How to Plan the Perfect Thanksgiving Travel Getaway

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I’ve been pondering Thanksgiving travel more than usual lately. Maybe it’s because I’m craving something different this year. The traditional family dinner is great and all. However, sometimes you just want to shake things up a bit.

Thanksgiving travel presents unique challenges. The holiday is mostly an American thing. Therefore, international destinations don’t really celebrate it. But that could actually be an advantage depending on what you’re looking for.

I’m definitely not a travel expert here. I’m just researching options like you probably are. Consequently, I thought I’d share what I’ve found interesting. Maybe one of these ideas will spark something for you too.

Why Consider Travelling for Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is weird for travel when you think about it. It’s peak season domestically but relatively quiet internationally. Most Americans stay home for the holiday. Meanwhile, the rest of the world just has a regular Thursday.

The timing can work in your favor though. You get a four-day weekend without using much vacation time. Many people extend it to a full week. That’s enough time to actually go somewhere meaningful.

The weather is another consideration. Late November marks the start of winter in many regions. However, it’s not yet full winter. Some destinations are perfect during this shoulder season.

Prices are tricky during Thanksgiving week. Domestic flights are expensive and crowded. International flights can be cheaper since fewer Americans travel abroad. Hotels may also offer deals in non-US destinations.

The biggest hurdle is probably emotional. Skipping traditional Thanksgiving feels wrong to some people. Nevertheless, creating new traditions can be incredibly rewarding. You might discover you prefer it.

New York City: Classic Thanksgiving Experience

New York during Thanksgiving is iconic for obvious reasons. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is legendary. Watching those giant balloons float down the street feels quintessentially American.

I’ve always wanted to see the parade in person. The TV broadcast doesn’t quite capture the energy. People camp out overnight for good viewing spots along the route. That level of dedication is kind of impressive.

Beyond the parade, NYC offers incredible Thanksgiving dining options. Many restaurants do special turkey dinners. Some hotels offer fancy Thanksgiving brunches. You can have the traditional meal without cooking it yourself.

The holiday shopping is another draw. Black Friday sales start earlier every year. Stores like Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s go all out. The window displays alone are worth seeing.

However, NYC is crazy crowded during Thanksgiving. Hotels charge premium prices. You’re looking at $300-$500 per night easily. Restaurants require reservations weeks in advance.

NYC Tourism lists all the Thanksgiving events and dining options. They update parade information each year. Budget generously, as everything costs more during the holiday season.

Flights to NYC are expensive from everywhere during Thanksgiving. You might pay double the normal prices. Nevertheless, the experience could be worth it if you’ve never done it.

Asheville, North Carolina: Mountain Getaway

Asheville has been on my radar for some time. The Blue Ridge Mountains in the fall are supposed to be gorgeous. By late November, the crowds have thinned out considerably.

The Biltmore Estate hosts a special Thanksgiving celebration. It’s America’s largest home and looks incredible decorated for the holidays. They serve a traditional Thanksgiving dinner in their restaurants.

What appeals to me about Asheville is the relaxed vibe. It’s artsy and outdoorsy simultaneously. Downtown has great breweries and farm-to-table restaurants. The mountain scenery provides a beautiful backdrop.

Hiking is usually still possible in late November. The weather can be unpredictable, though. You may need layers to account for temperature changes. Nevertheless, the crisp mountain air sounds refreshing.

The Great Smoky Mountains are nearby ,too. You can do day trips to explore the national park. Gatlinburg and Cherokee offer additional activities. There’s enough variety to fill several days easily.

Explore Asheville provides comprehensive visitor information. They list Thanksgiving events and seasonal activities. Hotels range from $150-$250 during the holiday weekend.

Asheville is drivable from many East Coast cities. Flights connect through Charlotte, usually. The airport is small but adequate for most travellers.

Hawaii: Escape to Paradise

Hawaii during Thanksgiving makes total sense to me. You get warm weather when the mainland is turning cold. The islands offer beaches, hiking, and incredible natural beauty.

Thanksgiving is actually a good time to visit Hawaii. Summer crowds are gone. Winter hasn’t fully arrived yet. Prices are lower than during Christmas or spring break.

Each island has its own personality. Maui offers beaches and the Road to Hana. Oahu has Waikiki and Pearl Harbor. Kauai is lush and dramatic. The Big Island has active volcanoes.

Many resorts offer traditional Thanksgiving dinners. They’ll roast turkey with all the fixings. However, you can also opt for local food. Fresh poke and plate lunches sometimes beat turkey.

What I like is that you can be as active or lazy as you want. Spend days on the beach reading. Or hike volcanic craters and waterfalls. Snorkelling and surfing are always options, too.

Go Hawaii is the official tourism site. They provide island comparisons and planning tools. Budget $200-$300 per day, including accommodation and activities.

Flights from the West Coast take about five hours. East Coast travelers face longer journeys with possible connections. Nevertheless, no passport required since Hawaii is a US state.

Quebec City, Canada: Early Winter Wonderland

Quebec City during Thanksgiving offers a completely different experience. The Canadian holiday happens in October. Therefore, Thanksgiving week is just a regular time for them.

The city begins to feel quite wintry by late November. Snow often appears. Holiday decorations begin going up. You get early Christmas vibes without the crowds.

Old Quebec is beautiful any time of year. The European architecture and cobblestone streets feel as if they were transported from France. Château Frontenac dominates the skyline. Walking around feels like time travel.

The food scene is excellent. French Canadian cuisine includes tourtière, poutine, and maple everything. Restaurants serve normal menus on American Thanksgiving. No turkey required unless you specifically want it.

What’s convenient is how close Quebec is to Americans. You can drive from the Northeast states. Flights are short from most East Coast cities. The border crossing is straightforward.

However, the weather in late November is genuinely cold. We’re talking Canadian winter temperatures. You’ll need proper winter gear. Nevertheless, that’s part of the charm for some people.

Quebec City Tourism provides seasonal information. They list events and weather expectations. Hotels are affordable at $100-$200 per night.

The language difference might intimidate some travellers. Most people in tourist areas speak Englis,h though. Getting by is easier than you’d expect.

London, England: Skipping Thanksgiving Entirely

London during American Thanksgiving is actually brilliant. The British don’t celebrate the holiday at all. Therefore, it’s just a normal week.

This means no holiday crowds or inflated prices. You can visit major attractions without huge lines. Museums such as the British Museum and Tate Modern are less crowded.

In late November, the London weather is often cold and rainy. However, the city handles rain better than most places. Covered markets and indoor attractions keep you dry. Pubs provide cosy warmth.

The holiday season starts appearing in late November. Oxford Street lights go up. Winter markets begin opening. You get an early-Christmas atmosphere without the full chaos.

What I love about London is the depth of its sights. History, museums, theatre, food, and shopping. You could visit ten times and still discover new things. Even a week barely scratches the surface.

Visit London offers excellent planning resources. They list current exhibitions and events. Budget $150-$250 per day, depending on your accommodation choices.

Flights from major US cities run around $500-$800 during Thanksgiving. That’s often cheaper than domestic flights. The time difference is manageable, too.

Theatre is a particular highlight. West End shows offer world-class productions. Tickets are often cheaper than Broadway. You can see multiple shows during a week-long visit.

Austin, Texas: Live Music and BBQ

Austin appeals to me for its completely different vibe. The city doesn’t really slow down for Thanksgiving. Music venues stay open. Restaurants serve normal menus alongside turkey specials.

The weather in late November is usually perfect. You’re typically looking at 60-70-degree days. It’s warm enough for outdoor activities but not hot. Pool weather might even be possible.

Live music is everywhere, obviously. Sixth Street has countless venues. The Continental Club and Antone’s are legendary spots. You can catch shows every single night.

BBQ is another major draw. Franklin Barbecue requires hours of waiting, but people swear it’s worth it. Terry Black’s and La Barbecue offer slightly shorter lines. The brisket is supposedly life-changing.

What’s fun about Austin is how easy it is to enjoy. The city is relatively compact. You can Uber or bike almost everywhere. The vibe is casual and welcoming.

Barton Springs Pool stays open year-round. The natural spring-fed pool maintains a constant temperature of 68-70 degrees. Swimming in November sounds weird, but locals do it regularly.

Visit Austin provides event listings and recommendations. They highlight live music schedules and food options. Hotels range from $100-$200 during Thanksgiving.

Austin is centrally located for Americans. Flights connect from everywhere. Direct service exists from most major cities. Rental cars are cheap if you want to explore the Texas Hill Country.

New Orleans: Southern Hospitality and Jazz

New Orleans during Thanksgiving sounds incredibly appealing. The weather is mild and pleasant. The crowds are manageable compared to Mardi Gras season. Plus, the food is legendary.

Many restaurants offer traditional Thanksgiving dinners with Creole twists. Turkey with andouille stuffing, perhaps. Sweet potato casserole with praline topping. Everything gets the Louisiana treatment.

The French Quarter is always lively, regardless of the holiday. Live jazz fills the streets. Bourbon Street parties continue uninterrupted. You can be as rowdy or relaxed as you prefer.

What interests me is the unique culture. New Orleans feels different from anywhere else in America. The architecture, music, food, and people create something special. History runs deep here.

Swamp tours offer cool day trip options. Seeing alligators in their natural habitat is pretty wild. Plantation tours provide complicated but important historical context. There’s substance beyond just partying.

New Orleans Tourism lists Thanksgiving events and dining options. They provide neighbourhood guides and cultural information. Budget $125-$225 per night for hotels.

The city is very walkable in the main tourist areas. Streetcars provide cheap transportation. Uber and Lyft also work well. You don’t really need a rental car.

Flights are available from most US cities. Prices are reasonable during Thanksgiving compared to other holidays. The airport is close to downtown, too.

Portugal: Affordable European Option

Portugal has caught my attention recently. It’s more affordable than most Western European destinations. Late November falls in the shoulder season with good prices.

Lisbon offers hills, colourful tiles, and incredible seafood. The city feels both vibrant and historic. Trams climb steep streets. Viewpoints provide stunning panoramas.

Porto to the north is famous for port wine. The riverside area is gorgeous. You can tour wine cellars and do tastings. The food scene rivals Lisbon.

Since Thanksgiving isn’t celebrated, everything operates normally. Restaurants serve regular menus. Attractions maintain standard hours. You’re just another tourist, not a holiday traveller.

The weather in late November is mild but can be rainy. Pack layers and a rain jacket. However, temperatures usually stay around 60 degrees. That’s pleasant compared to cold northern destinations.

Visit Portugal provides comprehensive travel information. They suggest itineraries and cultural insights. Budget $100-$150 per day for comfortable travel.

Flights from the East Coast typically cost $500- $700. The West Coast requires connections and longer travel time. Nevertheless, the value upon arrival makes up for it.

The language barrier is minimal. Many Portuguese speak English in tourist areas. Getting around is straightforward. Public transportation works well in cities.

Arizona: Desert and Grand Canyon

Arizona during Thanksgiving offers a unique appeal. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities. Desert temperatures are mild instead of scorching. The Grand Canyon is less crowded too.

Phoenix and Scottsdale provide resort experiences with golf and spas. The desert landscape is beautiful in its own stark way. Hiking Camelback Mountain offers great views.

Sedona’s red rocks are absolutely stunning. The scenery is almost unreal. Hiking trails range from easy to challenging. The town itself is artsy and spiritual.

The Grand Canyon is the main draw. Late November sees fewer visitors than in summer. You can actually enjoy the views without fighting crowds. Sunrise and sunset are magical.

What I like is combining outdoor adventure with comfort. Stay in nice hotels or resorts. Spend days hiking and exploring. Return to pools and restaurants. Best of both worlds.

However, high-elevation areas are cold at night. The Grand Canyon can even have snow. Bring warm layers for the evening and morning. Daytime is usually pleasant, though.

Visit Arizona offers planning resources and itineraries. They list seasonal activities and events. Hotels range widely from budget to luxury.

Arizona is easily accessible for Americans. Direct flights serve Phoenix and Tucson from most cities. Rental cars are essential for exploring beyond cities.

Japan: Completely Different Experience

Japan during Thanksgiving is fascinating because they have no idea it’s happening. November 23rd is Labor Thanksgiving Day in Japan. However, it’s completely unrelated to American Thanksgiving.

Tokyo offers endless things to see and do. The city is massive and incredibly diverse. You could spend weeks exploring different neighbourhoods. Technology, tradition, and modernity collide everywhere.

Kyoto provides temples, gardens, and cultural experiences. Fall colours often linger into late November. The ancient capital offers completely different vibes from Tokyo.

What appeals to me is experiencing zero Thanksgiving stress. No family obligations or turkey expectations. Just normal travel in an incredible country. It’s freeing in a way.

The food is obviously amazing. Ramen, sushi, tempura, everything. You can eat incredibly well on any budget. Convenience stores even have good food.

Late November weather is generally pleasant. Temperatures are cool but not freezing yet. Rain is possible but not constant. Pack layers and you’ll be fine.

Japan Guide provides excellent planning resources. They cover everything from transportation to cultural etiquette. Budget $150-$250 per day, depending on accommodation choices.

Flights from the West Coast take about 11 hours.The East Coast requires longer travel with connections. The time difference is brutal initially. Nevertheless, Japan is absolutely worth the effort.

Final Thoughts: Where Does This Leave Me?

After researching all these options, I’m genuinely conflicted. Part of me wants the classic NYC Thanksgiving experience. Seeing the parade in person would be memorable. However, the crowds and expense give me pause.

Hawaii keeps pulling at me, too. Warm beaches instead of cold turkey sounds amazing. The relaxation factor is undeniable. Sometimes you just need to completely unplug.

New Orleans appeals to my love of food and culture. The city’s unique character is so appealing. Plus, the weather should be perfect. Thanksgiving dinner with Creole flair sounds incredible.

The international options intrigue me most, though. Portugal offers great value and beautiful cities. Japan would be a complete escape from Thanksgiving entirely. Both sound adventurous and different.

Whatever you decide, book flights and hotels soon. Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel periods. Prices only go up as the holiday approaches. Additionally, good options sell out quickly.

I’d love to hear what you’re considering for Thanksgiving. Maybe we’ll end up in the same destination. Either way, travelling during Thanksgiving offers real opportunities. Breaking tradition can create memorable new experiences.