16 Thanksgiving Getaways That Are Calling Your Name
Perhaps, you’re not in the mood for the big family gathering at one of your relative’s houses for Thanksgiving this year. That certainly doesn’t mean skipping the holiday altogether. The other option? You can totally make some incredible memories on a trip. Now, it might sound strange to do a Turkey Day getaway that doesn’t involve driving four hours to sleep on the pull out couch in the guest room at your in-laws or in your childhood bedroom, but rest assured that you won’t miss the springy mattress one bit when you’re snuggled up between luxurious Egyptian cotton sheets, sipping a boozy mixologist-made creation that goes down way too easy or tantalizing your tastebuds with elevated renditions of nostalgic recipes at some fabulous hotel restaurant. Not to mention that spending the holiday at a quaint inn or luxury hotel guarantees you’ll avoid the inevitable fight over counter space in the kitchen and your mom’s questions about whether or not you basted the turkey (or tofurkey) enough. A world-class chef to cook your Thanksgiving meal just seems like a delicious and drama-free alternative.
Aiming to do things differently and take a trip this year, whether with friends, family or a significant other? Don’t leave it to the last minute—plan ahead with our roundup of Thanksgiving getaways around the country that will have you feeling super thankful you decided to book a stay. (Bringing your passport or a sweet potato casserole not required.)
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1. MONTAGE PALMETTO BLUFF (BLUFFTON, SOUTH CAROLINA)
It’s impossible not to feel thankful when rolling up to Montage Palmetto Bluff, a riverfront gem of a resort that’s set within a 20,000-acre community in South Carolina's Lowcountry. And the lineup of gobble gobble good programming is like nowhere else—guests can learn the time-honored tradition of baking the perfect pumpkin pie and there’s a massive Thanksgiving Day feast with all the classic dishes (and some Southern favorites, too) that’s accompanied by live music in the Wilson Ballroom. The best way to help digest all the deliciousness? Get moving. Specifically, rotate through the Silly Birds paintball slingshot arena, wildlife air rifle challenge and archery.
2. PARK HYATT NEW YORK (NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK)
Located in the heart of Midtown, directly across from Carnegie Hall and just two blocks from Central Park, the Park Hyatt New York defines luxury in the Big Apple. It also provides a prime perch for viewing the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade—just be sure to request a room that overlooks the parade route. Tired from all the excitement of the day? Snuggle up one of the signature Park Hyatt New York robes, turn on a festive flick like Planes, Trains & Automobiles or Addams Family Values and order a traditional Thanksgiving meal with all the fixings through room service. Turkey tastes better in comfy clothes anyway.
3. CONGRESS HALL (CAPE MAY, NEW JERSEY)
America’s oldest seaside resort, Congress Hall in Victorian Cape May has heaps of history—we’re talking two centuries of hospitality and family fun. We just really love the idea of spending Thanksgiving at a place with such deep roots, charm and delicious dining options as Congress Hall. Enjoy Thanksgiving dinner in the opulent ballroom or grab a table at The Blue Pig Tavern and chow down on dishes made with ingredients from the resort’s 62-acre Beach Plum Farm that’s located just one mile down the road. Cap off the evening with seasonal cocktails in front of a tile-clad wood-burning fireplace.
4. CAVALLO POINT (SAUSALITO, CALIFORNIA)
For most people, mac ‘n’ cheese and a big roasted bird are secondary to spending time with loved ones. We can’t think of a better place to get the gang together for some quality time than Cavallo Point, a gorgeous lodge that’s nestled within Golden Gate National Recreation Area. With its myriad activities—everything from hiking and mountain biking to kayaking and paddleboarding—you’re bound to work up a pretty big appetite. Choose between a family-style dinner at the property’s signature restaurant, Murray Circle, or fill up your plate at the Thanksgiving buffet in the elegant ballroom.
5. THE NEWBURY BOSTON (BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS)
In 1620, the Mayflower arrived in Plymouth Harbor, which is just under an hour outside of Boston (back in the days before cars, the journey would have taken longer, of course). Cut to today. Beantown remains a heritage-rich city that wears its history like a badge of honor. The Newbury Boston blends old and new in a way that’s endlessly enticing—especially come autumn when the trees turn bright shades of crimson and gold. After soaking in the fiery fall hues, feasting on hearty favorites and slogging back festive cocktails (Hot Toddy, anyone?) by the cracking fire at the Street Bar, retire to the plush comforts of your suite.
6. WASHINGTON SCHOOL HOUSE (PARK CITY, UTAH)
For avid skiers, Thanksgiving and the start of ski season are intertwined. If that sounds like you, head to Park City for a spirited stay at the 1889-built Washington School House, an original schoolhouse turned intimate 12-room hotel and National Historic Registry landmark. It’s just steps from Main Street and not far from the mountain, so you can hit the slopes, partake in some après ski action and do a little shopping before enjoying a family-style feast of roasted turkey, ham, gravy, cornbread, sourdough stuffing, fall vegetables, local mushrooms, sweet potato hash and homemade pies.
7. H2HOTEL (HEALDSBURG, CALIFORNIA)
Needless to say, we should show our gratitude for Mother Earth each and every day. And vacation is certainly no exception. H2hotel, a LEED Gold certified property in Healdsburg with a green ethos and 36 eco-chic rooms, proves that sticking to your sustainable ideals and having a glorious holiday getaway aren’t mutually exclusive. Celebrate Thanksgiving with a three-course meal at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, Spoonbar. Mouth-watering menu highlights include roasted cauliflower soup, salmon with gnocchi and squash, turkey thigh ragu and pumpkin pie. To wash it down? Plenty of organic, locally-grown vino from small vineyards across Sonoma County.
8. THE BROADMOOR (COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO)
Crisp fall air hits differently in the mountains. Don’t ya think? When we think of spending Thanksgiving in Colorado Springs, a very special place comes to mind. A long-time winner of both the AAA Five-Diamond and the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star awards, The Broadmoor—which first opened its doors more than a century ago—brims with history, striking scenery and ample amenities. Keen to get your blood flowing after a few helpings of turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy? The Broadmoor is a short drive from Garden of the Gods, one of the most gorgeous destinations in Colorado and fantastic for hiking. If at all possible, try to stick around The Broadmoor until Saturday to see the famous White Lights ceremony that kicks off the holiday season.
9. MAYFLOWER INN & SPA, AUBERGE RESORTS COLLECTION (WASHINGTON, CONNECTICUT)
Down to splurge on a Thanksgiving trip you won’t soon forget? What’s so great about Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection, an elegant country retreat in Washington, Connecticut—well, other than it being beautiful, posh in all the right ways and a mecca for stress-melting spa treatments—is that it has an air of romance that appeals to couples and a range of activities so vast that every member of the family will surely find something that delights. To that end, we seriously doubt there’s anyone who would pass up the opportunity to go on a Thanksgiving gratitude hike and refuel with a yummy picnic of Thanksgiving leftovers at Steep Rock Preserve.
10. THOMPSON SEATTLE (SEATTLE, WASHINGTON)
Situated steps from Pike Place Market, the luxe Thompson Seattle treats travelers to views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountain Range as well as warm Pacific Northwest hospitality and refined rooms. Guests with a sweet tooth will be extra grateful to sample a slice of Chef Kaleena Bliss’s decadent pumpkin pie topped with Chantilly cream, toasted almonds, pecans and dried cranberries tossed in maple syrup. Fancy a festive nightcap? Swing by The Nest, the swanky rooftop bar for signature sips and sweeping panoramas.
11. HIDDEN POND (KENNEBUNKPORT, MAINE)
We’ve said it before, but Kennebunkport is way more than just a summer destination. Considering a Turkey Day escape to our fave Maine coastal town? For couples or groups of grownups traveling without the kiddos, Hidden Pond is the perfect spot. Home to the award-winning and highly acclaimed restaurant, Earth at Hidden Pond, you already know it’s going to be a serene and scrumptious experience. In addition to treating your taste buds to a Thanksgiving meal of local oysters, lobster ravioli, turkey, stuffing, green beans casserole, New England pot roast, pumpkin doughnuts and pecan pie, visit the treetop spa for a pampering massage. Oh, and count your blessings.
12. OCEAN HOUSE (WATCH HILL, RHODE ISLAND)
A bastion of history and acclaimed coastal design, the Ocean House is a sublime off-season getaway, particularly around Thanksgiving. You’ll surely feel an attitude of gratitude upon first glimpsing the palatial yellow building and hearing the soundtrack of rolling waves in the background. This five-star Relais & Chateaux property also hosts a few festive culinary offerings. From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., savor a raw bar as well as honey glazed ham topped with apple butter and golden raisin chutney in the Clubroom. Because variety is the spice of life, the hotel also hosts a cornucopia-style buffet with a carving station, classic sides and an impressive assortment of desserts in the ballroom.
13. THE ALEXANDRIAN, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION (ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA)
The founding fathers used to roam the streets of Old Town Alexandria. So it only makes sense to pick such a historic destination for the Thanksgiving holiday. Occupying a red brick federalist building that dates back to the Civil War, The Alexandrian, Autograph Collection delivers on the promise of heritage while weaving in contemporary design elements and flavorful Southern fare. For a low-key Turkey Day, pre-order from the “Thanksgiving to go” menu at King & Rye. It’s worth noting that The Alexandrian, Autograph Collection is pet-friendly. Because it’s not truly Thanksgiving without the furry members of your family.
14. EAU PALM BEACH RESORT & SPA (MANALAPAN, FLORIDA)
Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is a splendid setting for a family gathering. It’s not just the sandy shores and ocean views that make it so desirable. This five-star property has a real sense of warmth and ample activities to get everyone in the spirit of the holiday. The kid’s club offers a pastry class that teaches younger travelers how to bake and decorate festive desserts. If you get caught up at the beach and aren’t back in time for dinner on Thanksgiving, not to worry! Executive Chef Neall Bailey will cook up Turkey Day classics for breakfast, lunch and dinner from Wednesday, November 24 to Sunday, November 28.
15. SHERATON KAUAI RESORT COCONUT BEACH (KAUAI, HAWAII)
We’d be eternally grateful if someone wanted to whisk us off to Hawaii for Thanksgiving. (Any takers?) The newly renovated Sheraton Kauai Resort Coconut Beach is an oceanfront jewel with a laid-back ambiance that all but guarantees a chill trip. Families can look forward to piña coladas (sans booze for the kiddos, of course), snorkeling, sunbathing poolside and exploring the Garden Island’s many natural wonders. How about a bike ride to the nearby town of Kapaa after a Thanksgiving meal at The Crooked Surf? Plus, it’s basically impossible not to feel thankful when watching the sherbet-hued sunset over the ocean!
16. PERRY LANE HOTEL, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL (SAVANNAH, GEORGIA)
Downtown Savannah is a dynamite fall vacation destination that’s steeped in history, colorful foliage and spooky ghost tours. It’s also a terrific place for a Thanksgiving vacay. When it comes to your holiday home away from home in the Hostess City of the South, we can’t recommend Perry Lane Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel enough. As a tasty Thanksgiving treat, Emporium Kitchen & Wine Market will serve both turkey and prime rib specials. Save some room for afternoon tea, scones, biscuits with jams and finger sandwiches. If the food isn’t enough of a selling point, factor in the stylish accommodations and expansive art collection.
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