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While a classic Thanksgiving dinner at home can be loads of fun, it can also be a little stressful. Prepping your home, fixing a big meal, and making sure everything is perfect for friends and family can be really exhausting. So why not use the long holiday weekend to take a trip instead?
“As one of the longest weekends in the fall school calendar, Thanksgiving break offers a stellar opportunity for families to get away together for a few days,” says Molly Fergus, travel expert and general manager of TripSavvy. “There are fantastic places where you can enjoy a change of pace and still have turkey and all the trimmings.”
According to Fergus, getting away in November can also be ideal due to the mild fall weather and the numerous opportunities to to enjoy harvest festivals and events. Many hotels also offer seasonal package deals that you can take advantage of during this time. Here are some of the best travel destinations for Thanksgiving weekend.
St. Helena, California
This small town in the center Northern California’s wine country is perfect for a couples getaway or a Friendsgiving weekend. If you’re not already in the holiday spirit, the annual Jingle All The Way roller rink and holiday light event will definitely put you in the mood.
Rock City, Georgia
With its award-winning Enchanted Garden of Lights extravaganza set to open before Thanksgiving weekend, it’s a great time to visit Rock City. Beside its holiday offerings, the city itself is beautiful. You’ll be treated to great views, rock formations, caves, and trails to explore during your weekend away.
Waikiki, Hawaii
If you’re looking for a tropical getaway during this time of year, Waikiki has some fun events leading up to Thanksgiving like the annual Turkey Trot. Plus, numerous hotels and restaurants offer Thanksgiving day buffets if you’re craving a classic turkey meal. Looking for something different? You can even enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner cruise. The day after, you can enjoy the Waikiki Holiday Parade.
New York City
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is obviously a big draw. But Melissa, President of NYC Insider Guide advises, there’s just so much more to do beyond the parade. “Eat an awesome turkey dinner while sailing past our attractions and landmarks, go Black Friday shopping at the world’s best stores, watch the store windows unveil their holiday displays, and you can even see a Broadway show.”
>Williamsburg, Virginia
There’s no better place to spend Thanksgiving weekend than the site of the actual first Thanksgiving. From self-guided tours to museums and the three-day Foods and Feasts of Colonial Virginia event that starts on Thanksgiving day, Colonial Williamsburg has a lot to offer during this time of year. You’ll be soaking in all the history while enjoying a traditional Thanksgiving meal.
xx, The FabFitFun Team
After you book your Thanksgiving getaway, check out our suitcase packing hacks to make your travels that much easier.
