🍂 Top 5 Thanksgiving Weekend Getaways

Destination Why It’s Awesome for Thanksgiving Weekend What to Do / Highlights Tips & Considerations

The Great Smoky Mountains (Tennessee / North Carolina) Perfect for fall colors, crisp mountain air, and cozy cabin retreats.  Go for scenic hikes in the Smoky Mountains National Park- Stay in a mountain cabin with a fireplace- Visit places like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and nearby towns for local food and crafts- Enjoy relaxing drives (e.g. the Foothills Parkway) and wildlife spotting.  Book lodging early (cabins fill fast). Pack layers—mornings and evenings are cold. Make dinner plans ahead if you're staying somewhere remote.

Park City, Utah If you want a wintery escape that kicks off ski season around Thanksgiving. Snow + mountains + cozy vibes.  Hit the slopes early if possible at Park City Mountain Resort.- Warm up afterward in a local lodge, spa, or hot cocoa by the fire.- Explore the town’s restaurants and shops.- Possibly combine some snow activities with scenic drives.  Check snow conditions (sometimes early season means patchy snow). Lodging & lift tickets may cost more if fully open. Reserve ahead.

Savannah, Georgia Warm(er) weather, charming Southern architecture, history, and great food. A peaceful, picturesque escape. - Walk through historic districts, oak-lined streets, old squares.- Eat at Southern-style restaurants; try local specialties.- Take riverboat tours or ghost walks.- Enjoy mild weather outdoors (parks, gardens). Because it’s a popular spot, lodging and restaurants with special Thanksgiving menus book up; consider arriving a day or two early. Weather is mild but can be unpredictable—bring layers.

Santa Barbara, California Beaches + vineyards + a relaxed West Coast feel. Great if you want milder weather and beautiful scenery without snow.  - Explore wine country nearby (Santa Ynez Valley).- Walk along the beach, pier, and waterfront.- Visit the local mission, shops, and gardens.- Eat fresh seafood and enjoy special holiday menus in coastal restaurants. Flights to California might be more expensive around holiday travel windows, so book early. Off-season means some attractions or restaurants might have reduced hours.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida If you want pure sun + beach + warmth for Thanksgiving—escape traditional cold and crowds. Relax on the beaches, go boating or sightseeing.- Try local seafood and Latin/Caribbean-influenced food.- Check out art walks, nature parks, maybe Everglades excursions nearby.- Enjoy the city’s lively festivals or events. Weather: still warm, but possible rain. Choose lodging near things you want so you minimize driving time. Because Florida is quite popular, early booking helps.

✅ Bonus Tips to Make Thanksgiving Travel Smoother

• Book early: Lodging, flights, and restaurant reservations fill up fast for Thanksgiving.

• Choose your travel days smart: Flying or traveling on Thanksgiving Day itself (or the morning) is often cheaper and less crowded than the Wednesday before or Sunday after. 

• Think small scale if you want a quiet holiday**: smaller towns, cabins, or rentals can offer more cozy and peaceful alternatives.

• Check if special Thanksgiving menus/events are offered at your destination so you’re not surprised if restaurants are closed.

• Layer your packing: weather can vary (especially mountains vs coast), so have the ability to adapt.

• Plan downtime: don’t try to cram too many things in. A weekend getaway around a holiday is often better when you leave room to relax and soak in the change of pace.