7 Best U.S. Cities to Visit Over Thanksgiving Break

Looking to squeeze in one last fall getaway? Thanksgiving is the perfect time to take a well-deserved break and create lasting memories with the family. And these destinations deliver! Whether you’re seeking outdoor serenity, vibrant city energy, or a little bit of both, the top cities to visit over Thanksgiving break have it alllll. (Plus some seriously delicious turkey!)

Pack your bags and get ready for a trip that’ll make this Thanksgiving break even more special.

• Atlanta, GA

  Southern charm meets urban energy! With its pleasant weather and countless options for shopping, dining, and entertainment, the A-T-L truly offers something for everyone.

  Kick off your holiday season in style with a delicious Southern-style Thanksgiving dinner at one of the many local restaurants. It’s the perfect way to savor regional flavors!

  And be sure you visit some of Atlanta’s must-see attractions, such as the Georgia Aquarium or Botanical Gardens. They’ll add to your seasonal spirit with captivating holiday displays and festive events.

• Chicago, IL

  Add a touch of city sophistication to your Thanksgiving travels with a visit to the Windy City!

  Fun to explore any time of year, Chicago is one of the top cities to visit over Thanksgiving break. The city’s annual Thanksgiving Day Parade is a must-see, featuring lively marching bands, festive floats, and dazzling performances.

  Traveling with kids? Millennium Park and Navy Pier are great family outings—even in the crisp weather. From ice skating under the Chicago skyline to viewing the lights along Miracle Mile, Chicago is brimming with festive fun!

• Denver, CO

  Hoping for an early peek at the slopes?

  Outdoor enthusiasts will have their best Thanksgiving everrrr in Denver, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Rockies. City Park and local hiking trails also offer plenty of recreational opportunities. And don’t forget a day trip to the slopes! Denver is conveniently close to several ski resorts with reliable early-season snow!

  Of course, Thanksgiving dinner is the true star of the show—especially at Denver’s acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants. Be sure to taste one of the local seasonal brews!

• New York City, NY

  The Big Apple is undeniably one of the most iconic cities to visit over Thanksgiving Break.

  The time-honored traditions are all there. Bundle up and arrive early for a prime viewing spot along the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade route. It’s worth the early start, you guys! Keep up the festive energy with a spin on the ice at Rockefeller Center—and a must-take Christmas card-worthy photo in front of their famous tree.

  Thanksgiving break is also the perfect time for a leisurely stroll through Central Park, for one last bit of leaf-peeping before the trees go bare.

• Orlando, FL

  Flip-flops or flannels? If you prefer Thanksgiving dinner with a side of sunshine, Orlando is your town!

  The comfortable autumn weather is ideal for visiting the city’s theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and more. Whether you’re there for the thrilling coasters or prefer the character shows, one thing’s certain: the holiday decor will steal the show!

  The resorts and theme parks also offer special Thanksgiving dining meals, adding their unique creative flair. And you never know—the city’s most famous Mouse might show up!

• San Diego, CA

  This sunny SoCal destination is another family-friendly favorite for Thanksgiving break!

  Enjoy a Thanksgiving meal with a coastal twist, featuring fresh seafood alongside other classic holiday dishes. Even better, you can wash dinner down with a locally brewed beer—San Diego’s famous for its thriving craft beer scene.

  The mild weather and gorgeous beaches are perfect for water sports: kayaking, surfing, and paddleboarding are especially popular. If your crew would rather stay dry, must-visit attractions include the renowned San Diego Zoo and all-ages Legoland.

• St. Louis, MO

  Explore the history and hospitality of the Midwest!

  One of the top cities to visit over Thanksgiving break, St. Louis has so much to do! The Gateway Arch is your first bucket list “must.” Then stroll through scenic Forest Park (bigger than Central Park!) and visit the free St. Louis Zoo. Top off your visit with a Mississippi riverboat cruise on the Mississippi.

  For Thanksgiving dinner, enjoy a hearty meal with Midwestern specialties like toasted ravioli. Washed down with a cold one from the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery, of course!

With so many fun-filled cities to visit over Thanksgiving break, which one will you choose?

Regardless of which destination you pick, make your holiday trip smooth and stress-free by shipping your bags directly to your hotel or Airbnb with LugLess. No worries about lost luggage, no hassles at baggage claim. So you can hop off your flight, breeze past the airport crowds, and go straight to enjoying your Thanksgiving getaway.