Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, express gratitude, and savor delicious meals. While many people celebrate at home, others opt to travel and experience this special holiday in unique and memorable ways. If you’re considering a Thanksgiving getaway, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit on Thanksgiving Day, each offering a distinctive take on this beloved holiday.
Best Places To Visit On Thanksgiving Day This Year
1. Lake Tahoe, Nevada
Lake Tahoe is a picturesque paradise known for its breathtaking alpine scenery. It is one of the best weekend getaways in the USA and offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and holiday festivities. Visitors can spend their day surrounded by stunning lake and mountain views while indulging in traditional Thanksgiving feasts at local restaurants and resorts.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities, from hiking and mountain biking to taking a scenic drive along the lake’s edge. You can also go for several water sports like boating, jet skiing, paddle-boarding, and kayaking on the clear blue waters of Lake Tahoe. Additionally, many ski resorts often open in late November, providing an early start to the winter sports season for those looking to hit the slopes. Take a leisurely drive around the lake’s rim to enjoy stunning vistas. Don’t miss the Emerald Bay State Park and Sand Harbor viewpoints. This place is definitely among the best places to visit on Thanksgiving.
You can also visit the lakeside casinos, such as Harrah’s and MontBleu, for gaming, live entertainment, and fine dining. Relax on the sandy shores of Zephyr Cove, Kings Beach, or Sand Harbor State Park, ideal for sunbathing and picnicking. To explore the natural beauty of this place, visit Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, Cave Rock State Park, and hike to the Eagle Falls.
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2. Iceland
Iceland, a land of dramatic landscapes, is one of the best places to visit on Thanksgiving. On this remote Nordic island, you can embark on unique adventures, from witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights to soaking in geothermal hot springs like the Blue Lagoon. Thanksgiving celebrations often feature sumptuous feasts with locally sourced ingredients, including the famed Icelandic lamb.
Explore the famous Golden Circle route, which includes the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. Moreover, Iceland’s breathtaking glaciers and black-sand beaches provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to hike, ice climb, or simply revel in the country’s wild beauty. Visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, enjoy the vibrant street art scene, and indulge in the city’s culinary delights in Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik.
Witness the beauty of the South Coast with Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. Discover the enchanting landscapes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, known as “Iceland in Miniature,” featuring lava fields, fjords, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain.
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3. Alabama
Alabama, known for its rich history and Southern charm, offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for celebrating Thanksgiving. Alabama is one of the best places to visit on Thanksgiving, where you can enjoy a traditional feast with mouthwatering Southern dishes like turkey, collard greens, and sweet potato casserole. Join local parades and community events in cities like Birmingham or Montgomery, or take a leisurely stroll through picturesque small towns like Fairhope, basking in the mild autumn weather.
Visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Birmingham Museum of Art, and Vulcan Park for a taste of the city’s culture and history. Enjoy the white sandy beaches and turquoise waters along the Gulf Coast, especially in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Discover the state capital’s historical significance by visiting the Rosa Parks Museum and the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery. Visit historic sites like Fort Morgan and Horseshoe Bend National Military Park to learn about the state’s role in the Civil War.
Drive or bike along this historic parkway, connecting Alabama with Mississippi and Tennessee, with stops for hiking and picnicking. Also, you can go to taste regional wines and explore vineyards along the Alabama Wine Trail, with vineyards in areas like Huntsville and Birmingham.
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4. Arkansas
Nestled in the heart of the United States, Arkansas is a state renowned for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes. As one of the best places to visit on Thanksgiving, this southern gem offers a picturesque backdrop for gratitude and celebration. Enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving feast featuring local flavors such as smoked turkey and pecan pie.
Explore the state’s pristine wilderness by embarking on hikes through the Ozark Mountains or visiting the stunning Buffalo National River. Immerse yourself in the rich history by touring historic towns like Eureka Springs or the Arkansas Post National Memorial. Thanksgiving in Arkansas is a time to cherish both its scenic landscapes and warm Southern hospitality. Visit the charming, Victorian-era town of Eureka Springs, known for its historic architecture and art galleries.
Explore the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, this world-class museum in Bentonville features a stunning collection of American art and beautiful walking trails. The Devil’s Den State Park, Mount Magazine, and Petit Jean State Park are perfect to discover the state’s natural beauty by hiking.
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5. Belize
Belize, nestled on the Caribbean coast of Central America, provides a tropical paradise as one of the best places to visit on Thanksgiving. Amidst its lush rainforests and pristine beaches, you can celebrate this holiday with a unique twist. Savor a delectable Thanksgiving meal featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Take the opportunity to explore the world’s second-largest barrier reef through snorkeling, swim with colorful marine life at Great Blue Hole and venture into the ancient Maya ruins like Xunantunich and Caracol. Hike through the dense jungles, visit wildlife sanctuaries, and embrace the natural beauty that Belize has to offer. Float through the mystical caves of the Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve, combining adventure with Mayan history and experience the thrill of rappelling down waterfalls in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.
Belize is a paradise for birdwatchers, offering opportunities to spot rare and exotic bird species in its numerous reserves. Explore idyllic cayes and atolls like Ambergris Caye and Glover’s Atoll, known for their beautiful beaches and water activities.
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6. Bahamas
The Bahamas, a tropical paradise of 700 islands and 2,400 cays, offers a captivating setting as one of the best places to visit on Thanksgiving. On this day of gratitude, you can revel in the turquoise waters and pristine beaches, while enjoying a sumptuous Thanksgiving feast featuring fresh seafood and local Bahamian cuisine. Explore the vibrant coral reefs through snorkeling and diving, or simply relax on the stunning shores. You can also engage in water sports, from paddle boarding to deep-sea fishing.
Thanksgiving in the Bahamas provides an ideal opportunity to embrace island life, soak in the sun, and cherish the warmth of Bahamian hospitality in a breathtaking Caribbean backdrop. Explore the pristine white-sand beaches of Nassau, Paradise Island, and the Out Islands, including Cable Beach and Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island. Discover the vibrant underwater world of coral reefs and marine life, with famous spots like Thunderball Grotto and the Andros Barrier Reef. Explore the vibrant capital city of Nassau, with attractions like Fort Fincastle, the Queen’s Staircase, and the vibrant Straw Market.
Take boat tours to discover the beauty of the Exuma Cays, Bimini, or the Abacos. Savor Bahamian cuisine, featuring conch salad, cracked conch, and Bahamian stewfish at local restaurants and fish shacks. Dive into the mysterious and enchanting underwater blue holes, like Dean’s Blue Hole, the world’s deepest known saltwater blue hole.
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7. Croatia
Croatia, with its stunning Adriatic coastline and rich cultural heritage, provides one of the best places to visit on Thanksgiving. On this holiday, you can indulge in a delightful feast featuring a fusion of Mediterranean and Croatian cuisine. Explore the charming old towns of Dubrovnik and Split, admire the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park, or wander the historic streets of Zagreb.
Revel in the beauty of Croatia’s pristine beaches and idyllic islands, or embark on thrilling outdoor adventures, such as hiking and sailing. You can explore the stunning walled city of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its historic architecture and scenic city walls, and visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of Europe’s most stunning national parks, known for its cascading waterfalls and pristine lakes.
Explore Diocletian’s Palace and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Riva promenade in Split. Visit Hvar for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and lavender fields. Be a part of cultural festivals and see the charming town of Korčula, the birthplace of Marco Polo.
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8. Adirondack Park
The Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York provide a picturesque backdrop, making it one of the best places to visit on Thanksgiving. This serene wilderness offers the perfect escape for those seeking a rustic and tranquil holiday. On Thanksgiving Day, visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty with scenic hikes, kayak adventures on pristine lakes, and cozy cabin getaways.
The Adirondacks are also known for their vibrant fall foliage, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of colors during the holiday season. Whether you prefer a traditional feast by the fireplace or an outdoor picnic with a view, the Adirondacks offer a Thanksgiving getaway filled with serenity and natural splendor. Visit the Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Lake George. Discover beautiful waterfalls like High Falls Gorge and Roaring Brook Falls.
Spot diverse wildlife, including deer, moose, and various bird species, in the Adirondack wilderness. Explore the six-million-acre Adirondack Park, offering a mix of wilderness and vibrant communities.
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9. Western Montana
Montana, with its vast landscapes and rugged beauty, provides a unique setting for one of the best places to visit on Thanksgiving. On this holiday, visitors can bask in the state’s natural grandeur, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and serene wilderness. Thanksgiving in Montana invites travelers to embrace the outdoors, with opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and horseback riding in the pristine winter wonderland.
Enjoy a hearty Thanksgiving meal featuring locally sourced ingredients like bison and huckleberries. Montana offers the chance to reconnect with nature, share gratitude, and savor the tranquil beauty of the American West during this special time of year. Explore Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park to discover pristine wilderness, geothermal wonders, and dramatic landscapes. Visit the charming town of Gardiner, the north entrance to Yellowstone, with local shops and restaurants.
Explore Missoula’s vibrant arts scene, museums, and nearby attractions like the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas. Tour impressive limestone caves and enjoy the scenic landscapes of Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park.
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10. St. Lucia
St. Lucia, a tropical jewel in the Caribbean, provides a stunning backdrop and serves as one of the best places to visit on Thanksgiving. This island paradise offers an opportunity to embrace gratitude amidst its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. On Thanksgiving Day, savor a feast with a Caribbean twist, featuring fresh seafood and Creole specialties.
Enjoy water-based activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, or sailing, taking in the underwater beauty of coral reefs and marine life. Explore the island’s iconic Pitons, rainforest trails, and volcanic hot springs. Hike through Gros Piton and Petit Piton, two iconic volcanic peaks that offer breathtaking views of the island. Explore the coral reefs and underwater wonders of the Anse Chastanet Marine Reserve and Soufriere Marine Management Area.
Relax on beautiful beaches, including Reduit Beach, Anse Chastanet, and Sugar Beach. Wander through the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens, showcasing exotic plants, mineral baths, and waterfalls. Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise along the coast, often accompanied by live music and a delicious dinner. Visit Toraille Waterfall and Piton Falls, where you can swim in the refreshing waters.
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