There is nothing comparable to the celebration of Thanksgiving, is there? From savoring the delightful cuisine to spending time with family and friends, it is a remarkable season of the year. If you have not yet arranged your plans, we have identified four excellent locations where you can enjoy a significant holiday with your loved ones.  

If you need suggestions for Thanksgiving weekend getaways, we recommend you follow our list to have a wonderful time with your friends and family.  

See the Macy’s Parade in New York City  

New York  

New York City comes alive during Thanksgiving, offering the famous Macy’s Parade and the thrill of Black Friday shopping. Experience the city’s unique energy and festive spirit as holiday celebrations fill the streets.  

Where to stay? New York City is full of amazing hotels and places to stay. The parade itself starts around 77th Street in Central Park West and stretches to 34th Street. Depending on the vantage point, you could stay anywhere in New York City and easily find the way to the parade.  

Highlights:   

• Black Friday shopping  

• Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade  

• These are the must-visit weekend road trips for the best East Coast Thanksgiving drives.  

Pick up your rental car at JFK and drive into NYC. Traffic can be heavy during peak times, so use navigation apps for optimal routes and parking.  

The McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade in Chicago.  

Ice Skating  

Chicago transforms into a festive destination at Thanksgiving, hosting the nation’s largest Thanksgiving parade. Enjoy the thriving parade atmosphere, live entertainment, ice skating, and holiday excitement throughout Illinois’ vibrant city.  

Where to stay? The Thanksgiving parade in Chicago will take place on State Street from Congress to Randolph. Opting to stay in the Central Business District (CBD) is an excellent choice, as it places you in close proximity to all the excitement.  

Highlights:   

• McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade  

• Zoo Lights at Lincoln Park Zoo  

• Ice Skating at Millennium Park  

Getting there, you can collect your rental car in Chicago. If you are arriving by air, you may prefer to pick up your rental car from the airport. Your hotel should offer parking facilities to ensure a smooth arrival.  

The Union Square tree lighting ceremony in San Francisco  

San Francisco Skyline  

San Francisco stands out as a top Thanksgiving destination, combining world-class events and iconic sights. Experience Pier 39’s tree lighting or explore Union Square’s magical atmosphere for a memorable family holiday.  

Where to stay? If this is your first visit to San Francisco, consider staying at Fisherman’s Wharf. This historic waterfront area is home to Pier 39, placing you at the heart of Thanksgiving  festivities.  

Highlights.  

• Union Square Tree Lighting Ceremony  

• Broadway Shows and Productions  

• Golden Gate Cruise  

Getting there: If you are driving from LA to San Francisco, the journey will take about 6 hours. Upon your arrival from a West Coast Thanksgiving road trip, you will be greeted by the stunning hills. It is a fantastic location for driving, and you will have plenty of places to explore by car.  

Black Friday shopping in Las Vegas.  

Thanksgiving dinner.  

Las Vegas is in full swing during Thanksgiving, delivering concerts, festivals, shopping, shows, and more. Arrive early for unbeatable Black Friday deals at LINQ Promenade and enjoy lively, nonstop entertainment all weekend.  

Where to stay? If this is your first visit to Las Vegas, it is advisable to stay on the Main Strip. The location places you at the heart of all the ongoing activities.  

Highlights.  

• An exceptional array of foods and buffets  

• Black Friday shopping  

• The vibrant nightclub scene  

Getting There: An extraordinary road trip adventure awaits you, from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. Just over 5 hours away, this drive is famous globally. Travel through the desert and relish the journey. Once you arrive in Las Vegas, park your vehicle at your hotel and take in the sights.  

Joshua Tree National Park  

Joshua Tree National Park is an iconic road trip destination where desert landscapes meet starry skies. Set your sights on unique hikes, striking vistas, and tranquil, memorable Thanksgiving moments.  

Thanksgiving offers a wonderful opportunity to visit Joshua Tree, with temperatures perfect for hiking and skies clear for stargazing. The Hidden Valley and Barker Dam trails offer excellent hikes to appreciate the park’s distinctive beauty. Hidden Valley is a family-friendly 1-mile loop showcasing intriguing rock formations. Similarly, Barker Dam is comparable in length and difficulty, with a path that leads past rock art sites and offers ample opportunities to photograph Joshua Trees.  

The park features four designated stargazing areas: Quail Springs, Hidden Valley, Cap Rock, and Ryan Mountain. Additionally, visitors can reserve a campsite at one of the nine campgrounds for a more secluded viewing experience.  

Begin planning your trip.  

Travel 180 miles from Las Vegas and under 4 hours from Death Valley National Park.  

Weather: Experience comfortable temperatures with highs in the 60s and 70s and lows in the 40s.  

Thanksgiving dinner. Visit nearby Palm Springs for a variety of Thanksgiving dining options. Or consider Pappy and Harriet’s in Pioneer Town for a rustic atmosphere. It is advisable to call ahead for hours and reservations, especially during holidays and for larger groups.