Places To Go for Thanksgiving: Top Spots To Celebrate in 2025

If you’re tired of the traditional turkey dinner chaos, here’s a completely different plan: a Thanksgiving vacation. After years of travel deals and watching flight prices, I've noticed that Thanksgiving week offers some very interesting opportunities for travel, particularly international travel. Here's what most travelers don't realize: While domestic flights usually spike during Thanksgiving week as everyone rushes to visit family, airlines actually slash prices on international routes to fill up the planes.

Key takeaways

Popular Thanksgiving destinations often include big cities with festive activities like New York City for the Macy's Parade or Las Vegas for holiday entertainment, sunny escapes such as Florida and California's wine country, plus incredible international destinations like Germany with its pre-Christmas charm and Paris with its romantic atmosphere. The best part? Thanksgiving week is actually one of the smartest times to travel, offering everything from crowd-free experiences to seasonal festivities you can't find any other time of year.

For big city excitement:

• New York City, New York: Experience the iconic Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade preparations and festive holiday atmosphere with Broadway shows and holiday window displays.
• Las Vegas, Nevada: Enjoy special holiday shows, shorter lines at attractions, and comfortable 60–70°F weather, perfect for exploring the Strip.

For pleasant weather and relaxation:

• Florida (Orlando, Miami): Perfect for theme park adventures with shorter wait times and holiday decorations, plus warm beaches without winter holiday pricing.
• California (Napa Valley, San Francisco): Experience peaceful wine country with intimate tastings and harvest-season specials, plus mild San Francisco weather ideal for sightseeing.
• Texas (Austin, San Antonio): Enjoy live music venues with special Thanksgiving shows and ideal November temperatures across the Lone Star State.

For international cultural experiences:

• Germany: Catch the beginning of Christmas market season with an authentic German holiday atmosphere and excellent value with the strong dollar.
• Paris, France: Experience the city's romantic November atmosphere without summer crowds, perfect for authentic Parisian bistros and museum visits.
• Rome, Italy: Enjoy comfortable walking weather, shorter museum lines, and peak restaurant season with seasonal ingredients.

For one-of-a-kind international getaways:

• Stockholm, Sweden: Experience authentic Nordic hygge culture and possible Northern Lights sightings during the cozy winter season.
• Morocco (Marrakech): Perfect weather for exploring souks and desert excursions without extreme heat, offering incredible cultural immersion.
• Argentina (Buenos Aires): Enter spring season ideal for urban exploration and wine country adventures, with excellent value due to favorable exchange rates.
• Portugal (Lisbon): Discover mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and authentic local experiences with excellent value for food and wine.
• Thailand: Kick off the cool, dry season, perfect for temples, beaches, and vibrant markets before peak tourist season.

Key travel tips:

• Thanksgiving week is secretly one of the cheapest times for international flights while domestic flights are expensive.
• Book domestic Thanksgiving trips early or risk paying premium prices.
• Going members save an average of 40–50% on flights during this period, with some deals reaching up to 90% off thanks to mistake fares.
• The best times to travel for Thanksgiving: Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday before Thanksgiving, or early Thursday morning or late Thursday night. The worst time to fly to your destination is the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.

Best places to go for Thanksgiving in the US

Las Vegas

While most of the country slows down for family gatherings, Vegas keeps its energy high with special holiday shows, shorter lines at attractions, and surprisingly good hotel deals. What makes Vegas special in late November is the weather—daytime temperatures in the 60–70°F range make it ideal for exploring the Strip or taking day trips to nearby natural wonders, like Red Rock Canyon.

• Main attractions: The Strip, Fremont Street Experience, Red Rock Canyon, Hoover Dam day trips
• Budget: $$ (moderate, with good hotel deals during Thanksgiving week)
• Ideal for: Couples, solo travelers, anyone wanting entertainment over traditional holidays
• Recommended trip duration: 3–4 days
• Main airport: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
• Average Going deal: $175 roundtrip
• Normal price: $381 roundtrip

New York City

Everyone should experience Thanksgiving in New York at least once in their life. The city buzzes with pre-holiday excitement. Plus, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade preparations are in full swing, and the weather is crisp enough to make a long walk through Central Park feel straight out of a movie. The best part? Many Broadway shows offer special holiday performances, and famous restaurants come up with unique Thanksgiving menus that go far beyond traditional turkey.

• Main attractions: Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Broadway shows, Central Park, holiday window displays
• Budget: $$$ (higher end, but many hotel deals available)
• Ideal for: Families, first-time visitors, culture enthusiasts
• Recommended trip duration: 4–5 days
• Main airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
• Average Going deal: $162 roundtrip
• Normal price: $380 roundtrip

California

While most tourists flock to California in summer, late November offers something special in wine country: Napa and Sonoma valleys are incredibly peaceful, with wineries offering intimate tastings and harvest-season specials you won't find any other time of year. San Francisco is also a great Thanksgiving-time destination with mild weather, perfect for exploring Alcatraz, Golden Gate Park, or taking those iconic cable car rides without the usual crowds.

• Main attractions: Napa Valley wineries, Sonoma County, San Francisco landmarks, Big Sur coastal drives
• Budget: $$-$$$$ (varies widely, wine country can be pricey but great deals exist)
• Ideal for: Couples, wine enthusiasts, anyone seeking a relaxed pace
• Recommended trip duration: 5–7 days
• Main airports: San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Oakland International Airport (OAK), San José Mineta International Airport (SJC)
• Average Going deal: $187 roundtrip
• Normal price: $400 roundtrip

Florida

Florida offers an escape from chilly Thanksgiving weather without the premium prices of peak winter season. November in Florida means comfortable temperatures in the 70s–80s Fahrenheit, lower humidity, and significantly fewer crowds at theme parks and beaches. Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando are a top pick during Thanksgiving week thanks to the shorter wait times and special holiday decorations.

• Main attractions: Disney World holiday celebrations, Miami Beach, Everglades National Park, Key West
• Budget: $$ (moderate, with good deals before peak winter season)
• Ideal for: Families, beach lovers, theme park enthusiasts
• Recommended trip duration: 5–7 days
• Main airports: Miami International Airport (MIA), Orlando International Airport (MCO), Tampa International Airport (TPA), Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
• Average Going deal: $189 roundtrip
• Normal price: $394 roundtrip

Texas

The Lone Star State embraces both traditional and modern celebrations during Thanksgiving. Austin's live music venues host special Thanksgiving weekend shows, while San Antonio's historic missions are more focused on the holiday. Plus, November temperatures across Texas are ideal—warm days, cool nights, and crystal-clear skies perfect for exploring iconic cities and natural destinations.

• Main attractions: Austin's music districts, San Antonio River Walk and missions, NASA Space Center Houston, Dallas Arts District
• Budget: $$ (very affordable compared to coastal destinations)
• Ideal for: Music lovers, history buffs, families, food enthusiasts
• Recommended trip duration: 4–6 days
• Main airports: Austin–Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), San Antonio International Airport (SAT), Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
• Average Going deal: $172 roundtrip
• Normal price: $402 roundtrip

Best places to go for Thanksgiving: International destinations

Germany

Germany in late November is pure winter magic, especially if you time your visit to catch the beginning of Christmas market season. Many markets open the weekend after Thanksgiving, which means you can experience the authentic German holiday atmosphere. This month is the best time to enjoy local restaurants serving hearty seasonal dishes and cities decorated but not yet overwhelmed by tourist crowds.

• Main attractions: Early Christmas markets, historic city centers, medieval castles, Rhine Valley
• Budget: $$ (excellent value, especially with strong dollar)
• Ideal for: Culture enthusiasts, couples, anyone seeking authentic European experiences
• Recommended trip duration: 7–10 days
• Main airports: Frankfurt Airport (FRA), Munich Airport (MUC), Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)
• Average Going deal: $497 roundtrip
• Normal price: $935 roundtrip

Rome

November might be one of the best times to visit Rome: comfortable walking weather, shorter museum lines, and the golden autumn leaves that make each street a living picture. The restaurant scene is also at its best since seasonal ingredients are at their peak and you can actually get reservations at places that seem impossible to book during peak season.

• Main attractions: Colosseum, Vatican City, Roman Forum, authentic neighborhood trattorias
• Budget: $$ (much more affordable than summer, great restaurant deals)
• Ideal for: History lovers, foodies, couples, first-time European travelers
• Recommended trip duration: 5–7 days
• Main airports: Leonardo da Vinci Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO), Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
• Average Going deal: $519 roundtrip
• Normal price: $908 roundtrip

Stockholm

Stockholm in November offers a cozy, intimate, and authentically Nordic experience. The city is preparing for its famous winter season, which means you get to live the legendary Scandinavian hygge culture at its most genuine. While days are shorter, the city's incredible museums, design districts, and warm cafes provide perfect indoor alternatives. Plus, this is when you might catch early glimpses of the Northern Lights if conditions are right.

• Main attractions: Gamla Stan (Old Town), Vasa Museum, design districts, archipelago boat tours
• Budget: $$$ (expensive but excellent off-season deals available)
• Ideal for: Design enthusiasts, couples, anyone interested in Scandinavian culture
• Recommended trip duration: 4–6 days
• Main airports: Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN)
• Average Going deal: $491 roundtrip
• Normal price: $907 roundtrip

Morocco

Thanksgiving is honestly one of my favorite times to visit Morocco because you get all the benefits of the incredible culture, food, and landscapes without dealing with the extreme heat. The weather allows you to fully embrace Morocco, from long walks through Marrakech's souks to desert excursions to the Sahara.

• Main attractions: Marrakech medina and markets, Sahara Desert tours, Atlas Mountains, Fez historic districts
• Budget: $ (incredibly affordable, excellent value for money)
• Ideal for: Adventure travelers, culture enthusiasts
• Recommended trip duration: 7–10 days
• Main airports: Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK), Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport (CMN)
• Average Going deal: $570 roundtrip
• Normal price: $1,003 roundtrip

Argentina

Argentina in November is entering its spring season, making it perfect for both urban exploration in Buenos Aires and outdoor adventures in Patagonia or wine country. The weather is warming up but not yet hot, which means perfect conditions for walking Buenos Aires' incredibly diverse neighborhoods, exploring Mendoza's wine regions, or taking that once-in-a-lifetime trip to see glaciers in Patagonia.

• Main attractions: Buenos Aires neighborhoods, Mendoza wine region, Patagonia, Iguazu Falls
• Budget: $ (excellent value due to favorable exchange rates)
• Ideal for: Culture lovers, wine enthusiasts, adventure travelers
• Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
• Main airports: Buenos Aires’ Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE)
• Average Going deal: $586 roundtrip
• Normal price: $906 roundtrip

Portugal

Portugal in November is one of Europe's best-kept secrets with mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and authentic local experiences. Lisbon and Porto are absolutely perfect during this time, with comfortable walking weather and restaurants serving seasonal Portuguese specialties. The pace is more relaxed during this month, and you can explore historic neighborhoods, incredible museums, and coastal areas without fighting crowds.

• Main attractions: Lisbon's historic trams and neighborhoods, Porto's port wine cellars, Sintra's fairytale palaces, coastal towns
• Budget: $ (excellent value, especially for food and wine)
• Ideal for: First-time European travelers, foodies, couples, history enthusiasts
• Recommended trip duration: 7–10 days
• Main airports: Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)
• Average Going deal: $554 roundtrip
• Normal price: $871 roundtrip

Paris

Paris in November has a romantic quality that’s more difficult to find during peak tourist season. The city takes on that classic Parisian atmosphere, and you get to see the city as Parisians live it year-round: relaxed dinners, thoughtful museum visits, long walks along the Seine, and the chance to discover neighborhoods impossible to enjoy with the summer crowds.

• Main attractions: Louvre and Musée d'Orsay with fewer crowds, authentic neighborhood bistros, Seine riverside walks, Montmartre's quieter charm
• Budget: $$$ (high-end but excellent off-season hotel deals)
• Ideal for: Couples, art lovers, anyone seeking authentic Parisian experiences
• Recommended trip duration: 5–8 days
• Main airports: Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Paris Orly Airport (ORY)
• Average Going deal: $536 roundtrip
• Normal price: $923 roundtrip

Thailand

November in Thailand marks the beginning of the cool, dry season. This makes it the perfect month for exploring temples, beaches, and vibrant markets. You get comfortable temperatures, minimal rainfall, and that perfect balance of warm days and comfortable evenings. Plus, this is just before peak tourist season, so you get better prices and more authentic local interactions.

• Main attractions: Bangkok temples and markets, northern Thailand temples, southern beaches and islands, Chiang Mai cultural experiences
• Budget: $ (incredible value for accommodation, food, and activities)
• Ideal for: First-time Southeast Asia travelers, food enthusiasts, beach lovers, cultural explorers
• Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
• Main airports: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), Phuket International Airport (HKT)
• Average Going deal: $849 roundtrip
• Normal price: $1,267 roundtrip

Why take a Thanksgiving vacation?

After years of tracking flight patterns and traveler behavior, I've discovered that Thanksgiving week is one of the most underrated travel periods of the year. Why? While everyone else is stressing about domestic flights to visit family, airlines are dropping the price of international flights to fill seats on less popular routes.

This works in your favor in multiple ways. Domestically, many destinations that are usually crowded become peaceful retreats—wine country empties out, theme parks have shorter lines, and popular tourist destinations become more intimate and authentic. Internationally, you're traveling during what amounts to an off-season period for many destinations, which means better prices, fewer crowds, and more genuine local interactions.

There's also something liberating about creating your own holiday tradition. Instead of rushing through airports, you're traveling at a more relaxed pace to destinations. In fact, some of my most memorable travel experiences have happened during Thanksgiving week, precisely because the experience feels more authentic and less rushed than peak-season travel.

How to plan the perfect Thanksgiving vacation

What to consider when choosing a destination

The key to a successful Thanksgiving vacation is matching your destination to both the season and your travel goals. I always start by deciding whether I want to embrace the autumn/early winter season or escape to somewhere warm. This choice shapes everything else, from packing to activity planning to budget considerations.

Weather patterns during Thanksgiving week are incredibly predictable, which actually makes planning easier. Northern destinations in both the US and internationally are entering their colder season. On the other hand, the southern hemisphere and tropical destinations offer that perfect escape from approaching winter weather, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds than peak winter.

Consider your travel style. Thanksgiving week rewards flexibility—if you're willing to travel Monday/Tuesday instead of the traditional Wednesday evening departure, you'll save significantly and have a much more relaxed experience.

Booking tips

Early-bird vs. last-minute booking tips

For domestic Thanksgiving travel, early booking is absolutely essential. I typically recommend booking domestic flights by early September at the latest—waiting until October means you'll pay premium prices and have limited options. The Wednesday before and Sunday after Thanksgiving are consistently some of the most expensive domestic travel days of the year.

International travel during Thanksgiving week follows completely different rules. Airlines release incredible deals on international routes, sometimes even 3–6 weeks before departure, specifically because they know domestic demand is so high. I've seen roundtrip flights to Europe drop to the $400s just a few weeks before Thanksgiving, as airlines try to fill seats that would otherwise go empty.

Finding the best deals on flights

This is where a Going membership really pays off. We specialize in finding those hidden international deals that make Thanksgiving week travel affordable. The secret is flexibility with departure dates. If you can fly on an earlier day the week of Thanksgiving and return mid-week the week after, you have a good shot at finding a great international deal. 

If you want to know how to find cheap domestic flights, here are some tips: Consider alternative airports and be willing to drive a bit farther for significant savings. Secondary airports often have better availability and lower prices during Thanksgiving week, and the extra drive time is usually worth the savings and reduced stress.

How to book cheap accommodation

Accommodation booking for Thanksgiving week requires a completely different strategy than summer travel. Many destinations that are expensive in peak season offer excellent deals during Thanksgiving week because local tourism is slower. I've found incredible hotel deals in places like Napa Valley, European cities, and even typically expensive destinations like New York.

The key is understanding local patterns. Business hotels in major cities often have weekend availability and lower rates during Thanksgiving week because business travel slows down. Conversely, leisure destinations that cater to families might have higher rates but better availability.

For international destinations, this is often their shoulder season, which means not only lower hotel rates but also better availability at higher-end properties that might be impossible to book during peak times.

Ready for a Thanksgiving getaway? Get the best deals with Going.

After analyzing thousands of flight deals and helping travelers save millions of dollars, I'm convinced that Thanksgiving week offers some of the year's best travel opportunities, but that’s if you know how to find cheap flights. The key is understanding that while domestic flights are expensive and crowded, international routes become incredibly affordable as airlines compete for travelers willing to break from tradition.

Going members consistently save 40–50% on flights during Thanksgiving week, with our deal alerts delivering roundtrip international flights often under $500. Whether you're dreaming of Christmas markets in Germany, wine tastings in Portugal, or beach time in Thailand, Thanksgiving week might be the perfect time to make it happen.

The beauty of Thanksgiving travel is that you're not just saving money—you're often getting a better travel experience. Destinations are less crowded, locals are more welcoming, and you're creating your own unique holiday tradition instead of following the same stressful patterns everyone else accepts as normal.