32 Best Places to Go for Thanksgiving in America
These adorable destinations are big on holiday charm.
We know, we know, Thanksgiving is a very busy time of year to travel. But think about it: Almost everyone is going to their relatives' homes for the holiday—very few are taking a vacation. Which actually makes Turkey Day an excellent time of year to escape to a picturesque destination you've never been to before. Embrace small-town charm, big-city lights, or something in-between with the help of this list of Thanksgiving destinations for everyone.
If the rest of your immediate family is on board, use your long weekend to check a new town or state off your bucket list. Sure, missing out on everyone's favorite classic Thanksgiving dinner with all the traditional Thanksgiving side dishes and Grandma's pumpkin pie for dessert might sound like a bold move, but a short road trip could be just what you need to clear your head. And if you rent a house or condo, you can stop at a local grocery store and cook up your own feast.
Treat your family to a brief escape as an early Christmas gift, or sneak off with your sweetie for some quiet time. Seeing someplace new often gives you perspective and helps you reconsider all the blessings you enjoy in your life. We promise you'll be grateful you explored one of these charming Thanksgiving destinations. Here are our top picks for quick getaways this season.
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
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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
Killington, Vermont
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
Estes Park, Colorado
If you're thankful for nature, why not spend Thanksgiving in the heart of Colorado's Rocky Mountains and Rocky Mountain National Park? There's nothing more awe-inspiring than the grandeur of these mountains. If hiking's not your thing, there's also fishing, wildlife watching tours, and an aerial tramway. Relax after a busy day outdoors at the iconic Stanley Hotel (pictured).
Greenbrier Valley, West Virginia
This scenic valley has plenty to offer every member of the family: Cavern tours, historic attractions, museums, and antiquing throughout the county, which includes the towns of Alderson, White Sulphur Springs, Rainelle, Ronceverte, and Lewisburg. If you're in the mood for pampering yourself, stay at the Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs for the ultimate luxury experience. They've been welcoming guests to this mountain retreat since 1778.
Fredericksburg, Texas
Don't discount it based on size: There's always something going on in this town with German roots. Visit the local distilleries and breweries, check out one of the more than a dozen art galleries, or tour (and do a tasting!) at one of the 100 wineries nearby in the Hill Country.
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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