Winter holidays often seem to roll out in a single blur from Thanksgiving through the New Year. While these times are fun times marked by family gatherings and travel, they can also be stressful as you balance holiday pressures with normal life pressures.
That’s why many folks enjoy Thanksgiving getaways as a time to unplug and de-stress ahead of the major winter holidays. This doesn’t mean they don’t celebrate Thanksgiving, just that they choose to do it in a different place — perhaps as a solo, couples, or immediate-family-only trip.
Because of this, we wanted to put together a guide to 17 Thanksgiving escapes that’ll help you get away from it all before the whirlwind starts. Here they are in no particular order:
Warm Weather National Parks
Areas around sunny national parks are some of the best destinations for a Thanksgiving getaway. Crowds are usually lower, making it easier to hike into a prime picnicking spot. These are our top picks:
Utah’s Mighty Five
Any of Utah’s Mighty Five from Zion to Arches could serve as a backdrop for a Thanksgiving getaway. November is the perfect time to visit, with cooler weather and fewer crowds, allowing you to take in the red rocks at your own pace.
In Zion, hikes are the name of the game. At Bryce Canyon, it’s all about the hoodoos. Arches’ Delicate Arch at sunset is a must-see, while Canyonlands offers the stunning Mesa Arch as a possible potluck backdrop. Check out the orchards at Capitol Reef National Park for an even quieter experience showcasing the region’s history.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: Make camp at one of the campgrounds within the park and plan out plenty of picnics, hordes of hikes, and still nights under the stars.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
With its striking desert landscapes, otherworldly Joshua trees, and rock climbing playgrounds, Joshua Tree National Park is ideal for an off-the-beaten-path Thanksgiving.
Hikes abound in this park, and feature many spots to stop and enjoy a turkey day picnic. As an International Dark Sky Park, Joshua Tree is a mecca for stargazing activities.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: Toast to the holiday with a fireside meal at a J. Tree campground and then enjoy the starry night sky as your after-dinner show. Nearby towns such as Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley, and Twentynine Palms offer an array of food and entertainment options.
Coconino National Forest, Arizona
The Coconino National Forest sits between Sedona and Flagstaff, Arizona. It’s a prime location for hikers, picnickers, and explorers. Hike any of the region’s trails and then enjoy the culture and cuisine of Sedona, Cottonwood, and Jerome.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: You could enjoy a gourmet Thanksgiving dinner with red rock views at one of Sedona’s upscale restaurants, picnic at a remote locale with private panoramic views, or take in a town carved into the side of a mountain (Jerome, AZ).
Southwestern Towns
The Southwest is perfect for a Thanksgiving getaway because of its mild climate and chill vibes. Here are our picks:
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe’s rich blend of Pueblo and Spanish architecture, unique art galleries, and delicious Southwestern cuisine make it a wonderful Thanksgiving escape. Stay for the Friday after Thanksgiving when the Santa Fe Plaza lights up with over 30,000 lights to usher in the holiday season.
Thanksgiving Thought: Reserve a spot for a Southwestern Thanksgiving meal at a local restaurant to enjoy the area’s favorite flavors.
Cottonwood, Arizona
Cottonwood offers a comfy escape with a blend of desert scenery, vineyards, and small-town vibes. For wine lovers, Cottonwood is part of the Verde Valley Wine Trail, featuring local wineries like Alcantara Vineyards and Pillsbury Wine Company.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: Enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner with a Southwestern twist at a local restaurant, or celebrate with a vineyard picnic and a bottle of Arizona wine.
Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs combines sunny desert weather, mid-century modern charm, and mountain views, making it a splendid spot for a Thanksgiving getaway. Its luxurious spas, eclectic art scene, and proximity to hiking trails make it perfect for relaxation and adventure.
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Thanksgiving Thoughts: Snag a room at a mid-century modern hotel to enjoy a quiet Thanksgiving. Be sure to ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway before heading out.
Northwestern Escapes
The Pacific Northwest might have some cloudy patches in November, but it still has an array of peaceful Thanksgiving getaways. Here are some highlights:
Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth is a Little Bavaria in the middle of Washington that is like a holiday village from a storybook. Tucked into the Cascade Mountains, it’s known for its alpine architecture, outdoor activities, and seasonal decorations that transform it into a cozy wonderland by Thanksgiving.
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Thanksgiving Thoughts: Mix it up at a local German restaurant serving a unique twist on Thanksgiving dinner. Stroll around town afterward and enjoy the shops at a slower-than-usual pace.
Walla Walla, Washington
Known for its impressive wine scene, Walla Walla offers a slower pace and mild-ish temps for a relaxing Thanksgiving getaway. With over 120 wineries in the area, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sample award-winning wines and explore charming boutique shops in the historic downtown.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: Book a table at a winery restaurant for a memorable Thanksgiving meal paired with local wines, or pack a Thanksgiving picnic with seasonal foods to enjoy at one of the local vineyards (weather permitting).
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Hood River, Oregon
Hood River, located in the scenic Columbia River Gorge, is a must-visit for cider enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Sweeping mountain and river views, crisp fall weather, and unique ciders combine for a perfect Thanksgiving getaway.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: Celebrate Thanksgiving with a meal at a local farm-to-table restaurant, featuring dishes paired with the town’s famous craft ciders. Then, take a scenic drive along the Hood River Fruit Loop, stopping to sample fresh apples, ciders, and pies from local orchards for a uniquely northwestern Thanksgiving.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach’s breathtaking coastline, featuring the iconic Haystack Rock, is a serene setting for a Thanksgiving getaway. The peaceful beaches, boutique shops, and art galleries provide plenty to explore. November’s quieter atmosphere also means fewer crowds, so you can enjoy the beauty of the Oregon coast at your own pace.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: Take in a seafood-inspired Thanksgiving dinner at one of Cannon Beach’s oceanfront restaurants, or cozy up by a beachside fire pit with hot cider and Turkey Day treats.
Midwestern Getaways
The Midwest might be one of the tour country’s colder regions in November, but it offers some quiet getaways ahead of the major holidays. Here are a few picks:
Door County, Wisconsin
Door County’s stunning shoreline and quaint small towns make it a hidden gem for a Midwestern Thanksgiving getaway. Known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” it offers scenic views along Lake Michigan, with charming towns, lighthouses, and beautiful state parks to explore. Cooler temps here keep the crowds at bay so you can enjoy more to yourself.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: Dig into a classic Thanksgiving meal at a cozy inn or local restaurant, or reserve a log cabin to create your own cozy escape.
Galena, Illinois
Galena’s history and scenery make it an ideal Midwest destination for a Thanksgiving retreat. Known for its preserved 19th-century architecture and rolling hills, this small town has unique shops, historic sites, and cozy B&Bs.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: Reserve a spot at one of Galena’s historic inns and enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal at a nearby restaurant. Afterward, explore the surrounding area via any number of scenic drives.
The Ozarks, Missouri/Arkansas
The Ozarks offer an ideal blend of rustic charm and natural beauty. With lakes, forests, and scenic hills, the area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want fresh air for a Thanksgiving Getaway.
Branson is this region’s heart, bringing extra holiday cheer with family-friendly attractions, entertainment, and seasonal lights.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: Take a scenic drive through The Ozarks to take in the remaining fall colors before enjoying a private meal at one of the area’s many cabins and lodges.
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Southern Thanksgiving Getaways
The South does Thanksgiving right. Between healthy portions and delectable cuisine, this place does it right. Here are a few spots to escape to:
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston’s rich history, charming architecture, and coastal views make it tops for a Thanksgiving getaway. Known for its cobblestone streets, historic mansions, and waterfront parks, this historic city combines Southern charm with a celebratory atmosphere.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: Take advantage of Charleston’s mild November weather by exploring its scenic downtown, enjoying a horse-drawn carriage ride, or visiting nearby mansions adorned in fall colors. Then, take a table at one of Charleston’s iconic restaurants to enjoy a Thanksgiving feast with a Lowcountry twist, featuring local flavors like shrimp and grits or oyster stuffing.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah’s mild coastal climate and rich history make it a charming spot for a Thanksgiving getaway. Take a leisurely stroll through Forsyth Park, explore the boutiques along River Street, or relax in one of Savannah’s famous squares to enjoy the city’s beauty and Southern charm.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: Many Savannah restaurants offer Thanksgiving menus with Southern-inspired dishes like pecan pie and collard greens. Over the weekend, join one of Savannah’s ghost tours for a spooky adventure.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
Hot Springs offers relaxation and natural beauty for a unique Thanksgiving. Located in the Ouachita Mountains, this small city is known for Hot Springs National Park, where visitors can unwind in historic bath houses or hike scenic trails that overlook the vibrant fall landscape.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: Spend Thanksgiving Day dining at a local bistro or have a picnic in Hot Springs National Park. After Turkey Day, relax with a soak in one of the town’s historic bathhouses.
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Thanksgiving Getaways in the Northeast
From the final whispers of fall to cobblestoned New England towns, this region is packed with plenty of places to take a breather for Thanksgiving. Here are a some top picks:
Stowe, Vermont
Stowe is a quintessential New England town, known for its cozy ambiance, historic buildings, and stunning views of The Green Mountains. While November may see the first hints of snow, you’ll also experience crisp air, beautiful evergreen forests, and charming small-town vibes.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: Enjoy a cozy Thanksgiving meal at a local inn, one of the things Stowe is most known for. Then, stroll through the town center before hiking up to Smugglers’ Notch.
Hudson Valley, New York
The Hudson Valley features a picturesque patchwork of towns, known for their stunning landscapes, cool people, and growing food and arts scenes. Towns like Beacon and Rhinebeck offer boutique shopping, art galleries, and cozy cafes, making the Hudson Valley a peaceful yet lively spot for Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving Thoughts: Savor a Thanksgiving meal at a farm-to-table restaurant to taste local flavors from this abundant valley. Scenic drives are the name of the game in this region, so be sure to pick one from this list to round out this Thanksgiving getaway.
Thanksgiving getaways are a solid way to recharge your batteries before Christmas and the New Year. From warm weather national parks to wintry wine country, America offers all kinds of places to take a holiday breather. Take your pick and get yourself a gobbling!
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