Why not switch things up this Thanksgiving? Instead of staying home, consider traveling to one of the fantastic destinations for Thanksgiving! Many family members will likely need to travel anyway, so why not make it an adventure? The best destinations for Thanksgiving don’t even have to be in the U.S., and you can celebrate with all the traditions you love.
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to travel. It’s a long weekend, making it easy to enjoy a break without feeling rushed. Plus, no one has to spend hours cooking a big meal, which means more time to relax and enjoy your surroundings. Whether you’re going solo, seeking romance, or bringing the whole family together, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.
So, check out our top picks for the best destinations for Thanksgiving in 2024 and get ready for an unforgettable holiday experience! You might just find your new favorite place to celebrate!
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The Top Destinations for Thanksgiving This Year
Experience a Festive Thanksgiving in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania!
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is one of the best destinations for Thanksgiving this year! Did you know that Philadelphia hosts the oldest Thanksgiving Day Parade in the U.S.? This amazing event started in 1920 and is known for being the “most band-friendly” parade around. Get ready for an exciting day filled with 19 marching bands and over 90 musicians making their way along the beautiful Ben Franklin Parkway.
The parade features tons of music, vibrant performances, and giant floats and balloons. You might even spot some familiar faces among the celebrities! After the parade, head over to LOVE Park to keep the fun going at the newly opened Christmas Village.
It’s a family-friendly event where kids can enjoy the vintage theme park and explore charming wooden stalls. Meanwhile, adults can warm up with delicious mulled wine and bratwurst for a unique twist on Thanksgiving. Just remember to dress warmly, as November in Philly can be chilly! Don’t miss out on these fantastic destinations for Thanksgiving!
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Enjoy a Sunny Thanksgiving in Long Beach, California!
If you’re not into freezing temperatures, why not celebrate Thanksgiving in Long Beach, California? Join the fun at the Long Beach Turkey Trot, happening on the Saturday after Thanksgiving! Get the whole family involved and dress up in costumes to run. There’s a one-mile race for kids and a six-mile challenge for serious runners. It’s a fantastic way to burn off those Thanksgiving calories while supporting great causes!
After the race, spend the rest of your Thanksgiving week exploring the city and enjoying the beautiful coast. Don’t miss the chance to go on a whale-watching tour, as it’s the perfect time to see Gray Whales migrating close to shore. Long Beach is truly one of the best destinations for Thanksgiving, combining fun, family activities, and stunning ocean views!
Celebrate Thanksgiving in Style at Sagamore Resort, New York!
Looking for the best all-inclusive resort for Thanksgiving? Look no further than Sagamore Resort in the beautiful Adirondacks, New York! This stunning 139-year-old hotel offers a perfect blend of tradition and comfort. In November, the trees burst with fall colors, and Lake George sparkles under soft pink skies, creating a magical setting.
Sagamore Resort has a packed four-day Thanksgiving schedule that ensures fun for everyone. Enjoy nightly bonfires with s’mores and live music, plus delicious Thanksgiving meals in the grand ballroom. Don’t miss giant screenings of the Macy’s Day Parade, football games, and family movie nights.
With Christmas tree lighting and even horseback riding, this resort serves up Thanksgiving on a silver platter! It’s one of the best destinations for Thanksgiving, offering unforgettable memories for the whole family. Make this holiday season special at Sagamore Resort!
Experience a Tropical Thanksgiving in Nassau, The Bahamas!
Why freeze this Thanksgiving when you can enjoy the warm sun in Nassau, The Bahamas? It’s the perfect escape for those looking to celebrate the holiday in a tropical paradise. Although the Bahamas doesn’t officially celebrate Thanksgiving, you’ll still find plenty of festive events to enjoy.
Forget the traditional Thanksgiving Day Parade and immerse yourself in the vibrant Junkanoo celebrations instead! For a truly luxurious experience, stay at Baha Mar in Nassau. You can indulge in a fabulous Thanksgiving dinner at the Rosewood, while the kids have a blast at the Grand Hyatt.
With beautiful beaches and warm weather, Nassau is one of the best destinations for Thanksgiving. Soak up the sun and celebrate the holiday in style while creating unforgettable memories with family and friends!
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Discover a Vibrant Thanksgiving in Montego Bay, Jamaica!
Montego Bay offers the best of both worlds for your Thanksgiving getaway! Experience the lively Jamaican city filled with energy and charm, or retreat to the luxurious resorts along the stunning coastline. No matter where you go, you can count on one thing: it’s always hot!
Explore the famous Hip Strip, where locals and cruise ship passengers gather at lively beachfront bars like the well-known Margaritaville. Thanksgiving Day in the city is bustling with excitement and fun!
For a more relaxing experience, head to the upscale resorts in Ironshore, where you can unwind away from the hustle and bustle. Or take a quick trip to Louca Bay and check out the newly renovated Grand Palladium.
Celebrate Thanksgiving in Beautiful Guanacaste, Costa Rica!
Add a splash of Pura Vida to your Thanksgiving by visiting Guanacaste, Costa Rica! This stunning region is famous for its beautiful black sand beaches, perfect for a tropical escape. Playa Negra and Playa Carbon, near the lively town of Tamarindo, are truly magical spots to soak up the sun.
Experience the lush tropical jungles, massive waves, and vibrant bird species that make this area special. A short drive south leads you to the Ostional Wildlife Refuge, where you can witness the incredible mass nesting of Olive Ridley, Leatherback, and Pacific Green sea turtles.
For a relaxed stay, book a room at the cozy Harmony Hotel, just steps away from tranquil Playa Guiones. Enjoy lazing on the beach, surfing the waves, or horseback riding along the shore. Guanacaste is one of the best destinations for Thanksgiving, offering relaxation and adventure in a tropical paradise!
Enjoy a Cozy Thanksgiving in Boulder, Colorado!
Boulder, Colorado, is the perfect place to spend your Thanksgiving, offering fresh mountain air and stunning blue skies. If you’re traveling alone, the friendly locals will make you feel right at home after a day of outdoor adventures.
Stay in downtown Boulder, where you can easily walk to various bars and restaurants to experience local flavors. Plus, you’ll have quick access to amazing skiing and hiking opportunities, whether you’re on your own or with friends.
Don’t miss the Boulder Ballet’s festive performance of The Nutcracker during Thanksgiving weekend—it’s a beloved local tradition! For more cultural fun, check out the Dairy Arts Center, which hosts a variety of events, including movies, music, and comedy shows.
Discover Thanksgiving Magic in Orlando, Florida!
Searching for the best destinations for Thanksgiving? Look no further than Orlando, Florida! Whether you prefer a relaxed getaway or an action-packed adventure, Orlando has it all. With mild weather and fewer crowds, it’s an ideal spot for a memorable Thanksgiving trip.
In Orlando, you can enjoy everything from casual Thanksgiving buffets to fancy feasts that satisfy every taste bud—yes, even those who only want a peanut butter and jelly sandwich! The city is home to famous theme parks like Magic Kingdom, Epcot, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, and LEGOLAND, ensuring fun for the whole family.
You can dive into exciting parades, entertaining shows, and thrilling water parks. There are rides for everyone, from hair-raising roller coasters to gentle attractions for little ones. Orlando truly is the “Theme Park Capital of the World!” So why not make this Thanksgiving unforgettable? Make sure to book early to secure your spot in these fantastic destinations for Thanksgiving!
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Destinations for Thanksgiving Bliss in Riviera Maya, Mexico!
Looking for the best destinations for Thanksgiving? Look no further than the stunning Riviera Maya in Mexico! With its beautiful turquoise waters and easy access for East Coasters, it’s perfect for a long weekend getaway.
At Etéreo, an Auberge Resort, you’ll find a unique mix of Mexican culture and wellness. This Thanksgiving, enjoy special experiences like gratitude rituals, cacao ceremonies, and even sound baths. You can also indulge in tequila and Mexican wine tastings, cooking classes, and fun game nights!
On Thanksgiving Day, prepare for a feast that combines American favorites with a Mexican twist. Imagine turkey served with chile jus, homemade chicharron paired with cranberry sauce, and chipotle-glazed carrots. It’s a delicious way to celebrate!
