10 Best Thanksgiving Travel Destinations in the US

Thanksgiving marks the start of the holiday season, bringing crisp air, seasonal traditions, and a well-earned long weekend. If those extra days off have you craving a getaway, November is one of the best times to travel. Across the country, you'll find fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and affordable stays at some of the best travel destinations in the US. Whether you're dreaming of fresh powder and alpine views or beach days and endless sunshine, here are 10 unforgettable places to visit this Thanksgiving.

1. Sedona, AZ

Escape to sunnier skies this November in Sedona, Arizona, where mild temperatures and endless outdoor adventures offer the perfect Thanksgiving getaway. Hike, bike, climb, and ride your way through red rock canyons and sweeping desert trails. Without the summer heat to hold you back, it’s the perfect destination for a Thanksgiving adventure. 

Seeking a more relaxing retreat this November? With unique vortex sites (places known for their spiritual, grounding energy), glowing desert sunsets, and dazzling dark skies, Sedona is also an ideal place to recharge your energy before the busy holiday season. From canyon meditations and sunrise yoga to stargazing and quiet fireside nights, find your happy place in the desert. 

Where to stay: Outbound Sedona

Come for the red-rock views, guided workshops, and easy access to desert adventures. Stay for the desert-style Thanksgiving feast at the onsite restaurant.

2. San Diego, CA

For families seeking a Thanksgiving vacation packed full of fun and adventure—but not packed full of people—San Diego is the ideal destination. As the city’s off-season, November is when hotels are cheaper, attractions are quieter, and pool days are unlimited.

Enjoy leisurely strolls through the San Diego Zoo or Balboa Park before indulging in margaritas and Mexican food in Old Town. Sunny afternoons also mean beach days are on the menu, so head to La Jolla Cove or South Mission Beach for salt air and whale watching. With the perfect mix of vibrant city life, quiet coastal energy, and family-friendly resorts, San Diego is the best way to take advantage of Thanksgiving break.

Where to stay: Town and Country Resort

Awarded 2026’s Best Family-Friendly Hotel by San Diego Magazine, this resort has something for everyone, including Thanksgiving specials and festive experiences to celebrate the holiday.

3. Vail, CO

Make your way to the Rocky Mountains this November for a Thanksgiving vacation infused with alpine views, western charm, and shoulder season steals. This is the best month to get pre-holiday discounts at some of the most coveted mountain destinations in the US, as well as fewer crowds at the charming alpine villages and world-class restaurants.

November 13^th also marks the beginning of ski season in Vail, so Thanksgiving is an ideal time to hit the slopes before the holiday rush. Enjoy fresh powder and open trails before soaking up Vail’s legendary après-ski scene with fireside cocktails and mountain-side events.

Where to stay: Montaneros in Vail

Located in the heart of Vail’s Lionshead Village, this charming retreat offers one- to five-bedroom accommodations just moments from gondolas, restaurants, and iconic shopping.

4. Boston, MA

The Thanksgiving tradition traces its roots to a 1621 harvest feast in present-day Massachusetts, so what better place to celebrate than where it all began? In Boston, every corner is steeped in history, from the charming row houses of Beacon Hill to the infamous Boston Harbor.  

Step into America’s past with a stroll along the Freedom Trail, a brick path that connects iconic landmarks like Faneuil Hall, the Paul Revere House, and the picturesque waterfront. November is also one of the last opportunities to experience the East Coast's legendary fall foliage, so grab a coffee before wandering through the Boston Common, where vibrant autumn colors linger into the season. With seasonal attractions and plenty of New England charm, Boston is the ultimate city break for Thanksgiving travel.

Where to stay: Seaport Hotel

Stay steps away from iconic waterfront attractions like The Harborwalk, the Boston Tea Party Museum, and the nearby Snowport holiday market, which reopens November 6.

5. Maui, HI

An island escape is always a good idea, and no place feels more like paradise than Maui—especially in November. As the start of humpback whale season, this month is the perfect time to trade gray skies for unforgettable ocean views. Pair your Thanksgiving vacation with pristine beaches in Lahaina, fresh seafood at a local lūʻau, and the island lifestyle that makes Hawaii so special.

Where to stay: Kaanapali Alii

Wake up to the sound of the ocean from your private beachfront condo, complete with fully equipped kitchens for the feeling of home away from home. 

6. Fort Lauderdale, FL

If you’re dreaming of salt air, endless sunshine, and nowhere to be except a lounge chair this November, Florida is one of the best places to spend your Thanksgiving break. From pristine beaches to vibrant marine life, this destination offers a new way to celebrate the season.

Take a riverboat through the scenic inland waterways, snorkel through colorful coral reefs off the coast, or simply listen to the waves crash along the shore from one of the scenic waterfront restaurants. With warm weather, off-peak crowds, and 24 miles of shoreline to explore, it’s the perfect beach break for the season.

Where to stay: Pier Sixty-Six Resort

Waterfront views and elevated Thanksgiving experiences make this resort a must-visit destination in Southern Florida.

7. Jackson Hole, WY

November brings a change of pace to Jackson Hole, where bright leaves are replaced with glittering snow. Spot roaming elk during their seasonal migration and experience the beauty of the Tetons before peak winter settles in. This year, Thanksgiving Day also marks the official start of ski season, so celebrate with fresh powder and scenic runs before enjoying après-ski drinks in Teton Village.

With its retro Western aesthetic and laid-back cowboy charm, Jackson offers a Thanksgiving unlike any other. Whether you’re line dancing at the local saloon or stargazing next to a crackling campfire, it’s the perfect place to get off the grid this November.

Where to stay: The Virginian Lodge 

With communal firepits, line dancing lessons, and an onsite saloon, this retro Jackson Hole lodge offers the ultimate Western experience.

8. Bend, OR

Travel to Central Oregon this Thanksgiving to experience snow-capped peaks, craft beer, and a peaceful retreat in nature. For hikers, the off-peak November season means you’ll have the entire trail to yourself, so take advantage of sweeping views along the Deschutes River and Cascade Mountains.

After a day of exploring, follow a different kind of trail during Bend Ale Trail Month, when you can earn prizes while sipping your way through the region’s legendary craft brews. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or a carefree escape, Bend is the perfect travel destination for Thanksgiving in the West.

Where to stay: Sunriver Resort

Spread across 3,300 acres of wilderness, this resort brings the region's stunning landscape to your doorstep. Don't miss their calendar of events for Thanksgiving week, including seasonal feasts, holiday surprises, and outdoor activities for the whole family. 

9. Palm Springs, CA

Sun-soaked skies and shoulder season solitude make Palm Springs one of the best Thanksgiving travel destinations in the US. November is the official start of perfect desert weather, making Thanksgiving prime time for hiking through national parks, browsing eclectic boutiques, and lounging by palm-lined pools.

From day trips to picturesque Joshua Tree to architecture tours and museum visits in downtown Palm Springs, there’s something for every travel style during November in the California desert.

Where to stay: Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa

Discover desert luxury with sparkling pools, mountain views, gourmet dining, and easy access to the best of the Coachella Valley.  

10. Denver, CO

When you can’t decide between city or nature for your Thanksgiving travel, Denver gives you the best of both worlds. Make downtown your homebase for festive markets, world-class dining, and seasonal sports events, then set off on a day trip to experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains in November. With world-class ski resorts, charming mountain towns, and Rocky Mountain National Park all within driving distance, it’s a destination that does it all.

Where to stay: Magnolia Hotel or The Eddy Taproom & Hotel

Enjoy downtown living at Magnolia Hotel, which puts you within walking distance of Denver’s best venues, dining, and nightlife, or retreat to The Eddy in nearby Golden for foothill views, local breweries, and outdoor adventure just 20 minutes from the city.

• What are the best Thanksgiving travel destinations in the U.S.?

  Some of the best places to travel for Thanksgiving include San Diego for families, Boston for a charming city break, Maui for pristine beaches, and Vail for ski lovers. The best Thanksgiving destinations typically combine mild weather, special holiday experiences, and seasonal attractions that reflect your travel style. 

• How far in advance should I book Thanksgiving travel?

  Thanksgiving is a popular travel week in the US, so it's best to book your getaway at least a month in advance for the best selection and pricing.  Popular destinations such as Maui, Vail, and Palm Springs often see increased demand during the holiday, so book sooner rather than later.

• What are the best Thanksgiving destinations for families?

  The best Thanksgiving destinations for families include San Diego for theme parks and family-friendly attractions, Maui for beach days and wildlife experiences, and Central Oregon for outdoor recreation and seasonal events. These locations offer festive activities and spacious accommodation for travelers of all ages.

• Where can I go skiing over Thanksgiving weekend?

  Vail, Colorado, and Jackson Hole, Wyoming, are two of the best places to ski over Thanksgiving weekend. Thanksgiving often coincides with the start of ski season, making it the perfect opportunity to enjoy early-season snow conditions, fewer crowds, and lively apres-ski celebrations before the peak winter rush.

• Where can I avoid crowds during Thanksgiving travel?

  Destinations such as Bend, Sedona, and Jackson Hole are typically less crowded during Thanksgiving, since the holiday coincides with November's shoulder season. To avoid major crowds, you can travel on Thanksgiving Day and choose remote and off-season travel destinations rather than major theme parks, beach resorts, or ski towns.

• What are the best Thanksgiving beach vacations in the U.S.?

  For travelers seeking a beach getaway during Thanksgiving, Maui, Fort Lauderdale, and San Diego are top choices. These destinations offer pristine beaches, endless sunshine, mild weather, water activities, and opportunities to celebrate the holiday in a scenic coastal setting.