Best Thanksgiving Vacation Destinations​

Best Vacation Spots For Thanksgiving​

As the air turns crisp and the leaves take on hues of amber and gold, Thanksgiving 2025 presents the perfect opportunity to escape the ordinary. Whether you’re craving a cozy cabin retreat, a foodie-filled city celebration, or a sunny beachside escape, there’s a destination to suit every traveler’s fall mood. From the rustic charm of New England to the vibrant energy of Southern cities and the tropical calm of island getaways, here are Marneys Tidbits  Thanksgiving vacation spot recommendations for Fall 2025.

Stowe, Vermont – A Quintessential New England Thanksgiving

If Thanksgiving had a postcard, it would probably look like Stowe, Vermont. Tucked in the Green Mountains, Stowe is famous for its maple trees, cozy lodges, and postcard-perfect scenery. During Thanksgiving week, you can enjoy scenic drives through covered bridges, shop at local craft fairs, or explore the historic downtown filled with quaint boutiques and bakeries.

Many of Stowe’s inns and resorts, such as Topnotch Resort and Trapp Family Lodge, offer special Thanksgiving packages featuring gourmet dinners with locally sourced ingredients, think roasted turkey, cranberry compote, and homemade Vermont cheddar biscuits. For a little adventure, hit the trails at Smugglers’ Notch State Park or take a gondola ride for sweeping mountain views.

Marneys Tidbits published this article on the best Thanksgiving destinations. You can easily find links to the hotel destinations in this article here at Marneys Tidbits Travel Shop.

Thanksgiving Vacations In Colorado

Thanksgiving in Aspen offers a magical blend of snow-dusted mountains, cozy mountain lodges, and vibrant local culture that makes the holiday unforgettable. Nestled in the heart of this picturesque town is the historic Hotel Jerome, a landmark that perfectly combines old-world charm with modern luxury, providing an ideal base for a Thanksgiving getaway.

Arriving in Aspen in late November, travelers are greeted by crisp mountain air and the sparkling beauty of early-season snow. The town itself exudes a welcoming warmth, with quaint streets lined with boutiques, art galleries, and cafés serving everything from gourmet coffee to hearty alpine fare. Staying at the Hotel Jerome, guests immediately feel the legacy of Aspen’s storied past. Founded in 1889, the hotel has hosted celebrities, politicians, and adventurers for over a century, yet its interiors remain inviting rather than ostentatious. Rich wood paneling, cozy fireplaces, and meticulously curated artwork make it a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Thanksgiving in Aspen is not just about relaxation—it’s an opportunity for outdoor adventure. The surrounding mountains offer world-class skiing and snowboarding, and early-season conditions often allow visitors to hit the slopes without the summer crowds. For those who prefer a slower pace, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing through the pristine trails provides a peaceful connection to nature. A short drive from town brings visitors to Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed mountain ranges in North America, where winter landscapes take on a serene, almost otherworldly beauty.

Back in town, Aspen’s culinary scene shines during the Thanksgiving holiday. Many restaurants and hotels, including the Hotel Jerome’s own J-Bar and Prospect, serve carefully curated Thanksgiving menus, often incorporating local ingredients and seasonal flavors. A traditional roast turkey with all the fixings is elevated with truffle-infused sides, roasted root vegetables, and decadent desserts featuring local apples, pears, and pumpkin. For those seeking a more casual celebration, the city’s many eateries offer comfort food and warm drinks in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Evenings in Aspen are equally enchanting. Guests at the Hotel Jerome can enjoy a fireside drink in the cozy lounge or step outside to explore the town’s festive lights and seasonal events. From holiday markets to live music performances, the city’s energy is both lively and intimate, making it easy to feel immersed in the community while still enjoying a personal retreat.

A Thanksgiving trip to Aspen, especially when staying at the Hotel Jerome, balances adventure, indulgence, and tranquility. From snow-filled days exploring the mountains to evenings spent by the fire sipping a signature cocktail, the holiday feels both special and deeply restorative. The combination of natural beauty, luxurious accommodations, and festive culinary experiences ensures that a Thanksgiving in Aspen is not just a vacation—it’s a celebration of the season itself.

Asheville, North Carolina – Cozy Charm and Mountain

Asheville, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, combines rustic scenery with a thriving arts and food scene. It’s a fantastic Thanksgiving destination for travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, nature, and comfort. The Biltmore Estate goes all out with Thanksgiving feasts and early Christmas decorations that light up the 8,000-acre property.

Downtown Asheville buzzes with live music, farm-to-table dining, and cozy breweries serving seasonal ales and ciders. Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway to witness the final bursts of fall foliage, or explore nearby small towns like Black Mountain and Hendersonville for handmade crafts and fall festivals.

Thanksgiving Vacations In Texas

Thanksgiving Vacations In California – Lake Tahoe

For those who crave a Thanksgiving filled with crisp mountain air and possibly the first snowfall of the season, Lake Tahoe offers the best of both worlds. By late November, the region begins transforming into a winter wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or simply relaxing by a fireplace with hot cocoa.

Many of Tahoe’s lodges and ski resorts, such as The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe and Edgewood Tahoe Resort, host Thanksgiving dinners with panoramic lake views. You can start your morning with a lakeside walk, hit the slopes in the afternoon, and finish your day with a festive meal and spa treatment.

Charleston, South Carolina – Southern Charm Meets Holiday Warmth

Charleston is one of those destinations that feels timeless no matter the season, but during Thanksgiving, its cobblestone streets and antebellum homes become even more enchanting. With mild fall weather and less tourist traffic, you can stroll along Rainbow Row, visit Magnolia Plantation, or take a carriage ride through the historic district.

Zero George Hotel, located in Charleston’s historic Ansonborough neighborhood, offers a boutique-luxury experience in five beautifully restored 19th-century residences and carriage houses. The hotel’s 16 studios and suites blend minimalist modern design with historic charm, featuring marble bathrooms, creamy linens, and private veranda terraces.

Guests enjoy thoughtful amenities such as Nespresso machines, bicycles, and a daily wine-and-cheese hour. The on-site Restaurant at Zero George focuses on seasonal, locally sourced cuisine, while the Caviar Bar provides a sophisticated evening option.

Tucked away on a quiet street but within walking distance of King Street’s shops, dining, and cultural attractions, Zero George balances tranquility with access to Charleston’s vibrant scene. Acclaimed by Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure, it’s ideal for those seeking historic Southern ambiance, modern comfort, and personalized service in a serene setting.

Thanksgiving meals here blend Southern hospitality with classic holiday fare. Many local favorites like Halls Chophouse, 82 Queen, and High Cotton serve Thanksgiving dinners featuring Southern-inspired dishes, smoked turkey, sweet potato casserole, and pecan pie.

If you stay through the weekend, enjoy Charleston’s Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park, which kicks off right after Thanksgiving.

Maui, Hawaii – A Tropical Thanksgiving Paradise

For those who prefer palm trees over pine trees, Maui offers a Thanksgiving escape that’s both serene and unforgettable. Imagine trading your wool sweater for a swimsuit and your pumpkin pie for a beachfront luau. Many resorts, including The Grand Wailea and The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua, host festive dinners with Hawaiian twists, think pineapple-glazed turkey and coconut haupia desserts.

Maui is home to some of the world’s most luxurious resorts, and the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea and The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua stand out as two of the island’s finest.

Located on the sun-drenched south coast, Four Seasons Wailea offers guests spacious rooms with ocean-view lanais, pristine beaches, and world-class golf nearby. Its dining scene, from Spago Maui to Ferraro’s, blends global cuisine with local flavors, while cultural programs and spa experiences ensure a pampered stay. This resort is perfect for those seeking elegance, vibrant energy, and prime beachfront luxury.

On the northwest coast, The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua provides a more secluded, nature-focused escape. Nestled amid lush landscapes near D.T. Fleming Beach, it combines luxury with tranquility. Guests enjoy spacious suites, pools, a signature spa, and cultural experiences like the Kapa Moe Luau. Its serene setting makes it ideal for families, golfers, or travelers looking for a retreat into Maui’s natural beauty.

Whether you crave sun-soaked sophistication or a peaceful tropical getaway, these resorts offer unmatched luxury and authentic Hawaiian hospitality.

Beyond the feast, you can spend your days snorkeling with sea turtles, exploring the scenic Road to Hana, or watching the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park. A Maui Thanksgiving is ideal for travelers looking to relax and reflect while soaking in the natural beauty of the islands.

Napa Valley, California – Thanksgiving for Wine Lovers

For a relaxed, elegant Thanksgiving getaway, Napa Valley is the perfect blend of culinary excellence and vineyard beauty. The harvest season may be over by late November, but the vineyards still glow with gold and crimson leaves. Thanksgiving weekend is a great time to visit without the summer crowds.

Nestled on a terraced, sun‑kissed hillside amid 33 acres of heritage olive and oak trees in Napa Valley, Auberge du Soleil blends French‑inspired elegance with California soul. Established in 1981 by French restaurateur Claude Rouas and partner Bob Harmon, the resort began as the region’s first fine‑dining restaurant and expanded into a boutique inn five years later. With just 50 contemporary guestrooms and suites, it offers an intimate, luxurious adult escape. Known for its breathtaking views, gourmet cuisine, and serene spa, it’s regarded as one of wine‑country’s most iconic luxury retreats.

Enjoy a luxurious meal at vineyard estates like Auberge du Soleil or Brix Restaurant, where chefs craft farm-fresh menus paired with local wines. Afterward, take a scenic drive through Yountville or Calistoga, visit cozy tasting rooms, or indulge in a spa day with a view of the rolling hills.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming – A Rustic, Snow-Kissed Holiday

For travelers who dream of a true mountain Thanksgiving, Jackson Hole offers rugged beauty and authentic Western hospitality. With snow often blanketing the Tetons by late November, it’s a beautiful setting for cozying up by a fire or taking a sleigh ride through the snow-covered landscape.

Stay at The Amangani Hoteel, which serves an elevated Thanksgiving dinner featuring regional flavors. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore Grand Teton National Park, just minutes away, or venture into Yellowstone National Park, which is stunning in the off-season.

Florida Thanksgiving Vacations​

If cold weather isn’t your style, Key West offers a laid-back tropical Thanksgiving filled with sunshine, ocean views, and plenty of local flavor. Stroll down Duval Street, take a sunset cruise, or visit Ernest Hemingway’s Home and Museum for a touch of history.

Pier House Resort & Spa, located on historic Duval Street in Key West, offers the perfect mix of island charm and luxury. The resort has 142 island‑chic rooms and suites, many with Gulf of Mexico views and private balconies. Guests enjoy a rare private white‑sand beach, a full-service spa, and a fitness center with sauna and hot tub. Dining highlights include One Duval, serving fresh local seafood, and the historic Chart Room Bar with live music. Steps from shopping, nightlife, and sunset views at Mallory Square, Pier House combines beachfront relaxation with vibrant Key West energy.

Many island restaurants, such as Latitudes and Louie’s Backyard, offer Thanksgiving menus that highlight fresh seafood alongside traditional favorites. You can even join the Key West Turkey Trot, a fun local 5K that supports island charities.

Thanksgiving Vacations In Montana – Sky Valley, Montana

Sky Valley, Montana is a breathtaking mountain escape that perfectly blends rustic charm with luxury living. Nestled near Big Sky, this area is known for its sweeping alpine views, crisp mountain air, and endless outdoor adventures—from fly fishing and horseback riding to world-class skiing.

One of the most beloved spots here is Lone Mountain Ranch, a historic guest ranch offering an authentic Montana experience with cozy log cabins, gourmet ranch-to-table dining, horse experiences, and guided adventures through pristine wilderness. In winter, its trails transform into a cross-country skiing paradise, while summer brings scenic horseback rides and Yellowstone tours. Be sure to get the Tomahawk steak at Horn & Cantle, one of the restaurants featured in Marneys Tidbits blog titled, “Your Guide To The 50 Best Restaurants in the US.”

Just down the road, The Montage Big Sky elevates the mountain experience with refined elegance. This five-star resort features ski-in/ski-out access, a world-class spa, fine dining, and breathtaking views of the Spanish Peaks. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious retreat or a rustic mountain getaway, Sky Valley captures the best of both worlds, untamed beauty and refined comfort, side by side.

Best Thanksgiving Vacations​

• Book early: Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Flights and hotels fill up months in advance, especially in popular destinations like New York, Maui, and Napa. Visit Marneys Tidbits Expedia Travel Shop here for easy viewing of the hotels featured in this article.
• Consider weather: From snowy mountains to sunny beaches, pack appropriately for your chosen climate.
• Reserve meals: Many restaurants offer limited Thanksgiving menus that sell out fast — make reservations at least two months ahead.
• Travel midweek: Flying on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and returning the following Monday often means better prices and fewer crowds.
• Book Excursions ahead of time: Check out Marneys Tidbits Viator excursion recommendations here.

Thanksgiving 2025 is more than just a meal, it’s a chance to reconnect, reflect, and explore. Whether you’re sipping cider in Vermont, basking on a Hawaiian beach, or watching giant balloons float over Manhattan, the season offers endless ways to celebrate gratitude and togetherness. Wherever you go, bring an appetite, for adventure, beauty, and, of course, pumpkin pie.

FAQ’s For Best Thanksgiving Vacations