The 12 Best Cities to Spend Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a beloved American holiday centered around food, family, and gratitude. While many choose to celebrate at home, traveling to a new city can provide opportunities to experience exciting traditions, events, attractions, and cuisine.
So if you find yourself wanting more adventure than roasting another turkey at home this November, consider treating yourself to a Thanksgiving getaway in one of these 12 cities that offer fantastic holiday happenings you won’t want to miss as the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Creating new holiday memories while soaking up the diverse local flavors of iconic Thanksgiving destinations could be just the change you need this year.
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New York City, NY
With its iconic parades, shows, and holiday markets, New York City is a magical place to celebrate Thanksgiving.
The Big Apple radiates holiday spirit, with many attractions hosting special events. On Thanksgiving Day, over 3.5 million spectators line the streets of Manhattan to watch the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Giant character balloons, floats, marching bands, performance groups, and celebrities make this a cherished tradition.
After the parade, take in the rockettes at the Radio City Christmas Spectacular or admire the towering Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. Holiday markets like the Columbus Circle Holiday Market and Bryant Park Winter Village offer seasonal goods from local artisans.
On the food front, NYC boasts excellent restaurants putting modern twists on classic Thanksgiving dishes. Top picks include Gramercy Tavern, The Modern, Balthazar, and Locanda Verde. Make reservations early, as spots fill up fast.
If cooking is more your speed, stop by gourmet markets like Zabar’s or Eataly to pick up specialty ingredients.
New York offers endless ways to experience Thanksgiving magic as one of the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
New York City Thanksgiving Travel Tips
- Book accommodations early. Tourism is high over Thanksgiving.
- Most attractions are closed Thanksgiving Day but open on Friday. Plan accordingly.
- Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes for walking and standing at parades and markets.
- Public transit is a convenient and affordable way to get around NYC over the holidays.
San Francisco, CA
With its Mediterranean climate and vibrant culture, San Francisco is an alluring spot for Thanksgiving.
Popular attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf take on a magical ambiance this time of year. Sample stellar Napa Valley wines at holiday tastings or take in stunning Pacific Ocean views along the coast.
Thanksgiving cuisine shines here as well. Top options include Marlowe, Spruce, Quince, and Sons & Daughters. For traditional takes on turkey day favorites, try House of Prime Rib or Epic Roasthouse.
Work off your meal with a hike or bike ride across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge or through the verdant Presidio. At night, neighborhood holiday light displays like Santaland Diaries and the San Francisco Zoo Lights add festive cheer.
With so many ways to celebrate, San Francisco is a fantastic spot for a memorable Thanksgiving vacation as one of the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
San Francisco Thanksgiving Travel Tips
- Make restaurant reservations 1-2 months in advance for Thanksgiving dinner.
- Pack layers as November weather fluctuates between warm sunny days and chilly foggy nights.
- Consider staying near Union Square or Fisherman’s Wharf, which are central to holiday activities.
- Leave the car at home. Biking and public transit are the best ways to navigate the city.
Chicago, IL
Between its world-class museums, phenomenal food scene, and lively holiday happenings, the Windy City shines over Thanksgiving.
Celebrate at traditional Chicagoland parades like the McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade or the smaller Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. Or check out city holiday markets like Christkindlmarket Chicago and The Makers Market, where you can shop for unique artisan gifts.
On Thanksgiving Day, work up an appetite by joining locals in the Chicago Turkey Trot, a popular city running event. Then feast on creative spins of traditional dishes from spots like The Publican, Parachute, and Duck Duck Goat.
Burn calories afterward exploring Chicago’s amazing museums like the Art Institute of Chicago and Field Museum of Natural History, or by skating at Millennium Park’s McCormick Tribune Ice Rink.
With so much holiday spirit, Chicago is a top pick for Thanksgiving and a leading choice among the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Chicago Thanksgiving Travel Tips
- Purchase parade bleacher seats early for the best views.
- Take public transit like the L Train or Metra to get around efficiently.
- Look into Thanksgiving dinner cruises on Lake Michigan for stunning skyline views.
- Allow time to walk along Michigan Avenue and see the magnificent window displays.
Boston, MA
From historic sights to brilliant fall foliage, Boston sets the scene for an idyllic New England Thanksgiving, securing its ranking among the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Walk the Freedom Trail to see sites like the Old North Church and Faneuil Hall, dressed up for the holidays. Stop into an Irish pub for a pint or catch a Thanksgiving hockey game with the Bruins.
Boston shines with decadent desserts like the famous Parker House rolls. Area restaurants like Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, Mooo Restaurant, and Top of the Hub provide sterling Thanksgiving menus.
Work off your feast with a brisk stroll through the Boston Public Garden to admire the autumn leaves and festive lights. Or escape the city for forests speckled with crimson and gold up in New Hampshire or Vermont.
With its history, charm, and natural beauty, Boston sets a quintessential New England backdrop for Thanksgiving, ranking it among the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Boston Thanksgiving Travel Tips
- Make Thanksgiving dinner reservations early – popular eateries book up fast.
- Pack warm layers and shoes suitable for walking on cobblestone streets.
- Consider taking the train or bus to avoid traffic congestion around the holiday.
- Time your visit to catch peak fall foliage from mid-October to early November.
New Orleans, LA
If you like Thanksgiving served up with a side of old-world charm and nightlife, New Orleans is the place to be.
Kick things off by watching the puppet-filled Krewe of Barkus Thanksgiving Day Parade, then indulge in Cajun and Creole takes on turkey day favorites at classic NOLA restaurants like Commander’s Palace, Muriel’s Jackson Square, or Brennan’s.
Walk off the calories with a stroll through the historic French Quarter to admire the wrought-iron balconies decked out for the holidays. Stop to hear live jazz or pop into art galleries displaying regional works.
In the evening, head to Bourbon Street to bar hop and experience NOLA after dark. With parades, parties, and creative takes on traditional cooking, New Orleans adds a lively twist to Thanksgiving, making it one of the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
New Orleans Thanksgiving Travel Tips
- Make reservations at top restaurants 6-12 months out as tables fill fast.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring cobblestone streets and browsing outdoor markets.
- Pack for a range of weather – it could be balmy or brisk in November.
- Consider staying in the French Quarter to be central to key sights and holiday happenings.
Philadelphia, PA
Between its place in American history and happy holiday spirit, Philadelphia sets a quintessential backdrop for Thanksgiving, qualifying it as one of the premier best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Attend the festive Thanksgiving Day Parade then walk off your meal through Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens art gallery or along the lit-up Benjamin Franklin Parkway. For some exercise, join in the Philadelphia Marathon race events over Thanksgiving weekend.
Dine at outstanding Philly restaurants putting modern twists on familiar fare, like Vernick Food & Drink, Hungry Pigeon, and The Love. Or keep it classic at local staples like Reading Terminal Market.
Soak up some history at the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, decked out in autumnal wreaths and bows, or visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art to admire seasonal decor. With its significance in American history and joyful spirit, Philadelphia is a wonderful option among the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Philadelphia Thanksgiving Travel Tips
- Make dinner reservations 1-2 months early as eateries fill up fast.
- If cooking yourselves, shop at Reading Terminal Market for local ingredients.
- Consider staying downtown near major sites, parades, and events.
- Pack layers to accommodate fluctuating November temperatures.
Seattle, WA
For a Pacific Northwest Thanksgiving getaway complete with crisp air, lush forests, and local seafood, visit Seattle.
Begin your trip watching glass artisans at the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum then take the monorail to the Space Needle to admire Puget Sound views. Seafood lovers can feast on salmon and Dungeness crab dishes from Top Chef alums at restaurants like Art of the Table and Lark.
Work off your big meal with a brisk hike or bike ride at Discovery Park or through the lively Pike Place Market. If you visit over Thanksgiving weekend, catch the lively Seattle Turkey Trot 8K run/walk event.
At night, meander through holiday light displays at the Woodland Park Zoo or Seattle Center Winterfest. With natural beauty and local flair, Seattle makes a memorable Thanksgiving escape as one of the premier best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Seattle Thanksgiving Travel Tips:
- Make dinner reservations 1-2 months early, especially for popular restaurants like Canlis.
- Pack waterproof layers and sturdy walking shoes.
- Take public transit when possible – traffic and parking are challenging.
- Visit wineries in nearby Woodinville Wine Country or take a day trip to Mt. Rainier.
Portland, OR
Portland exudes cozy charm and eclectic fun ideal for Thanksgiving, earning it a spot among the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Spend your day hiking through vibrant autumn forests at the Columbia River Gorge or Forest Park. Then feast on creative vegan and vegetarian dishes at restaurants like Farm Spirit, Blossoming Lotus, or Village Baker Cafe.
Work off your meal browsing the quirky shops and art galleries of the Pearl District. As night falls, check out dazzling light displays at the Oregon Zoo or Portland Lan Su Chinese Garden.
Over Thanksgiving weekend, partake in wacky local traditions like the Willamette Pie Company’s National Pie Championships or the Santaland Diaries at Portland Center Stage.
With its locavore dining, stunning nature, and holiday cheer, Portland promises a festive and laid-back Thanksgiving celebration, establishing it among the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Portland Thanksgiving Travel Tips
- Reserve rental cars and lodging 2-3 months early as demand is high over the holidays.
- Many restaurants offer special vegan/vegetarian Thanksgiving menus – like Blossoming Lotus.
- Dress in layers for fluctuating weather and bring rain gear – autumn is very rainy.
- Powell’s Books stays open on Thanksgiving if you want to curl up with a good read.
Nashville, TN
For Thanksgiving served up southern-style with live music, delectable comfort food, and holiday charm, visit Nashville.
Get into the festive spirit at the lighting ceremony for the towering Rockefeller Center-sized tree at TPAC. Soak up live country music over Thanksgiving dinner at the iconic Bluebird Cafe or the Grand Ole Opry.
Work off your feast on a brisk morning walk through Radnor Lake State Park, adorned with autumn’s fiery fall hues. Or work off holiday calories at a spirited contra dance hosted by Nashville’s active folk dancing community.
Foodies can delight in creative southern-inspired Thanksgiving menus at eateries like Husk, The Catbird Seat, and Lockeland Table. And don’t miss the delicious pies!
With its unmatched music scene, southern hospitality, and holiday charm, Nashville shines bright among the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Nashville Thanksgiving Travel Tips
- Reserve restaurant tables and live music venues 2-3 months early as spots fill fast.
- Pack comfortable walking shoes and seasonal layers for changing November temperatures.
- Stay downtown near Broadway to be in the heart of the holiday happenings.
- Consider taking the Nashville Star commuter train to avoid traffic congestion.
Asheville, NC
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville radiates small-town charm and natural beauty ideal for Thanksgiving.
Spend your holiday meandering through the historic Biltmore Estate adorned with hundreds of handmade wreaths and luminaries. Take in panoramic mountain vistas bathed in warm autumnal hues from trails in the surrounding Pisgah National Forest.
At night, experience Asheville’s exciting craft beer scene or catch live folk and bluegrass music that the mountain town is renowned for.
On Thanksgiving Day, choose between chef-driven meals at restaurants like The Market Place or Rhododendron Catering. Better yet, opt for a laid-back picnic in the vibrant fall foliage of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
With its roaring rivers, fiery fall colors, and Appalachian hospitality, Asheville promises a warm, hearty Thanksgiving celebration as an excellent addition to the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Asheville Thanksgiving Travel Tips
- Make lodging reservations 6+ months out for Thanksgiving week. Tourism is very high.
- Pack warm layers and hiking boots/shoes for exploring the outdoors.
- Choose wine tours over beer tours if traveling with family and underage members.
- Consider adding trips to nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park or Chimney Rock Park.
Charleston, SC
Charming cobblestone streets, historic homes, and southern hospitality cement Charleston as a top Thanksgiving destination making it a leading choice among the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Take in the holiday splendor of historic homes donning impressive over-the-top holiday decorations on the Legendary Holiday Home Tour. View artifacts of the city’s rich history at landmarks like the Old City Market and Waterfront Park dressed up for Thanksgiving.
Work up an appetite on a harbor tour before indulging in Lowcountry Thanksgiving feasts of oyster stuffing, crab fried rice, and pecan pie. Top restaurants like Magnolia’s, High Cotton, and the Ordinary excel at celebratory meals.
Walk off your dinner on the beach and watch the sunset or catch a holiday concert by the Charleston Symphony Orchestra.
With its storied history and genteel traditions, Charleston encapsulates southern elegance for Thanksgiving, securing its place among the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Charleston Thanksgiving Travel Tips
- Book accent tours and culinary experiences like Lowcountry oyster roasts early.
- Travel in late November for smaller crowds and lower room rates.
- Pack closed-toed walking shoes, a light jacket, and an umbrella.
- Stay downtown to be central to holiday parades, markets, and harbor tours.
Santa Fe, NM
With its rich cultural blend of Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and Southwestern traditions, Santa Fe offers an original Thanksgiving experience as one of the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Admire handcrafted arts and weavings at open-air markets housed in traditional adobe plazas. Marvel at the intricate lighting displays and festive performances at the Santa Fe Plaza over the holiday weekend.
On Thanksgiving Day, start with sunrise yoga atop Sandia Peak before delving into creative Southwestern-inspired menus at restaurants like Terra, Geronimo, or Cafe Pasqual’s.
Get into the holiday spirit with authentic folk dances and ceremonies hosted by New Mexico’s Pueblos. Then walk off the feast on a hike through the hoodoo rocks and vivid fall foliage of Tent Rocks National Monument.
With its singular mix of Spanish colonial, Native American, and Mexican cultures, Santa Fe promises a one-of-a-kind Thanksgiving celebration, ranking high among the best cities to spend Thanksgiving.
Santa Fe Thanksgiving Travel Tips
- Book guided cultural experiences like pueblo dances 1-2 months early.
- Fly into Albuquerque if you can’t find affordable flights into Santa Fe. It’s just an hour’s drive.
- Leave room for traditional biscochitos cookies and sweet potato or pumpkin empanadas.
- The high elevation makes the air dry. Stay hydrated and moisturize skin frequently.
Related: The Story Behind Thanksgiving: History, Traditions, and Meaning of an Evolving American Holiday
Choose the Best Cities to Spend Thanksgiving for Your Vacation
Thanksgiving in one of these festive cities promises new traditions, holiday cheer, and brilliant regional cuisine without the hosting hassles. Look into your destination’s top activities, holiday events, and signature dishes to build an itinerary that speaks to your interests.
Aim to book earlier for popular holiday happenings in cities like New York and New Orleans. And don’t forget to make dining reservations well in advance regardless of destination.
Checking big city sights like Boston’s Freedom Trail or Chicago’s Field Museum off your bucket list is just an added bonus to your Thanksgiving vacation. So pick a locale from the 12 best cities to spend Thanksgiving that captures your imagination and start planning a city getaway you’ll give thanks for this year.
As you prepare for your Thanksgiving city getaway, be sure to pack the right gear to keep you comfortable whether you’ll be walking to parades, exploring museums, or hiking to burn off holiday meals.
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With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to take full advantage of everything these festive destinations have to offer.
