Thanksgiving is all about family, food and fun. What better way to enjoy this Fall holiday than to visit a new destination that fufills that desire to discover new traditions to incorporate with the old. I compiled a top ten list of my favorite US destinations for celebrating Thanksgiving away from home and making special memories with those you love!
1. Santa Barbara, CA
Why -- Mild temps and endless outdoor activites attract me to this first location.
Must-Do -- Walkable "Funk Zone" featuring art galleries, upscale boutiques and wine tasting rooms, sunset cruise and a day trip to the nearby wine town of Los Olios.
Stay -- Ritz Carlton Santa Barbara - The exterior is a Mediterranean design set in over 90 acreas of nature done in understated luxury offering many suites with balconys overlooking the Pacific.
(also if you fall in love with Los Olios, like I did, stay at The Inn at Matteis Tavern https://aubergeresorts.com/matteistavern/ It is rich with rustic sophistication and history in an unbelievably natural setting offering many wellness opportunities throughout your stay)
2. Williamsburg, VA
Why -- Plenty of US history and discoveries await with this historical area full of family friendly activities.
Must-do -- Food and Feasts of Colonial Virginia at Jameston, enjoy a feast the way the original settlers did!
Stay -- Williamsburg Inn - A beautiful historical property that countless former presidents have stayed. They offer afternoon tea and many special packages including a "Taste of History" package that includes tickets to Colonial Williamsburg and a dining credit at the Tavern on property.
3. Asheville, NC
Why -- Clean mountain air and those majestic views from the Blue Ridge Parkway make this a perfect Fall getaway.
Must-do -- Candlelight Christmas Evening tour at the Biltmore. It is truly magical at night and is bound to get you in the holiday spirit!
Stay -- The Omni Grove Park Inn - The annual national Gingerbread competition will be on full display and is a family hoilday tradition that is sure to bring joy to those of all ages!
4. NYC
Why -- I think this is a bucket list trip for most everone and what better time to experience the Big Apple than at the holidays?!
Must-do -- Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a time honored American tradition, such an exciting way to experience it in person.
Stay -- Three different price point hotels offering premium parade views from the hotel rooms if you don't want to brave the cold temps outside:
Mandarin Oriental New York
New York Hilton Midtown
Residence Inn New York Manhattan/Times Square
5. Santa Fe, NM
Why -- Such a great art scene that offers art galleries, museums and year round markets creating a thriving art community! It has loads of charm, culture and it's a walkable city.
Must-do -- The Sky Railway is a 3 hour train ride that takes you through the gorgeous scenery and there are different themes including a flamenco show. There is a Margarita Trail that has over 50 + margaritas and most are in the walkable historic district.
Stay -- Bishops Lodge - a one of a kind luxury resort located in the foothills of the Sangre de Criston Range
6. New Orleans, LA
Why - Visiting a city known for it's eats and drinks at Thanksgiving just feels so right!
Must-do -- The Annual Bayou Classic Thanksgiving Day Parade is sure to entertain you with those impressive bands and floats. Also, try the locals famous twist on the signature Thanksgiving turkey dish the "turducken" a triple poultry dish that features a Cajun creation - a boneless chicken breast inside of a boneless duck breast inside of a turkey.
Stay -- Intercontinental - the Big Easy is at your feet, a brief stroll in any direction will connect you to the most intriguing experiences from the vibrancy of The French Quarter to the creativity of The Arts District.
7. Palm Springs, CA
Why -- There is something for everyone, relaxation, adventure and exploration all can be had in this sprawling desert oasis!
Must-do -- Aerial Tramway is the world’s largest rotating tram and travels over 2.5 miles along the cliffs of Chino Canyon, transporting you to the wilderness of the Mt. San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness area. During this amazing journey, the tram rotates slowly, offering spectacular vistas of the valley below. If that doesn't get your adrenaline going enough rent an ATV with so many dunes and canyons nearby or visit Ocotillo Wells State Vehicle Recreation Area for over 85,000 acreas of dirt trails.
Stay -- JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort and Spa, features lush grounds with peaceful waterways with a flock of flamingos, and a lake on which you can take serene boat rides.
8. Savannah, GA
Why -- The historical charm, rich tradition and interesting past of this southern city located on the Savannah River transcends you to a bygone era.
Must-do -- The annual boat parade of lights the Saturday after Thanksgiving that benefits a local children's charity. Have lunch at the legendary Mrs Wilkes Dining Room where homestyle southern meals are served family-style while you are seated with strangers in the downstairs of a former boarding house in the center of the historic district. Soak up the view as you walk along the cobblestone River Street taking in the many shops, galleries and monuments.
Stay - Hamilton-Turner Inn, if you have ever wanted to stay in a gorgeous historic southern mansion this is your chance! It was once a privately-owned family home. It is now a luxury inn that takes you back in time and creates the scene of that fictional novel you've been aspiring to write. What a beautiful way to be immersed in the rich history staying in one of the oldest homes in Savannah.
9. Hot Springs, VA
Why -- The HotSprings of course! The amazing scenery and it's golf courses are unmatched.
Must-do -- Surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains, The Omni Homestead Resort setting creates the perfect environment for outdoor pursuits every family member can enjoy. From horseback riding and hiking to fly fishing and archery, there’s an activity for any age.
Stay -- The Omni Homestead Resort is a legendary hotel named "America's Resort" that has hosted 24 presidents for over 250 years. With it's luxurious lodging, spa amenities, and extensive outdoor activities it is a great family destination in itself. The resort hosts a gourmet Thanksgiving feast along with a lighting of the Great Hall Tree to help you get in the holiday spirit.
10. Burlington, VT
Why -- Picture yourself in a Hallmark movie, it has all the makings! Sleigh rides, hot chocolate, Santa Parade, tree lighting ceremony and a farmers market. It is also the craft beer capital of the northeast. Many opportunities for photo ops with vintage Chevy trucks, pumpkins and mums.
Must-do -- The tradition of hand-picking apples is a common practice and as you savor a pumpkin spiced latte and explore the scenic back roads for breathtaking views and vibrant Fall foliage, consider visiting a nearby orchard or a maple syrup farm to make the most of a perfect Fall day in Vermont.
Stay -- Essex Resort and Spa https://www.essexresort.com/essex-experience-vermont/ offers numerous activities for every season and for every traveler.
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