Hey you, it’s me! 💋
Gobble, Gobble & Wobble, Bestie! Let’s Trade the Turkey Baster for a Boarding Pass! ✈️
Can I ask you something?
Who decided Thanksgiving has to mean spending three days in the kitchen, cooking enough food for a small army, and then spending another three days eating leftovers?
Don’t get me wrong. I love Thanksgiving. I love the traditions, the food, the family time, and yes, a good slice of pumpkin pie.
But somewhere along the way, I started realizing something.
The holidays don’t always have to look the way they’ve always looked.
Sometimes Thanksgiving means gathering everyone around your dining room table.
Sometimes it’s a cabin in the mountains, a fireplace, and absolutely nowhere you need to be.
And sometimes, bestie, it’s swapping that turkey baster for a boarding pass and letting somebody else do the cooking! 😂
This year, Americans are heading in some pretty interesting directions.
According to travel research published in October 2026, New York City and Cancún are leading Thanksgiving travel interest (Allianz Partners, via TravelPulse), while cozy mountain towns are seeing a surge in vacation-rental searches (HomeToGo 2026 Holiday Travel Report).
And I get it.
Some people want the excitement of Manhattan. Others want a quiet cabin, a mountain view, and a little breathing room.
And some of us wouldn’t mind spending Thanksgiving with our toes in the sand.
So whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, traveling with the whole family, or packing up the fur babies, I’ve rounded up the best Thanksgiving getaways for 2026: 15 places to escape for the holiday, from cozy mountain cabins to New York City and tropical beaches, with who each one is best for, what to book early, pet-friendly tips and what it costs.
And because nobody wants to fall in love with a destination only to discover it’s completely out of budget, we’re talking money, too.
Grab your coffee, bestie. Let’s find somewhere to gobble, wobble, and wander! 🦃💋
Quick Picks: Best Thanksgiving Getaways 2026 at a Glance
| If you want… | Go to |
|---|---|
| Big-city holiday magic and the 100th Macy’s Parade | New York City |
| Sunshine and sand | Cancún or Hawaii |
| A Christmas-village feel | Leavenworth |
| A cozy cabin on a budget | Hocking Hills, Bryson City or Boone |
| A luxury mountain escape | Jackson Hole or Park City |
| A romantic weekend for two | Highlands |
| Cabins plus Christmas lights | Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge |
| Theme parks and warm weather | Orlando |
| Thanksgiving history | Plymouth |
| To bring the dog | Pet-friendly Thanksgiving getaways |
| To compare costs | Thanksgiving getaway costs |
1. New York City, New York: Thanksgiving and the 100th Macy’s Parade
Why go for Thanksgiving?
Because 2026 marks the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade!
Imagine enormous balloons floating between Manhattan skyscrapers, holiday storefronts, Christmas markets, and the excitement of the city that never sleeps.
Thanksgiving week is also a wonderful time to experience New York City’s transition into the Christmas season.
Who’s it best for? Families, couples, holiday shoppers, and travelers who love a busy city.
What should you book early? Hotels near the parade route, especially guaranteed parade-view rooms; Thanksgiving dinner; Broadway; and popular holiday experiences.
Is it pet-friendly? Yes, with planning. New York has pet-friendly hotels and parks, but pets are prohibited in parade spectator areas. Arrange hotel care or choose a suitable room where your dog can stay comfortably.
Estimated cost: $$$$: approximately $2,500 to $5,500+ for two adults for four nights, excluding airfare.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: If you want to watch the parade from a warm hotel room, don’t assume a hotel on the route guarantees a view. Confirm the exact room category before paying.
Planning the parade trip? See my full Thanksgiving in New York City 2026 guide.
2. Cancún, Mexico: A Beach Thanksgiving
Why go for Thanksgiving?
Because sometimes the best Thanksgiving dinner is one you eat while overlooking turquoise water!
Cancún is a popular international holiday escape for Americans looking for sunshine, resorts, beaches, and a break from everyday routines.
All-inclusive resorts can make planning easier because many meals and activities are included.
Who’s it best for? Couples, families, groups of friends, and sunshine seekers.
What should you book early? Nonstop flights, beachfront resorts, family suites, airport transfers, and special Thanksgiving dining if your resort offers it.
Is it pet-friendly? Some resorts accept pets, but policies vary considerably. International pet travel also requires advance planning and compliance with entry and return requirements.
Estimated cost: $$$: approximately $1,800 to $4,000+ for two adults for four nights, including resort accommodations but excluding airfare.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: Before choosing an all-inclusive, compare what’s actually included. Airport transfers, premium restaurants, and excursions may cost extra.
3. Leavenworth, Washington: A Bavarian Village Thanksgiving
Why go for Thanksgiving?
Imagine a Bavarian-style village surrounded by mountains, festive storefronts, and the possibility of early-season snow.
Leavenworth offers a cozy holiday atmosphere that feels completely different from a traditional Thanksgiving at home.
It is the fastest-growing Thanksgiving destination in HomeToGo’s 2026 report, with a 347% year-over-year jump in searches.
Who’s it best for? Couples, families, Christmas lovers, and mountain getaway enthusiasts.
What should you book early? Downtown hotels, cabins, Thanksgiving dinner, and transportation from the airport.
Is it pet-friendly? Yes. Some vacation rentals and accommodations welcome dogs, and outdoor walking opportunities are plentiful. Check individual property restrictions.
Estimated cost: $$$: approximately $1,200 to $2,800+ for a four-night cabin or hotel stay, excluding transportation and meals.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: Don’t count on snow just because you’re visiting a mountain town. Check the forecast and road conditions before leaving.
4. Boone, North Carolina: A Blue Ridge Mountain Cabin Thanksgiving
Why go for Thanksgiving?
If your dream Thanksgiving involves colorful mountain scenery, a fireplace, and a cabin with a view, Boone deserves a look.
The Blue Ridge Mountains offer a beautiful setting for a slower holiday.
Boone is the second fastest-growing Thanksgiving destination in HomeToGo’s 2026 report, with a 275% increase in searches.
Who’s it best for? Families, couples, cabin lovers, and travelers looking for a road trip.
What should you book early? Cabins with mountain views, hot tubs, fireplaces, and fenced yards if traveling with dogs.
Is it pet-friendly? Yes. Pet-friendly cabins are available, and there are numerous outdoor recreation opportunities. Verify trail rules and holiday access.
Estimated cost: $$ to $$$: approximately $800 to $2,200+ for four nights in a cabin, excluding cleaning fees, meals, and transportation.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: If you’re driving from Florida, this is the kind of getaway where bringing your own groceries and enjoying Thanksgiving dinner in the cabin can be part of the fun.
5. Jackson Hole, Wyoming: A Luxury Mountain Thanksgiving
Why go for Thanksgiving?
For dramatic mountain scenery, luxury lodges, wildlife experiences, and the possibility of early winter conditions.
Jackson Hole is a beautiful choice for travelers who want Thanksgiving to feel like a genuine escape.
Who’s it best for? Couples, luxury travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families with older children.
What should you book early? Flights into Jackson Hole, luxury hotels, Thanksgiving dinner, and any guided wildlife excursions.
Is it pet-friendly? Some hotels and vacation rentals welcome dogs, but national park restrictions limit where pets can go.
Estimated cost: $$$$: approximately $1,800 to $4,500+ for four nights, excluding airfare, meals, and excursions.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: Late November is a transition period. Don’t assume every ski activity or winter tour will be operating yet.
6. Park City, Utah: Thanksgiving Skiing and Main Street
Why go for Thanksgiving?
Park City combines mountain scenery, upscale accommodations, a charming Main Street, and the possibility of early-season skiing.
It’s an appealing Thanksgiving destination for travelers who want a little luxury with their mountain getaway.
Who’s it best for? Couples, families, ski enthusiasts, and luxury travelers.
What should you book early? Ski-area lodging, Thanksgiving dinner, rental vehicles or airport transfers, and ski reservations if the resorts are open.
Is it pet-friendly? Yes, with restrictions. Some hotels and vacation rentals accept dogs, and several outdoor areas allow leashed pets.
Estimated cost: $$$$: approximately $1,500 to $3,800+ for four nights, excluding airfare, lift tickets, and meals.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: Thanksgiving skiing depends on weather and resort opening dates. Book flexible arrangements if skiing is your main reason for visiting.
7. Highlands, North Carolina: A Romantic Thanksgiving Getaway
Why go for Thanksgiving?
Highlands is all about mountain charm, cozy inns, scenic surroundings, and a quieter holiday atmosphere.
It’s especially appealing for couples who want to trade a hectic Thanksgiving schedule for a relaxing weekend.
Who’s it best for? Couples, romantic getaways, and travelers who enjoy boutique accommodations.
What should you book early? Boutique hotels, romantic cabins, and Thanksgiving dinner reservations.
Is it pet-friendly? Yes, depending on the accommodation. Some cabins and inns welcome dogs, but always check policies before booking.
Estimated cost: $$$: approximately $1,000 to $2,600+ for four nights, excluding meals and transportation.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: Highlands is a wonderful place to build a getaway around a beautiful hotel, a good dinner, and time together rather than a packed itinerary.
8. Hocking Hills, Ohio: A Cozy Cabin Thanksgiving
Why go for Thanksgiving?
For secluded cabins, waterfalls, forest trails, and a peaceful holiday surrounded by nature.
Hocking Hills is especially popular with travelers looking for private cabin stays.
Who’s it best for? Couples, families, outdoor enthusiasts, and travelers wanting to unplug.
What should you book early? Cabins with fireplaces, hot tubs, and convenient access to hiking areas.
Is it pet-friendly? Yes. Many cabins accept dogs, and certain trails allow leashed pets. Check park and property regulations.
Estimated cost: $$ to $$$: approximately $700 to $1,900+ for four nights, excluding fees and transportation.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: November can be chilly and wet. Pack waterproof shoes and plan a few indoor activities.
9. Broken Bow, Oklahoma: A Family Cabin Thanksgiving
Why go for Thanksgiving?
Broken Bow is known for cabin vacations, wooded scenery, hot tubs, and relaxing escapes.
It’s an appealing destination for families who want a private space to celebrate Thanksgiving together.
Who’s it best for? Families, couples, groups of friends, and cabin lovers.
What should you book early? Larger cabins, lake-area rentals, and pet-friendly properties with fenced yards.
Is it pet-friendly? Yes. Many cabin rentals accept dogs, although pet fees and restrictions vary.
Estimated cost: $$ to $$$: approximately $900 to $2,500+ for four nights, excluding fees, food, and transportation.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: If you’re splitting a large cabin with family or friends, compare the total cost against booking multiple hotel rooms.
10. Estes Park, Colorado: A Rocky Mountain Thanksgiving
Why go for Thanksgiving?
For mountain views, wildlife sightings, cozy cabins, and access to the Rocky Mountain region.
Estes Park offers a traditional mountain getaway with plenty of opportunities to slow down.
Who’s it best for? Couples, families, photographers, and nature lovers.
What should you book early? Cabins, lodges, Thanksgiving dining, and transportation.
Is it pet-friendly? Yes, in town and at some accommodations. However, dogs are generally prohibited on trails within Rocky Mountain National Park.
Estimated cost: $$ to $$$: approximately $800 to $2,300+ for four nights, excluding transportation and meals.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: If you’re bringing dogs, plan your activities around pet-friendly areas outside the national park’s restricted trails.
11. Bryson City, North Carolina: A Small-Town Smoky Mountain Thanksgiving
Why go for Thanksgiving?
Bryson City combines Smoky Mountain scenery, small-town charm, cozy cabins, and seasonal train experiences.
It’s a great option for families who want a holiday getaway without the pace of a major city.
Who’s it best for? Families, couples, and mountain lovers.
What should you book early? Cabins, Thanksgiving dinner, and popular seasonal train excursions.
Is it pet-friendly? Yes. Some accommodations and outdoor areas welcome dogs, but train rides and indoor attractions may have restrictions.
Estimated cost: $$ to $$$: approximately $750 to $2,100+ for four nights, excluding meals and activities.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: If the holiday train is on your family’s wish list, check the official schedule before choosing your travel dates.
12. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: Cabins and Christmas Lights
Why go for Thanksgiving?
Because the Smoky Mountains know how to combine cozy cabins with Christmas magic!
Think mountain views, decorated streets, seasonal entertainment, and a Thanksgiving dinner you don’t necessarily have to cook yourself.
Gatlinburg also made HomeToGo’s 2026 list of trending Thanksgiving destinations.
Who’s it best for? Families, couples, multigenerational groups, and Christmas lovers.
What should you book early? Cabins, Thanksgiving restaurants, Dollywood tickets, and popular holiday activities.
Is it pet-friendly? Yes. Pet-friendly cabins and accommodations are available. However, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has significant restrictions on dogs on hiking trails.
Estimated cost: $$ to $$$: approximately $800 to $2,500+ for four nights, excluding meals, attractions, and transportation.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: A cabin with a fireplace and a mountain view can be just as memorable as a packed attraction schedule.
Heading to the Smokies? See my full Thanksgiving in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge 2026 guide.
13. Orlando, Florida: Theme Parks and Sunshine for Thanksgiving
Why go for Thanksgiving?
Because Thanksgiving week in Orlando brings together theme parks, holiday celebrations, shopping, and warm-weather activities.
And as a Floridian, I can tell you there’s plenty to enjoy beyond the theme parks!
Winter Park, Baldwin Park, and Celebration are all worth exploring if you want a different side of Central Florida.
Who’s it best for? Families, multigenerational groups, theme park lovers, and sunshine seekers.
What should you book early? Theme park tickets, resort hotels, Thanksgiving dining, and any special holiday experiences.
Is it pet-friendly? Yes. Orlando has pet-friendly hotels, vacation rentals, parks, and outdoor dining options. Most theme park attractions do not allow pets.
Estimated cost: $$$: approximately $1,000 to $2,800+ for four nights of accommodations, excluding airfare, meals, and theme park tickets.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: Don’t overlook Winter Park and the neighborhoods surrounding Orlando. There’s so much more to Central Florida than roller coasters.
14. Plymouth, Massachusetts: A Historic Thanksgiving
Why go for Thanksgiving?
For travelers who want to explore the history traditionally associated with Thanksgiving, Plymouth offers museums, historic sites, and opportunities to learn about the region’s complex history.
It’s a destination where a holiday trip can also become an educational experience.
Who’s it best for? Families, history lovers, and travelers interested in American history.
What should you book early? Hotels, holiday dining, and tickets for historical attractions or special programs.
Is it pet-friendly? Some accommodations and outdoor spaces welcome dogs, but museums and indoor historic attractions generally have restrictions.
Estimated cost: $$ to $$$: approximately $800 to $2,000+ for four nights, excluding transportation and activities.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: Make room to learn about Indigenous history and perspectives alongside the traditional Thanksgiving story.
15. Hawaii: Thanksgiving in Paradise
Why go for Thanksgiving?
Because if you’ve ever dreamed of spending Thanksgiving watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean, Hawaii might be your answer.
From beachfront resorts to scenic drives and outdoor adventures, the islands offer a completely different holiday experience.
Who’s it best for? Couples, families, honeymooners, and warm-weather travelers.
What should you book early? Flights, resorts, rental cars, Thanksgiving dinner, and popular excursions.
Is it pet-friendly? Pet travel is more complicated than many mainland destinations because Hawaii has strict animal-entry requirements. Advance preparation is essential.
Estimated cost: $$$$: approximately $2,000 to $5,000+ for two adults for four nights, excluding airfare and most activities.
Jenn’s Tip 💋: Choose your island before booking your hotel. Each island offers a different vacation experience.
Thanksgiving Getaway Costs: What Should You Budget?
These figures are rough planning allowances, not verified Thanksgiving 2026 hotel quotes. They assume four nights of lodging, with destination-specific differences noted above. Actual prices depend on property size, occupancy, taxes, cleaning fees, and availability.
| Budget | Destinations to explore |
|---|---|
| $700 to $1,200+ lodging | Hocking Hills, Bryson City, Boone |
| $900 to $2,000+ lodging | Broken Bow, Estes Park, Plymouth |
| $1,200 to $3,000+ lodging | Leavenworth, Highlands, Gatlinburg, Orlando |
| $1,500 to $4,500+ lodging | Park City, Jackson Hole |
| Higher overall trip budgets | NYC, Cancún, Hawaii |
Remember: A $1,500 cabin shared by six people can be more affordable per person than a hotel stay for two.
And for international travel or Hawaii, airfare may become one of the biggest expenses.
Pet-Friendly Thanksgiving Getaways: Paws, Pumpkins and Packed Suitcases 🐾
If you’re traveling with your fur babies, a cabin getaway can be one of the easiest ways to celebrate Thanksgiving together.
My top picks for pet-friendly Thanksgiving travel:
- Boone, North Carolina
- Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
- Broken Bow, Oklahoma
- Hocking Hills, Ohio
- Estes Park, Colorado
These destinations offer opportunities to book private accommodations, although not every cabin or attraction accepts pets.
Before reserving, check pet fees, breed or weight restrictions, fenced-yard availability, and whether your dog can be left unattended.
And remember: A pet-friendly hotel doesn’t automatically mean the nearby national park allows dogs on its trails.
Best Thanksgiving Getaways 2026 FAQ
What are the best Thanksgiving getaways in 2026? New York City for the 100th Macy’s Parade, Cancún for the beach, and cozy mountain towns like Leavenworth, Boone, Jackson Hole and Gatlinburg, which are trending for 2026.
What is the most popular Thanksgiving destination in 2026? New York City and Cancún lead Thanksgiving travel interest for 2026, according to Allianz Partners. Leavenworth, Washington, is the fastest-growing destination in HomeToGo’s searches.
Where can I go for Thanksgiving on a budget? Cabin towns like Hocking Hills, Bryson City and Boone are some of the lower-cost options, especially when you split a cabin with family or friends.
What are good pet-friendly Thanksgiving getaways? Boone, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Broken Bow, Hocking Hills and Estes Park all have pet-friendly cabins. Check pet fees and trail rules before you book.
Where can I go for a warm Thanksgiving? Cancún, Hawaii and Orlando are great choices for sunshine over Thanksgiving.
What is a romantic Thanksgiving getaway? Highlands, North Carolina, Jackson Hole and Park City are lovely for couples, with cozy inns, mountain views and great dinners.
When should I book a Thanksgiving trip? As soon as you can. Cabins, parade-view hotels, flights and Thanksgiving dinner reservations fill up fast.
Pin This for Later 📌
Still deciding where to go? Save this list to your Pinterest travel board so it is ready when you book.
Tag Me! 🦃
Wherever you land this Thanksgiving, tag me @justjennboard in your holiday travels. I want to see where you are going, and your adventure might inspire our next Sweet Escape travel guide! 💋
Before You Go: Maybe Thanksgiving Looks Different This Year
Here’s something I’ve learned.
Not every holiday has to be a repeat of the one before.
Sometimes traditions change because our families change.
The kids grow up. Schedules get complicated. People move. And suddenly, the holidays look a little different than they used to.
But different doesn’t have to mean disappointing.
Maybe this is the year you rent a cabin with your family.
Maybe you finally take that trip to New York City.
Maybe it’s just you, someone you love, and a beautiful view.
Or maybe you’re staying home, and that’s exactly where you want to be.
Whatever Thanksgiving looks like for you this year, I hope it’s filled with moments that matter more than the menu.
So tell me, bestie: where are you planning to travel for the holidays? Are we booking a cabin, catching a flight, or staying home for seconds? 🦃✈️ Write me back in Pen Pal. I read every one.
Share this with your travel bestie. Send it to the friend who always says yes, and start planning together.
Still deciding? See all of my Thanksgiving travel ideas, including my full New York City, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge and Breckenridge guides.
Sign up for The Sunday Scoop so you do not miss a single sweet escape.
Until our next chat, just stay sweet!
I love you,
Jenn 💋
Trend data is from the HomeToGo 2026 Holiday Travel Report and Allianz Partners (October 2026). Costs are rough planning estimates for four nights of lodging, not quoted holiday rates. Photos of each destination are from Wikimedia Commons, credited under each photo. Prices and policies change, so confirm before you book or get too excited.