15 Vacations for Thanksgiving Weekend
Planning a Thanksgiving vacation this year? Imagine waking up in a cozy mountain cabin, spending the day under the sun on a warm beach, or wandering through streets lined with golden leaves.
Now is the perfect time to start preparing your long weekend getaway. These 15 Thanksgiving vacation ideas are packed with festive charm, great food and plenty of things to be thankful for.
Jump to:
- Chicago, IL
- Hawaii
- Keystone Resort, CO
- Lake Tahoe, CA
- Las Vegas, NV
- New Orleans, LA
- New York, NY
- Orlando, FL
- Park City, UT
- Phoenix, AZ
- Plymouth, MA
- Savannah, GA
- Toronto, ON, CA
- Washington, D.C.
- Williamsburg, VA
Top 15 Places to Go for Thanksgiving Vacations
1. Chicago, IL
- Nearest Airport: O’Hare International Airport (ORD).
- Weather (Late November): Average highs around 45°F, lows near 33°F. Crisp and often breezy.
- Travel Tip: Use public transit or ride-shares to reach the parade. Parking is limited and streets close early.
Big cities are magical during the holidays, and Chicago is no exception. If you enjoy a lively atmosphere, exciting events, and plenty of activities, Thanksgiving in Chicago could be the perfect choice for your long weekend. The city buzzes, with festive decorations to seasonal markets and ice-skating rinks.
The Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade is a must-see. In 2025, it will take place on Thursday, November 27, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. CT along State Street, from Ida B. Wells Drive to W. Randolph in downtown Chicago. Expect colorful floats, marching bands, and live performances that bring the streets to life. Arriving early is key to getting a good viewing spot.
Other events include the German Christkindl market and outdoor ice skating. Find out more about them and find a host of other Things To Do in Chicago For Thanksgiving.
2. Hawaii
- Nearest Airport: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL).
- Weather (Late November): Warm and sunny, highs around 82°F, lows near 70°F.
- Travel Tip: Inter-island flights are short and frequent. Consider exploring more than one island.
If you’re dreaming of sunshine this Thanksgiving, Hawaii is the perfect escape. The islands offer warm beaches, gentle ocean breezes, and plenty of ways to relax. Resorts like the Four Seasons Lanai and Grand Wailea on Maui host special Thanksgiving dinners, lūʻaus and live music. Restaurants in Honolulu such as The Capital Grille and Merriman’s serve festive meals with island flair.
Thanksgiving in Hawaii is truly unique. Locals give thanks to Lono, the god of agriculture, and families gather to share gratitude and good food. Between meals, you can surf, snorkel, hike, or take a walk along the beach at sunset for the perfect winter getaway.
3. Keystone Resort, CO
- Nearest Airport: Denver International Airport (DEN).
- Weather (Late November): Cold and snowy. Average highs around 30°F, lows near 15°F.
- Travel Tip: Rent a 4WD vehicle or arrange a shuttle in advance. Winter mountain roads can be icy.
For thrill-seekers this Thanksgiving, Keystone Resort, Colorado is an ideal destination. The towering Rocky Mountains are a stunning backdrop, while warm fireplaces and hot chocolate await after a day of skiing or snowboarding.
Keystone often opens its winter terrain early for late November visitors and hosts a Welcome Winter Family Carnival with free cocoa and cookies, live music and performances by the Salida Circus.
For dining, options include a Thanksgiving buffet at Bighorn Bistro and special sleigh ride dinners at Keystone Ranch, combining scenic winter views with festive cuisine. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a cozy holiday, Keystone is a great snowy getaway for Thanksgiving.
4. Lake Tahoe, CA
- Nearest Airport: Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO).
- Weather (Late November): Cool and crisp. Average highs around 48°F, lows near 28°F.
- Travel Tip: Roads can be icy in November. Check snow conditions and consider a 4WD vehicle if driving.
For a laidback Thanksgiving by the water, consider Lake Tahoe, California. With beautiful lakeside and mountain views, this destination is the perfect place to enjoy some downtime.
Many of the local restaurants serve unique Thanksgiving dinners with a scenic setting, and you can take a sunset stroll along the shore afterward. Heavenly Mountain Resort provides plenty of outdoor adventure, with hiking trails and winter activities to explore during the day.
For those looking for a more flexible holiday, vacation home rentals allow you to cook your own Thanksgiving meal while enjoying the lakefront.
5. Las Vegas, NV
- Nearest Airport: McCarran International Airport (LAS).
- Weather (Late November): Mild and sunny; average highs around 65°F, lows near 45°F.
- Travel Tip: Reserve restaurants and shows early. Thanksgiving weekend is busy in Vegas.
There’s nowhere like Las Vegas for Thanksgiving, especially if you’re looking for an all-adult getaway. With lingering warmth from the summer, Vegas is a great winter-sun option for couples or anyone wanting to escape the cold. The holiday season is always stacked with major shows and residencies, and Thanksgiving 2025 is no different.
The Las Vegas Strip is famous for its grand casinos and Michelin-starred restaurants. For a top-rated seasonal dinner, check out Hell’s Kitchen at Caesars Palace. If you prefer a more relaxed dining experience, buffets at Wicked Spoon, The Cosmopolitan, and Bacchanal Buffet offer plenty of variety.
There’s plenty to see and do during Thanksgiving in Vegas. Take a gondola ride, watch the iconic Bellagio fountain show, or explore holiday-themed light displays. Nightlife also ramps up, with special events like Omnia at Caesars Palace.
6. New Orleans, LA
- Nearest Airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY).
- Weather (Late November): Average highs around 70°F, lows near 50°F. Mild and comfortable.
- Travel Tip: Use streetcars or ride-shares to navigate downtown. Parking can be limited.
If you’re looking for a lively celebration this year, New Orleans is the place to be. The Big Easy’ hosts plenty of music, culture, and entertainment for Thanksgiving weekend. Jazz, blues, and lively streets make it a must-see city for families, couples, or solo travelers.
Dining out is easy, as many local restaurants remain open for the holiday. Enjoy a traditional sit-down Thanksgiving meal while soaking in the unique atmosphere of the deep South. Thanksgiving weekend also features the iconic Bayou Classic, with a parade, Battle of the Bands, and the football game.
7. New York, NY
- Nearest Airport(s): John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).
- Typical Weather in November: Highs around 54 °F, lows around 41 °F.
- Travel Tip: Use the subway to avoid traffic. New York is busy during the holidays.
The Big Apple is famous for extravagant décor and festive events in Winter, making it the perfect place to spend Thanksgiving. No city does this Thanksgiving quite like New York!
The highlight of the season is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which takes place on Thursday, November 27, from 8:30 a.m. to around 12:00 p.m. ET in 2025. The parade features huge balloons, colorful floats, marching bands and elaborate performances.
After the parade, take a stroll through Central Park, try ice skating at the park’s rink, or visit iconic landmarks that remain open for the holiday. If you have extra time or a longer layover, don’t miss the Black Friday sales the following day.
8. Orlando, FL
- Nearest Airport: Orlando International Airport (MCO).
- Typical Weather in November: Highs are around 77 °F, lows of 58 °F.
- Travel Tip: Reserve theme park tickets, hotel rooms, and festival reservations early. Plan for crowds.
Another warm getaway for Thanksgiving is Orlando, Florida, where the winter sun keeps you warm and entertained. Each week after Thanksgiving, the city hosts Fusion Fest, a colorful food and cultural festival, featuring tastes and experiences from around the world. For a traditional festive meal, the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort also serves a Thanksgiving Day Buffet on Thursday, November 27, 2025.
During Thanksgiving week, Orlando’s major theme parks, including Disney World and Universal Studios, welcome holiday crowds with seasonal events, decorations and festive activities.
9. Park City, UT
- Nearest Airport: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC).
- Typical Weather in Late November: Highs and lows range from 30-40 °F to 15-25 °F. Cold mountain air, possibility of early snow.
- Travel Tip: Reserve ski rentals ahead of time. Dinner reservations are also essential.
If your ideal Thanksgiving includes soft, powdery snow and skiing down beautiful mountain slopes, Park City, Utah is the perfect place. Known for its world-class winter activities and scenic surroundings, the city offers plenty to be thankful for this holiday season.
Ski season at Park City Mountain Resort typically opens around mid-November, so the slopes are ready for Thanksgiving weekend. For dining, Flanagan’s on Main, an Irish pub in the heart of Park City, provides a cozy setting for a delicious Thanksgiving meal with family and friends. Nearby resorts like Montage Deer Valley also offer holiday dining specials, including a Thanksgiving buffet.
10. Phoenix, AZ
- Nearest Airport: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
- Typical Weather (Late November): Average highs around 65 °F, lows near 45 °F. Mild and sunny.
- Travel Tip: Warm days but cool evenings. Bring a light jacket for night-time. Consider an early morning run or outdoor activity before the feast.
If you spend Thanksgiving in Phoenix, Arizona, expect warm winter sun with festive and seasonal touches. Skate Westgate returns this year, with a 3,500-square-foot ice rink at Fountain Park for fun holiday activities.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor sunbathing or explore the city before settling in for a memorable Thanksgiving meal. Blue Hound Kitchen serves a three-course dinner for friends and family. The Arizona Biltmore also hosts a special Thanksgiving Brunch and Dinner on Thursday, November 27, 2025.
For those wanting an active holiday, the Thanksgiving Turkey Gobble Trot in Phoenix features 5K, 10K, and half-marathon options on November 29.
11. Plymouth, MA
- Nearest Airport: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS).
- Typical Weather in Late November: Highs in ~45‑50 °F, lows ~30‑35 °F.
- Travel Tip: Plymouth is ideal for families. Combine your trip with visits to Plymouth Rock and historic sites.
Plymouth, Massachusetts is a great choice for a traditional Thanksgiving. The town is known as ‘America’s Hometown,’ and celebrates with several fun events. The America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Parade takes place on Saturday, November 22, 2025. It’s a festive way to kick off the holiday weekend.
At the Plimoth Patuxet Museums, you can attend ‘The Story of Thanksgiving Dinner’ on November 27 and 28, 2025. This event tells the story of the Pilgrims and Native Americans’ first Thanksgiving. It’s both fun and educational, giving visitors a hands-on look at history. Between the parade, museum events, and festive meals, Plymouth always stands out among Thanksgiving destinations.
12. Savannah, GA
- Nearest Airport: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV).
- Typical Weather (Late November): Highs around 65-70 °F, lows near 50 °F.
- Travel Tip: Reserve ground transport early. Parking may be limited near downtown.
Thanksgiving in Savannah, Georgia, is the perfect way to mix festive spirit with Southern charm. With its green parks, cobblestone streets and mild weather, Savannah gives holiday visitors a warm welcome.
Beyond enjoying great food and football, the city is known for its annual United Way Turkey Trot at Daffin Park. It’s a family-friendly 5K and 1-mile fun run that’s become a local tradition. Runners often dress in festive costumes, and the event features music, prizes, and post-race refreshments. It’s a cheerful way to start the day and work up an appetite before Thanksgiving dinner.
13. Toronto, ON, CA
- Nearest Airport: Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ).
- Typical Weather (late November): Expect chilly conditions. Average highs around 46 °F and lows near 36–37 °F.
- Travel Tip: Bring warm layers and a waterproof jacket since late November can be cold.
Toronto is a wonderful choice for a non-traditional Thanksgiving vacation.
Although Canadian Thanksgiving is celebrated in early October, Toronto remains lively during the U.S. Thanksgiving. The crisp fall air, colorful leaves, and bustling streets make it perfect for exploring. Enjoy the local museums, shopping, or simply take in the city’s atmosphere.
After a day of sightseeing, visitors can relax in the heart of the city, enjoying local flavor and culture. It’s a charming city all year around, but it comes to life most in late November. With so much to see and do, Toronto is an understandable favorite for Thanksgiving vacations.
14. Washington, D.C.
- Nearest Airport(s): Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) or Reagan National (DCA).
- Typical Weather (Late November): Crisp autumn air. Highs around 50‑55 °F, lows near 35‑40 °F.
- Travel Tip: Use the metro/subway to get around and avoid peak downtown.
If you’re looking for a patriotic Thanksgiving, Washington, D.C. is hard to beat. The capital has countless beautiful holiday decorations and historic landmarks to find while exploring the city. One highlight is the Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade in downtown Silver Spring, which brings floats, entertainment and marching bands.
For dining, the city has many choices. You can pick up turkey-to-go from local restaurants for a quiet evening, or enjoy a full feast at the Waldorf Astoria Thanksgiving buffet, perfect for gathering with friends and family.
Thanksgiving has deep roots in Washington, D.C. The holiday became official in 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln declared the last Thursday of November a national day of gratitude. Inspired by Sarah Hale, author of Mary Had a Little Lamb, Lincoln encouraged Americans to give thanks and pray for those affected by the Civil War. D.C. became the symbolic heart of this unified celebration.
15. Williamsburg, VA
- Nearest Airport: Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF).
- Typical Weather (Late November): Highs around 55-60 °F, lows near 35-40 °F.
- Travel Tip: Explore the historic area before dusk for lantern lit ambience.
For a traditional Thanksgiving with a historic twist, Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, is a wonderful destination. Thanksgiving here marks the start of the holiday season, and along with classic Thanksgiving activities, visitors can enjoy festive decorations, seasonal programs and family-friendly events.
You can explore the Historic Area, visit the official Jamestown Settlement, or shop for holiday gifts at the Premium Outlets, which stay open longer during the season.
Thanksgiving weekend features special programs, feasts and activities for all ages. Local favorites such as King’s Arms Tavern, Campbell’s Tavern, and the Colonial Williamsburg Lodge can provide hearty meals to enjoy after a day of exploring and shopping. A proud history and plenty of seasonal treats makes Colonial Williamsburg a brilliant Thanksgiving getaway.
How to Prepare for Thanksgiving Vacations
Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year, with millions flying to see family and friends. Planning ahead makes the trip much smoother.
- Arrange Flights Early: Reserve tickets in advance to get the seats you want and keep your group together.
- Travel Light: Bring only a carry-on to save time, avoid baggage fees, and skip waiting at the carousel.
- Use TSA Pre-Check: Breeze through security with this time-saving program.
- Avoid Peak Days: Flying a day or two before or after the busiest travel dates can save stress and sometimes money.
- Airport Hotel & Parking Packages: Planning ahead simplifies your trip and ensures a safe spot for your car.
With a little preparation, you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the holiday.
No matter where you decide to travel to, have a stress-free Thanksgiving vacation. Reserve your airport hotel and parking with ParkSleepFly this holiday season.
FAQs About Thanksgiving Vacations
What are the best places for Thanksgiving vacations?
Popular spots include New York City for the parade, Hawaii for beaches, and Colonial Williamsburg for a traditional feel. Chicago, Savannah, and Lake Tahoe are also great choices.
When should I book a Thanksgiving vacation?
Book flights and hotels at least two to three months in advance. The earlier you book, the better the deals and options.
Are Thanksgiving vacations expensive?
Prices can be higher during the holiday. Advance reservations and package deals can help you save money.
Where is warm for Thanksgiving vacations?
Hawaii, Orlando, and Phoenix are sunny spots that stay warm in late November. They are perfect for outdoor fun and holiday events.
What should I pack for a Thanksgiving trip?
Pack layers for changing weather. Bring chargers, medicine, and any special items for your Thanksgiving meal or gifts.
Can I travel internationally on Thanksgiving?
Yes! Many countries don’t celebrate it, so airports and hotels may be less crowded. Toronto or tropical islands are great choices.
How can I make Thanksgiving travel easier?
Travel on off-peak days, pack carry-ons to skip baggage lines, and book airport hotels if needed.
What can families do on Thanksgiving vacations?
Families can enjoy skiing in Colorado, beaches in Florida, or historic tours in Massachusetts. Resorts often have kid-friendly events too.
Main image: Look Again Digital – Unsplash
