When the fourth Thursday of November rolls around, you either fall into one of two camps. There are the homebirds who love nothing more than staying in, enjoying a turkey dinner with their family, and catching a game of NFL. Then you’ve got the adventurers that will jump on the chance of a cheeky getaway with their time off. If you’re reading this, I have a feeling I know which camp you’re in.
For a Thanksgiving break, your options are wide open. You could stay within and travel somewhere in the US, but you better be prepared to pay a premium or head away abroad to a country where Thanksgiving isn’t a thing and catch some amazing bargains.
Just remember, you’ll have to take on the crazy airport crowds and the lengthy security lines, so it won’t be an easy ride. However, the traveler in you will say it’s all worth it for those few days away.
Need some help on where to go? Pick one of these locations for your Thanksgiving vacation.
Is It Good to Travel During Thanksgiving?
If you’ve been in an airport during Thanksgiving before, you’ll know it can be a grueling time to travel. So many people are trying to get home to see family, stress levels are high, the vacationers are hoping on their flights to Cancun, and the staff are losing their minds. Pretty exciting, don’t you think?
Don’t be too frightened, though; as long as you plan your days accordingly, traveling throughout Thanksgiving is fine. Generally, the Sunday after Thanksgiving day is a major no-go as everyone is racing back home to get back in time for work. The actual day of Thanksgiving sees the least traffic pass through US airports, so it could be a good opportunity if you’re willing to wait until then. From the flight data we have at Kiwi, the Saturday before and Wednesday tend to be quieter days, too.
Where Do People Travel Most on Thanksgiving?
As long as the airports are open, people are traveling all over the world on Thanksgiving. Some stay within North America, others like to venture to Europe, and then you have those who have more time on their hands and can’t resist booking flights internationally.
Here’s our rundown of the most popular travel spots for Thanksgiving.
Warm Destinations for Thanksgiving
Hawaii, USA
November marks the end of Hawaii’s rainy season, so what better time to visit than Thanksgiving when people are still holding off their trips for another month or two?
Instead of freezing your pants off in New York, why not trade your jackets for shorts on Waikiki Beach? Since Hawaii is a US state, you’ll get the best of both worlds here: plenty of sunshine with Thanksgiving traditions like roast turkey meals with cranberry sauce and some killer Black Friday sales in the malls like the Ala Moana Center.
As you’ll be here as Hawaii is coming out of its low season, it’s your last chance to secure your spot on the highly sought-after water activities that fill up once December comes along. Snorkel out at sea with manta rays (around $79), or take a boat tour to see the volcanos on Big Island (around $124); it’s all to come in Hawaii.
Miami, USA
Experience the glitz and glamor of Miami under the sun this Thanksgiving. Being the hub of the major events that it is, you won’t be short of ways to celebrate the holiday season here. From traditional dinner sittings at restaurants like Fontana and Bourbon Steak to the URGE Thanksgiving Festival running from November 29th to December 2nd, Miami has it all.
Besides its crazy party reputation, Miami has much more going for it than just late-night clubs. You’ve got tons of wonderful museums like the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science (Tickets $29.95 (€27.58)), quirky districts such as Little Havana, and endless beaches, including the legendary Ocean Beach, for topping up your tan during the day.
Looking to stay on top of your fitness while you’re away? The annual Life Time Turkey Trot Miami community run takes place on the morning of Thanksgiving with 5k ($56 (€51.57)), 10k ($61 (€56.17)), and children’s races ($21 (€19.34)) available to join.
Thanksgiving Destinations for Couples
Aspen, Colorado
Get your ski on for your couple’s escape in Aspen, Colorado, this Thanksgiving. Aspen is recognized as one of the US’s best snowsports locations, and on the 28th of November of this year, both Aspen Mountain and Snowmass will open for the upcoming ski season. Lift ticket prices in Aspen vary based on the number of days you want, but they start at $179 (€164.83) for one day. This covers you for all four mountains, allowing you to get a taste of various slopes on your days on the skis.
On Thanksgiving day, many restaurants, like Ajax Tavern, Element 47, and Mawa’s Kitchen, will be hosting dinner, so you don’t miss out on your festive feast. Don’t forget to pay Aspen Brewing Company a visit in the evening; their menu is filled with some delicious beers, from thick stouts to light golden blonde ales. Happy hour is every day from 12 am to 3 pm; get in while you can.
Scottsdale, Arizona
Thanksgiving in the Sonoran desert, anyone? Scottsdale, Arizona, has exploded in popularity in recent years; it’s become a major hub for celebration vacations, from spring break to girls’ weekends, making it a superb place to give thanks this year with your other half.
How about some pampering for the holidays? Spa days are BIG in Scottsdale; there are more than 50 resorts that offer retreats for some total relaxation during your time off. Some of the big ones include the Salon & Day Spa at Scottsdale Plaza Resort & Villas and Sanctuary Resort Spa at Gurney’s Resort & Spa.
You can bet that Scottsdale’s charming old town will be alive and kicking on November 28th. The bars and restaurants hidden behind the old-western-style facades will be overflowing with people from morning until night. Make sure to get your reservations in for dinner.
Best Places to Go for Thanksgiving International
Nassau, Bahamas
Let’s move on to our next Thanksgiving destination for couples; it’s the capital of the Bahamas, gorgeous Nassau! This Caribbean city is only a short flight from the mainland USA; therefore, even if you only have a few days of annual leave available, it’s still totally doable.
Get ready to trade that pumpkin pie for rum cake and do Thanksgiving the Bahamas way. You won’t be hiding away by the fireplace this year; Nasaau’s beaches are where you’ll be. Rest up on the sunny Jaw’s Beach or soak up in the azure waters on Cabbage Beach. Hoping to do something special for the day that’s in it? Take a boat out to Blue Lagoon Island, north of Nassau, for an encounter with some Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins ($165 (€151.94)).
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Thanksgiving with some Latin American flair; you can’t say no to that one. While you might be celebrating for one day on the 28th, in Buenos Aires, it’s always a party.
Whether you’re sticking to the trendy bar scene in Palermo or watching some tango in San Telmo, the vibe here in Buenos Aires is unlike anywhere else. Pop into the Fair of the Mataderos to learn about Argentina’s Guacho culture or catch a fabulous display at the National Museum of Fine Arts (free entry); you could spend weeks here and barely scratch the surface.
One location you have to have a look at in Buenos Aires is Barrio Chino in the Belgrado district. It’s the city’s Chinatown, where you can sample oriental delights and admire the cement-built entrance with stone lions that were built with supplies from China.
Cheap Places to Visit for Thanksgiving US
Charleston, South Carolina
Cheap and the US, it doesn’t exist, does it? In Charleston, South Carolina, it certainly does. This southern coastal city is a history buffs paradise, from the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site ($12 (€11.05)) to the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon ($16 (€14.73)); if you’re fond of your vestiges of the past, you’ll have a field day here.
Suppose you’re not a big fan of the past; you can pack your Thanksgiving itinerary with a boat ride around the Charleston harbor (around $44 (€40.52)), festive snacks out on Sullivan’s Island, or stop by Fort Sumter National Monument (free).
If you’ve got some spare time on the 28th while you’re in Charleston, be sure to check out the Thanksgiving Festival at Kiawah Island at Night Heron Park. Lots of fun things will be happening here, like face painting, live music, and plenty of games for people of all ages; it’s free entry, so don’t miss out.
Memphis, Tennessee
We’re sticking to the south for this Thanksgiving pick, and we’ve got Memphis, Tennessee. Come and immerse yourself in the birthplace of rock and roll and the home of Elvis Presley for an affordable price over the break.
Memphis is known for its relatively cheap accommodation, low-cost restaurants, and free activities. Without spending a dollar, you can take a walk through Crystal Shrine Grotto, go on the hunt for all the I Love Memphis Murals, and watch the hourly light show over the Mississippi River. On certain days, particular attractions give visitors free entry, like the Meditation Garden at Graceland, Elvis Presley’s old residence; you can enter for free from 7:30 am until 8:30 am every day. But beware free entry isn’t allowed on Thanksgiving Day; it’s better to leave your trip there until one of the other days on your trip.
Thanksgiving Travel Ideas Europe
Doolin, Ireland
Hop on a short (ish) flight to County Clare’s Shannon Airport and spend your Thanksgiving with some Irish spirit in the adorable village of Doolin.
As an Irish person myself, I would say if there’s one place that sums up our little island, it’s Doolin. Small in size with endless character, buzzing boozers serving the creamiest of Guinness, and less than a ten-minute drive from the Cliffs of Moher, what more could you want?
For pints and some trad music, Gus O’Connor’s Pub is where it’s at, and don’t leave without trying their full Irish breakfast; you’ll thank me later. On your pub-free days, pay a visit to Doolin Cave to see Europe’s largest Stalactite (€18.50) or hire a bike from Doolin Rent-a-Bike (prices vary) and cycle one of the many trails around, as long as the weather permits; it’s unpredictable out west.
Munich, Germany
Catch the Christmas Markets in Munich for Thanksgiving. Since Europeans don’t celebrate on the fourth Thursday of November, they’re already getting organized for Santa Claus to come to town.
From the 25th of November, the Bavarian capital lights up with festive cheer with Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz, Viktualienmarkt, and Eiszauber at the Karlsplatz-Stachus, all open for business until December 24th. You’ll be greeted by towering Christmas trees, the sound of children singing carols, and rows of charming wooden stalls offering everything from seasonal decorations to warm cups of hot cocoa and spiced mulled wine.
Besides the holiday-themed activities, Munich has a lot going for it. As you already know, it’s the beer capital of the world, so doing at least one brew-focused experience is a must. The city’s beer halls are great fun, but there are too many to get through, so you’re better off focusing your attention on a handful rather than racing around between them. Hofbräuhaus is the most famous. It can get very busy, but it’s still worth visiting; some other nice alternatives are Weisses Bräuhaus and Paulaner Bräuhaus.
Celebrate This Thanksgiving in One of These Destinations
Many dread the thought of heading away for Thanksgiving, but once you get past the airport stage, the hard part is over. Instead of falling into the trap of traveling on the busy days of the holidays, plan your trip around them so your break is hassle-free. Now, what’s holding you back? Book that Thanksgiving vacation today.