Discover the best places to travel to on Thanksgiving, whether you’re craving fall foliage, sunny beaches, or a cultural escape. Find the perfect U.S. and international destinations for a memorable holiday getaway.
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Thanksgiving travel, good places to travel to on Thanksgiving, fall getaways, holiday travel ideas, travel tips 2025, best Thanksgiving vacations, where to go on Thanksgiving, fall foliage trips, international Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving weekend ideas
Thanksgiving is more than turkey and pie—it’s a moment to pause, recharge, and spend quality time with loved ones. Whether you’re looking to escape the cooking chaos or dive into a unique cultural experience, planning a Thanksgiving getaway is a great way to make the most of the long weekend. But with so many options out there, you might be wondering: What are some good places to travel to on Thanksgiving?
This guide has you covered with the best Thanksgiving travel destinations across the U.S. and abroad—ranging from cozy mountain retreats to tropical escapes and bustling city breaks.
Why Travel on Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving weekend is one of the most traveled holidays in the U.S., and for good reason:
- Extra time off means longer trips without using too many vacation days
- Festive experiences like parades, special dinners, and seasonal décor
- Fall foliage in full effect across many states
- A chance to unwind before the December holiday rush
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, there’s a Thanksgiving trip out there that matches your vibe.
Top 10 Good Places to Travel to on Thanksgiving (U.S.)
Here are 10 amazing U.S. destinations perfect for a Thanksgiving retreat, each offering a unique blend of culture, food, and seasonal beauty.
| Destination | Why It’s Great for Thanksgiving |
| New York City, NY | Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, world-class dining, and iconic holiday window displays. |
| Asheville, NC | Cozy mountain cabins, Blue Ridge Parkway fall colors, and farm-to-table feasts. |
| Savannah, GA | Mild temperatures, charming streets, and Southern-style Thanksgiving menus. |
| Santa Fe, NM | Native American heritage, art galleries, and chilly desert nights by the fire. |
| Lake Tahoe, CA/NV | Early ski season, snow-capped peaks, and luxurious lodges. |
| Charleston, SC | Colonial architecture, mild weather, and low-country Thanksgiving flavors. |
| Orlando, FL | Theme park magic with special holiday events at Disney and Universal. |
| Nashville, TN | Live music, festive lights, and Thanksgiving buffets with a Southern twist. |
| Sedona, AZ | Red rock landscapes, crystal-clear skies, and wellness retreats. |
| Chicago, IL | Thanksgiving Parade, ice skating at Millennium Park, and hearty Midwest meals. |
Best International Places to Travel to on Thanksgiving
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to skip the turkey altogether, heading abroad is a great choice.
| Destination | Why It Works for Thanksgiving Travel |
| Paris, France | Off-season charm, fewer tourists, and cozy cafes—perfect for a romantic escape. |
| Tokyo, Japan | Vibrant culture, incredible food, and November’s peak autumn leaves. |
| Costa Rica | Rainforests, beaches, and eco-lodges—ideal for a family-friendly warm-weather getaway. |
| Iceland | Natural wonders like glaciers and hot springs, plus the chance to see the Northern Lights. |
| Barcelona, Spain | Tapas, sunshine, and late-night strolls through the Gothic Quarter. |
| Lisbon, Portugal | Affordable European charm with historic sites and ocean views. |
| Dubai, UAE | Sunshine, luxury shopping, and five-star resorts—no turkey required. |
Thanksgiving Travel Tips
Here are some quick tips to make your Thanksgiving trip smoother:
- Book early – Thanksgiving travel is in high demand; flights and hotels can get pricey fast.
- Fly on the holiday itself – Thanksgiving Day flights are often less crowded and cheaper.
- Consider non-traditional meals – Some destinations offer unique takes on Thanksgiving (think seafood in Maine or tamales in New Mexico).
- Pack for unpredictable weather – From snowstorms in Chicago to sun in Miami, be ready for anything.
- Reserve your Thanksgiving dinner – Popular restaurants book up quickly; lock in your table in advance.
Hidden Gems for a Peaceful Thanksgiving Getaway
If you’re looking to truly escape the crowds, try one of these lesser-known Thanksgiving retreats:
- Leavenworth, WA – A Bavarian village in the mountains with alpine charm and snowy vibes.
- Stowe, VT – Gorgeous foliage, ski slopes, and intimate inns.
- Big Bend National Park, TX – Rugged wilderness with zero crowds.
- Ojai, CA – Artsy town with great spas, perfect for a wellness-focused long weekend.
- Finger Lakes, NY – Wineries, lakeside lodges, and stunning late-fall colors.
Should You Travel Solo on Thanksgiving?
Absolutely. Thanksgiving can be a great time to reflect, journal, and hit reset. Solo travelers might enjoy:
- Wellness retreats in Sedona, Ojai, or Bali
- Backpacking trips in Patagonia or Iceland
- Creative residencies or writing retreats in peaceful mountain towns
It’s a great time to unplug and celebrate gratitude your way.
Places to Avoid Over Thanksgiving (If You Don’t Love Crowds)
Not everyone enjoys traveling shoulder-to-shoulder with the masses. If that’s you, you might want to skip:
- Major airports on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving
- Disney World, unless you’re fully prepared with pre-booked plans
- Las Vegas (it gets extremely busy and expensive around holidays)
- National parks near large metro areas (like Yosemite or Grand Canyon South Rim)
Final Thoughts
So, what are some good places to travel to on Thanksgiving? The answer depends on your travel style—whether you’re looking for big-city energy, a beach escape, fall foliage, or a spiritual reset. From NYC’s iconic parade to the peaceful mountains of Vermont or the beaches of Costa Rica, there’s a Thanksgiving destination for every kind of traveler.
No matter where you go, the real magic of Thanksgiving travel is about creating memories, reflecting on gratitude, and experiencing something new. So pack your bags, plan, and permit yourself to celebrate the holiday your way.