Top Thanksgiving Week Destinations: Where to Celebrate and Explore
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, gratitude, and—if you're like me—taking advantage of the school and work time off to travel! From warm small town escapes to charming, history-filled cities, here are some of the best places to spend Thanksgiving week, complete with some of the top activities and must-see spots.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston perfectly blends Southern charm with rich history, making it an ideal spot for a Thanksgiving getaway. The cobblestone streets, antebellum houses, and waterfront views create a picturesque setting that feels straight out of a storybook.
Things to Do:
Thanksgiving Feast: Charleston’s top restaurants roll out special Thanksgiving menus featuring Southern classics like sweet potato casserole and pecan pie. For a memorable meal, consider dining at Husk or Magnolias.
Explore Historic Downtown: Wander through Charleston’s historic district, where you can visit iconic landmarks like the Nathaniel Russell House and the Charleston City Market.
Fort Sumter Tour: Dive into American history with a boat tour to Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.
Holiday Festival of Lights: Kick off the holiday season with the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park, where millions of twinkling lights set the scene for a festive evening.
New York City
Thanksgiving in New York City is iconic, thanks to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. But beyond the parade, the city offers countless ways to enjoy the holiday week.
Things to Do:
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: Experience the magic of the parade in person, with larger-than-life balloons, floats, and live performances. The best viewing spots are along Central Park West and 6th Avenue.
Ice Skating in Central Park: Lace up your skates and glide across the ice at Wollman Rink, surrounded by stunning views of the city skyline.
Broadway Shows: Thanksgiving week is a perfect time to catch a Broadway show. Popular hits like Hamilton or The Lion King often have extra performances.
Holiday Shopping: Start your holiday shopping on 5th Avenue or explore the festive holiday markets at Bryant Park and Union Square.
Napa Valley, California
For a more relaxed and luxurious Thanksgiving, Napa Valley is the place to be. Known for its world-class wineries and breathtaking landscapes, it’s the ideal spot for a laid-back holiday week.
Things to Do:
Wine Tastings: Spend your days touring Napa’s renowned wineries.
Hot Air Balloon Ride: Soar above Napa Valley’s vineyards with a sunrise hot air balloon ride—an unforgettable way to start the day.
Spa Day: Indulge in a relaxing day at one of Napa’s luxurious spas, such as Auberge du Soleil or Solage Calistoga.
Thanksgiving Dinner: Enjoy a special Thanksgiving menu at Napa Valley’s top restaurants, including The French Laundry and Bouchon Bistro, perfectly paired with local wines.
Orlando, Florida
Orlando isn’t just for summer vacations—Thanksgiving week here offers a festive blend of holiday events and thrilling attractions, making it a perfect choice for families.
Things to Do:
Disney World: Experience the holiday magic at Disney during Thanksgiving week. The parks are decked out for the holidays, and you can enjoy special events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
Universal Studios: Dive into the festive spirit at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can explore the holiday-themed Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade.
Thanksgiving Dinner: Orlando’s resorts and theme parks offer special Thanksgiving meals. Consider dining at Ravello*at the Four Seasons or The Boathouse at Disney Springs.
Kennedy Space Center: Take a day trip to the Kennedy Space Center to learn about space exploration, complete with interactive exhibits and the chance to see a rocket launch.
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio offers a unique blend of history, culture, and Tex-Mex cuisine, making it a fantastic destination for Thanksgiving week. The city’s mild weather and festive atmosphere are added bonuses.
Things to Do:
River Walk: Stroll along the famous River Walk, beautifully lit up for the holidays. Enjoy a boat tour or dine at one of the many riverside restaurants.
The Alamo: Explore the historic Alamo and learn about the pivotal battle that shaped Texas history.
Thanksgiving at La Cantera: Celebrate Thanksgiving with a meal at SweetFire Kitchen at La Cantera Resort & Spa, where you can enjoy both traditional and Tex-Mex-inspired dishes.
Holiday Lighting Ceremony: Join the festivities at the Ford Holiday River Parade and lighting ceremony, a beloved San Antonio tradition.
Savannah, Georgia
With its oak-lined streets and historic squares, Savannah offers a charming and peaceful setting for Thanksgiving. The city’s warm hospitality and beautiful architecture make it a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the holiday.
Things to Do:
Thanksgiving Dinner: Savor a Southern-style Thanksgiving feast at Belford’s, where traditional dishes come with a local twist.
Explore the Historic District: Wander through Savannah’s historic district, visiting landmarks like Forsyth Park and Bonaventure Cemetery.
Riverboat Cruise: Enjoy a scenic riverboat cruise along the Savannah River, complete with live entertainment and stunning city views.
Shopping on Broughton Street: Start your holiday shopping with a stroll down Broughton Street, lined with charming boutiques and local shops.
Thanksgiving is a perfect time to travel, whether you’re seeking a traditional celebration or a new adventure. These destinations offer a mix of history, culture, and festive activities that will make your Thanksgiving week truly special. Send me a message and let’s plan your family’s holiday getaway!
