21+ Best Places to Go for Thanksgiving (Escape the Kitchen!)

Searching for the best places to go for Thanksgiving? We get it. The endless planning, the mountains of dishes, the stress of hosting, it’s a lot. What if this year you decided to skip the chaos and create a new tradition instead?

This guide from TravelThru is your ticket to a stress-free holiday. We've rounded up amazing destinations, complete with classic parade cities, sunny beach escapes, and cozy mountain towns. Let’s find your perfect getaway.

Our Top Picks for Thanksgiving Getaways

• Best classic experience: New York City, NY
• Best warm weather escape: San Diego, CA
• Best for historic charm: Plymouth, MA
• Best for a foodie holiday: New Orleans, LA
• Best for a cozy cabin vibe: Asheville, NC

Classic Thanksgiving Travel Ideas

If your perfect Thanksgiving includes crisp air, the sound of marching bands, and that magic feeling of the holiday season kicking off, these are the destinations for you.

1. New York City, New York

You can’t talk about a classic Thanksgiving without starting here. New York City is home to the one-and-only Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The main event is the parade, of course. But a local pro-tip is to watch the balloon inflation the night before (Wednesday) near the American Museum of Natural History. It’s a fantastic way to see the characters up close. After the parade, you can go ice skating at Rockefeller Center or see the famous Christmas Spectacular with the Rockettes.

2. Chicago, Illinois

The Windy City gives NYC a run for its money with its own spectacular Thanksgiving Parade. It’s a massive, high-energy event that marches right through downtown on State Street.

The best part? Thanksgiving weekend is the perfect time to visit the Christkindlmarket, an authentic German-style Christmas market. You can also go ice skating at Millennium Park and take your picture with "The Bean." At night, the Lincoln Park Zoo kicks off its amazing ZooLights display.

Chicago is a world-class food town. You can find an incredible, traditional Thanksgiving feast at one of its many famous steakhouses or cozy Italian-American restaurants.

3. Plymouth, Massachusetts

Want to go straight to the source? For history lovers, Plymouth is the best Thanksgiving destination. This is where the "first Thanksgiving" is remembered, and the whole town leans into its historic roots.

The main attraction is the Plimoth Patuxet Museums, a living history museum that recreates 17th-century life. You can visit Plymouth Rock and watch "America's Hometown Thanksgiving Parade," which is full of historical charm and military honors.

This is your chance to try a 17th-century-style Thanksgiving dinner. The Plimoth Patuxet Museums offer a unique "Eat Like a Pilgrim" dining experience that’s both educational and delicious.

4. Detroit, Michigan

Start your morning on the famous Woodward Avenue to get a great spot for the parade. After that, it's all about football. Watching the Detroit Lions play their traditional home game is a Thanksgiving ritual for the whole city, even if you just watch from a local sports bar.

After the game, you'll be hungry. Head to the historic neighborhoods of Greektown or Corktown for a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs holiday meal and a celebratory drink.

Warm Weather Thanksgiving Vacation Destination

Tired of shivering in the November cold? If your ideal holiday involves sunglasses and sand instead of scarves and snow, this is your list.

5. San Diego, California

Welcome to sunny San Diego, where the forecast is almost always 70 degrees and perfect. It's the ideal choice for a low-stress, relaxing holiday where you can actually spend time outside.

Start your morning with a "Turkey Trot" 5K right along the beach. After that, you can visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo, learn to surf, or take a relaxing harbor cruise on Thanksgiving Day.

>>> Maybe you're interested in: Fun San Diego Christmas Events for Your Vacation

6. Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

If you really want to get away from it all, this is it. Say "Aloha" to a truly stress-free holiday on the beautiful island of Oahu.

Spend your Thanksgiving morning surfing or just relaxing on Waikiki Beach. The day after Thanksgiving, the island celebrates with the festive Waikiki Holiday Parade, a unique event honoring Pearl Harbor survivors.

And why not trade the traditional turkey for an unforgettable Thanksgiving Luau? It’s a celebratory feast with music, dancing, and amazing local food.

7. Scottsdale, Arizona

For a sophisticated desert getaway, Scottsdale is perfect. It’s ideal for an active, upscale, and sunny holiday. The crisp desert air feels amazing.

Start your Thanksgiving with a beautiful morning hike up Camelback Mountain. After, you can play a round at a world-class golf course or simply unwind at a luxury spa.

Scottsdale’s high-end resorts are famous for their extravagant Thanksgiving buffets. You can feast on everything from turkey and prime rib to fresh seafood.

8. Key West, Florida

If you want warm weather with a quirky, laid-back vibe, head to the end of the road. Key West is all about tropical breezes, live music, and zero stress.

You might want to visit the Hemingway House, watch the famous sunset celebration at Mallory Square, or rent a bike to explore the island’s charming streets.

Many open-air restaurants offer traditional turkey dinners, but with a Key West twist. Or, you can skip the turkey entirely and opt for fresh-caught grouper and a big slice of key lime pie.

9. Palm Springs, California

Get your sun in style. This desert oasis is famous for its stunning mid-century modern architecture and a cool, artsy vibe.

Think about riding the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for breathtaking views of the entire valley. Afterwards, browse the vintage shops, visit the art museum, or just lounge by a very stylish pool.

Fun Places to Go for Thanksgiving

These destinations trade city sidewalks for mountain towns and charming main streets. It's all about comfort, quiet, and a whole lot of fun.

10. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is the king of mountain towns. The main draw is the Biltmore Estate, which is fully decorated for Christmas by Thanksgiving. The massive home, decked out in lights and trees, is truly a magical sight.

Spend a day touring the Biltmore (book tickets far in advance!). You can also drive a section of the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway to catch the last bits of fall color. Or, just explore the downtown arts district and pop into cozy bookstores.

This is the perfect place to rent a cabin and cook your own feast. If you prefer to go out, Asheville's amazing farm-to-table restaurants serve up a delicious Southern-style Thanksgiving.

11. Leavenworth, Washington

Want to feel like you've been transported to Europe? Leavenworth is a tiny Bavarian-themed village. On Thanksgiving weekend, they officially flip the switch on their famous "Village of Lights," turning the entire town into a storybook Christmas card.

Spend your days strolling the festive, snow-dusted streets. You can shop for nutcrackers and cuckoo clocks, enjoy the crisp mountain air, or even go cross-country skiing nearby.

You have two great choices here. Go full-on Bavarian with a schnitzel and a bratwurst, or find a traditional turkey dinner at one of the many warm and inviting local lodges.

12. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe offers a completely unique holiday vibe. Think crisp desert air, beautiful adobe architecture, and the amazing scent of piñon wood smoke filling the streets. It's an artistic and cultural place to go for Thanksgiving.

You might want to explore the countless art galleries on Canyon Road. Visit the historic Plaza, which is often decorated for the holidays. If there's early snow, you can even kick off the ski season at Ski Santa Fe.

We highly recommend trying a one-of-a-kind Southwestern Thanksgiving. Many local restaurants serve turkey with a delicious red chile gravy or a savory green chile and corn stuffing.

13. Stowe, Vermont

This is your classic New England postcard scene. Stowe is a charming Vermont town with a tall white church steeple and a backdrop of rolling mountains. If you're dreaming of a white Thanksgiving, this is a great bet.

Browse the quaint shops along Main Street. Take a brewery tour (Stowe is home to The Alchemist). If the snow is good, you can hit the slopes at Stowe Mountain Resort, which often opens for the season on Thanksgiving weekend.

14. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Lake Tahoe is breathtaking. You get the stunning contrast of the deep blue lake surrounded by snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains. It's perfect for a holiday that's both relaxing and active.

The ski resorts like Heavenly and Palisades Tahoe often open on Thanksgiving weekend, so you can spend the day on the slopes. Not a skier? Take a winter boat cruise on the lake or just enjoy the view from your cabin.

Places to Go for Thanksgiving with Kids​

15. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg is one of the best places to go for Thanksgiving with kids. It’s right at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering incredible views and a peaceful, rustic feel.

Rent a cozy cabin, preferably one with a hot tub and a fireplace. You can take a quiet hike in the national park or stroll through town to see the "Winterfest" light displays.

Gatlinburg specializes in family-style Southern comfort food. Places like The Old Mill are famous for serving a massive, delicious Thanksgiving meal that will leave everyone full and happy.

16. Orlando, Florida

Thanksgiving week kicks off major events at both Disney and Universal, but crowds are slightly lighter than the week of Christmas. You can experience the incredible Grinchmas at Universal and the start of festive castle light shows at Walt Disney World.

Not to mention, Orlando’s resorts host huge Thanksgiving buffets and prix-fixe menus, allowing you to focus completely on fun. For a quick break from the parks, visit the Crayola Experience or join a local Turkey Trot to burn off that extra slice of pie.

17. Williamsburg, Virginia

For families wanting to reconnect with the holiday’s roots, Williamsburg offers a rich, immersive experience steeped in history. Spend Thanksgiving Day in Colonial Williamsburg, where the Historic Area remains open with special programming. You can book a traditional holiday dinner at one of the 18th-century taverns, like Shields Tavern, for an authentic, period-style feast.

18. Charleston, South Carolina

Choose Charleston for its mild November weather, stunning architecture, and unique Lowcountry holiday traditions. You can start the day actively by joining the Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble 5K, which runs right through the historic downtown district. The mild climate also allows for coastal adventures like walking on Folly Beach or strolling The Battery past decorated homes.

Cheap Places to Go for Thanksgiving

19. Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis often tops lists for affordable Thanksgiving travel, largely due to its relatively low airfare and hotel costs. It offers an excellent mix of indoor and outdoor activities.

The day after Thanksgiving is often a Free Park Day for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Take advantage of waived vehicle fees to explore any of the 73 state parks and recreation areas for free hiking, biking, or wildlife photography.

Minneapolis provides great value in its cultural institutions. You can find discounts for museums like The Works Museum and the Minnesota Children’s Museum through various community programs.

20. Seattle, Washington

Seattle offers cheap Thanksgiving travel with a focus on great free public programs and holiday light displays that don't cost a dime.

Families can maximize savings using the Seattle Public Library Museum Pass program. If you have a library card, you can reserve free admission to many top institutions, such as:

• Museum of Flight
• Seattle Aquarium
• Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)

• Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP).

   

21. Denver, Colorado

Thanksgiving marks the start of Denver’s dazzling light season. You can visit the Mile High Tree—a massive, temporary art installation—for free, and take in the spectacular light displays at the Denver City and County Building downtown. The Mile High Holiday Drone Show is another impressive, free spectacle.

22. Boston, Massachusetts

The Freedom Trail is completely free to walk and explore, offering a self-guided tour of the city's most significant historical sites. You can also stroll through the beautiful Boston Common and the Public Garden at no cost.

Take a short drive to Plimoth Patuxet Museums (though admission applies, it offers a crucial historical context for Thanksgiving). Alternatively, you can participate in one of the local Turkey Trot 5Ks, like the Franklin Park Turkey Trot, which usually have low registration fees, or spectating is free. Many museums, while closed on Thanksgiving Day, offer affordable tickets or are included in city passes for the weekend.

>>> Read more: Is Traffic on Thanksgiving Day Bad?

Thanksgiving doesn't have to mean being stuck in the kitchen. It can be a long weekend for adventure, relaxation, and making new memories. You deserve a holiday that feels like a real vacation.

We've covered amazing spots just waiting to be explored. What's your top pick? Let us know in the comments! We truly hope this guide helped you find the perfect places to go for your Thanksgiving this year.