A Thanksgiving to remember
Looking to escape the usual holiday hustle? Thanksgiving weekend is the perfect time to explore new destinations and make lasting memories. Whether you crave outdoor adventures, cozy retreats, or festive city escapes, these 15 destinations offer the best of both worlds: relaxation and excitement.
It’s the chance to experience a different kind of holiday magic. Thanksgiving, celebrated in late November in the U.S., is a time for families to gather, enjoy hearty meals, and create lasting memories, making these getaways a wonderful way to experience something new during the holiday season.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a charming mountain town with opportunities for skiing, tubing, and ice skating. With cozy cabins, hot tubs, and special Thanksgiving events like the Arts and Crafts Show,
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, draws visitors year-round for its diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is famous for its beautiful architecture and mild November weather, perfect for exploring on foot.
Enjoy Southern Thanksgiving feasts and riverboat dinner cruises as you wander through the historic district, with early Christmas events adding extra holiday cheer.
Savannah’s charm, combined with its haunted history, also offers an intriguing atmosphere for adventurous travelers.
Breckenridge, Colorado
A true winter wonderland, Breckenridge offers snow-capped peaks, skiing, and snowboarding for the ultimate Thanksgiving getaway. The area receives an average of 300 inches of snow each year.
After a day on the slopes, relax in cozy lodges or stroll Main Street, lined with shops, eateries, and early holiday cheer.
Plymouth, Massachusetts
Celebrate Thanksgiving in the birthplace of America’s holiday tradition. Plymouth hosts festive parades, history tours, and the famous Plymouth Rock, where the Pilgrims first landed in 1620. The city’s historical significance makes it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts.
If you’re a history lover, this is the place to soak in the New England charm and step into the past for a truly American Thanksgiving.
New Orleans, Louisiana
If you’re craving jazz, Creole cuisine, and spooky tales, New Orleans is the place to be. Known for its vibrant music scene, particularly jazz, the city offers a rich cultural experience, perfect for those looking to enjoy unique holiday festivities.
Enjoy traditional Thanksgiving dinners with a twist, then explore the historic French Quarter or take a riverboat cruise for a unique holiday experience.
Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a peaceful retreat with artsy vibes, local craft breweries, and stunning views. Known for its vibrant arts community, Asheville is home to numerous galleries, public art installations, and craft breweries that celebrate the town’s unique culture.
With farm-to-table restaurants serving Thanksgiving feasts, Asheville is a relaxing place to enjoy the season’s beauty and chill atmosphere.
San Diego, California
San Diego’s mild weather makes it perfect for outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, or exploring Balboa Park. With an average temperature of 70°F in November, San Diego provides the ideal environment for outdoor exploration year-round.
Whether you enjoy festive harbor cruises or dining with a view, San Diego offers a laid-back Thanksgiving weekend by the coast.
Charleston, South Carolina
Walk along Charleston’s cobblestone streets and enjoy the Southern charm. Famous for its plantation tours and culinary scene, the city is a perfect Thanksgiving getaway.
Charleston’s antebellum architecture, historic homes, and waterfront views create a picturesque setting for a Thanksgiving holiday.
Enjoy a hearty Lowcountry Thanksgiving dinner and explore the city’s historical landmarks for a relaxed yet festive holiday.
Chicago, Illinois
For a vibrant urban escape, head to Chicago, where the State Street Thanksgiving Parade brings the city to life. Chicago’s rich cultural history and stunning architecture create a unique urban experience during the Thanksgiving holiday season.
Between the parade and visits to iconic museums or deep-dish pizza hotspots, Chicago offers a mix of culture, fun, and holiday festivities. The city also boasts a wide variety of shopping options, theaters, and restaurants.
Williamsburg, Virginia
Step back in time and celebrate Thanksgiving with immersive colonial experiences in Williamsburg. Williamsburg’s living history museum offers a glimpse into 18th-century America, showcasing early American culture, government, and traditions.
Explore historical sites, enjoy the Turkey Trot, and take in a festive dinner. Williamsburg’s rich history provides a memorable, educational retreat for the whole family.
Napa Valley, California
For wine lovers, Napa Valley offers a sophisticated escape, perfect for Thanksgiving dining and wine tasting.
Napa Valley’s world-renowned wineries produce some of the finest wines, and the region’s scenic vineyards are especially stunning during the fall harvest season.
Enjoy gourmet meals paired with local wines amidst stunning vineyard views, making it ideal for a refined, relaxing Thanksgiving escape.
Orlando, Florida
Orlando’s family-friendly atmosphere makes it the ultimate Thanksgiving weekend destination. Home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, Orlando is a hub of family fun and excitement during the holiday season.
With world-renowned theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios, there’s no shortage of fun, adventure, and festive parades for all ages. Orlando also offers numerous dining options, holiday events, and special attractions.
Quebec City, Canada
For a more European feel, head to Quebec City. Its charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings make it a picture-perfect Thanksgiving destination.
The Old Town of Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering visitors a unique blend of French Canadian and European cultural influences.
With French-Canadian cuisine and early holiday decorations, Quebec City offers a unique twist on the traditional Thanksgiving experience.
Big Sur, California
For a tranquil, nature-filled retreat, Big Sur’s dramatic coastal views are ideal.
Known for its stunning vistas and remote location, Big Sur is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy the quiet beauty of the Pacific Coast.
Enjoy Thanksgiving hiking or simply take in the awe-inspiring scenery from upscale lodges, perfect for those who want to escape to solitude and beauty.
This Thanksgiving, experience a change of scenery in this state, as more people are making the move from California to Florida.
Montreal, Canada
Montreal’s European flair makes it an exciting, culturally rich Thanksgiving destination. The city is home to a diverse blend of cultures, making it an eclectic place to visit during the Thanksgiving season.
Explore its art, music, and vibrant neighborhoods, then warm up with hearty meals at cozy bistros, blending North American and French influences.
Next, explore the best small towns in the U.S. that glow with fall charm.
Which Thanksgiving escape would you choose for 2025? Share in the comments.
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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.
