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Looking for a way to enjoy Thanksgiving weekend without the stress of cooking, hours in the car, and familial obligations? Book a last-minute getaway and create a new tradition! A weekend vacation offers a special way to celebrate the holiday and create lasting memories with loved ones, without the stress of hosting a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.
Here are 6 last-minute USA getaways for Thanksgiving weekend that will make the holiday truly memorable.
1. Sun Valley, Idaho
If you’re looking for an early-season ski over Thanksgiving weekend, Sun Valley is a good bet. It’s the perfect time to hit the slopes before the crowds arrive and this Idaho spot has a very good chance of snow. You can expect at least a few lifts open on Bald Mountain and a couple on Dollar Mountain, providing enough variety to satisfy every skier or boarder.
Taking advantage of the early snow doesn’t mean you have to miss out on a Thanksgiving Feast! Restaurants like the Sun Valley Inn are offering a takeaway menu to satisfy all of your Thanksgiving cravings. Alternatively, you can opt to dine-in at a restaurant with the Limelight Lounge and The Ram both being options that are sure to impress. Either way, make sure to book to avoid disappointment!
2. Santa Fe, New Mexico
For Thanksgiving celebrations with a twist, head to Santa Fe. New Mexico is renowned for its focus on Native American culture and this holiday is no different. There are numerous festivals and events that allow you to learn about Thanksgiving through this cultural lens, offering a unique alternative to the traditional pilgrim perspective. Head to the Winter Indian Market for intimate interaction with local artists or do some shopping for authentic Native American jewelry at Wind River Trading Company. Choices are endless when it comes to booking your Thanksgiving dinner, but Terra Restaurant, Geronimo, or La Casa Sena are all worth considering.
3. New York City, New York
There’s something about spending the holidays in New York that’s hard to beat. You’ve got the events, the decorations, and overall good vibes. If you do head to the Big Apple for Thanksgiving, you can’t miss the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Winding its way through 4 kilometers of Manhattan’s streets, the parade boasts a range of massive floats and provides fun for all ages.
New York has no shortage of world-class culinary experiences and you can choose from take away or dine-in options if you want a Thanksgiving dinner without the cooking and washing up. Frenchette is a great choice for those seeking a traditional feast in the comfort of their hotel room, while King David Tacos is perfect for anybody on a budget who wants to enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving without the price tag.
4. Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket is the ultimate choice for a stress-free Thanksgiving. The holiday occurs in the off-season for this popular coastal destination, making it the perfect time to enjoy the laidback lifestyle of the area. Enjoy walks on emptier beaches, wander through the less crowded streets, and indulge in a hot drink or two at your leisure. That being said, Nantucket will still have a buzz due to the visitors who come to observe and participate in the town’s Cold Turkey Plunge. Don’t miss this beloved tradition where people dive into the icy waters of the ocean before heading back to The Nantucket Hotel and Resort for food and drinks by the warm fires.
5. Disneyland, California
While Disneyland might not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think of Thanksgiving, it certainly shouldn’t be overlooked. The resort commits strongly to holiday themes and you’ll be mesmerized by the detailed decor in every direction you look. Thanksgiving weekend is usually a busy time to visit Disneyland but with caps on numbers still in place, 2021 is the best year to begin a Disney Thanksgiving tradition. It is worth booking beforehand as the restrictions mean tickets are likely to sell out more quickly than usual.
6. Honolulu, Hawaii
A visit to Honolulu will provide milder temperatures than many locations on mainland USA for anyone looking for a tropical Thanksgiving. However just because you’ll be swapping coats for swimsuits doesn’t mean you have to miss out on turkey! There are countless restaurants in Honolulu offering a traditional Thanksgiving feast – you can literally take your pick. For a culinary delight by a Michelin star chef, book a meal at The Kahala.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.