Thanksgiving doesn’t require a week of work and kitchen duty. This year, why not trade the apron for a suitcase? Instead of cooking turkeys, you could be exploring sunny beaches, sipping cocoa in mountain towns, or relaxing in charming holiday villages.
Many travelers are already breaking free from the usual holiday routine and celebrating Thanksgiving in their own unique way. And honestly, we think it’s the best upgrade ever!
So, welcome to Thanksgiving Getaways 2025, your go-to guide for the best places to escape, explore and enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday week. Let the planning begin!
1. New York City
New York is one of the most popular Thanksgiving destinations in 2025 as the city feels alive with the holiday spirit.
To work:
- Check out the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
- Ice skate at Rockefeller Center.
- Explore the fall colors of Central Park.
- Shop at holiday markets like Bryant Park Winter Village
Agent’s tip: Feature premium parade view hotels in your packages to upsell clients and create exclusive experiences around Macy’s Parade.
2. Orlando, Florida
If you want sunshine and non-stop excitement during your Thanksgiving holiday, Orlando is perfect.
To work:
- Check out Walt Disney World’s holiday events.
- Watch a special Thanksgiving fireworks display at the Magic Kingdom.
- Enjoy festive shows from Universal Studios.
- Relax by the pool between park days.
Agent tip: Packages with hotel early theme park access continue to attract families looking for hassle-free Thanksgiving getaways.
3. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville might be a great place to go for Thanksgiving if you want to celebrate it with nature and amazing views.
To work:
- Visit the Biltmore Estate’s Christmas display.
- Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway for late fall scenery.
- Enjoy craft breweries and mountain cafes.
- Search for local attractions in the city.
Agent tip: Recommend early morning drives on the Blue Ridge Parkway for the best light and less crowds.
4. San Diego, California
San Diego offers warm weather and coastal relaxation for Thanksgiving travelers.
To work:
- Spend the day at La Jolla Cove or Coronado Beach.
- Visit the San Diego Zoo.
- Take a sunset cruise on the harbor.
- Enjoy a beachside Thanksgiving brunch.
Agent tip: Reserve sea view restaurants early for holiday menus to avoid disappointment.
5. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans offers a Thanksgiving that is anything but ordinary. Here, you can easily find jazz-filled streets, festive parades, and a food scene that turns a holiday feast into an unforgettable experience.
To work:
- Try popular Thanksgiving dishes such as “turdkin.”
- Enjoy jazz music in the French Quarter.
- Join a food tour for Cajun and Creole favorites.
- Walk through Jackson Square’s holiday displays.
Agent tip: Market-themed food tours and jazz experiences as special add-ons to create culturally rich, memorable Thanksgiving experiences.
6. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a peaceful, uplifting Thanksgiving. Surrounded by stunning red rocks, quiet trails, and crisp desert air, it’s the perfect place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a vacation recovery.
To work:
- Hike Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock.
- Relax at world-class spas and wellness retreats.
- Join a stargazing tour.
- Enjoy a Southwest-style Thanksgiving dinner.
Agent tip: Recommend sunrise hikes to clients – they are cool, calm, and offer amazing morning views.
Also read: Why Macau is a Must-Have Gastronomy Destination
7. Honolulu, Hawaii
If you want a tropical vacation rather than celebrating Thanksgiving, then Honolulu is ‘it’ for you.
To work:
- Attend a Hawaiian Luau with a traditional meal.
- Relax on Waki ​​Beach.
- Raise Hera’s Head for ocean views.
- Try fresh poke bowls instead of turkey.
Agent tip: Book flights early. Thanksgiving trip to Hawaii is very popular.
8. London, UK
London celebrates Thanksgiving with great flair – even though it’s not a traditional British holiday. From special Thanksgiving menus across the city to festive lights, famous landmarks, and cozy winter vibes, London gives you a stylish, global twist on the holiday.
Things to Do During Thanksgiving Week:
- Enjoy a special Thanksgiving dinner at a classic pub
- Explore the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace
- Visit the winter markets
- Go kayaking on the Thames
- Stroll through the early Christmas displays
London is perfect if you want to appreciate the historic yet festive vibe.
Agent tip: Thanksgiving dinner reservations at iconic pubs with guided tours of festive markets for a premium international holiday feel.
9. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago offers the best of both worlds for Thanksgiving. Stroll the festive markets, catch seasonal shows, and explore famous museums while soaking up the city’s vibrant holiday spirit.
To work:
- Discover the spectacular Mile Lights Festival.
- Visit the Art Institute of Chicago.
- Ice skate at Millennium Park.
- Try a deep-dish pizza between viewing sequences.
Agent’s tip: Promote free festival events alongside paid attractions in bundled itineraries to appeal to budget-conscious customers without compromising the experience.
10. Charleston, South Carolina
When you visit Charleston, it will offer warm hospitality and coastal beauty for a Thanksgiving holiday.
To work:
- Walk the cobblestone streets of the historic district.
- Enjoy Charleston’s famous seafood and southern cuisine.
- Take a sunset harbor cruise.
- Check out Waterfront Park and Rainbow Row.
Agent tip: Offer restaurant reservations prepared for Thanksgiving menus in conjunction with Harbor Cruises to upsell customers on an all-day experience.
11. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs blends slow-paced life with stunning desert views.
Things to Do During Thanksgiving Week:
- Enjoy an outdoor brunch
- Ride the aerial tramway
- Rise in Indian Valleys
- Visit the Modern Art Museum
- Shop at chic boutiques
Agent tip: Market sunset exploration tours and shop shopping as “Exclusive Insider Experiences” to differentiate your package.
12. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver offers a quiet Thanksgiving with fresh air and great scenery.
To work:
- Walk or bike through Stanley Park.
- Explore the markets of Granville Island.
- Take a day trip to Whistler.
- Enjoy a warm cafe on a rainy November day.
Agent tip: Positioning your package as both practical and elegant, create layered outfits and natural itineraries for customers.
Popular Thanksgiving Dishes to Try
- Baked Turkey
- Mashed potatoes
- Green Bean Casserole
- Pecan Pie
- Cranberry sauce
- Sweet Potato Rolls
- Mac and cheese
- Apple Pie
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Make this Thanksgiving one you’ll truly remember!
Thanksgiving doesn’t mean hours in the kitchen and post-dinner chaos. With the right destination, it becomes a refreshing mix of food, entertainment and unforgettable moments. Whether you want snow in Lake Tahoe, sunshine in Hawaii, or city buzz in New York, these Thanksgiving getaways make 2025 a holiday to remember. So, pack your bags, release the stress, and celebrate Thanksgiving your way!
General Questionnaire
What is Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is a Christian holiday that celebrates gratitude, family and togetherness. People enjoy festive food, watch parades and end the holiday season.
When is Thanksgiving being celebrated in 2025?
Thanksgiving in 2025 will be celebrated on Thursday, November 27.
Is Thanksgiving a good time to travel?
Yes, Thanksgiving week is great for travel if you plan early. Many destinations offer festive events, special dinners and holiday markets.
What are the best Thanksgiving destinations for 2025?
Top destinations include New York, Orlando, Hawaii and London, which offer parades, festive food and holiday activities.
Do restaurants serve Thanksgiving meals in tourist towns?
Of course! From classic Turkish fare to creative global twists, major cities and resorts around the world serve up special Thanksgiving menus.
