12 Unforgettable Thanksgiving Getaways for Families to try in 2025

1. Plymouth, Massachusetts

• Expected temperatures: 35°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C)

For history enthusiasts, there’s no better place to spend Thanksgiving than in Plymouth, where the holiday tradition began. This historic town goes all out for Thanksgiving, offering a truly immersive experience. Visit Plimoth Patuxet Museums (formerly Plimoth Plantation) to step back in time and learn about the Pilgrims and Wampanoag people.

The living history museum offers special Thanksgiving programs, including historical dining experiences. Don’t miss America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Parade, typically held the weekend before Thanksgiving. This parade showcases the history of the holiday, from the Pilgrims to the present day.

Explore the Mayflower II, a full-scale reproduction of the ship that brought the Pilgrims to America. While the weather can be chilly, the festive atmosphere and rich history make Plymouth an unforgettable Thanksgiving destination for families.

6. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

• Expected temperatures: 25°F to 45°F (-4°C to 7°C)

For families eager to embrace winter activities, Lake Tahoe straddles the perfect line between late fall and early winter. This stunning alpine lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, offers a range of activities for all ages. Many ski resorts in the area aim to open by Thanksgiving, providing an opportunity for early-season skiing or snowboarding (though this is not guaranteed!)

Even if the slopes aren’t fully open, the area offers plenty of alternatives like ice skating, snowshoeing, or simply enjoying the breathtaking lake views. Take a scenic drive around the lake, stopping at viewpoints along the way.

Many lakeside resorts offer special Thanksgiving packages, combining cozy accommodations with festive meals. The crisp mountain air and potential for snow create a magical atmosphere, perfect for kicking off the holiday season with your family.

Learn more about a trip to Lake Tahoe in the cooler winter months

7. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

• Expected temperatures: 18°F to 39°F (-8°C to 4°C)

Jackson Hole offers a picturesque and adventurous getaway for families seeking a winter wonderland for Thanksgiving. Nestled in the Teton Mountains, this destination often sees early snowfall, creating a magical setting for the holiday. The Jackson Hole Mountain Resort typically aims to open around Thanksgiving, offering early-season skiing and snowboarding for winter sports enthusiasts.

Even if the slopes aren’t fully open, the area provides plenty of snow-based activities. Take a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge, where thousands of elk migrate for the winter, offering an unforgettable wildlife experience. The town of Jackson embraces the holiday spirit with its iconic antler arch decorated with twinkling lights.

Many lodges and resorts in the area offer special Thanksgiving packages, complete with gourmet dinners featuring local game and produce. For a unique experience, visit nearby Yellowstone National Park to see steaming geysers surrounded by snow. The crisp air, stunning mountain views, and potential for snow create an idyllic setting for families looking to kick off the winter season with a cozy, nature-filled Thanksgiving.

8. San Diego, California

• Expected temperatures: 60°F to 70°F (16°C to 21°C)

For families seeking a sun-soaked Thanksgiving, San Diego offers the perfect blend of warm weather and holiday cheer. With its mild Mediterranean climate, this coastal city provides an ideal setting for outdoor activities. Spend Thanksgiving morning at the famous San Diego Zoo or Safari Park, where special holiday events often take place.

Head to Coronado Island for a beach day, complete with sandcastle building and surfing lessons. The city’s Balboa Park, with its numerous museums and gardens, offers a cultural respite. Don’t miss the annual Mother Goose Parade in nearby El Cajon, typically held on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.

This cherished tradition features whimsical floats, marching bands, and even Santa Claus, officially kicking off the holiday season. Many oceanfront restaurants offer special Thanksgiving menus, allowing you to enjoy a traditional feast with a Pacific view.

Grab our complete family guide to exploring San Diego and Southern California for more idea!

9. Orlando, Florida

• Expected temperatures: 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C)

Orlando provides a magical Thanksgiving experience that combines warm weather with world-famous attractions. Theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld offer special holiday-themed events and decorations, often starting around Thanksgiving. Enjoy shorter lines than peak season while still experiencing a festive atmosphere.

Beyond the parks, the city offers plenty of family-friendly activities. Visit the Orlando Science Center for hands-on learning experiences, or explore the Harry P. Leu Gardens for a peaceful nature walk. Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando hosts a variety of events in the fall.

Many resorts and restaurants in the area offer elaborate Thanksgiving buffets, allowing you to enjoy a traditional meal without the hassle of cooking. The comfortable temperatures make it easy to spend time outdoors, whether you’re playing golf, swimming, or simply relaxing by the pool.

11. Chicago, Illinois

• Expected temperatures: 35°F to 45°F (2°C to 7°C)

Chicago offers a quintessential big-city Thanksgiving experience with a Midwestern twist. The highlight of the holiday is the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, a spectacular event featuring giant balloons, marching bands, and performance groups.

Brave the chill to ice skate at Millennium Park’s McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, with the city’s stunning skyline as your backdrop. Warm up afterward with hot chocolate and enjoy the dazzling holiday lights along the Magnificent Mile. For indoor fun, visit the Field Museum or the Art Institute of Chicago, both world-renowned institutions.

Navy Pier often hosts special Thanksgiving events, including fireworks displays. Many of the city’s top restaurants offer special Thanksgiving menus, ranging from traditional to innovative. While the weather can be cold, the festive atmosphere, world-class attractions, and holiday events make Chicago an exciting Thanksgiving destination for families.

12. St. Augustine, Florida

• Expected temperatures: 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C)

St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, offers a unique blend of history, warm weather, and holiday cheer for Thanksgiving. The city’s Spanish colonial architecture and cobblestone streets create a charming backdrop for holiday celebrations. Visit the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fort, for living history demonstrations.

The city’s famous Nights of Lights festival typically begins around Thanksgiving, illuminating the historic district with millions of tiny white lights. To enjoy the lights from a different perspective, take a scenic cruise along the coast or through the city’s waterways. Many local restaurants offer special Thanksgiving menus, often featuring fresh seafood alongside traditional fare.

Families can enjoy the mild weather with outdoor activities like beach walks, kayaking, or visiting the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. The blend of history, natural beauty, and holiday festivities makes St. Augustine a memorable Thanksgiving destination for those who want a little late fall warmth!