15 Best Cities In The United States For Thanksgiving Celebrations
Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. There’s something magical about the chilly weather, mouthwatering food, festive activities, parades, and football. In our family, it’s a tradition to travel during Thanksgiving week, and over the years, we’ve explored some amazing places across the United States.
If you’re looking for the best Thanksgiving celebrations, you’re in the right spot. Keep reading, as I have some great recommendations.
1. New York City, New York
Without question, New York City tops this list. I’ve been lucky enough to spend Thanksgiving there more times than I can count. My whole family would take the Amtrak from Virginia to New York, and some of my best Thanksgiving memories are in the Big Apple.
Though not always guaranteed, chilly weather and the occasional snowfall add to the charm. Pair that with the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, tasty pizza and bagels, the bustling city vibe, upscale restaurants serving Thanksgiving dinner, and amazing Black Friday shopping, and it’s truly an unforgettable experience.
2. Orlando, Florida
Next on the list is Orlando, Florida. This is a fantastic choice if you’re aiming for a warm Thanksgiving getaway. Orlando offers great restaurants, beautiful hotels with pools, and the magic of Universal Studios and Walt Disney World.
Starting November 1st, Disney World is decked out in its famous Christmas decorations, so visiting over Thanksgiving means enjoying the holiday spirit early. It’s a fun and festive experience, especially for families with young children.
3. Plymouth, Massachusetts
Plymouth, Massachusetts, one of the oldest towns in America, is a fantastic place to visit during Thanksgiving, thanks to its rich historical significance. The town hosts a large parade each year on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, making it a fun way to start the holiday season. There are also several museums where you can explore local and national history.
Add the beautiful New England fall weather, and Plymouth offers the perfect blend of history, festivities, and seasonal charm.
4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is an excellent destination for Thanksgiving, offering a festive blend of Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. Every Thanksgiving Day, the city hosts a massive parade along Benjamin Franklin Parkway, featuring performances, floats, and even a visit from Santa Claus.
There are plenty of spots to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal or grab it to go and explore the city. With holiday lights already up, many areas give a taste of Christmas magic. It’s the perfect spot for an exciting, holiday-filled city escape.
5. Dallas, Texas
Dallas is a great city to visit during Thanksgiving week. It offers a festive mix of Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. By mid-November, the city is usually decked out in Christmas lights, creating a cheerful holiday atmosphere. I’ve visited during this time and loved how vibrant and festive everything felt.
Another reason I enjoy Thanksgiving in Dallas is the Cowboys’ annual home game on Thanksgiving Day. Even if you’re not a Cowboys fan, attending a live game, at the impressive AT&T Stadium is a fun way to soak in the city’s sports culture.
6. San Francisco, California
San Francisco is a wonderful destination to visit over Thanksgiving. Like many cities, it hosts a fun Turkey Trot run on Thanksgiving Day, but the beautiful weather truly stands out for me. With temperatures typically ranging from 50 to 65 degrees, it’s the perfect time for cozy sweater weather.
Mix the fabulous weather with iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, and the picturesque cable cars, along with quality time spent with loved ones, San Francisco becomes the perfect spot to enjoy the holiday season.
7. Lake Placid, New York
Lake Placid is a charming town in upstate New York, best known for its namesake, the beautiful Lake Placid. However, by November, the area transforms into a winter wonderland, home to the popular Whiteface Mountain ski resort. It’s the perfect destination for a wintery getaway, offering great skiing and a cozy atmosphere.
The cherry on top is that the region is also known for its wine, making it the perfect spot for a Thanksgiving full of delicious food and wine, and plenty of snowy outdoor activities.
8. Lake Tahoe, California
Next on the list is Lake Tahoe, as winter arrives, the area transforms into a dreamy snowy paradise, thanks to the countless mountains surrounding the region. If you’re looking for a scenic getaway, you’ll love the stunning views of the lake and snow-capped mountains in the backdrop. For those who enjoy skiing or snowboarding, it’s a perfect spot to start the season early.
On top of that, with its vibrant nightlife, casinos, and laid-back vibe, Lake Tahoe offers the ideal mix for a memorable holiday.
9. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is a great spot to visit during Thanksgiving week, especially if you’re searching for a mountain escape. Known for its stunning Great Smoky Mountains, it offers breathtaking views and plenty of activities. Whether you want to hike, camp, and fish in the national park or explore the town’s restaurants and shops, there’s something for everyone.
Gatlinburg has a more relaxed vibe than some other destinations on this list. The weather is comfortable, not too hot or cold, making it perfect for a relaxed holiday getaway in nature.
10. Oahu, Hawaii
If you’re dreaming, of a tropical escape, Oahu, Hawaii, is the perfect destination I love most, is that you don’t need to leave the U.S. to experience this stunning island. Oahu has gorgeous beaches, delicious healthy food, and a calming atmosphere. It has amazing weather and temperatures ranging from the upper 60s to low 80s.
Whether you’re looking to escape the cold or prefer to relax on vacation rather than juggle holiday visits with family and friends, this spot is ideal.
11. Sedona, Arizona
I first visited Sedona as a kid and instantly fell in love with the area. The desert scenery, warm weather, and amazing outdoor activities create a unique atmosphere. While Sedona doesn’t have a big Thanksgiving parade, it offers incredible experiences for families and friends to enjoy together.
Sedona is the perfect destination for an active and outdoorsy holiday. You can indulge in a delicious Thanksgiving meal and spend the day hiking, fishing, golfing, or taking a scenic drive.
12. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is one of my favorite cities in the U.S., and I could go on all day about why I adore it and how charming it is. To keep it brief, the first thing that makes Santa Fe amazing is its food. Heavily influenced by Mexican flavors, New Mexican cuisine is mouthwatering burritos, fajitas, enchiladas, chips and salsa, sangria, margaritas, and more. It’s unlike anything else I’ve experienced in the U.S., and the food keeps me returning.
Beyond the cuisine, Santa Fe stands out for its adobe architecture and artistic vibe. Even the hotels embrace a unique New Mexican style with their earthy tones and tiled floors. The town’s artsy atmosphere is reflected in its numerous galleries, jewelry stores, and local attractions. With its desert climate and high altitude, you can expect crisp, chilly weather during Thanksgiving, perfect for kicking off the holiday season. Plus, Santa Fe is much less crowded than ski towns or big cities, making it a hidden gem for a Thanksgiving getaway.
13. Williamsburg, Virginia
Growing up three hours from Williamsburg, my family often visited when we wanted to explore somewhere in-state with various things to do. Williamsburg is famous for being one of the oldest towns in the United States, so it’s the perfect place to spend Thanksgiving for those looking to dive into more of America’s roots. Its rich history is showcased in Colonial Williamsburg with its historic buildings, museums, and more. As a history enthusiast, I love this part of the town, and Williamsburg’s beautiful holiday decorations only enhance its old-world architecture and origins.
For those who enjoy staying active and seeking fun attractions, Williamsburg also boasts Busch Gardens, a theme park packed with rides, attractions, and roller coasters. It’s perfect for families looking for a combination of activities during their trip. And, of course, the shopping is fantastic. Williamsburg has it all, whether you’re into luxury brands, boutiques, or outlets, making it an ideal spot for Black Friday shopping.
14. Park City, Utah
I’m all about skiing and ski resorts, and Park City is one of the best. As one of the largest ski resorts in the U.S., it’s known for its fantastic snow, charming village areas, and fun atmosphere. Park City usually aims to open around Thanksgiving, depending on the snowfall. Making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a snowy holiday and possibly even ski on opening day.
However, since the opening is weather-dependent, I wouldn’t plan a trip solely for skiing on Thanksgiving, but it’s a great bonus if the slopes are open. Its cozy villages, shopping, and après-ski scene make it the perfect early-season holiday trip.
15. Killington, Vermont
If you’re looking for a fun ski town experience on the East Coast, Killington, Vermont, is a fantastic choice. I’ve skied at Killington before and was impressed by the slopes and snow. It’s a great spot for East Coast skiing.
Depending on the snowfall, Killington typically opens for the season before Thanksgiving, making it a convenient option for hitting the slopes early in the season and during the holiday. Plus, Killington tends to be less crowded than major resorts like Vail or Park City, so you can usually expect fewer crowds. Overall, Killington is a top pick, if you want a snowy Thanksgiving and a fun ski town to explore on the East Coast.
Have You Been To Any Of These Cities For Thanksgiving?
Let us know in the comments!
