Looking for the best Thanksgiving vacation destinations to spend the long weekend in style? Whether you want a cozy cabin, a luxurious coastal retreat, or an adventurous getaway, we’ve got you covered. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to unwind, reconnect, and explore new places. Here are the best destinations to visit for Thanksgiving 2025:
- New York City, New York
Highlights: Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Central Park, Rockefeller Center, Black Friday shopping
New York City is a top Thanksgiving destination. First, watch the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in person. Enjoy giant balloons, marching bands, and celebrity performances. After the parade, skate in Central Park and enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner at Tavern on the Green or Bubby’s. Then, stick around for the Rockefeller Center tree lighting and shop along 5th Avenue or in SoHo.
Wander Stay Idea: Wander Catskills Creek, a luxury chalet just outside NYC. Enjoy easy access to the city without the crowds. - Napa Valley, California
Highlights: Wine country, Thanksgiving meal with a view, stunning fall foliage, spa treatments
Napa Valley offers a peaceful Thanksgiving vacation. The fall colors are vibrant, and many wineries offer Thanksgiving wine pairings and seasonal menus. Explore boutique hotels or luxury vacation rentals tucked among the vineyards. Then, enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner with a modern California twist—think turkey with pinot noir cranberry sauce.
Relax with a spa treatment or take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards.
Wander Stay Idea: Wander Calistoga Valley, a luxury home with mountain views and a chef’s kitchen for your own Thanksgiving feast. - Charleston, South Carolina
Highlights: Southern hospitality, cobblestone streets, outdoor dining, historic charm
Charleston offers Southern charm and mild weather even in late November. Walk down King Street and shop local boutiques. For Thanksgiving dinner, indulge in cornbread stuffing, collard greens, and sweet potato pie. Some restaurants also offer seafood Thanksgiving meals with oysters and fresh shrimp.
Wander Stay Idea: Wander Hilton Head Drift, a luxury home on a semi-private beach, just 2 hours from Charleston. - Park City, Utah
Highlights: Ski season, mountain views, Thanksgiving Day skiing, cozy winter cabin vibe
Park City is perfect for snow lovers. Ski, snowboard, or ice skate at Park City Mountain Resort. Afterward, enjoy a cozy dinner by the fire at your rental or a rustic fine-dining spot.
Wander Stay Idea: Wander Park City Retreat, a cozy cabin with scenic mountain views and a hot tub to relax in after skiing. - The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee / North Carolina
Highlights: Fall hikes, national parks, rock climbing, rustic Thanksgiving getaway
For outdoor activities, the Great Smoky Mountains are a fantastic choice. Hike scenic trails, spot wildlife, or try rock climbing. Afterward, enjoy a Thanksgiving feast in your private cabin.
This destination is perfect for an extended family getaway, with plenty of room and nearby attractions like Dollywood or Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees.
Wander Stay Idea: Wander Smoky Mountains Timber, a secluded cabin with forest views, a fire pit, and a fully equipped kitchen for your Thanksgiving dinner. - San Diego, California
Highlights: Beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, outdoor adventures, vibrant food scene
San Diego offers beautiful weather for Thanksgiving. Swap turkey for tacos and enjoy fresh seafood. Kayak, whale watch, or hike coastal trails. For Thanksgiving dinner, dine at one of the city’s many restaurants or cook your own feast on your private terrace with ocean views.
Wander Stay Idea: Wander Palomar Mountain, a luxurious retreat with a hot tub, incredible views, and a cozy fireplace. - Aspen, Colorado
Highlights: Winter sports, upscale mountain dining, Thanksgiving Day parade, spa days
Aspen’s 12 Days of Aspen celebration begins in late November. Enjoy festive events, ice skating, and upscale après-ski experiences. Ski on Thanksgiving Day and enjoy a traditional meal at a slope-side lodge or gourmet restaurant. - Newport, Rhode Island
Highlights: Coastal elegance, cobblestone streets, charming small towns, boat parades
Newport is perfect for charm and coastal beauty. Enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner in a Gilded Age mansion or dine at a seaside bistro. Thanksgiving kicks off the holiday season with the Illuminated Boat Parade and ice skating by the harbor. - Ellijay, Georgia
Highlights: Mountain views, fall foliage, apple orchards, peaceful escapes, outdoor adventures
Ellijay, in North Georgia, is perfect for a small-town Thanksgiving. Hike through golden forests, enjoy Southern hospitality, and unwind in your private cabin.
Wander Stay Idea: Wander Ellijay Falls, a beautiful escape above a private waterfall, complete with a hot tub and forest views. - Big Island, Hawaii
Highlights: Beachside Thanksgiving, volcano hikes, outdoor adventures, tropical escape
Skip the cold and head to Hawaii. Spend Thanksgiving paddleboarding, hiking volcanoes, and enjoying a fresh-caught meal by sunset.
Wander Stay Idea: Wander Kona Bay, a luxe oceanfront rental with a pool, BBQ, and everything you need for a warm-weather holiday.
Tips for Planning Your Thanksgiving Trip
- Book early: Thanksgiving is a busy travel period. Start planning at least 2–3 months in advance for the best rates and availability.
- Skip the airport: Wander offers road trip-friendly destinations for those who want to avoid airport chaos.
- Add extra days: Turn Thanksgiving weekend into a long vacation for less stress and more time to relax.
- Make it yours: From spa treatments to personal chef services, Wander’s luxury vacation rentals offer hotel-level comfort and unique amenities.
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