be sure to check out our favorite hike, Olomana Ridge Trail and if you want to save money, do like we do and camp on Hawaii .

Related Blog: 10 Outdoor Adventures on Oahu

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Turkey Day travel: the 10 best places to visit for Thanksgiving

Here’s a thought: you don’t have to spend Thanksgiving at home . Chances are, much of the family will need to travel to meet up anyway. So why not try somewhere new ? The best places to visit for Thanksgiving don’t even have to be in the US. But that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate like they are!

According to KAYAK data , year on year domestic Thanksgiving airfares have dropped by 7% , while international fares are up 4%. Hotel demand is up with domestic hotel prices up 7%. International hotel prices have plummeted though, down 19% year on year. 

All this means Thanksgiving is actually a great time to travel , despite how busy it can get . It’s already a long weekend and so is an easy way to maximize holiday time . It means no one has to spend the day slaving at the stove cooking the family feast . And it works just as well if you’re solo, looking for romance or with the entire multigenerational family. Happy holidays.

Thanksgiving vacation ideas for families

The best all-inclusive resorts for thanksgiving, warm weather thanksgiving vacations, the best beach vacations for thanksgiving, the best things to do alone on thanksgiving, thanksgiving faqs, philadelphia, pennsylvania.

Learn more: Philadelphia travel guide

Holiday trivia: Philadelphia’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is the oldest in the US . Started in 1920, it also strives to be the “most band friendly.” That means 19 bands featuring 90-plus members will march and play their way along the Ben Franklin Parkway .

Expect lots of music, performances, giant floats and balloons, and appearances from celebrities you haven’t heard of. After the parade, make for LOVE Park to continue the festivities at the just-opened Christmas Village . 

As family-friendly as it gets , let the kids loose to explore the vintage theme park and alleys of wooden stalls. Adults can warm up with mulled wine and bratwurst for a less traditional, German-themed Thanksgiving. And remember: this is Philly in November, so dress warm.

Long Beach, California

Learn more: Long Beach travel guide

If a freezing family isn’t the kind of festive feeling you’re after, head west. En route, pick up some costumes for the family so you can all participate in the Long Beach Turkey Trot .

Usually held the Sunday before Thanksgiving , there’s a one-mile children’s race and six-mile adult race. Both are great fun, with plenty of people dressing up for good causes . It’s also a great excuse to then overindulge in the upcoming Thanksgiving Day feast.

Spend the rest of the week enjoying city and coastal attractions. In particular, don’t miss a whale watching tour . It’s peak time for the Gray Whale migration, so you can see them up close.

Sagamore Resort, Adirondacks, New York

To take the effort out of celebrating, my pick for the best all-inclusive resort for Thanksgiving is Sagamore Resort . This 139-year-old Grand Dame is unadulterated Americana . 

In November, its forested environment is a panoply of fall colors . Lake George shimmers below pink-hued skies and the hotel is aglow with cozy fires and holiday cheer . Its four-day Thanksgiving schedule testifies as much.

Nightly bonfires with s’mores and live music . Decadent spreads in the ballroom for Thanksgiving meals. Giant screenings of the Macy’s Day Parade, major football games and family movie marathons. Christmas tree lighting and horseback riding. Thanksgiving, served up on a silver platter .

Eden Roc Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

Willing to brave holiday season travel ? Eden Roc Cap Cana is just a short hop from the mainland to an island paradise Thanksgiving . And boy, do they take their holidays here seriously .

The five-day program bleeds every drop out of Thanksgiving, while making the most of the resort’s epic location . Dress up as, search for, learn to cook, and of course eat, all the turkey you can handle. Burn off the calories with beachside family fitness and sunset yoga. Align the senses with meditation and spa sessions.

Or just retreat to the beach with a cocktail and a good book and let the whole thing wash over you.

Nassau, The Bahamas

Learn more: Nassau travel guide

Just because it’s late November, doesn’t mean you have to spend Thanksgiving freezing your celebrations off. There are plenty of warm places to visit and indulge your holiday spirit. Close enough for a quick trip, hot enough for a decent tan, the Bahamas is a great bet.

While it doesn’t officially celebrate Thanksgiving, there are still plenty of celebrations to be had. Swap the traditional Thanksgiving Day Parade for an equally colorful neighborhood Junkanoo . For absolute luxury and a healthy dose of commercialism, Baha Mar in Nassau is your go to. Stay at the SLS , have Thanksgiving dinner at the Rosewood and take the kids to the Grand Hyatt .

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Learn more: Montego Bay travel guide

Montego Bay has two sides. There’s the city itself: a frantic slice of Jamaican life brimming with attitude and action. Then there’s the glossy tourist paradise : five-star resorts dotted along the coastline away from the mania of the city. There is, however, only one temperature: hot .

It’s always hot in the city. Nowhere more so than Hip Strip , where cruise ship passengers mix with locals in beachfront bars like the infamous Margaritaville . Thanksgiving Day is, as you might expect, busy. 

For something altogether more chill , head to one of the plush resorts around Ironshore to the north. Or take a short hop along the coast to Louca Bay and the newly refurbished Grand Palladium . 

Punta Mita, Mexico

If you’re going to make a beach the center of your Thanksgiving getaway, you may as well pick a beauty . Spread across 1,500 acres of a tiny peninsula half way down Mexico’s west coast, Punta Mita fits the bill.

Previously an idyll that shared its sleepy pueblo , golf courses and beaches with a Four Seasons and a St. Regis . This year sees the Susurros del Corazón open to make it a triumvirate of luxury. Head there for adventure and romance with surf safaris and candlelit meals on the beach. Or splurge with the whole family on a beachfront casa and make it one to remember.

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Inject a dose of Pura Vida into your Thanksgiving on the beaches of northwest Costa Rica. The biodiverse region of Guanacaste is famed for its ethereal black sand beaches . 

Playa Negra and Playa Carbon , not far from the buzzing town of Tamarindo , are particularly magical. Tropical jungle backdrops, big rolling waves and hundreds of colorful bird species .A couple of hours south the beaches begin to lighten but are no less impressive. Stop off at Ostional Wildlife Refuge to see arribadas (mass nestings) of Olive Ridley, Leatherback and Pacific Green sea turtles .

Continue south and book a room at the laid back Harmony Hotel set a few steps down sandy tracks to peaceful Playa Guiones . Laze, surf and horseback ride yourself into a state of total relaxation.

Discover Iceland

Want to escape Thanksgiving completely? Iceland is about as far away from roast turkey and street parades as you can get without leaving the planet. Remote wildernesses, wild beaches, towering waterfalls and the slow drift of ice everywhere.

It’s almost like Iceland was designed with solo travel in mind . It’s compact enough to explore on a one-person road trip yet it’s tailor made for organized experiences. Base yourself in Reykjavik and pick your adventure – after all, you’ve no one to please !

Feel the heat of bubbling lava on a visit to an active volcano . Ride dog sleighs over ice tracks to explore airplane carcasses. Dive crystal waters between tectonic plates. And let the memories cultivate as you soak in luminous blue thermal waters . The perfect way to give thanks (to yourself).

Take a fine wine tour across Arizona

Thanksgiving is steeped in tradition . One of the best things about spending it alone is that you can create your own , new traditions. If you like your wine, joining a wine tour is a lovely way to spend a day or three. Luckily, the US has plenty to choose from .

On the west coast, Napa Valley and Sonoma County are your obvious go-tos. It’s easy to pass time in its rolling vine-laden landscape, sipping and tasting , eating and relaxing. My pick is Arizona, however. Get your wine trail passport with tours of Willcox and Sonoita , or in the Verde Valley to the north.

There is no magic formula for when to book to get the best deals on flights and hotels for Thanksgiving. Based on data from KAYAK, most people traveling domestically in the US will do so the day before Thanksgiving – November 22, 2023. The cheapest day before Thanksgiving to travel domestically will be November 20th, with an average airfare of $448.

If you’re traveling internationally, the busiest day for travel will be November 18th. The cheapest day to travel, however, will be the 21st, with average airfares of $923. If you’re in doubt, try the KAYAK Best Time To Travel tool to help find a great price based on your destination and travel dates.

Prepare ahead of time. If you’re going to travel, don’t pack too much. Keep your celebrations authentic to the place you visit rather than bringing them home with you. If you’re cooking a big family dinner while abroad, make sure you can get all the ingredients you’ll need there. Otherwise (if it’s viable) you can take them with you.

Methodology: KAYAK considered flight, hotel and rental car searches between 2/10/2023 – 8/9/2023 for travel between 11/17/2023 – 11/26/2023. For year over year comparative data, searches between 2/11/2022 – 8/10/2022 and travel between 11/18/2023 – 11/27/2022 were considered. Prices are on average, are in USD and are subject to change. 

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• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit on Thanksgiving

Last Updated By VacationIdea on March 23, 2024

Plan your next holiday vacation: New Year’s Eve , Easter , Christmas , Presidents' Day

There are plenty of things to see and do here; the whole family can cycle along the Lehigh Gorge Trail or visit one of the town's indoor waterparks, while more extreme adventure seekers can go ziplining, stock car racing, or even skydiving. Poconos Map

San Luis Obispo

Special Thanksgiving dinners are held at many of the city's best restaurants, but it's also worth taking some time to check out the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art and the 18th century Spanish mission in the main plaza. San Luis Obispo Map

Adirondacks

Holiday vacation ideas: 4th of July , Labor Day , Mother’s Day , Memorial Day , Columbus Day

If you want to get out of the city, you can always escape to one of the national forests in the mountains. Romantic Getaways in Asheville

Go kayaking down the river, learn about local history in one of the museums, or browse the shops that line the quaint streets of downtown. Astoria Map

Visitors also come here for the city's surprisingly cutting-edge cuisine, which rivals that found in many of the bigger cities in the South; reservations are strongly recommended for anyone visiting over Thanksgiving weekend. Athens Map

Texas vacations: From Houston , Romantic Getaways on a Budget , Weekend Getaways in Texas , Texas Hill Country , Family Getaways

More to Explore: Getaways from NYC , Maine Getaways , New Hampshire , From Boston , East Coast

Brown County

More ideas: From DC , Virginia , West Virginia , Maryland , Tennessee , Vermont , Delaware

Charleston, SC

If you'd prefer to go for a gentle stroll, the Battery promenade and Waterfront Park are both excellent options that provide great views of the harbor. Charleston, SC Beaches

The city is also proud to host plenty of family-friendly activities over the course of the weekend, including a free celebration at Denver Union Station and a light-up event that sees much of downtown Denver illuminated by beautiful lights. Denver Map

If you have enough time, another big attraction here is the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a vintage train that will take you on a scenic 9-hour journey out to the town of Silverton and back. Durango Map

It's well worth taking the time to explore Galena's charming downtown core , but don't forget to venture out of town to hike, cycle, and horseback ride. Galena Map

Jackson Hole

Exploring the two nearby national parks is also an option, but depending on the year, you might need to rent a pair of snowshoes. Jackson Hole Map

The city is also a perfect base for anyone interested in exploring the famous Kentucky bourbon trail; three bourbon distilleries can be found within the town itself, and there are at least five more within a 25-mile radius. Lexington Map

Mackinac Island

Another popular option is to take a tour of the island in a horse-drawn carriage; led by knowledgeable guides, these tours provide a unique insight into the island's culture and history. Mackinac Island Map

After a satisfying meal, head outside to stroll alongside the Mississippi River and enjoy the crisp autumn air. Memphis Map

Myrtle Beach

The city also offers lively nightlife, but if you're visiting with your family, you can spend time at the aquarium or at one of the seaside amusement parks. Myrtle Beach Map

If you'd like more of a bird's eye view, go for a walk along the clifftop path known as Marginal Way. Of course, you can also visit the independent art galleries and quaint shops that line the downtown streets. Ogunquit Map

Getaways in Arizona: Romantic , From Phoenix , Arizona Dude Ranches , Hot Springs in Arizona

Philadelphia

Of course, most visitors make time to enjoy some of the city's incredible cuisine as well – a visit to Philadelphia almost isn't complete without chowing down on a Philly cheesesteak or paying a visit to the food stalls at the Reading Terminal Market. Philadelphia Map

Florida vacations: From Miami , Florida Weekend Getaways , Romantic Getaways , Florida Islands , Romantic Getaways in St. Augustine

Sperryville

One of the best things to do here is rent a remote cabin with a few of your closest friends or family members and simply spend the weekend enjoying each other's company; the town doesn't have much of a nightlife scene, but this is exactly why visitors come here. The town also provides convenient access to nearby Shenandoah National Park, which provides plenty of recreational opportunities, even at the end of November. Sperryville Map

Rooftop patios are especially popular with the restaurants and bars here, and live music performances are often held at the town's various brewpubs and wine bars. However, many visitors come here to simply kick back, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the river and the bluffs found around the town. Stillwater Map

• 3. San Luis Obispo
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23+ Thanksgiving Destinations In And Around The United States For Families

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Spend your Thanksgiving at one of these incredible destinations in and around the United States for families! Thanksgiving is a momentous holiday that deserves to be celebrated in stunning surroundings. It’s also a time for gathering, giving thanks, and socializing with friends and family. Although many people believe that the best way to celebrate is at home, there are many benefits to vacationing during the holiday with kids. Of course, traveling to new and exciting places is always a plus for kids. So if you’re considering spending Thanksgiving away from home this year, we’ve put together an awesome list of 23+ Thanksgiving Destinations In And Around The United States For Families. Keep reading to find out more! 

Big Thanksgiving Day Parade Destinations for Families

Nothing says Thanksgiving quite like watching a parade! Whether you want to see the iconic Macy’s Day Parade in New York or head off the beaten path to somewhere more traditional, like Plymouth, we have some fantastic Thanksgiving destinations in and around the United States for families. Keep reading to learn more! 

Looking for inexpensive options and the best travel dates for Thanksgiving destinations? Check this list too.

New York, NY

One of the best places to visit during Thanksgiving is New York City ! In November, the Big Apple is full of festive activities and attractions that the whole family will enjoy. Take a spin on the ice rink at Rockefeller Center , visit the iconic department store windows display, or see the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in person! This world-famous parade attracts tons of people and is a great opportunity to take part in the city’s holiday celebrations. Kids will love the massive balloons, floats, and loads of celebrities! If crowds are something you’re not fond of, consider staying at a hotel along the parade route and watching from your room. For bargain hunters, Thanksgiving is also a great time to go shopping in New York and search for Black Friday deals.  

There are also plenty of kid-friendly attractions like the American Museum of Natural History and Central Park Zoo . Plenty of holiday attractions should also be open. Browse a Christmas market, like the  Union Square Holiday Market , meet Santa at Macy’s Santaland , or explore the Bryant Park Winter Village .

Of course, there are countless places to eat delicious Thanksgiving meals. The Mark, New York , Gramercy Park Hotel, New York , and The Conrad, New York City all serve delicious Thanksgiving meals. Make reservations ahead of time for Thanksgiving dinner, however, because the demand for these spaces is high.

RELATED : Comprehensive Guide to Watching Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in NYC with Your Kids

Chicago, IL

Chicago offers families a mixture of history, culture, and fun holiday activities!  From the city’s famed deep-dish pizza to its world-renowned museums, there’s plenty to keep the little ones entertained here. Though the weather in November can be a bit chilly ( around 40 or 50 degrees ), it won’t be too cold to explore the city.

Learn more about American history at the Museum of Science and Industry , then stop by the Field Museum , The Art Institute of Chicago , or the Chicago Children’s Museum . Or, enjoy a sunny day wandering Chinatown Square , Pilsen’s 16th Street Murals , and The Navy Pier . For an animal adventure, don’t miss the Brookfield Zoo , Lincoln Park Zoo , or the Shedd Aquarium .

On the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, the mayor usually lights up the Chicago Christmas Tree in the heart of Millennium Park. Plus, what could be more memorable than watching the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade in person on Thursday? For dinner, don’t miss the delicious themed menu at The Langham, Chicago , or The Thompson, Chicago . Friday includes the wreathing of the lions at the Art Institute of Chicago, followed by an event inside. On Saturday, kids can ice skate and carol at Millennium Park! 

Philadelphia, PA

Looking for a fun and festive way to spend Thanksgiving with your family? Head to Philadelphia ! This historic city offers plenty of activities and attractions for kids of all ages, from the world-famous Philadelphia Zoo to the fun and whimsical Philadelphia Magic Gardens .

Philadelphia also celebrates “Thanksgiving Week .” On Thanksgiving day, appreciate all the funky floats and traditional costumes at the oldest Thanksgiving parade in the country, the 6abc Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade . Thanksgiving also sets off the holiday season in Philadelphia, including various Christmas traditions. Check out the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market at Dilworth Park, go skating at the Blue Cross RiverRink , or visit the Elmwood Park Zoo to see the property illuminated by Christmas lights! 

Since you’re visiting during an iconic American holiday, it’s only right you explore Philadelphia’s more historic attractions as well. Visit the Liberty Bell , then take a tour of Independence Hall . Kids can also learn more about Benjamin Franklin and his discovery of electricity at Franklin Square . While strolling through the historic district, pop by the Betsy Ross House for a self-guided tour. Philadelphia also has plenty of museums to teach kids more about American history and culture. This includes the African American Museum , the National Museum of American Jewish History , and the National Liberty Museum . Looking for a fancy Thanksgiving meal? Don’t miss a delicious, hearty, and holiday-themed brunch at The Rittenhouse , served all day! 

Click here to find out 14 Things To Do In Philadelphia With Kids During Winter ! 

Plymouth, MA

If you’re looking for a traditional Thanksgiving experience, Plymouth is the perfect destination for your family. This small town in Massachusetts is home to some of the best historical sites related to the American holiday.

Learn more about the original Mayflower Pilgrims at Pilgrim Memorial State Park , for example. It showcases the famous Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower II. Kids will love climbing aboard the replica ship and imagining what life was like out at sea! Other must-see historic attractions in Plymouth include the Pilgrim Hall Museum and the Plimoth Grist Mill. You can also take a cranberry bog tour!

A week before Thanksgiving, families can travel back in time by watching America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Parade . It features historical reenactors, Pilgrims and Native Americans, who will bring history to life for your kids! Little ones will also have a blast learning more about the Plymouth Colony at The Plimoth Patuxet Museums . Here, you’ll find a reconstructed 17th-century English Village, as well as the Wampanoag Homesite . On Thanksgiving Day, the museum complex even hosts a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with roast turkey . Kids will love learning about the American holiday from different reenactors!

Book a wonderful vacation rental in Plymouth using VRBO!

Historic Destinations for a Thanksgiving Getaway for Families

Families seeking a side of history with their Thanksgiving dinner will appreciate these destinations filled with American history. Whether you are interested in museums or historical reenactments, these cities are sure to please everyone in your family as you celebrate Thanksgiving together.

READ NEXT : Best Places To Visit During Thanksgiving Break With Your Family In Or From The Northeast

Washington DC

Visit the nation’s capital, Washington DC , for your family’s Thanksgiving celebrations! November weather reaches around 50 degrees ; so it’s not too cold to explore some of the city’s best attractions. Walk along the National Mall to honor American history and see iconic landmarks like the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.

DC has plenty of museums for kids to learn more about history as well, including the Smithsonian National Museum of American History , the Smithsonian National Postal Museum, and the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum . If you’re looking for some fun things to do on Thanksgiving Day, check out the National Thanksgiving Turkey presentation at the White House or take a tour of the Capitol Building . You can also head over to the Smithsonian National Zoo to see the animals being fed their Thanksgiving feast! 

When kids are hungry, book a Thanksgiving meal at a local restaurant.  Angolo Ristorante serves a delicious multi-course Italian dinner! Certain hotel chains such as The Jefferson, Washington DC , and Park Hyatt, Washington DC also serve a tasty Thanksgiving meal for families. Thanksgiving also marks the start of the holiday season in DC. Kids can enjoy themed events such as The Bull Run Festival of Lights , the National Christmas Tree , holiday markets, and more! 

RELATED ARTICLES: 9 Things To Do in Washington DC with Kids & Best Washington DC Museums For Kids By Age ! 

Williamsburg, VA

What could be more festive than spending Thanksgiving in a colonial-style town in Virginia? With historical attractions, kid-friendly activities, and centuries of American history to explore, Williamsburg is certainly one of the best Thanksgiving destinations in the United States for families! November weather for Williamsburg tends to be in the high 50s to low 60s .

Of course, don’t miss a trip to Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum that recreates what life was like in colonial America. This is a great place for kids to learn about early American history and culture. Families can stroll down the historic Duke of Gloucester Street, then step back in time by visiting the Governor’s Palace. This was the official residence of Virginia’s royal governors until the American Revolution. If you want to explore Williamsburg, take a horse and carriage ride , a fun activity for the whole family! 

Families who want to dive deeper into American history can also take a short drive from Williamsburg to nearby Jamestown. This is where the first permanent English settlement in America was established. Explore historic Jamestown to let kids wander around recreations of a 1610s fort and a Powhatan Indian village! For a fantastic place to stay in Williamsburg, we recommend The Williamsburg Lodge, Autograph Collection .  

Charming Towns for a Thanksgiving Getaway for Families

Avoiding the cold and enjoying a wonderful Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be mutually exclusive! For fun and festive holiday events, alongside some warmer weather, we’ve rounded up some wonderful vacation options from Savannah to Scottdale and everywhere in between. Stay tuned to learn more about the best Thanksgiving destinations in the United States for families! 

Savannah, GA

You can’t go wrong with visiting Savannah in late November with your kids! This charming town along the Georgia coast features warm weather that never gets too hot, usually around 70 degrees . Families can take advantage of the sunny temperatures to enjoy a walk through the cobblestone streets of the historic district.

Hop on an Old Town Trolley Tour or possibly even take a horse-drawn carriage ride! Savannah also has several parks and green spaces to relax in. Head to the well-known Forsyth Park or Tricentennial Park. To learn more about Savannah’s history, take a riverboat cruise on the Georgia Queen or visit Fort James Jackson . Other unique activities for families include taking a spooky cemetery tour , visiting the Savannah Children’s Museum , or taking a day trip to Tybee Island .  

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to try the food in Savannah too, whether you want typical holiday fares like turkey and stuffing or some Southern-style dishes. At Belford’s Savannah Seafood & Steaks , enjoy an opulent, three-course Thanksgiving dinner. Savannah Riverboat Cruises also offers various seasonal cruises , including a Thanksgiving dinner cruise. Some hotels, like the Hilton Garden Inn Savannah Historic District, even host a unique Thanksgiving dinner, featuring a murder mystery kids can solve! Savannah also has some stunning homes to rent, where families can host a lovely Thanksgiving dinner. Thanksgiving also marks the start of the holiday season, which usually lasts through December. Kids will love the various holiday markets, light shows, and other festivities! 

Looking for a place to call home during the holidays, here are the Best Hotels in Savannah for Families !

Alternatively, find your perfect Savannah rental using Vrbo!

Charleston, SC

When it comes to planning the perfect Thanksgiving getaway, Charleston is a great choice for families with kids. This beautiful South Carolina port city offers plenty of kid-friendly activities, from exploring the historic downtown to playing on the beach. And with its mild weather of around 60 or 70 degrees , you can enjoy all of these activities without having to worry about the cold!

Wind through the cobblestone streets to appreciate the lavish southern homes or explore by horse-drawn carriage. During your exploration, grab an ice cream from Kilwins , a local favorite (offering pecan pralines too!). There are also plenty of opportunities for families to take a boat cruise. Or, spot even more marine life at the South Carolina Aquarium . Plus, there’s no better way to learn about American colonial history than by visiting Patriots Point , featuring the USS Yorktown! 

Families can also rent a home on Kiawah Island to enjoy an extended Thanksgiving getaway. Hotels like The Kiawah Island Golf Resort or The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort celebrate Thanksgiving with a delicious dinner and recreational activities for families. Montage Palmetto Bluff also offers a Thanksgiving Weekend celebration , including an oyster roast, outdoor movie night, and Thanksgiving day feast! Back in Charleston, there are plenty of great restaurants that’ll make your Thanksgiving even more special. A lot of families love the multi-course, lavish Thanksgiving menu at Hotel Bennett’s on-site restaurant, Gabrielle. 

RELATED ARTICLES: 18 Fun Things to Do in Charleston With Kids & Best Hotels In Charleston For Families

If a hotel isn’t your style for a long holiday weekend, use Vrbo to book a charming home in Charleston!

Santa Fe, NM

Spending Thanksgiving in Santa Fe is a great way to create memories that will last a lifetime with your kids! Nestled at the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in New Mexico, this whimsical town is famous for its Pueblo-style architecture, charming arts and historic district, and activities for all ages. November weather ranges from the 40s to the 50s , so it’s not too chilly to explore.

Stroll through the family-owned galleries, craft jewelry shops, and more local artisans on Canyon Road , the city’s main artistic district. Kids who are into art or culture will love the variety of museums. Visit the Santa Fe Children’s Museum , Georgia O’Keeffe Museum , and Museum of International Folk Art . To see the beautiful scenery, check out the Santa Fe Botanical Garden!

Kids will love all the holiday activities around town too. Decorate your rental house, help to cook the feast, then explore the city and go on a hayride. Of course, don’t forget to visit the plaza to see the festive lights and soak up the atmosphere! No trip to Santa Fe would be complete without sampling some local cuisine too. Save your appetite for traditional New Mexican dishes like green chile stew or frybread. Another lovely place to eat a Thanksgiving meal is Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection .

Scottsdale, AZ

Scottsdale is surely one of the best Thanksgiving destinations in the United States for families! This sunny city in Arizona is home to plenty of activities and attractions that will keep everyone entertained. With the weather in the low to high 70s , it’s also ideal for exploring the outdoors, since Scottsdale is super hot in the summer.

Explore Old Town Scottsdale to see the preserved 1920s buildings and learn more about the history of the city. Or, for something more outdoorsy, hike one of the trails at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve . Families can also take a trip to nearby Phoenix to check out the Phoenix Zoo Lights , which usually open in late November. Kids will love seeing the 700 sparkling displays shaped like all kinds of fun animals! 

Though it may not be as elaborate as New York or Philadelphia, nearby Fountain Hills also hosts an annual Thanksgiving Day Parade , which starts at around 9:30 AM. Or, work up an appetite for dinner by participating in a turkey trot on Thanksgiving morning! There are several in the Scottsdale area , from quick runs kids will enjoy to longer 10k’s. Of course, there are plenty of delicious restaurants to enjoy a Thanksgiving feast, including multiple nearby hotels such as Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch , The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale , and JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa . 

Looking for somewhere to stay? Book your next stay in Scottsdale using Vrbo!

San Antonio, TX

A fun and festive Thanksgiving awaits your family in San Antonio ! This vibrant city is known for its lively River Walk, historic Alamo, and of course, delicious Tex-Mex food. November is a fantastic time to avoid the heat and enjoy mild temperatures of around 70 degrees too.

Plus, there are plenty of kid-friendly attractions in San Antonio, especially for animal lovers. Visit the San Antonio Zoo or SeaWorld to see some fascinating wildlife and enjoy fun Christmas-themed decorations! From late November to January, San Antonio Zoo Lights lets kids see the property illuminated! Families can also learn more about San Antonio with a ranger-led tour at San Antonio Missions National Historic Park. There are also plenty of amusement parks for kids, including Six Flags Fiesta Texas and Morgan’s Wonderland.

Families can also kick off the holiday season by watching Santa cruise down the San Antonio River on an elaborate float for the annual Ford Holiday River Parade! On Thanksgiving night, enjoy the Christmas Light Fest at the enchanting Don Strange Ranch. Some restaurants around town may also serve a Thanksgiving buffet, like Boudro’s on the Riverwalk . Finally, the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa also has special Thanksgiving dining options. 

Outdoor Adventure Thanksgiving Destinations for Families

If your family is outdoorsy and would rather spend Thanksgiving hiking or enjoying some kind of adventure, you’ll love these destinations in the United States for families. From hiking in Arizona to national parks, here are some favorite options! 

Families who want a Thanksgiving destination off the beaten path should consider Sedona . Located in central Arizona, this mystical and small town in the desert is surrounded by stunning red rock formations. November weather ranges from the 60s to the low 70s , making it ideal for enjoying the outdoors.

Plus, there’s plenty to do with kids, from Pink Jeep Tours to horseback riding! To see the scenery up close, there are plenty of hiking trails, from the famous Devil’s Bridge or Cathedral Rock for older kids or the Soldier Pass Trail and Sugarloaf Loop Trail for beginners. Families can also hike to the top of Bell Rock , an iconic landmark, for an incredible view! Then, drive one of the many scenic byways in town, like the Red Rock Scenic Byway or Oak Creek Canyon.

When you’re visiting Sedona during Thanksgiving, you can also enjoy great service at a ton of fantastic hotels, many of which offer amazing Thanksgiving meals. Luxury hotels like L’Auberge de Sedona and Enchantment Resort offer families an upscale Thanksgiving experience, complete with a yummy buffet. Many restaurants in town also offer a special Thanksgiving menu. One family favorite is Cucina Rustica, which serves a big menu of savory Italian fare. If you’re booking a rental or villa during your stay in Sedona, you can also arrange a lavish dinner at home. 

Plus, don’t miss adding these 12 Best Things To Do In Sedona For Families to your Thanksgiving itinerary.

Lake Tahoe, CA/NV

Lake Tahoe is the perfect destination for families with kids. During Thanksgiving, temperatures are chilly, but not freezing (the mid-40s to mid-50s ), making it ideal for outdoor activities. Of course, it’s also a perfect time to appreciate the spectacular scenery, as the glimmering waters of Lake Tahoe reflect the picturesque Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Ski season usually starts in mid-November, so families can head to South Tahoe to take advantage of the slopes at the Heavenly Ski Resort . To see the lake from a different perspective, kids will love riding on a gondola from the Heavenly Village Center . Once you reach the top, there are plenty of easy nearby hiking trails for little ones, like The East Peak Trail. Families visiting Lake Tahoe in November can also take a scenic tour, from sunset cruises to fishing tours. 

Once you’re done with a day of outdoor adventures, enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving feast at one of the many restaurants and resorts in Lake Tahoe. For a Thanksgiving with incredible views of the lake, make reservations at Riva Grill On The Lake in South Tahoe. The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe also traditionally offers a traditional Thanksgiving Harvest Buffet that you can reserve ahead of time. For an additional cost, the hotel also offers families an option to order a gourmet Thanksgiving dinner to-go. Or, you can always cook your own turkey back at the cabin! 

Skip hauling the baby gear if you select Lake Tahoe and rent what you need from BabyQuip!

Joshua Tree National Park, CA

Families looking for a unique Thanksgiving destination this year should look no further than Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California. Located where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, this remote national park is home to some of the most beautiful and unique natural rock formations in the world. Exploring the stunning desert landscape with your family will be a truly memorable experience, especially in late November, when temperatures range from the low 50s to the mid-60s .

This is a perfect time to avoid the heat, circumvent the crowds, and take advantage of the park’s countless hiking trails ! One family-friendly option is the 1.7-mile Skull Rock Trail, which starts under the famous rock resembling a skull and continues through the scenic landscape. You’ll get a little bit of everything on the 1.1-mile Barker Dam , including the park’s namesake Joshua Trees ! For some of the best views, drive twenty minutes from Park Boulevard down Keys View Road to Keys View . This panoramic observation point is the highest in the park, providing picturesque views of Coachella Valley.

If you’re planning to camp at Joshua Tree, book early – most sites are first-come, first-serve. Some campsites may even celebrate Thanksgiving with a giant campfire! 

Find the perfect cabin or another vacation rental near Joshua Tree on Vrbo!

Beach Destinations in the US + the Caribbean for a Thanksgiving Getaway for Families

To escape the cold and spend Thanksgiving on a beautiful beach, visit one of these stunning destinations! From the California coast to Aruba, we’ve rounded up some fantastic options for a warm-weather Thanksgiving getaway. In fact, we’ve included two destinations outside of the US to make beach-going over Thanksgiving a little more interesting. Here are some favorite Thanksgiving destinations in the United States (and beyond) for families! 

San Diego, CA

Celebrate Thanksgiving with your family in sunny San Diego this year! From turkey trots to pumpkin patches, there are plenty of activities to keep your little ones entertained in this stunning city in southern California. And what better way to enjoy the beautiful weather of 70 degrees than by spending some time outdoors?

November is a wonderful time to spend a day digging in the sand at Mission Beach or Pacific Beach , which have plenty of restaurants, shops, and other amenities nearby for families. Of course, don’t miss the chance to explore Balboa Park , a sprawling green space home to the San Diego Zoo! Kids can also tire their little legs by walking around La Jolla to spot the sea lions or hiking in Torrey Pines State Park.

For a more festive experience, families can also take a trip to a local pumpkin patch to pick out the perfect pumpkins for carving or baking pies. Many pumpkin patches, such as the Carlsbad Strawberry Company or Pumpkin Station in Rancho Bernardo and Bonita, also have other fun activities like hayrides, petting zoos, and mazes. On Thanksgiving morning, families can start the day off with a turkey trot! There are several 5K and 10K races happening around San Diego and they’re a great way to work up an appetite for all that turkey (and pumpkin pie)! 

Planning a trip to San Diego? Check out this 7-Day San Diego Itinerary For Families!

One of the great things about spending Thanksgiving in Florida is that there are so many different things to do. For a scenic and laidback beach vacation, we suggest visiting one of the many quaint beach communities along Country Road 30A , aka the Emerald Coast. Located between the busier destinations of Panama City and Destin in northern Florida, places such as Rosemary Beach, Santa Rosa, and Seaside provide families with a charming escape along the Gulf Coast.

Many families love visiting Santa Rosa for its fun, artsy, and kid-friendly vibes. Since the weather will be around 70 degrees , it’s ideal for visiting Santa Rosa Beach or renting a bike and exploring the town! Seaside Beach is also popular for swimming and playing in the sand, as are Grayton Beach State Park and Alys Beach .

All of the seaside towns along 30A feature plenty of rental opportunities overlooking the ocean and are equipped with kitchens to make a Thanksgiving meal. Families can also enjoy a Thanksgiving meal at WaterColor Inn & Resort , which hosts an annual brunch celebration. Of course, there are always turkey-themed activities for kids to enjoy too. Start your day bright and early by running the 30A 10K, 5K, and 1 Mile Fun Run , or end your Thanksgiving with a fun bonfire by the beach roasting s’mores! 

There are so many options for your next idyllic seaside Thanksgiving getaway rental on Vrbo!

Key West, FL

Looking for a fun and unique Thanksgiving destination? Consider Key West, Florida! This little island city in the Florida Keys is full of charm and charisma. Plus, with November weather in the 70s and 80s, it’s also the perfect place to escape the cold weather up north and visit a beautiful beach! Dry Tortugas National Park or Fort Zachary Taylor State Beach Park are two fantastic options for swimming, fishing, picnicking, and more. Key West is also famous for its water sports: jet skiing, kayaking, and snorkeling. There are plenty of fun things to keep little ones occupied too, like visiting The Key West Aquarium . At this hands-on aquarium, kids can learn all about the local sea life and even touch some of the creatures! Animal lovers can also visit the Key West Butterfly Conservatory or take a glass-bottom boat ride to see the colorful coral reefs. 

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, families can also take time to learn more about Key West’s history at the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum , on a Conch Tour Train , or on the Old Town Trolley . Families looking for a traditional Thanksgiving meal can visit one of the many restaurants downtown or even take a Thanksgiving dinner cruise around Key West. Don’t forget to rent a home with your extended family to plan the very best Thanksgiving!

RELATED: Fun Things To Do In Key West With Kids & Best Family Hotels in Key West and the Florida Keys  

Los Cabos, Mexico

Escape the cold this Thanksgiving and head to someplace warm, Los Cabos ! Located just a short drive from San Diego in Baja California, this quaint Mexican destination consists of two cities: Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. Cabo San Lucas is the largest and most popular of the two, known for its beautiful beaches, water-based activities, and delicious farm-to-table Mexican cuisine. Temperatures range from the low 80s to the low 90s in November , making it perfect for relaxing on the beach.

Here, families can try water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, scuba diving, and more. Kids will also love watching the fishermen go by in the marina. Other opportunities to spot wildlife include a dolphin or whale-watching cruise to see these incredible creatures up close. 

Thanksgiving dinner is usually available at many restaurants in downtown Cabo San Lucas. Enjoy dinner at the world-renowned Flora Farms , which serves farm-to-table cuisine inspired by the holiday. For somewhere to stay in Los Cabos with kids, consider Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection, Los Cabos , or Montage Los Cabos.

RELATED ARTICLES: 5 Best Things To Do In Los Cabos With Kids (Off-Resort) & Family Resorts in Los Cabos Your Kids Will Love (All-Inclusives Included!)

Spend your next Thanksgiving soaking up the sun in Aruba as a family! It’s the perfect Caribbean Thanksgiving getaway because this family-friendly island is not located along the hurricane belt. Expect warm temperatures between 80 and 90 degrees .

From white-sand beaches to shimmering turquoise waters, it’s hard to beat Aruba’s natural beauty, kid-friendly hotels, and abundance of activities. Families love Eagle Beach , Mangel Halto , or Palm Beach , a popular resort area with calm, clear waters for young children. Or, have fun splashing at Baby Beach in San Nicholas, known for its soft sand. For nature lovers, there are the Bubali Bird Sanctuary , the Aruba Butterfly Farm , and the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary . De Palm Island , Arikok National Park , and Flamingo Beach are a few more things to see in Aruba with kids. 

Just because you’re visiting Aruba during Thanksgiving doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a traditional Turkey Day meal! Big resort chains such as Marriott, Hyatt, and Hilton usually serve a Thanksgiving brunch complete with kid favorites like mac and cheese or mashed potatoes. A lot of restaurants in Aruba also offer a Thanksgiving menu alongside their regular menu. Be sure to call ahead to confirm if you’re favorite restaurant is serving a special meal! 

Check out these 7 Best Family Resorts In Aruba (including All-Inclusive options) to find your home away from home during the holidays.

Ski Destinations in the US + Canada for a Thanksgiving Getaway for Families

If you’d rather spend your Thanksgiving skiing, you’ll love these destinations in and around the United States for families! From Colorado to Utah, there are lots of options for travelers who want to hit the slopes in celebration of Turkey Day. We’ve even included some international options for families looking to get out of the US. Here are some of our favorites! 

Copper Ski Resort, CO

Searching for a ski resort that’ll be open during Thanksgiving break and is kid-friendly? Then, you should check out Copper Ski Resort in Colorado. Located in Frisco , this top-rated resort has something for everyone in your family, from beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders.

Families also love visiting this kid-friendly resort for its convenience, which includes three villages all connected by an easy-to-navigate shuttle system. Plus, children under four ski for free! Visit Woodward Mountain Park and check out the Woodward Family Cross for a fun family experience on the slopes. For those non-skiers, Copper Mountain offers ice skating, snow tubing, snowshoeing, and an alpine coaster, called the Rocky Mountain Coaster. Kids will love The Barn , a 19,400-square-foot indoor action sports playground filled with foam pit jumps, spring floors, trampolines, and more!

If you want to stay in the resort village, there are plenty of lodging options, restaurants, and shops too. In terms of Thanksgiving celebrations, U.S Elite offers a special Copper Mountain Thanksgiving Camp . This six-day program prepares families for the slopes with various training lanes and culminates in a fun race! Copper Mountain is also close to Breckenridge, Vail, and Keystone, so you can’t go wrong with spending Thanksgiving here as a family! 

Lake Louise Ski Resort, Banff, Alberta, Canada

If you’re looking for a truly breathtaking Thanksgiving destination, look no further than Lake Louise Ski Resort in Banff National Park, Alberta . Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, the town of Lake Louise offers stunning scenery, world-class skiing, and a variety of other outdoor activities to enjoy. Between the village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and the beautiful surrounding area, there are plenty of things to keep families having fun all weekend! While the Lake Louise Ski Resort is busy during the winter ski season, it’s relatively quiet during Thanksgiving, making it the perfect time to enjoy all that Banff has to offer.

From snow tubing and snowshoeing to skiing and snowboarding, your little ones will be entertained from dawn till dusk. They can even enroll in the Lake Louise Ski School for lessons. Outside of skiing, the area has an abundance of additional activities for families.

When it’s time to refuel after a busy day, head to one of the resort’s many family-friendly restaurants for a family feast. One great option is the Fairview Bar and Restaurant at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. This is also a wonderful place to stay with kids, since it’s set on the shores of Lake Louise. There’s also an indoor pool for little ones to enjoy, plus Apres-ski activities. Just remember, Canada celebrates their Thanksgiving in October!

There are plenty of family-friendly accommodations near Lake Louise on Vrbo!

Snow-capped mountains and a quaint small-town feel make Alta one of the best Thanksgiving destinations in the United States for families. Located near Salt Lake City, this Utah ski town is home to the famous Alta Ski Area , which is known worldwide for its powder skiing. Opening day is usually in late November, meaning families who visit during Thanksgiving can hit the slopes!

First, kids can take a lesson at the Alf Engen Ski School to learn how to ski the powder. Once they’re ready to practice their new skills, there’s lots of varied terrain around the resort. Take the Albion or Sunnyside lift on the lower mountain for beginner practice runs like Patsey Marley and Crooked Mile. Intermediate skiers can try the Race Arena and Blue Bell trails, while advanced skiers head down steep Vail Ridge.  

For non-skiers, there are plenty of other activities such as naturalist walks or going birding. Of course, no Thanksgiving is complete without a delicious feast. Luckily, there are plenty of great restaurants in Alta that will be serving up traditional Thanksgiving meals. Alta Lodge is a great option, as they serve an elaborate five-course meal. 

Magical Places to Spend Thanksgiving with Kids

Want a touch of magic in your Thanksgiving destinations in the United States for families ? Consider heading to Orlando where you can surprise your kids with a Mickey Mouse meet and greet, as well as other fantastical experiences during the Thanksgiving holiday.

Orlando, FL

The holidays are a great time to spend with family, and what better way to do that than by spending Thanksgiving in Orlando ? Home to many great attractions for families, including Walt Disney World, there are plenty of things to do with kids in Orlando during November. Plus, the weather is around 70-80 degrees and sunny !

Firstly, take advantage of the many theme park events. Walt Disney World offers special holiday events at all of its parks. Universal Orlando also has holiday-themed events going on. Families visiting during Thanksgiving are likely to see Christmas decorations already, so kids can get into the spirit early. In late November, EPCOT usually hosts its International Festival , featuring Christmas caroling, cookie strolls, and more holiday cheer! 

Thanksgiving is also a wonderful time to eat a special themed meal. Disney World has plenty of family-friendly options, including Trattoria al Forno , Three Bridges Bar & Grill , and the Tusker House Restaurant. For a more luxurious option, families can also enjoy an extravagant Thanksgiving feast at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort . Orlando can be crowded during this time of year, however. So If you want to avoid the crowds, there are plenty of other things to do besides the theme parks. Visit one of the many museums, like the Orlando Museum of Art . Or, take a nature walk at one of the city’s many parks, such as Lake Eola Park.

Resorts that Treat You Like Family on Thanksgiving

Looking for one of the best Thanksgiving destinations in the United States for families that will treat you like family during the holidays? Stay at one of these kid-friendly resorts!

On the East Coast , don’t miss The Otesaga Resort Hotel in New York , Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Pennsylvania, or the Woodloch Resort in The Poconos. Mountain View Grand Resort and Spa and The Inn at East Hill Farm in New Hamshire and Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island are also great options.

Or, if you’d prefer a getaway on the coast , visit Sea Island Resort in Georgia or the Alisal Guest Ranch in Santa Barbara.

For a Thanksgiving getaway in the mountains , try Montage Deer Valley in Park City or The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs.

Other great hotel options in the United States include Blackberry Farm in Tennessee, Paws Up Resort in Montana, Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri, and the Canaan Valley Resort in West Virginia. 

Happy Travels!

We hope you liked this list of the 23+ Thanksgiving Destinations In And Around The United States For Families! From festivities on the East Coast to beaches in California, there’s so much to discover during this iconic American holiday. Enjoy these Thanksgiving destinations in the United States for families! 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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• Seasonal Travel

15 Cheap Thanksgiving Vacation Ideas for Families

Sep 25, 2019

See recent posts by Courtney Elko

While Thanksgiving travel often means visiting relatives, it can be fun to break away from tradition. The kids will be out of school anyway, so why not use this time to plan a short (and affordable) getaway with the kids? We’ve found some cheap Thanksgiving vacation ideas to consider for your next trip.

1. Cape Cod, MA

Celebrate Thanksgiving like the pilgrims did! Provincetown , located on the northern point of Cape Cod , is where the Mayflower arrived in 1620, and Plymouth, less than 40 minutes from Cape Cod, is where Thanksgiving originated. Visit Pilgrim Monument in Provincetown and the Forefather’s Monument in Plymouth before a fantastic turkey dinner with the family. The Bayside Resort , which is close to the Cape Cod Mall for those seeking Black Friday shopping deals, is offering a Thanksgiving vacation deal that includes a three-night stay, complimentary breakfast, late 6 p.m. check out on Sunday and free gift wrapping! You could completely finish your holiday shopping AND have everything wrapped before you head home from your Thanksgiving vacation.

Tip: Head into town early and enjoy Plymouth’s annual Thanksgiving Day Parade on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, when all of the festivities begin!

Recommended Hotel:  The Bayside Resort

2. Nassau, Bahamas

Nassau, Bahamas , which was not impacted by Hurricane Dorian, is an excellent place for families to spend a cheap Thanksgiving holiday while also giving back to the people of the Bahamas. For families with children over the age of 14, consider a stay at Breezes Resort and Spa Bahamas . This all-inclusive resort, situated along the powder-white sands of Cable Beach, features a rock climbing wall, tennis courts, beach volleyball, kayaking and three freshwater pools. Breezes is offering 45 percent off room rates with its Fall Sale for those traveling between Nov. 7 and Dec. 18, 2019.

Recommended Hotel:  Breezes Resort and Spa Bahamas     

As tourism to Central America continues to increase, spending Thanksgiving in Panama is an ideal spot for families as it links Central and South America. Families can witness the engineering wonderment of the Panama Canal in Panama City, then head a bit further south to stay at the gorgeous Buenaventura Golf and Beach Resort . This beachfront resort features eight pools, a kids’ club, kayaking, snorkeling, horseback riding and the Buenaventura Wildlife Center, where peacocks, deer, alligators and monkeys reside. The Family Experience package, which includes daily breakfast for two adults and two kids and use of all of the resort’s facilities, starts at $169 per night and is available through Dec. 23, 2019.

Recommended Hotel:  Buenaventura Golf and Beach Resort

4. Isle of Palms, SC

Why not spend Thanksgiving at the beach?! Isle of Palms in South Carolina is located less than 30 minutes from Charleston and is the perfect spot for families to enjoy boating, fishing, bike riding and yes, even beach time sans crowds. Wild Dunes Resort , which offers everything from guestrooms to vacation rentals, is offering 25 percent off all of its accommodation options over the Thanksgiving holiday. If your immediate family is looking to try something new, or you want to gather the extended family for your turkey day getaway, plan a visit to the Isle of Palms.

Recommended Hotel:  Wild Dunes Resort

Related:  11 Beach Vacations That Are Even Better in the Fall

5. Barcelona, Spain

Did you know you can get some great international flight deals around Thanksgiving? Flights to Barcelona from Los Angeles, as well as other major East Coast cities , are predicted to be under $400 in November, according to a search on Airfarewatchdog.com . Barcelona, one of the best international destinations for Thanksgiving, tends to see less tourists in November and has cooler temperatures in the 60s, perfect for sightseeing. Families can visit free or low-cost museums and castles, as well as Tibidabo. Tibidabo , open on the weekends in November, is a charming amusement park that dates back to the 1880s and will bring the family plenty of old-fashioned fun while visiting Europe over Thanksgiving.

Recommended Hotel:  Hotel Roger de Lluria

6. Edinburgh, Scotland

Similar to Barcelona, Edinburgh, Scotland, is another cheap Thanksgiving vacation idea for families. On Airfarewatchdog.com, we’ve seen flights to Scotland from Los Angeles, as well as other major East Coast cities, for under $600 in November. Winter in Edinburgh begins in November, so expect temperatures in the 30s. But also expect little to no crowds and deals on hotel accommodations. For example, kids stay and eat free at the Apex Grassmarket Hotel , which sits below and is within walking distance of Edinburgh Castle. Visit grand palaces, castles and the Royal Yacht Britannia while in Edinburgh. Have Harry Potter  fans? You can also tour the city that inspired J.K. Rowling to write the series with an Interactive Harry Potter Tour .

Recommended Hotel:  Apex Grassmarket Hotel

7. Lake Tahoe, CA and NV    

For families who are looking to get a jump on ski season immediately following the turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie, head to Lake Tahoe in California or Nevada . The first rounds of snow are usually falling (or being made) on the mountains by late November. Beat the crowds and be the first on the slopes! Or get your pre-turkey exercise at the Wobble Before You Gobble 10K, 5K or 1K races in Reno. Families can visit Northstar California and receive 10 percent off lodging when they stay four nights or more. Or stay on the Reno side of Lake Tahoe at the Whitney Peak Hotel , where you’ll save 15 percent with a three-night stay.

Recommended Hotel:  Whitney Peak Hotel

8. Jeffersonville, VT

Whether or not your family likes to ski, you can enjoy a cheap Thanksgiving vacation at Smugglers’ Notch in Vermont . Stay three nights or more over Thanksgiving weekend and you’ll enjoy an additional night free! You can cook your own Thankgiving dinner in your accommodations that feature a fully equipped kitchen or, if you’d rather someone else do the cooking, make a reservation at the nearby 158 Main restaurant. Thanksgiving weekend is the start of ski season at Smugglers’ Notch (though not all of the trails and lifts may be open), and families can also enjoy hay rides, the indoor pool, guided walks, fire dancers and ice carving displays and fireworks on Saturday night.

Recommended Hotel:  Smugglers’ Notch

9. Sun Valley, ID

Thanksgiving Day is opening day at Sun Valley Ski Resort in Idaho, and the early-season pricing makes this an affordable Thanksgiving vacation for families. Your family can be one of the first to make snow prints on the trails before heading inside for a Thanksgiving dinner buffet at Sun Valley Lodge. Thanksgiving buffet prices are $73 per adult and $50 per child; children under 3 are free.

Lodge rates start at $335 per night. Lift tickets are $35 for a three-day pass for kids 13 and up and $59 for adults. Kids under 12 ski free! The offer is valid between Nov. 26 and Dec. 1, 2019 and a four-night minimum stay is required.

Recommended Hotel:  Sun Valley Lodge

10. Colorado Springs, CO

Located about 90 minutes from Denver, Colorado Springs is a cheap Thanksgiving vacation idea for families, with activities including Garden of the Gods (free to access), and Cave of the Winds Mountain Park , where you can explore underground ancient caves and rock formations. Bonus: The famous Broadmoor resort is offering a Thanksgiving hotel package that features 25 percent off hotel rates, plenty of family activities throughout the weekend, and discounts on adult admission to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

Recommended Hotel:  The Broadmoor

11. Lake Powell, AZ

If you’re looking for adventure this Thanksgiving, visit Lake Powell, Arizona , which sits on the Utah border. Lake Powell is a large, man-made reservoir on the Colorado River and is part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Tons of water adventure activities take place on the water in Glen Canyon, including float trips. Lake Powell Resorts and Marina is offering half off a float trip package that includes two nights at Lake Powell Resort . This half-day float trip on a 32-foot river craft features stops and stories about the area along the way. It’s a scenic river trip (family-friendly for ages 4 and up) and will have you looking up at the cliffs of Horseshoe Bend while floating down the river. The offer is valid through Nov. 30, 2019.

Recommended Hotel : Lake Powell Resort

12. Wrightsville Beach, NC

How about a Thanksgiving parade that floats down the water rather than the street?! Flotilla Weekend takes place Thanksgiving weekend in Wrighsville Beach, North Carolina . The Flotilla is a boat parade where judges score boats on lighting displays, theme, music and originality, and it ends with a fantastic fireworks display. This annual event begins on Thanksgiving Day with a seafood-filled Thanksgiving feast at Blockade Runner Beach Resort . The resort’s package includes a three-night stay, breakfast, two tickets to Friday’s Flotilla Launch Party and prime viewing of the Flotilla parade on Saturday.

Recommended Hotel:  Blockade Runner Beach Resort

13. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

If you prefer gorgeous beaches and crystal-clear blue waters over fall foilage,  Punta Cana is the place to go for Thanksgiving. The Barcelo Bavaro Palace , which features four pools, waterslides, a theatre, spa, casino and golf course, will offer families a traditional Thanksgiving feast that includes all of the holiday favorites, including the pumpkin pie! A discount of 63 percent on all bookings is available at the beachfront resort, making it an ideal cheap Thanksgiving vacation idea for families.

Recommended Hotel:  Barcelo Bavaro Palace

14. Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Peak high season for American tourists in Mexico begins right around the Thanksgiving holiday, but vacation deals can still be found! Playa del Carmen , located along Mexico’s Riviera Maya, features numerous all-inclusive resorts, is surrounded by cenotes and is not far from the Mayan ruins in Tulum. The all-inclusive beachfront resort,  Allegro Playacar , with its two pools and kids’ club, is offering 45 percent off all bookings over the Thanksgiving holiday, ideal for families looking for a deal.

Recommended Hotel:  Allegro Playacar

15. Cancun, Mexico

Visiting Cancun offers many families the convenience of direct flights when visiting Mexico and several all-inclusive resorts within a short drive of the airport. And we can’t forget the incredible beaches! The JW Marriott Cancun Resort and Spa is located just 15 minutes from the airport and features a kids’ club with fun things like sushi rolling and Spanish classes, along with other activities for kids. The beachfront resort is offering discounted rates over the Thanksgiving holiday that start at $259 per night, making it an affordable Thanksgiving getaway for families.

Recommended Hotel:  JW Marriott Cancun Resort and Spa

What to Pack for Your Next Trip

Men’s/dad’s casual fun outfit for the fall, shop the look.

Wool Crewneck Sweater

Performance Chinos

Chukka Boots

Mom’s/women’s super fashionable fall outfit.

The Tress Press Straightening Iron

Long Sleeve Pleated Floral Print Dress

The Boss Bag

Double-Breasted Tweed Jacket

Chunky Block Heel

Boy’s casual fun outfit for the fall.

Pack-Away Padded Jacket

Downshifter 9 Sneaker

Striped Pocket Long Sleeve Tee

Camouflage Orange Backpack

Girl’s casual overalls outfit for the fall/autumn.

Skinny Fit Dungarees

Chuck Taylor®

Pack of 6 Headbands

Metallic Ribbed Knit Sweater

Tutti Frutti Gel Pens

Our team of parents and travel experts chooses each product and service we recommend. Anything you purchase through links on our site may earn us a commission.

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The Best Places to Book an Affordable Last-minute Thanksgiving Vacation

Last minute trip planners rejoice — these locations still have plenty of availability!

DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, but there’s still time to save money on a holiday vacation in popular destinations across the country and beyond. 

Thanksgiving is predicted to be the busiest travel holiday in the United States this year, according to a survey by HomeToGo that was shared with Travel + Leisure , and holiday flight prices are expected to reach the highest they’ve been in five years . But that doesn’t mean travelers can’t still find a deal, the vacation rental site noted.

“Instead of having a family feast in their homes, many are opting to celebrate in the comforts of a getaway in a vacation rental,” Caroline Burns, a travel expert and the director of PR at HomeToGo, said in a statement shared with T+L. 

Trade popular destinations like Maui and Cape Cod for spots like Killington, VT, Carolina Beach, NC, Tallahassee, FL, Greenville, SC, and Corpus Christi, Texas, where vacationers can still rent homes for under $250 per night — over 40% lower than the average nightly price for rentals over the holiday.

In Killington , for example, more than 50% of homes are still available to rent during the holiday period with a median price per night of $239. There, travelers can soak in the final days of fall before the snow starts to cover the mountains for ski season.

And in Carolina Beach, which is known for being one of the best beaches in the state and just a 20-minute drive from historic Wilmington , more than 40% of rentals remain available with a median price per night of $198.

Another way to save money on a Thanksgiving vacation is to go abroad . To save on a dreamy warm-weather getaway, travelers should consider Isla Mujeres , which sits just off the coast of Cancun . There, HomeToGo said the median price per night is currently $205 with 36% of rental homes still available.

Nightly rates were calculated with a check-in date between Nov. 20 and Nov. 27, according to the site.

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Chic Travel Ideas for a Nontraditional Thanksgiving

Rather go to the bahamas we say do it..

Perhaps more than any other holiday, the theme of "returning home" is most closely linked with Thanksgiving. It's a time of year when relatives near and far gather around the dinner table for a traditional turkey feast (sometimes while avoiding tense political conversations or Aunt Joan's green bean casserole). But if we've learned anything over the last couple of years, the holidays aren't always—and sometimes can't be—as they once were. If you're itching for a change of pace this time of year and aren't planning to make the trek home, consider the nontraditional approach.

While Friendsgiving is a great place to start for those staying local, an actual vacation to a city (or country) you don't live in will make your Thanksgiving memorable, exciting, and festive. Whether you're feeling a tropical climate to escape November's unforgiving temps or want to cozy up in the woods, the 14 ideas below will send some seasonal wanderlust your way.

Palm Springs, California

Photo: Courtesy of Korakia Pensione

Positioned on the western edge of the Coachella Valley lies a haven for relaxation. Palm Springs, with its warm desert climate and endless cultural and culinary outlets, is an idyllic destination for a Thanksgiving away from home. Begin your seasonal adventure at Korakia Pensione , a resort nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains featuring Moroccan-Mediterranean design and a dreamy array of bungalows, guesthouses, gardens, and pools. On Thanksgiving night, enjoy a three-course meal paired with wines in the property's lush Moroccan courtyard for $85 per person. While in town, don't miss out on staple Palm Springs experiences, including vintage shopping, architecture sightseeing, and a ride on the aerial tramway—the largest rotating tramcar in the world, which ascends along the Chino Canyon cliffs for spectacular rotating views.

Nassau, Bahamas

Photo: Courtesy of Rosewood Baha Mar

Between its white sand beaches and glistening turquoise waters, Nassau is nothing short of paradise. Its remote location near the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea gives visitors a uniquely distinct environment for adventure and exploration (think snorkeling , scuba diving, and sailing). Check in at Rosewood Baha Mar , tucked within the Baha Mar enclave and along 3,000 feet of the picturesque Cable Beach. The luxury property's architecture and interior design nod to a modern Bahamian estate with authentic details like local art, books, and décor. Onsite dining at Café Boulud by renowned Chef Daniel Boulud strikes the perfect balance between traditional French cuisine and warm Bahamian hospitality (tip: order the five-course tasting menu to make it an especially memorable Thanksgiving). The evening before, enjoy a complimentary happy hour in the Rosewood Garden to kick off the holiday with cocktails and canapés.

Kapalua, Maui

Photo: Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua

If you're up for a slightly longer journey, a visit to Northwest Maui is among the more idyllic ways to spend Thanksgiving. Kapalua (roughly translated to "arms embracing the sea") is at the foot of the West Maui mountains and punctuated by white-sand beaches and tranquil bays. Known in the 19th century as Honolua Ranch and Honolua Plantation, 54 of the region's 22,000 acres are now home to the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua overlooking the Pacific Ocean. For Thanksgiving, guests can book a four-course dinner at the Banyan Tree or Ulana Terrace. Or, simply opt for a more casual setting, like the Burger Shack that serves up Thanksgiving on a bun burger and includes a pumpkin pie milkshake.

Palm Beach, Florida

Photo: Courtesy of Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa

Escape the chill and head down south to Palm Beach this Thanksgiving for a stay at Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa . On Thanksgiving Day, La Coquille (a club located within the resort) will serve up an à la carte menu with holiday specials. While there, partake in onsite activities like paddleboarding, surfing lessons, and tennis. Or, lean into relaxation mode with a booking at its 42,000-square-foot spa (hot stone massage and glass of Champagne, anyone?). Also, for a dose of culture, pay a visit to the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum , a 1902 estate that's now a National Historic Landmark.

Carmel, California

Photo: Courtesy of Carmel Valley Ranch

California's Monterey Peninsula is home to Carmel-by-the-Sea, a quaint storybook town that enjoys proximity to the sea, historic architecture, and an exciting food and wine scene. Book a suite at Carmel Valley Ranch (all of them have fireplaces and private decks) and bask in ranch living with everything from biking and sailing to wine tasting and farm animal visits (namely the two Boer goats named Honey and Spice). The resort's Valley Kitchen crafts with locally grown and harvested ingredients—honey, cheese, salts, eggs, fruits, and vegetables—and for Thanksgiving, Executive Chef Ritchard Cariaga is offering a buffet of seasonal classics like apple-cider-brined turkey, thyme and sage stuffing, cinnamon-citrus cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie made with fresh pumpkins from the organic garden. While you're exploring around town, don't miss out on a stroll along famed Carmel Beach or a visit to the historic Carmel Mission, originally built in 1770.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Photo: Courtesy of The Cloudveil

The unfettered beauty of the mountainous Wyoming landscape is reason enough to head there for Thanksgiving, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts. Take in the region's rugged peaks and breathtaking wildlife (from a safe distance ) and unwind in one of the most relaxing places in the world. Use The Cloudveil as your home base while in town and reserve a seat at the onsite restaurant for a multicourse, prix fixe Thanksgiving lunch with dishes like garlicky escargot vol au vent, oven-roasted turkey, house-made pesto bucatini pasta, roasted chestnut soup, and homemade pies. The next day, work off your meal with a bike ride or hike, and don't miss the town square lighting on November 26 with hot chocolate and caroling.

Amenia, New York

Photo: Courtesy of Troutbeck

Troutbeck 's story begins in the 1700s, where it served as a country inn and tavern and has done so over the years for famed guests such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Henry David Thoreau. This peaceful retreat is located at a low-lying pass in the southern Berkshire range and is bounded by Webatuck and Dunham creeks. Troutbeck is composed of the Manor House, Century House, and Garden House with a total of 36 individually designed guest rooms and suites complete with comforting details like fireplaces and soaking tubs. The culinary program is at the helm of Michelin-starred Chef Gabe McMackin, who will offer a local farm-to-table Thanksgiving feast, including dishes such as Koginut squash soup topped with candied pumpkin seeds, braised turkey leg marinated in apple cider and lemon thyme, and smoked bread pudding with apple and vanilla. While there, stop in at The Barns , Troutbeck's wellness center for a yoga class or massage.

Negril, Jamaica

Photo: Courtesy of Sklylark Negril Beach Resort

Located in western Jamaica, Negril is the embodiment of a slowed-down pace of life. With its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and soaring cliffs, it's the kind of place where a day's itinerary might include everything from feasting on freshly caught fish to exploring coral reefs. For those who want a boutique hotel experience, snag a room at Skylark Negril Beach Resort, which describes itself as "the Jamaican version of a hip, Havana heyday-era bohemian beach resort swim club." The property has a new outdoor spa beach cabana and offers open-air services, including massage, foot, and beauty treatments. Also, the rooms' stylish vibe nods to 1960s and '70s bohemia (aka very Instagrammable).

Bristol, Virginia

Photo: Courtesy of Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards

The Virginia highlands are a magical place year-round, but in the fall, their charm hits its stride. Within the region, Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards serves as a 450-acre playground with highlights that include an onsite vineyard and a wood-fired kitchen dishing up comfort food alongside wine-tasting flights and cocktails. The Nicewonder's inn doesn't open until late 2021, but its collection of wood yurts are available for booking now and are nestled among the trees, creating a cozy Thanksgiving experience. Every yurt is stocked with local beers and handpicked snacks as well as the property's award-winning wine.

Photo: Courtesy of Silversands Grenada

Often referred to as a hidden gem, Grenada is a Caribbean island known for its aromatic spices and organic chocolate (and 75 miles of white sandy coastline and waterfalls and dive sites, one of which is the site of the largest shipwreck in the Caribbean). Silversands Grenada is located on Grand Anse Beach, considered to be the most magnificent on the island, an idyllic home base for a Thanksgiving getaway. Spend your days exploring the many surrounding hiking trails or de-stressing by the 100-meter pool followed by a visit to the spa for hot sand therapy, also known as Psammotherapy. On Thanksgiving, feast on a five-course Thanksgiving dinner of pumpkin and porcini bisque, roasted turkey roulade or truffled salmon en croute, and traditional seasonal sweets.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Photo: Courtesy of Broadmoor

For an enchanting Thanksgiving away from home that's inspired by the spirit of the West, The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs delivers. The luxury property opened in 1918 boasts a whopping 784 guest rooms, suites, cottages, and brownstones, plus an estate house (it also offers wilderness cabins for those seeking off-the-beaten-path accommodations). On Thanksgiving Day, a tasty holiday buffet will be served in the Lake Terrace Dining Room followed the next day by the lighting ceremony of 1 million white lights and the unveiling of a massive gingerbread display.

London, England

Photo: Courtesy of The Londoner

If you live on the East Coast, a jaunt to London takes around the same time as a flight to the West Coast, making a hop over the pond for Thanksgiving more than justifiable. Book your stay at The Londoner , a newly opened "super boutique hotel" that offers 350 rooms peppered across 16 floors. It was designed in collaboration with architectural designers Yabu Pushelberg and is situated in trendy Leicester Square. The culinary program at Whitcomb's, The Londoner's onsite fine dining restaurant, is an elegant expression of contemporary French cooking alongside Mediterranean cuisine influences. While in town, catch a West End theater show and don't miss a visit to The National Gallery and British Museum.

The Great Western Catskills, New York

Photo: Courtesy of Bovina Farm & Fermentory

The western Catskills has long served as a respite for those yearning for a bit of natural splendor, making this region a strong pick for a stress-reducing holiday. Kick off the trip by checking in at Bull & Garland located in the village of Hobart. You can stay in one of the five relaxing rooms and enjoy close proximity to the property's restaurant serving a menu of updated pub classics focusing on seasonal produce and locally sourced meats. Throughout the weekend, enjoy activities like hiking, vintage shopping, and stopping in at local cafés and restaurants for bites and sips (the newly opened Bovina Farm and Fermentory is worth checking out as is Hollow , a minimalist bar pouring organic wine).

County Clare, Ireland

Photo: Courtesy of Dromoland Castle

For a dramatic, extravagant Thanksgiving holiday, whisk yourself away to County Clare in Ireland, home of Dromoland Castle . With origins dating back to 1014, a stay in this 450-acre historic property will no doubt scratch your itch for seasonal romance. On the evening of Thanksgiving, enjoy a traditional feast of roast Irish turkey and Irish pumpkin pie offered as a package with a deluxe room accommodation as well as themed activities like wreath decorating and calligraphy classes to inspire handmade holiday cards and transfers to and from the Dublin airport. You'll be hard-pressed to top a Thanksgiving like this one, but that's no reason not to book your adventure to the castle—today.

Top photo: Courtesy of Silversands Grenada

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23 Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Dishes That Travel Well

Appetizers and side dishes that can be made ahead of time—and are guaranteed to please.

Serious Eats / Vicky Wasik

Cold or Room-Temperature Dishes

Here's a situation you might find yourself in during the days leading up to Thanksgiving: You're not preparing the full dinner at your house this year (sweet relief!), but you are driving a few hours or taking the train to spend the holiday with family or friends. And, like the avid and helpful cook you are, you've offered to contribute a dish to relieve some of the pressure of your harried hosts. Perfect. Is the time to tackle that task Thanksgiving morning when you're scrambling to pack and map out your route and somehow keep your kids from a minor riot as you occupy yourself with all of the above? It, for certain, is not. What you want is a dish you can start well in advance of Thanksgiving Day—at least 24 hours ahead, but preferably even earlier, just to give yourself plenty of leeway—and one that will arrive at grandma's house unscathed.

If you were quick-thinking enough to volunteer for pie duty, you're set: pretty much any of our Thanksgiving pies can be made a minimum of two days in advance, refrigerated, and then re-crisped for 30 minutes in a warm oven. But if you've been assigned a savory casserole or creamy dip, you still have a number of options that either can be served cold or at room temperature or require only a brief stay in the oven before serving. (Just remember to check with your host before you start cooking to reserve space in that oven—and don't assume there'll be room to spare!) Below, we've assembled some of our favorite make-ahead, travel-friendly Thanksgiving dishes that will let you get the prep out of the way early but also score you full good-guest points.

French Onion Dip

Serious Eats / Victor Protasio

Worcestershire sauce and Parmesan both contribute powerful umami flavors to this intensely oniony dip, while a splash of lemon juice adds a necessary dose of brightness. Not only can you make it in advance (up to five days ahead), but it also improves in flavor as it sits in the refrigerator.

Miso, Pork, and Walnut Dip for Vegetables

Far from being an afterthought, a thoughtfully assembled crudité platter is a great way to ease yourself into a day of heavy eating. Often, it's the dip that separates a great crudité plate from one that's just passable, and this savory, Japanese-inspired combination of salty miso, ground pork, and rich walnuts is a perfect match for crunchy vegetables (either raw or lightly cooked). It lasts for about a week in the fridge, too.

Whipped Feta Dip

Greek yogurt and feta are whipped together to produce a simple—and easy to customize—dip that travels exceedingly well and will fit into any appetizer spread. You may want to cart along a bit of extra yogurt, just in case it needs to be loosened up upon arrival.

Roasted Cauliflower With Pine Nut, Raisin, and Caper Vinaigrette

Serious Eats / J. Kenji López-Alt

Roasting is one of the best ways to treat cauliflower, turning a mild vegetable sweet, nutty, and deeply browned. It's delicious on its own, but adding a complex vinaigrette of briny capers, sweet raisins, and rich pine nuts makes it worthy of a special occasion. Though the recipe calls for the cauliflower to be served immediately, we find it's just as good at room temp.

Beet and Wheat Berry Salad With Pickled Apples and Pecans

Sweet roasted beets, sautéed beet greens, chewy wheat berries, tangy pickled apples, and crunchy pecans combine in a salad that's robust, seasonal, and refreshing. All of the ingredients hold their shape well and retain freshness, so they'll stand up to a long car ride. The beets will stain the other ingredients more deeply the longer the salad sits, but otherwise, there's no downside to assembling it three days in advance.

Roasted-Chickpea and Kale Salad With Sun-Dried Tomato Vinaigrette

For hearty fall and winter salads that last surprisingly long in the fridge, kale is a tough base to beat. Here, we combine the sturdy green with earthy chickpeas—canned, yes, but we roast them first for better flavor—and a simple, bright dressing of sun-dried tomatoes, cilantro, and mint. It's a great respite from all the rib-sticking fare of a traditional Thanksgiving spread, and it'll be just as good three days after you make it, if not even better.

Easy Make-Ahead Carrot and Chickpea Salad With Dill and Pumpkin Seeds

This dead-simple, make-ahead salad combines chickpeas, grated carrot, dill, and toasted pepitas for a dish that effectively mixes a range of flavors and textures in surprisingly few ingredients. For best results, simmer dried chickpeas with a few aromatics until tender, though canned beans work, too.

Fall Harvest Salad With Roasted Brassicas, Fingerlings, and Radishes

This salad was designed to be made ahead of time and assembled right before serving, so it's a perfect dish to cart over to a Thanksgiving dinner. One of the key elements of the salad is the mix of raw and roasted radishes and sunchokes, which adds a bunch of textural and flavor contrast to an already interesting combination of roasted brassicas, bitter greens, toasted sunflower seeds, and boiled potatoes.

Make-Ahead Chickpea Salad With Cumin and Celery

Another easy chickpea dish to whip up, this one adds crisp celery and bright parsley to the chickpeas and tosses it all in a vinaigrette of olive oil, shallot, and cumin. Make extra and take a portion to work for lunch on the Monday after the holiday—yeah, it really will keep that long.

Roasted Sweet Potato Salad With Chutney Vinaigrette

Serious Eats / Jennifer Segal

Pairing the inherent sweetness of sweet potato with savory ingredients creates a more balanced preparation for the seasonal root vegetable. In this case, we coat roasted sweet potato chunks with a spicy-sweet dressing made from mango chutney, Dijon mustard, and honey. Chewy dried cranberries, sliced scallions, and toasted almonds add more interesting textures and flavors. This one is best served at room temperature if you're making ahead.

Make-Ahead Roasted Squash and Kale Salad With Spiced Nuts, Cranberries, and Maple

This salad combines sweet roasted butternut squash with roasted kale in a vinaigrette flavored with maple syrup and sherry vinegar, along with some spiced pecans for crunch and dried cranberries for a nice chewy texture. It's a delightful salad when it's made fresh, but the flavors and textures actually get even better as it sits in the fridge overnight.

Wild Rice Salad With Dried Cranberries, Pickled Apples, and Pecans

Since wild rice is native to North America, it makes a particularly holiday-appropriate grain salad. In this dish, the wild rice is combined with cranberries and pickled apples, along with toasted pecans, sautéed onion, and celery for savory depth. Be sure to keep the pickled apples separate from the rest of the components and add them in while dressing the salad with the reserved pickling brine right before serving.

Deviled Eggs

Who doesn't love deviled eggs? Since they're the perfect hors d'oeuvre, they're also the perfect dish to bring along for a Thanksgiving feast. While we have many, many variations to choose from , why not try out the ones Kenji served at his restaurant, Wursthall ? Homemade mayo, a bunch of mustard, a glug of the pickling liquid from pickled peppers, and some added vinegar make a rich and bright filling that you can pipe into perfectly cooked white halves. Right before serving, finish them off with pickled mustard seeds, a sprinkling of fragrant and floral ground pepper, along with a hit of good olive oil and crunchy salt.

Thanksgiving Stuffed Roast Pumpkins

Not everything in life is a competition. But if there were a competition for best dish ever brought by a guest to Thanksgiving, this dish would win it. Roasted pumpkins stuffed with an autumnal mix of mushrooms, kale, kabocha squash, and cheese can serve as a vegetarian centerpiece for a Thanksgiving meal, but they also have the potential to upstage a Norman Rockwell-esque roasted turkey, both in terms of flavor and presentation. These stuffed pumpkins can be made two days in advance and just need a bit of time in the oven before serving.

Warm Butternut Squash and Cheddar Dip

Serious Eats / Morgan Eisenberg

If there's no such thing as too many casseroles at your Thanksgiving dinners, start off in fine form with this perfectly seasonal (and unapologetically cheesy) baked appetizer of nutty roasted butternut squash, sage, caramelized onions, cream cheese, and cheddar. Serve with pita chips or crackers, and make sure they're big enough for scooping up all those stretchy bands of melted cheese. This dip can be made up to three days in advance and then baked just before serving.

Cranberry-Jalapeño Baked Brie Dip

Gooey melted Brie is a hit on its own, but when combined with a sweet, tart, and slightly spicy topping of minced cranberries and a bit of jalapeño, it becomes an instant party favorite. Low effort, high reward!

The Ultimate Homemade Green Bean Casserole

While many of us have a soft spot for the canned-beans, canned-mushroom-soup, canned-everything casserole that's traditional at Thanksgiving, a few upgrades and substitutions—blanched fresh green beans, a homemade mushroom sauce, and a freshly fried crispy-shallot topping—will improve on the flavor and texture of the original by leaps and bounds. Once the casserole is assembled, it can be refrigerated for up to two days before baking and topping.

Crispy Mashed Potato Casserole With Bacon, Cheese, and Scallions

Mashed potatoes aren't known for their ability to reheat well, but there are nevertheless a few ways to make them ahead of time and serve them up good as new. One of our favorites is this smooth and creamy whipped-potato casserole topped with all the ingredients of a classic loaded baked potato: cheddar cheese, bacon, and scallions. Incorporating sour cream into the mash adds enough moisture to allow the potatoes to keep for a few days without drying out.

Hasselback Potato Gratin

The original incarnation of Hasselback potatoes had its day in the sun, but it pales in comparison to this rich gratin. We line up very thinly sliced potatoes in a baking dish and cover them partway with a sauce of heavy cream, Gruyère, and parmesan, resulting in a satisfying combination of gratin-style creaminess and crisp, browned edges. This casserole does require about an hour and a half in the oven, so plan accordingly with your hosts.

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese

If oven macaroni and cheese is a regular feature at your family's Thanksgiving dinners (or, you know, any celebratory family meal whatsoever), you're bound to find exactly the dish of cheesy comfort you're looking for in one of these two recipes. We've got a more classic, béchamel-based version that allows for a sharper flavor of cheese or a more modern iteration with an extra-smooth-and-gooey, well-emulsified sauce. Either way, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake, with no real damage done.

Sweet Potato Casserole

By incorporating a range of flavors from other ingredients—like nutty brown butter, spicy ginger, and fragrant sage—and roasting the sweet potatoes to bring out their natural sugars, we developed a sweet potato casserole that's just as sweet as it ought to be, no more. (But don't worry—you'll still get your fluffy melted-marshmallow topping!)

Cauliflower Gratin

Serious Eats / Amanda Suarez

Here, a miso-enhanced mornay sauce made with Gruyère and Parmigiano-Reggiano and a buttery breadcrumb topping make this an easy and comforting dish with a savory depth. What better way to get your veggies in than drowning them with all the good stuff?

Over-the-Top Creamed Brussels Sprouts Gratin

If your loved ones still aren't on the Brussels sprout bandwagon, perhaps this will be the recipe to bring them into the fold: a super-rich casserole that enrobes the little sprouts in heavy cream and Gruyère and surrounds them with salty bacon lardons. Make it ahead through step two and then pop it in the oven for just 20 minutes or until the cheese is browned and bubbling. Mmm, vegetables.

November 2019

More serious eats recipes.

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Thanksgiving

Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors this Thanksgiving or find new ways to celebrate the holiday, we've got you covered. Discover family-friendly fall hiking trails, browse cozy cabins for rent or check out our list of road trip-themed movies you can enjoy from the comfort of home.

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Ditch the Dishes, Delight the Family: Luxury Thanksgiving Getaways for Every Crew

T hanksgiving is a time for family — the loving grandparents, the weird uncles, the cousins, the kids and the brother-in-law you wish you didn’t have to invite. And then there’s the turkey dinner. The turkey, the stuffing, the cranberry sauces, oh my! It can feel like a lot. But there’s a better way: Try a Thanksgiving getaway at a luxury hotel this year.

The resorts on this list range from East Coast wonders to California charmers to lovely ski resorts. They work can work for the whole family — including the weird uncles and all the cousins — or they can be needed respite for just you two. Wherever you want to go and whoever you want to go with, know that the best Thanksgiving getaways have one thing in common: They take the work out of Thanksgiving.

Visiting one of these luxury resorts on means spending the Thanksgiving weekend with nothing to do but pamper yourself and enjoy your traveling compansions during a fabulous holiday getaway.

Read More: The Best Luxury Travel Gifts

Alisal Ranch – Santa Barbara, California

The  Alisal Ranch And Resort in California’s Santa Ynez Valley, right outside of Santa Barbara, is a Thanksgiving tradition for lots of families. Just a 90-minute road trip from Los Angeles, the 10,500-acre ranch in California’s Santa Ynez Valley, offers more than 70 cottages, 50 miles of horseback riding trails, two golf courses, and a 100-acre spring-fed lake. And, on Turkey Day, there’s an incredible Thanksgiving meal.

Why It Works: The cottages range from studios sleeping 3 up to 2-bedroom units that sleep 5, and they can be combined for larger groups. There are plenty of unique outdoor adventures waiting. Some of the highlights of a visit include egg gathering, horseback riding, family bingo, talent shows and the Breakfast Ride. Nearby are California wineries, art galleries, kayaking and other water sports.

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Sea Island – Sea Island, Georgia

Sea Island harkens back to an era of formal elegance. It is located right off the coast of Georgia, between Savannah, Georgia, and Jacksonville, Florida. The close proximity to both cities means that there are plenty of travel options and additional areas to explore. Accommodations range from rooms at the Inn at Sea Island , to seven-bedroom homes for rent.

Why It Works: Sea Island’s holiday traditions start with a rousing game of bingo on Tuesday, the annual holiday reception in The Cloister Colonial Lounge on Wednesday and a 5k run Thursday morning followed by a special service in The Cloister Chapel. Then it’s turkey time! Thanksgiving feasts are offered across the resort, ranging from casual to formal and traditional to new and exciting. The weekend rounds out with the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

Paws Up Resort – Greenough, Montana

Spending the Thanksgiving weekend at this luxury ranch-resort makes it easy to tack on a visit to Yellowstone National Park.  The Resort at Paws Up  offers a weekend full of gourmet cuisine and exquisite wine pairings, outdoor adventures, Thanksgiving crafts and wagon rides. Plus there’s a private butler and chef services.

Why It Works: This Thanksgiving family getaway offers dedicated children’s programming and everything you would expect from a luxury ranch vacation — horseback riding, ATV rides, fireside s’mores and pro football watching.

Sanderling Resort – Duck, North Carolina

The  Sanderling Resort in the Outer Banks of North Carolina is the only full-service resort in the Outer Banks providing luxury options ranging from vacation house rentals to single rooms in the Inn with gorgeous ocean views. Renting a vacation home is a smart option if you plan to bring everyone for a multi-generational family Thanksgiving getaway. Guests will still be able to access all the Sanderling resort amenities, including the pools, restaurants, fire pits and beach butlers.

Why It Works:  Unlike most Thanksgiving holiday resort destinations, there is no minimum rental period, so you could spend Thanksgiving Day at Sanderling and then head to Disney World for the rest of the long weekend. Because the Outer Banks area is the home of the first flight, there are a number of outdoor activities that allow families to explore the air. It’s also close to the Corolla Wild Horses, which are located in the northernmost beaches of the Outer Banks and always a kid-pleaser.

The resort is offering a special three-course Thanksgiving dinner.

The Osthoff Resort – Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

The AAA Four-Diamond Osthoff Resort is reminiscent of the Kennedy compound in Massachusetts. Its gentile white buildings house condos of up to 3 bedrooms. While November is a little late in the season for boating in Wisconsin, the setting on the shores of Elkhart Lake still offers serene sunsets and the Aspira Spa is one of the best in the country — it was named one of the Top 100 Spas by Spas of America.

Why It Works: The special Thanksgiving buffet at the Osthoff features a herb-roasted turkey carving station, pistachio-crusted salmon, chicken picatta, rigatoni Bolognese, classic mashed potatoes with gravy, stuffing, roasted vegetables, a variety of grand displays. You don’t have to stay at the resort to eat at the buffet, but if you do, you can stumble back to your room after eating all of that! (Or take a long walk around the lake to work off a few of the calories.)

Sunriver Resort – Sunriver, Oregon

During the holiday season, Sunriver Resort hosts an annual Traditions Celebration with more than 150 different activities and events beginning just before Thanksgiving weekend. For more than 50 years, the holiday experience has included horse-drawn sleigh rides, sipping hot cocoa by the fire, building a gingerbread house and a Takoda teddy bear and enjoying a holiday meal with all the fixings.

Why It Works: Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday and brunch on Friday, Saturday and Sunday will keep your tummy full while you stroll through the holiday lights, take on the Takoda teddy bear scavenger hunt or wait in line to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. Before you head home from your Thanksgiving getaway, buy a $5 permit and chop down a Christmas tree in the Deschutes National Forest to take home for the holidays.

Kingsmill Resort – Williamsburg, Virginia

Kingsmill Resort marks the location of the first Thanksgiving in 1619 and would make a great choice this year as well. It’s not Plymouth Rock (where the Mayflower landed), but the Williamsburg, Virginia, area resort is steeped in traditions and history.

Why It Works: The resort includes 138 units with a full kitchen. Activities for families include tennis, fishing in the James River, hiking, biking, and an indoor pool. Busch Gardens theme park and Colonial Williamsburg living history museum are nearby.

Thanksgiving dinner is a buffet.

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort – Farmington, Pennsylvania

The Nemacolin Woodlands Resorts is just an hour and a half outside of Pittsburgh and spreads out over 2,000 acres. A wide range of accommodations includes three different hotels, townhouses and private luxury houses that can sleep up to 22 people.

Why It Works: Guests can choose from more than 70 different activities ranging from the serene to the extreme. The serene includes touring the art collection of more than 1,000 pieces. Extreme adventure seekers should consider hitting the slopes at nearby Mystic Mountain or ziplining the resort’s Fatbird Super Flyer Zipline.

Thanksgiving is a weekend-long celebration that includes family movies, craft events, bedtime visits from a North Pole elf, a gingerbread house workshop and the kickoff of the Christmas season with the lighting of the holiday lights at Light Up Nemacolin.

Keystone Resort – Colorado

This lovely ski resort area is just 90 minutes west of Denver. Thanksgiving is the start of the winter season. If you get up early on Thanksgiving Day, you might have the ski runs to yourself while the rest of the visitors lounge around watching football.

Why It Works:  The draw here is two-fold: the multitude of accommodation options for families and the fact that kids ski free the entire ski season. Plus, if you really must have a home-cooked Thanksgiving feast, you can rent a luxury condo with a fully stocked kitchen.

Great Smoky Mountains – Tennessee

If yours is a family of outdoor lovers, spending Thanksgiving weekend hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park might be just the right choice. Or get a jumpstart on your Christmas celebration with the Christmas lights displays in Sevierville and Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, when the park is filled with live music, a nightly Parade of Lights and the stage production “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

Why It Works: The area is dotted with cabins — from tiny cabins made for two to giant mega-cabins that can accommodate large families and give everyone a private bedroom and bath. You can cook Thanksgiving dinner in your cabin or head into Pigeon Forge for a Thanksgiving feast at Paula Deen’s. It’s open 10am to 10pm on Thanksgiving. But go early. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations.

How to Choose the Right Thanksgiving Getaway

Based on your family’s favorite activities, you might choose a ski resort, a foodie destination with great eateries, a beach resort with great snorkeling, a resort near a state park with plenty of hiking trails or even a small town with a Main Street historic district to explore.

Using my friends’ travel experiences as a starting point for our family vacation ideas, I narrowed down my Thanksgiving family getaway options to these. The good news is that if we don’t make it this holiday, we can plan for the future since these resorts are great year-round.

If your family is looking for something more than the usual holiday — watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade from New York City in the morning, playing flag football in the afternoon, then stuffing your faces at dinner, finishing your pumpkin pie just in time to start your Black Friday shopping — one of these Thanksgiving getaway ideas might be just the ticket. 

How to Plan Perfect Thanksgiving Getaways

Knowing all the different members of my family, here are the most important things I’m looking for in a resort to host my family:

• Activities that appeal to the whole family.  With ages ranging from my baby boomer parents to toddler niece, as a family we have almost every decade covered.
• Different options for sleeping rooms. Each individual family has its own needs for space and amenities. My parents need less space than my family of four.
• Unique holiday experiences. It is a long weekend getaway but it is also a Thanksgiving family getaway so we want plenty of fall foliage and activities for families with some traditional Thanksgiving aspects, like a full-service Thanksgiving Dinner. It wouldn’t hurt to have a day after Christmas tree lighting and ice skating party either.
• Easily accessible by airplane. Because my family lives everywhere from Florida to California, I didn’t limit the location. But I did rule out locations that would require difficult travel, such as commuter planes or long car rides from an airport. Since it’s only a four-day weekend, we also don’t want to travel too far — no long flights to Hawaii, for instance.

The post Ditch the Dishes, Delight the Family: Luxury Thanksgiving Getaways for Every Crew appeared first on She Buys Travel .