Published on November 20, 2025
Thanksgiving 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting travel seasons yet. San Francisco joins Las Vegas, New York City, Tampa, and Los Angeles in a truly explosive Thanksgiving travel surge. These cities are experiencing a major rise in bookings and are set to offer unforgettable holiday experiences. Whether you’re looking for festive street parades, world-class dining, or cozy family-friendly events, these destinations have it all. The 2025 Thanksgiving travel season promises a perfect blend of luxury, fun, and tradition. From the vibrant lights of Las Vegas to the iconic streets of New York City, the charm of San Francisco, the sunny vibes of Tampa, and the entertainment capital of Los Angeles, there’s a place for everyone. Pack your bags today and get ready to experience Thanksgiving like never before. The demand is rising, so don’t miss out on booking your next adventure!

What is Thanksgiving and Why is it So Special?

Thanksgiving is one of the most beloved holidays in the United States. It’s a time for families and friends to come together, share a hearty meal, and give thanks for the blessings in their lives. The holiday is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, and for many, it marks the official start of the holiday season, followed by Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. Thanksgiving is not just about feasting on turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie—it’s about tradition and togetherness.

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In addition to the famous turkey dinner, Thanksgiving is known for its parades, festivals, and community events, which vary from city to city. It’s a time when families across America gather around the table, reflect on what they are thankful for, and share laughter and joy. With this deeply ingrained cultural tradition, it’s no wonder that millions of people travel across the country to celebrate the holiday in style.
But for those looking to take their Thanksgiving celebration beyond the traditional, certain cities provide the perfect backdrop. Whether you’re in the mood for world-class dining, parades, or cultural experiences, the following cities are the top trending Thanksgiving destinations for 2025.

San Francisco, California – A Unique Thanksgiving Experience

San Francisco is a rising star for Thanksgiving 2025, with domestic traffic surging by 9.3% over the previous year. While specific Thanksgiving data is limited, the city’s appeal is clear. From its natural beauty to iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco offers the perfect backdrop for a Thanksgiving getaway that combines relaxation with exciting events.

Trending Events in San Francisco for Thanksgiving 2025:

• San Francisco Turkey Trot in Golden Gate Park (Thanksgiving Day).
• Sunrise gathering on Alcatraz Island for Indigenous Peoples.
• The Off the Grid holiday-market pop-up near Union Square (food vendors and live music).

San Francisco provides a unique experience, combining local flavor, community events, and stunning outdoor activities. Whether you’re participating in the Turkey Trot or exploring a holiday market, San Francisco is a city that offers both tradition and modern flair.

Hotel Deals:

• Save up to 10% on extended stays with $25 daily breakfast credit and 15% off Food & Beverage via the official San Francisco Travel website.
• Special offers at the Argonaut Hotel, including daily breakfast and additional credits via Virgin Atlantic Holidays.

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Why Choose San Francisco for Thanksgiving 2025?
San Francisco is ideal for those looking to blend tradition with modernity. The Turkey Trot and Off the Grid market offer a more unique, local experience, while the scenic beauty of the city provides the perfect setting for a relaxing holiday. Book early, as demand is expected to rise for these exclusive Thanksgiving events.

Las Vegas, Nevada – The Ultimate Thanksgiving Holiday Destination

Las Vegas, long known for its world-class entertainment, casinos, and vibrant nightlife, is now emerging as the No. 1 Thanksgiving destination in the U.S. for 2025. The city is experiencing a 13% increase in bookings, signaling a surge in travel demand. This surge is no surprise, as Las Vegas offers a dynamic combination of luxury, entertainment, and festive events that make it a top contender for a Thanksgiving getaway.

Trending Events in Las Vegas for Thanksgiving 2025:

• UNLV Turkey Trot on Nov 13.
• Lake Mead Turkey Trot on Nov 27.
• Over 20 Strip-dining options, including celebrity-chef and Michelin-star restaurants.
• Resort hotel Thanksgiving packages.

Las Vegas is more than just a place to gamble—it’s a full-on holiday destination that offers everything from lavish dining experiences to unique events. Whether you’re in the mood for a Turkey Trot or a fancy Thanksgiving dinner at one of the top-tier restaurants, Las Vegas has it all.

Hotel Deals:

• Up to 20% off room rates and $150 Food & Beverage Credit per stay if booked by Nov 25, 2025 (visitlasvegas.com).
• Up to 50% off suites at The Venetian Resort, plus a $50 beverage credit.
• General hotel deals with sample rates starting from $93 on CheapHotels.com.

Why Choose Las Vegas for Thanksgiving 2025?
Las Vegas is trending as the ultimate holiday destination for Thanksgiving 2025 because it offers a mix of high-energy entertainment and relaxation. There’s something for everyone—whether you’re enjoying the glitz and glam of the Strip, indulging in high-end dining, or participating in unique holiday events. With a 13% increase in hotel bookings, Las Vegas promises to be packed with festive energy, so be sure to book early for the best deals.

New York City, New York – Experience Iconic Thanksgiving Traditions

New York City has always been a top contender for Thanksgiving getaways, and in 2025, it ranks as the second most popular Thanksgiving destination. The city is expected to see a 7% growth in bookings, making it a prime spot for Thanksgiving celebrations. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a global icon, continues to attract thousands of visitors from around the world.

Trending Events in New York City for Thanksgiving 2025:

• The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (Nov 27) with new additions like Pac-Man, Mario, and Shrek balloons.
• Family-friendly events like the Turkey Trot on Randall’s Island.
• Various holiday spectacles around the city.

New York City’s iconic events, combined with the city’s magical holiday atmosphere, make it the perfect place to spend Thanksgiving. Imagine seeing the world-famous Macy’s Parade, followed by exploring the city’s festive lights and Christmas markets. NYC is all about iconic traditions and family-friendly fun.

Hotel Deals:

• Round-trip flights to NYC from various U.S. cities starting at $290 (via KAYAK and Skyscanner).
• Hotels.com offers deals with $220 per night for Pod 39 (Nov 27–30), compared to the standard rate of $980.

Why Choose New York City for Thanksgiving 2025?
New York City is the perfect blend of tradition and modern excitement. The Macy’s Parade is a must-see event, and the city’s endless holiday attractions—like the Rockefeller Christmas Tree and Central Park—ensure that there’s something for everyone. Be prepared for high costs and crowded conditions, especially around iconic events. But the memories you’ll make will make it all worth it. Don’t forget to book early for the best deals.

Tampa, Florida – Sunshine, Warm Weather, and Festive Fun

Tampa is on the rise as a Thanksgiving destination, with over 924,000 travelers expected to pass through Tampa International Airport this holiday season. While specific data for Thanksgiving 2025 is scarce, Tampa’s appeal as a holiday destination is growing, especially for those seeking a warm, sunny holiday.

Trending Events in Tampa for Thanksgiving 2025:

• Tampa YMCA Turkey Gobble Run 5K (Nov 27).
• Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise with Yacht StarShip.
• Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park.

Tampa provides a more relaxed, sunny Thanksgiving experience compared to other cities. If you prefer to swap out the cold for some fun in the sun, Tampa is the place for you. The city’s family-friendly events and beautiful weather make it a great choice for Thanksgiving.
Why Choose Tampa for Thanksgiving 2025?
Tampa is perfect for those looking to escape the winter chill. From dinner cruises to winter villages, Tampa offers a variety of fun and unique activities for families and visitors. Even without detailed booking data, it’s clear that the city will be bustling with holiday cheer. Book early to secure a spot for these special events.

Los Angeles, California / Anaheim Area – Big Attractions and Big Crowds

Los Angeles and Anaheim, always popular for their year-round tourist attractions, are expected to see a significant surge in travel for Thanksgiving 2025. With a high demand for car rentals and tourist bookings, the city promises a bustling holiday season.

Trending Events in Los Angeles for Thanksgiving 2025:

• Turkey Trot Los Angeles (Nov 27).
• A Gentle Thanksgiving at The Gentle Barn, where visitors can cuddle turkeys.
• Ice at Santa Monica, a popular holiday ice rink.

Los Angeles offers a variety of attractions, from the magical Disneyland in Anaheim to family-friendly events like Turkey Trots and holiday ice skating. With high demand expected, early booking is key for both accommodations and car rentals.

Hotel Deals:

• Late Escape Deals in Los Angeles starting from $77 per night via Booking.com.
• California travel packages with member savings available via Costco Travel.

Why Choose Los Angeles for Thanksgiving 2025?
If you’re looking for a place with something for everyone, Los Angeles and Anaheim deliver. From major tourist attractions to novelty events like cuddling turkeys, there’s always something happening. Book early to secure your spot and enjoy the holiday in this bustling, vibrant city.

Thanksgiving 2024 vs. 2025 Travel Surge Expectations

In 2024, significant trends were observed across several major U.S. cities, with Las Vegas seeing a 13% increase in bookings for the Thanksgiving weekend compared to 2023. For 2025, this surge is expected to continue, with Las Vegas anticipating a 13% growth in bookings and a notable 23% rise in hotel rates, reflecting strong demand. Similarly, New York City, which had 1.2 million arriving seats during the Thanksgiving period in 2024, is expected to experience 7% growth in bookings for 2025, accompanied by a sharp increase in hotel rates (up 53%). In San Francisco, a 9.3% growth in domestic traffic was recorded, although specific Thanksgiving weekend data was not available. Tampa, while lacking detailed data, is noted for its strong growth in the U.S. hotel industry, with the city appearing in AAA’s top destinations for Thanksgiving 2025. Finally, Los Angeles, where high car rental demand was reported for 2024, is projected to see a surge in 2025 as well, primarily driven by attractions in the LA/Anaheim area, although specific growth data for Thanksgiving remains unclear. Overall, these cities are all expected to experience continued travel demand, with rising hotel rates and high booking volumes anticipated for Thanksgiving 2025.

City	2024 Data (Thanksgiving Period)	2025 Expectation / Surge Signal	Notes / Sources
Las Vegas	~13% increase in bookings for Thanksgiving weekend (2024 vs 2023).	13% growth in bookings for Thanksgiving 2025, with hotel rates up ~23%.	Strong surge signal for 2025. High hotel rate increases reflect demand.
New York City	1.2 million arriving seats for Thanksgiving 2024 (Nov 23–27).	~7% growth in bookings for Thanksgiving 2025. Hotel rates up ~53%.	Significant growth in bookings despite high rates.
San Francisco	Revenue per available room (RevPAR) +5.1% in early November 2024.	~9.3% growth in domestic traffic, but no specific Thanksgiving weekend data.	Growing market, but not fully quantified for Thanksgiving.
Tampa	Strong growth in U.S. hotel industry (Tampa among top cities).	Appears in AAA’s top domestic destinations for Thanksgiving 2025.	General trend for Florida, but Tampa specifics are vague.
Los Angeles	High car rental demand for Thanksgiving 2024.	Listed among top destinations for Thanksgiving 2025, but no specific growth data.	Likely travel surge in LA/Anaheim due to attractions, but data for Thanksgiving not exact.

Conclusion:

The cities of Las Vegas, New York City, San Francisco, Tampa, and Los Angeles are set to dominate Thanksgiving travel in 2025, each offering its own unique charm and holiday experiences. Las Vegas leads the charge with 13% growth in bookings, offering luxury events and high-end experiences. New York City follows closely behind, with its iconic Macy’s Parade and family-friendly activities. San Francisco is seeing a surge in traffic, while Tampa proves itself as a rising star with unique holiday activities. Los Angeles and Anaheim offer the perfect mix of attractions and novelty events, making them a hit for Thanksgiving travel.
For all cities, expect busy conditions and higher prices for hotels, flights, and car rentals. Book early to secure your spot, and make sure you don’t miss out on the exciting Thanksgiving events these top destinations have to offer.

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Tags: best thanksgiving destinations, busiest travel day for thanksgiving, Thanksgiving 2025, Thanksgiving Travel Destinations, thanksgiving vacation destinations

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