Thanksgiving isn’t just about family gatherings and gratitude; it also marks the start of the holiday travel season. This year, over half of Americans plan to hit the road or skies for the holidays. According to travel experts at Trivago, many travellers are heading for warmer, tropical destinations like Cancun, Orlando, and Miami. Solo travel is also on the rise, with places like New York City and London topping the list for independent explorers. And if you haven’t booked yet, there’s still hope—Trivago suggests that last-minute planning can lead to great deals if you’re flexible with your plans.
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Top Thanksgiving Destinations
According to Trivago searches over the past 90 days, Americans have a clear list of top destinations for Thanksgiving travel from November 27 to December 1. Plus, Trivago has shared how much travellers can save at each location:
- Las Vegas: Save up to 75%
- New York: Save up to 45%
- London: Save up to 40%
- Cancun: Save up to 50%
- New Orleans: Save up to 30%
- Orlando: Save up to 44%
- Miami: Save up to 35%
- Panama City Beach: Save up to 35%
- Lake Buena Vista: Save up to 40%
- Chicago: Save up to 40%
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Non-Traditional Affordable Thanksgiving Destinations
For travellers looking to venture off the beaten path and avoid crowds this Thanksgiving, Trivago has a few unique suggestions. Based on recent search data, here are some hidden gems that offer both charm and savings:
- Niagara Falls: Save up to 35%
Known for its iconic waterfalls, Niagara Falls offers beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, vineyards, and more. - Save up to 30% on Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe’s blend of unique architecture, historic sites, and outdoor adventures makes it a charming getaway. - Save up to 25% at Old Orchard Beach in Maine.
This seaside spot features local eateries, a historic pier, water activities, and the Palace Playland amusement park. - Leavenworth, Washington: Save up to 25%
With its Bavarian-style village, holiday market, Nutcracker Museum, and scenic mountain views, Leavenworth is perfect for a cosy Thanksgiving escape.
Affordable Thanksgiving Destinations
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Top Five Winter Destinations (US)
Looking for more winter travel ideas? Trivago’s top five U.S. winter destinations offer plenty of excitement:
- Las Vegas
- New York
- London
- Orlando
- Cancun
These locations provide a mix of vibrant city life, warm getaways, and endless entertainment options, perfect for a memorable winter escape.
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FAQs About Thanksgiving and New Year
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Q: What are the top destinations for Thanksgiving travel this year?
A: Trivago’s most popular Thanksgiving travel destinations include Las Vegas, New York, London, Cancun, New Orleans, Orlando, Miami, Panama City Beach, Lake Buena Vista, and Chicago. These places offer great deals and are high on travellers’ lists.
Q: Where are people travelling for warmer holiday experiences?
A: Many travellers are choosing tropical and warm destinations like Cancun, Orlando, and Miami to escape the colder weather during Thanksgiving.
Q: Is solo travel popular during the holidays?
A: Yes, solo travel is on the rise! Top destinations for solo travellers include New York City and London, which appeal to independent explorers.
Q: What savings can travellers expect for top Thanksgiving destinations?
A: Travelers can save significantly at popular locations: up to 75% in Las Vegas, 45% in New York, 50% in Cancun, 40% in Chicago, and similar discounts at other popular destinations.
Q: Are there affordable, less-crowded Thanksgiving destinations?
A: For those avoiding crowded spots, Trivago suggests Niagara Falls (up to 35% off), Santa Fe, New Mexico (30%), Old Orchard Beach, Maine (25%), and Leavenworth, Washington (25%), each offering a unique experience.
Q: What is the best time to book Thanksgiving travel?
A: Trivago recommends last-minute booking for flexible travellers, as this can lead to unexpected discounts and great deals.
Q: What are some activities travellers can enjoy in hidden-gem destinations?
A: Unique Thanksgiving activities include visiting vineyards and waterfalls in Niagara Falls, exploring Santa Fe’s historic sites and architecture, enjoying beachside views and amusement parks at Old Orchard Beach, and taking in the Bavarian culture in Leavenworth.
Q: What are the top U.S. winter destinations, and why are they popular?
A: Trivago’s top winter destinations include Las Vegas, New York, London, Orlando, and Cancun, thanks to their mix of entertainment, city life, and warm climates, making them ideal for holiday fun.
Q: Is Thanksgiving travel only about visiting family and friends?
A: While family gatherings are common, many people are using the holiday for vacations to destinations offering different experiences, from vibrant city life to quiet seaside towns.
Q: What are some perks of travelling off-season to these destinations?
A: Off-season travel often means fewer crowds, better rates, and a chance to experience popular spots like Niagara Falls, Santa Fe, and Leavenworth in a more relaxed and budget-friendly way.
