A Thanksgiving Themed Vacation
Travel
Audio By Carbonatix
Ah, Thanksgiving—a time of gratitude, gathering, and, of course, feasting! For those with a heart full of wanderlust, why not take this beloved holiday beyond the dining table and turn it into a full-fledged vacation? November is a magical month to embrace fall colors, seasonal flavors, and traditional warmth, whether in the cozy embrace of small towns or amidst grand natural backdrops. If you’re ready to shake things up, here’s how (and where) to take a Thanksgiving-themed vacation this year.
1. New England: A Quintessential Thanksgiving Experience
If you want to capture the spirit of the first Thanksgiving, a trip to New England is an ideal choice. This region, where the Pilgrims celebrated their first harvest, is brimming with rich history, scenic autumn landscapes, and charming towns.
Plymouth, Massachusetts: The ultimate Thanksgiving destination! Visit Plimoth Patuxet Museums, which offers a recreation of the 1621 feast. You can partake in historically accurate dining experiences, explore a recreated 17th-century English village, and learn about the Wampanoag people who played a crucial role in that first celebration. Plus, Plymouth’s quaint atmosphere is perfect for wandering through fall foliage and savoring the crisp air.
Vermont: For a more serene escape, head to Vermont. The rolling hills, charming villages, and vibrant foliage create a picturesque setting for Thanksgiving. Consider renting a cozy cabin or farmhouse for a true autumn retreat. Gather around a roaring fireplace, prepare a farm-to-table feast, and enjoy local treats like fresh cider and maple-glazed turkey.
2. Savannah, Georgia: A Southern Thanksgiving Soiree
Down in Savannah, you'll find southern charm paired with a laid-back Thanksgiving celebration. This coastal city combines historic beauty with mild November weather, making it an ideal spot to escape the colder northern states while still embracing the holiday spirit.
Holiday Feasts with a Southern Twist: Many local restaurants offer Thanksgiving menus that feature southern classics like cornbread stuffing, sweet potato pie, and roasted turkey with a honey glaze. A riverfront stroll in Savannah’s Historic District sets the stage for a post-feast wander.
Tybee Island: If you’re craving a coastal Thanksgiving, just a short drive from Savannah is Tybee Island, where you can blend turkey time with beach time. Imagine waking up to a view of the Atlantic Ocean, then sitting down to a Thanksgiving meal with the sound of waves in the background.
3. New Orleans, Louisiana: Thanksgiving with a Cajun Twist
If you’re looking for a bit of spice and music in your Thanksgiving plans, look no further than New Orleans. This city embraces every occasion with open arms, and Thanksgiving is no different.
Cajun Thanksgiving: Swap traditional turkey for Cajun-spiced turducken, and instead of pumpkin pie, indulge in a decadent pecan praline. Many of New Orleans’ top restaurants offer Thanksgiving feasts that combine classic holiday fare with local Creole and Cajun flavors.
Festivities: After dinner, take part in the Bayou Classic, which takes place over Thanksgiving weekend. This annual football game between Grambling State and Southern University is a beloved local tradition that includes parades and lively tailgate parties.
4. The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee: A Nature-Lover’s Thanksgiving
For those who prefer a peaceful, nature-immersed holiday, the Great Smoky Mountains provide the perfect backdrop for a Thanksgiving getaway. Nestled on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, this region is known for its stunning fall colors and mountain air that feels crisp and fresh come November.
Cabin Retreats: Rent a secluded cabin in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, where you can roast a Thanksgiving turkey in the comfort of your own kitchen, while gazing out over the misty mountains. After your feast, go for a scenic drive or hike through the national park to catch the last of the fall foliage.
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas: If you visit in late November, you can also experience the early festivities of Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, where the theme park transforms into a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, festive music, and holiday spirit—perfect for adding a magical twist to your Thanksgiving trip.
5. New York City, New York: Thanksgiving in the Big Apple
For a Thanksgiving getaway filled with energy, excitement, and iconic American traditions, it doesn’t get much better than New York City. November brings crisp air and an undeniable buzz to the city, and of course, the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
The Parade: Wake up early, grab a hot chocolate, and find a spot along the parade route to watch enormous balloons, floats, marching bands, and Broadway performances make their way through Manhattan. It’s a Thanksgiving morning tradition like no other.
Holiday Shopping & Skating: After the parade, take a walk through Central Park, visit the Rockefeller Center ice rink, or start your holiday shopping at one of the city’s many festive markets.
6. Santa Fe, New Mexico: A Southwestern Thanksgiving Escape
For a unique and culturally rich Thanksgiving experience, Santa Fe offers a blend of Native American and Spanish heritage with a cozy southwestern vibe. The city’s adobe architecture and stunning desert landscapes make it a beautiful and peaceful destination in late fall.
Southwestern Feast: Try a Thanksgiving meal with a twist—local restaurants serve up traditional turkey, but often with a side of red or green chile sauce, or even tamales in place of stuffing. The fusion of flavors makes for a memorable meal.
Outdoor Adventure: Santa Fe’s nearby mountains offer excellent hiking, and by late November, you might even find some early snowfall. Take a day trip to Bandelier National Monument to explore ancient Native American ruins and soak in the history of the area.
Tips for a Thanksgiving Vacation:
Book early: Thanksgiving is a popular travel time, so securing accommodations and dinner reservations well in advance is key.
Embrace local traditions: Wherever you choose to go, be sure to immerse yourself in the local culture and holiday traditions to make the most of your Thanksgiving vacation.
Pack for the weather: November can bring varied weather, from chilly mountain winds to mild southern breezes, so pack layers and check forecasts ahead of time.
No matter where you go, taking a Thanksgiving-themed vacation is a wonderful way to make the holiday truly memorable. Whether you’re seeking history, adventure, or relaxation, these destinations offer a perfect blend of gratitude and getaway. Where will you celebrate this Thanksgiving? The world is waiting!
