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There’s no place like home for the holidays—unless your heart is pointing to a different adventure. Traveling on Thanksgiving Day can mean lower airfares, smaller crowds (Tuesday is usually busier) and attractive deals in destinations you haven’t explored. Below are seven destinations worth considering for a Thanksgiving getaway. -
Chicago is often more affordable to reach on Thanksgiving if you’re flying from the East Coast. The city begins to sparkle with holiday decor, seasonal markets and skating at Millennium Park, making it an ideal place to kick off the festive season.
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For a historical and authentic Thanksgiving experience, head to Plymouth, Massachusetts. Plimoth Plantation reenacts the past and hosts a Thanksgiving feast alongside a weekend of activities that bring the holiday’s origins to life.
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Park City, Utah, often offers Thanksgiving weekend deals and is perfect for an early-season ski trip. Besides slopes, the town has upscale hotels, boutique shopping and acclaimed restaurants to round out a relaxing holiday escape.
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If you prefer sun to snow, Key West offers a relaxed Thanksgiving on the sand. Many local restaurants serve traditional Thanksgiving dishes alongside tropical flavors and lively island cocktails for a festive, laid-back holiday.
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Hawai’i is another sunny option that often has attractive rates before peak holiday pricing begins. Many hotels and resorts prepare island-style Thanksgiving meals—expect pan-Asian and Pacific flavors that offer a fresh take on the holiday menu.
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New England is synonymous with autumn, and Newport, Rhode Island, showcases fall foliage and classic coastal charm. Luxury resorts host elegant Thanksgiving events, and a stroll through the historic downtown reveals holiday lights and seasonal ambiance.
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For activity and scenery, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and the Great Smoky Mountains are excellent Thanksgiving choices. November offers prime hiking and beautiful fall foliage with fewer visitors, making it easy to enjoy outdoor time with family and friends.
