Are you in the mood to skip the usual turkey stress and trade your dining room table for some jaw-dropping vistas? Whether you’re craving the vibrant fall foliage or sunny beaches, these Thanksgiving destinations are sure to promise views so stunning they will steal the show from your grandmother’s famous stuffing. Start packing your appetite for adventure because your Thanksgiving getaways are about to get a significant glow-up.  

Choosing Your Perfect Thanksgiving Getaway  

Which destination is appropriate for you? Ask yourself what kind of family holiday vibe you are after.  

We recommend the following.  

• Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, and Asheville are for adventure and nature lovers.  

• Napa Valley, Santa Barbara, Charleston, and Savannah for foodies and romantics.  

• New York City for city slickers and celebration seekers.  

• San Diego, Santa Barbara, and Charleston for sun chasers and beach bums.  

• Asheville, Lake Tahoe, and Napa Valley for a classic fall experience  

Below are our Recommended Top Ten States to visit for Thanksgiving  

1. Napa Valley, California: A Toast to Thanksgiving.  

Reasons it’s famous – Napa Valley boasts world-class vineyards and majestic mountains, transforming it into an autumnal paradise during the Thanksgiving holiday, with golden vines stretching across rolling hills.  

Why it’s special  

• Ideal climate: Enjoy mild Thanksgiving weather with temperatures in a pleasant 65°F.   

• Wine tasting: Over 400 wineries offer you an opportunity to savor Thanksgiving specials and gourmet meals.   

• Scenic drives: Uncover Mountain Top Vineyards offering panoramic valley views.   

• Special events: Enjoy the Thanksgiving journeys offered by Napa Valley Wine Train  

Pro tip: Book your Thanksgiving feast early, as special holiday menus at renowned restaurants sell out quickly.  

2. Grand Canyon, Arizona – Nature’s ultimate showstopper.  

Reasons it’s famous – this area offers the most breathtaking Thanksgiving vacation ideas you will ever experience. The layered colors of the canyon create a mesmerizing display that changes with the light throughout Thanksgiving Day.  

What makes it unique  

• Ideal weather: crisp temperatures between 45-60°F, without the brutal summer crowds.  

• Prime visibility: Some of the clearest skies for stunning views are visible in November.  

• Active wildlife: during the cooler autumn months. Use to spot more elk and deer.  

• Tranquil hiking: Bright Angel, a popular trail, is less crowded during this period  

Pro Tip: The views of the sunset and sunrise over the canyon are so spectacular that they will make your Thanksgiving meal taste even better when you finally sit down to enjoy it.  

3. New York City Urban Holiday Magic  

Reasons it’s famous – New York City is renowned as the undisputed king of Thanksgiving. Renowned for the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, the city’s skyline, buzzing with holiday energy, is undoubtedly unmatched for this time of the year.  

What makes it special  

• The Macy’s Parade: this spectacle of America’s favorite tradition, live along with the balloons and bands, is likely to leave you spellbound.  

• Central Park Strolls: uncover the vibrant fall foliage and cozy, crisp autumn vibes in the center of the city.  

• Breathtaking views: if you want some stunning, uninterrupted views of the Empire State Building and beyond, head to the top of the Rock.  

• Iconic ice skating: consider gliding under the famous Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Center rink, opening for the season  

Pro tip. Insider Secret – Avoid the packed restaurants and spend Thanksgiving Day by booking a dinner cruise for an unforgettable meal with stunning skyline and Statue of Liberty views.  

4. Yosemite National Park, California – the quiet majesty.  

Reasons it’s famous – Exchange the hustle for a peaceful stay at a cabin and a traditional holiday season in the woods. November is not crowded and offers you crystal-clear, crowd-free views of iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome.  

What makes it special  

• Chasing Waterfalls: After the autumn rains, you can see your summit falls flowing at perfect levels.   

• Prime climbing conditions: We intend to tackle the world-famous rock faces. Ideal weather to satisfy your goal.   

• Photographer’s paradise: During the park’s golden hour, lighting captures spectacular shots.   

• Unique Landscapes: View the stunning contrast of snow-dusted peaks against the golden autumn colors below  

Pro tip. November is a secret sweet spot for the best Thanksgiving vacation. Enjoy the summer without the crowds, and the main roads are still open. But you can always check for early snow closures.  

5. Charleston, South Carolina, where Southern Hospitality meets Coastal Charm  

Reasons it’s famous. You can experience the ultimate blend of warm Southern hospitality, beautiful beaches, and profound history. Charleston’s historic charm and delightful weather make it a top choice for a memorable holiday getaway.  

What makes it special  

• Historic beauty: walk along the cobblestone streets lined with stunning antebellum architecture.   

• Perfect weather: enjoy! Comfortable temperature averaging 70°F and sunny weather for exploring.   

• Incredible cuisine: Savor amazing Thanksgiving alternatives, such as fresh, local seafood.   

• Charming Tours: view the city’s natural beauty on a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride  

Pro tip: Don’t worry about dining options, as many renowned restaurants stay open with unique Thanksgiving menus, often featuring local specialties such as shrimp and grits, alongside the traditional turkey.  

6. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada, Mountain Paradise.  

Reasons it’s famous – This is a top Thanksgiving travel planner, especially for families who love a mix of adventure and relaxation, as an Alpine gym. A crystal-clear lake surrounded by snow-dusted peaks creates an unbelievably beautiful postcard-perfect view.  

What makes it special  

Spectacular scenery: if you are looking for endless bread-taking meals, drive the 72-mile loop around the entire lake.  

• Early Winter Fun offers you early-season skiing and snowboarding, allowing you the opportunity to hit the slopes.  

• Iconic Hikes: Why not explore the stunning trails, such as those at Emerald Bay and Eagle Falls?  

• Fewer crowds: as the peak summer or winter clouds will not interrupt your view, you can enjoy the serene beauty of the basin.  

• Cozy vibes: after a full day of exploration, unwind by a rolling fireplace  

Pro Tip: The crisp mountain air and stunning lake views are magical when combined. Consider booking a rental with a fireplace and a view to make your Thanksgiving feast truly unforgettable.  

7. San Diego, California. Year-round paradise.  

Reasons it’s famous: make your Thanksgiving vacation feel like a summer getaway by escaping to Southern California. San Diego’s beautiful beaches and famous warm weather create the perfect backdrop for a non-holiday celebration.  

What makes it special  

• Ideal climate: Bask in the sunshine with average November temperatures for a perfect 75°F.  

• Stunning beaches: Uncover world-famous shores like La Jolla Cove, Mission Beach, and Coronado.  

• Family fun: Explore the renowned San Diego Zoo and the museums of Balboa Park.  

• Breathtaking sunsets: From Sunset Cliffs, experience incredible evening views.  

Pro tip: Reserve your Thanksgiving dinner at the Beachfront restaurant for unforgettable sunset views that will make your Instagram explode!  

8. Asheville, North Carolina, Mountain Views, and Craft Beer  

Reasons it’s famous: Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is renowned for its spectacular fall foliage, which lasts into November, creating a stunning backdrop for a memorable Thanksgiving vacation filled with outdoor adventure and craft culture.  

What makes it special  

• Experience the vibrant autumn foliage, which often extends into late November.  

• Craft Beer Scene: Sample the creations from over 100 local breweries and taprooms.  

• Scenic Drives: cruise along America’s favorite drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway, for breathtaking mountain views.  

• Outdoor fun: discover hiking trails, zip-lining courses, and countless scenic overlooks  

Pro tip: for adults, a combination of crisp mountain air, stunning views, and a thriving local craft beer scene creates a perfect and cozy Thanksgiving atmosphere.  

9. Savannah, Georgia – historic Charm and Southern Comfort.  

Reason it’s famous: one of America’s most beautiful historic cities allows you to experience Thanksgiving wrapped in elegance. The iconic red squares and stunning Antebellum architecture of Savannah create a uniquely magical setting for holiday memories.  

What makes it special  

24 Iconic Squares: Perfectly preserved and picturesque public squares allow you to stroll through them.  

Pleasant climate: explore comfortably with average November temperatures of 70°F.  

Experience legendary cuisine with incredible Southern food and Thanksgiving specials at renowned local restaurants.  

Haunted history: play of the East: Embark on a spooky and enjoyable ghost tour for the entire family.  

Pro Tip: The undeniable charm of Savannah, from its cobblestone streets to its thrusting, rustling oak trees, will ensure your Thanksgiving feels like you have stepped right into the pages of a Southern romance novel.  

10. Santa Barbara, California. California Coastal Perfection.  

Reasons it’s famous. Top of our list with the offer from Santa Barbara. With the American Riviera, you have the perfect blend of mountain and ocean views for an unforgettable and luxurious Thanksgiving celebration.  

What makes it special  

Stunning beaches: relax on the beautiful shores of the East Beach and Butterfly Beach.  

Ocean View Wineries: Savor local vintages at vineyards with breathtaking coastal panoramas.  

Perfect climate: enjoy perfect 70°F and sunny weather throughout the holiday weekend.  

Iconic architecture: don’t forget to admire the picture-perfect scenes created by the Spanish colonial-style white stucco and red tile roofs.  

Pro Tip: The perfect finale. Watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean while enjoying your turkey at the Thanksgiving feast, as it truly doesn’t get more magical than this.