Ditch the housecleaning and turkey roasting, and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to a trip instead of dinner that takes days to make and minutes to eat. From quiet getaways in the mountains to top cities in the U.S. and beyond, you can enjoy the holiday instead of cooking and cleaning. Here is where to go for Thanksgiving, from New York City to New Orleans and beyond.
Where to Go for Thanksgiving
New York City
Orlando, Florida
San Antonio, Texas
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Salem, Massachusetts
Branson, Missouri
Scottsdale, Arizona
New Orleans, Louisiana
Cancun, Mexico
London, England
New York City
The Macy’s Parade is a full-blown spectacle. It takes over Manhattan, and both visitors and residents line the parade route to enjoy the hours-long affair. Afterward, NYC transforms into a shopper’s delight, and you’ll find outdoor holiday markets (some with ice rinks).
Retail stores decorate their windows; some even add light shows to their exteriors. New York City is a magical place to visit over the holidays. I used to live there and visit in December whenever I get the chance.
Top Places to Go in NYC in December
Orlando, Florida
The amusement parks experience their highest attendance numbers over the winter holidays. However, the parks are decorated for the Holiday season at Thanksgiving.
With pleasant November weather, visitors will enjoy all the rides without the sweltering heat of the warmer months. It’s a nice break for those headed into a long winter season since you can still dip your toes into the outdoor pools.
San Antonio, Texas
The San Antonio River Walk transforms for the holiday season. With twinkling lights dangling from the towering Cypress trees, downtown San Antonio is magical.
On the Friday after Thanksgiving, the Holiday season kicks off with the Ford Holiday River Parade, where a lighted parade floats down the San Antonio River. Visitors will also find luminaires at some of San Antonio’s top spots.
Top Things to Do in San Antonio
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Here at Carful of Kids Travel, we love National Parks. The Grand Canyon’s South Rim offers stunning scenery to explore, along with lots of lodging and dining options.
A national park getaway is focused on the outdoors and the Grand Canyon offers lots of options. Visitors can take Jeep tours, hike, enjoy the night sky and more. Best of all, the area offers many lodging and dining options, from luxury to glamping or camping.
Top Things to Do at the Grand Canyon
Salem, Massachusetts
If fall is your favorite season, then head to Salem for Thanksgiving. It is still decorated with fall decorations and Halloween lovers can tour its infamous Salem Witch Trial sites.
Located on the water, Salem boasts crisp but sunny days in November. Best of all, the crowds from October have evaporated, but the top attractions are still open until after the holiday.
Top Things to Do in Salem
Branson, Missouri
Enjoy family time in a cabin in the woods. Branson, Missouri, blends the best of a mountain getaway with lots of fun activities. The hills are ablaze in fall color, and the weather screams for sweaters.
You can even enjoy your favorite foods for Thanksgiving in a cabin rental that offers an outfitted kitchen. Branson offers shopping, dining and entertainment as well: For amusement park lovers, Silver Dollar City hosts its annual Old Time Christmas too.
Top Things to Do in Branson
Scottsdale, Arizona
If the desert is calling your name, then head to Scottsdale, Arizona. There, you will find lots of luxury resorts with amazing pools and planned activities, from pickleball to falconry lessons.
The weather is warm during the day with cool nights. So visitors can enjoy their days hiking, cycling or enjoying the many outdoor patios across Scottsdale.
Top Resorts in Scottsdale
New Orleans, Louisiana
Based in the French Quarter, travelers can sink deep into the culinary scene in New Orleans with a Cajun and Creole twist. From Brennan’s to Arnaud’s, many of the top tables in the French Quarter are open and serve a special Thanksgiving menu.
Afterward, stroll the streets window shopping or enjoy the decorated lobby at the Roosevelt New Orleans. To round out the weekend, visit any number of museums, like the National WW II Museum. I spent Thanksgiving in New Orleans, and we had a great time; remember to make reservations for the top tables.
Top 23 Places to Eat in New Orleans
Cancun, Mexico
The Yucatan Peninsula offers many places to relax and enjoy its white-sand beaches. From the hotel zone in Cancun to the beaches of Tulum, this area boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in North America.
High season peaks over the Winter Holidays; however, you can enjoy the temperate weather in November. Best of all, the hurricane season is over. Cancun International Airport offers over 100 nonstops and is one of Mexico’s largest airports.
Resort Review: Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun
London, England
London is the Capital and largest city of England. As a thoroughly modern city, it has a history dating back to Roman times and preserves its Medieval History. London is an excellent first European Destination for travelers, and many visit it over and over since it offers many nonstop from the States.
From the Tower of London to Westminister Abbey to Buckingham Castle, travelers can see top Royal sites while in England. London’s museums are top notch too, with the British Museum a must. Make time for a proper afternoon tea and maybe see some Harry Potter sites.
Top Things to Do in London on Your First Visit
Caribbean Islands
From the Dominican Republic to the Grand Cayman to Sint Maarten, travelers will find the island of their dreams in the Caribbean. Resorts and luxurious rentals are the best bets for holiday celebrations.
Each island offers its own unique culture, history and food. However, one thing is consistent: travelers will find beautiful beaches and water sports on each. With dozens of nonstops and direct flights from the U.S., the Caribbean Islands are closer than you think.
