Thanksgiving Vacation Destinations

Most of us look at Thanksgiving as a pre-holiday – the opening event to the official holiday season and a month of running around until we’re worn out and tired.

Millions of Americans will take a long weekend to celebrate the holiday with family and friends, take an extended weekend trip, or simply start preparations for the next holiday. What about those who want to enjoy an entire week away from home, though? We’ve got you covered. Here are some of the bets Thanksgiving vacation destinations for you to consider!

10. Hawaii, United States

The Hawaiian Islands are a perfect warm-weather option for anyone who wants to get away from the chilly fall or winter air. The islands, especially Big Island, are great for kids so there’s no reason to hesitate about bringing the entire family with you, either. Spend your Thanksgiving week surfing, water skiing, dancing, and enjoying all there is about Hawaiian culture.

9. Paris, France

No one said you had to stay in the country during your Thanksgiving vacation. Why not take a trip to Paris, enjoy the sights, and dine on some authentic French cuisine? It may not be a homemade turkey dinner but we’re pretty sure you won’t mind what you end up with.

8. Denver, Colorado

Want to get a sneak peak at the winter white stuff? Head to Denver, Colorado for a week of skiing, snowboarding, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Most of the area’s hottest ski resorts open for the season in November, including Copper Mountain, Aspen, and Vail. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to visit – cold enough to ski but not so cold you find yourself wishing you’d stayed indoors.

7. San Diego, California

Do you live in an area that’s already a bit chillier than you like? Consider heading towards the west coast to spend a week in sunny San Diego. While there you’ll have the chance to participate in the Thanksgiving Dixieland Jazz Festival in between trips to other local favorites like Sea World or the San Diego Zoo. This is an excellent Thanksgiving vacation destination for those of you who want to travel with the family this year, too!

6. Brussels, Belgium

Head towards the capital of Belgium for an incredible Thanksgiving week vacation you’ll never forget. The city is full of incredible cobblestone streets, historic squares, palaces, museums, and decadent restaurants. The flight from the United States is about 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to rest on the way there and back.

5. Whistler, British Colombia, Canada

Head on up towards Whistler to spend the Thanksgiving holiday snuggled up by the fire in between trips down the slopes. As the site of the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler is bound to be buzzing with activity but you’ll have a better chance of booking a Whistler hotel room now than you will right after the New Year. Besides, when the Olympics begin you can tell all of your friends you were just there!

4. Disney World, Florida

The gang in Disney World is always ready to celebrate and Thanksgiving is no exception. Mickey and the gang will dress as pilgrims, extend their holiday hours, serve special meals, and host a number of fun Thanksgiving-themed parades. Disney is, of course, and incredible place to spend an entire week and the costs of hotel rooms in Orlando or Disney itself may be a bit less than they will be during the Christmas rush.

3. New York City, New York

If you head towards New York you will, of course, have a chance to see the incredible Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade (a tradition since the 1920’s) but there is a lot more to see and do while you’re in the Big Apple.  Visit the Central Park Zoo, stroll the city’s numerous museums, dine in a few stunning restaurants, and take in a show or two. You could easily spend an entire week exploring.

2. Chicago, Illinois

A trip to Chicago isn’t out of the question. You’ll find plenty of amazing attractions in the Windy City and the cost may even end up being a bit less than a trip to New York City. There are plenty of theaters, museums, and outdoor attractions to enjoy as well as a cool Thanksgiving Parade that doesn’t really rival New York’s but certainly gives it a run for it’s money!

1. Plymouth, Massachusetts

Why not take a trip down memory lane (albiet, not your own memory) and take a trip to Plymouth, Massachusetts during the week of Thanksgiving? While you’re there you’ll have a chance to see Plymouth Rock, the Plymouth Plantatino, and a stunning replica of the Mayflower. There are dozens of incredible historic attractions to keep you busy in Plymouth and you’ll have no trouble finding an incredible place to enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner.

You deserve a break. Take some time off from work, pack your bags, and hit the road for a week of fun, excitement, and relaxation you’ll be thankful you took!