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Top 5 Thanksgiving Destinations

By Jo Beth Bootz November 8, 2016
In just a few short weeks, the mouth-watering smell of turkey and all the fixings will take over kitchens across the country. While these sights and sounds are filled with smiles and memories, the holiday also gives families the opportunity to get away from it all for a long weekend. 
  
Thanksgiving gives host to some of the most unique and memorable destinations in the country. If you are looking to escape for a few days, this list of travel spots will make you even more thankful for the holiday. 
  
Williamsburg, Virginia
Did you know the first documented English Thanksgiving was not in Massachusetts? It actually took place in 1619 at a place called Berkeley Plantation in what is now Greater Williamsburg. Their typical meal would have consisted of fish, crabs and wild animals in the area. You can experience a modern day twist on this holiday meal at Kingsmill Resort, a condo resort on the James River. For more traditional fare, the Jamestown settlement features Foods and Feasts of Colonial Virginia where you can learn, firsthand, how food was collected and prepared by the first colonists and Powhatan Indians. During this visit, you can also embrace the gorgeous fall scenery with a host of seasonal events and historical sights that truly make Williamsburg an ideal holiday destination. 
  
Asheville, North Carolina
If you want to get away from it all while still having the amenities of Thanksgiving, Asheville is the best of both worlds. The Omni Grove Park Inn hosts an annual Thanksgiving Day event that combines the comforts of home without the stress or clean-up of the holiday. From a traditional and lavish, grand Thanksgiving buffet to puzzle time and professional family portraits, this celebration has activities for all ages. You can even watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and football games on the big screen. Not to mention, Asheville has some of the most beautiful fall foliage in the country, perfect for a hike or photo taking adventure during your stay. 
  
Key West, Florida 
If you are looking for a distinctive, beach-style Thanksgiving celebration, Key West hosts an event unlike any other. Leave behind the crisp fall temperatures at home and hit the beach at Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. November 23-27, Casa Marina will host the third annual International Sand Art Competition where competitors from around the world are set to create masterpieces with only sand, water, and pure imagination. On November 24, you can also view the sculptures with colorful lights when they are lit in the evening. The event agenda also consists of live music, digging for treasure and a movie night on the beach. There’s even a Thanksgiving brunch to get your holiday fill. 
  
Plymouth, Massachusetts 
When it comes to Thanksgiving, there is no better place to travel than the home of one of the country’s most iconic landmarks, Plymouth Rock. Feel the history, first-hand, at Plimoth Plantation, see the Mayflower II up close and personal, or set aside time to take a waterfront tour. If you are looking for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, Plimoth Plantation hosts a delectable array of dishes at the Annual America’s Thanksgiving Dinner. Book your tickets early as this event sells out each year. On Thanksgiving Day, you can also walk in the footsteps of the pilgrims during the historical Pilgrim Process Parade. Don’t forget to make plans and arrive the weekend prior to attend the full, 3-day celebration which showcases a historic Thanksgiving Day Parade. 
  
Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg, TN - The stunning Smoky Mountains provide the perfect backdrop for a family Thanksgiving Day holiday. Book a gorgeous cabin in the mountains at The Preserve Resort where you can enjoy picturesque views with a pool table, hot tub and full kitchen; just in case you want to cook your very own meal. Burn off all those calories with a visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or visit the main strip in Pigeon Forge for dinner theater, a plethora of Go Kart tracks, shopping, and one-of-a-kind family-oriented activities. If you love crafts, the Great Smoky Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Show runs from November 22 - November 27 where you can stock up on unique, handmade items for the season.