For many of us, Thanksgiving is the perfect time to gather with family, enjoy those traditional dishes, and maybe watch some movies together.
While we love the warmth of a home-cooked meal, sometimes it’s a real treat to let someone else handle the cooking. And with some time off of work, it’s also a great excuse to visit another city and try something out of the ordinary.
Among the 100 largest cities in the U.S., there are ten that truly shine for Thanksgiving celebrations without costing a fortune (though some might tempt your wallet). To help Americans find the best places to gobble up Thanksgiving festivities at a reasonable price, WalletHub compared these cities based on 18 key metrics ranging from the cost of Thanksgiving dinner and the share of delayed flights to volunteer opportunities per capita and forecasted precipitation.
No matter how you celebrate, spending Thanksgiving in one of these cities could make it even more memorable!
San Diego, California
I’m not surprised that my hometown tops this list since it’s one of the few places in the country that’s not very cold during this time of year— it’s usually in the 60s and rarely lower than 50 degrees. With only a 1% chance of rain, your holiday plans are safe under sunny skies!
Thanksgiving excitement is off the charts in San Diego, and this place knows how to celebrate! Ranked the number one big city for the holiday, this sunny SoCal town offers countless 4.5-star restaurants with oceanfront views, live music, and festive decor. There are lots of Pumpkin patches and decor shops, too. You’re just a drive away from fun events like the Mother Goose Parade in El Cajon or the Turkey Trot in Fallbrook.
Atlanta, Georgia
It’s not just about turkey and pie in Atlanta—the second-best city for Thanksgiving is also fun and active! Join or cheer at the Atlanta Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon. If running isn’t your thing, explore the city’s amazing holiday decor stores or dine at its highly-rated restaurants. Atlantans love celebrating Thanksgiving, topping Google searches for holiday ideas. Plus, Atlanta’s airport had the third-lowest flight delays last November.
Gratitude runs deep here, too, with residents donating 5.5% of their income to charity. From food drives to shelter volunteering, there’s a way for everyone to give back!
San Francisco, California
Festive fun and great deals do not end if you choose to spend your holiday in San Francisco. This Northern California city is packed with seasonal activities, holiday decor, and great restaurants—perfect if you’re skipping the cooking (just remember, it’s the fourth most expensive for Thanksgiving dinner!).
Surprisingly, San Francisco offers affordable stays during this time! A 3-star hotel room starts at just $60, the second-lowest in the country. For family fun, explore the Aquarium of the Bay, Botanical Gardens, or the California Academy of Sciences.
San Jose, California
San Jose brings holiday magic to life, especially on Thanksgiving! Ranked fourth overall and eighth for the best traditions, you’ll see endless fall festivities and a strong spirit of giving, boasting high charities per capita. Just watch your budget—San Jose ranks third for the cost of Thanksgiving dinner.
But if you’re really feeling indulgent, treat yourself to Signia by Hilton’s lavish Thanksgiving Day Brunch with holiday classics crafted by their top culinary team. Oh, and don’t miss the 20th Annual Silicon Valley Turkey Trot—it’s the biggest Thanksgiving race in town!
Dallas, Texas
Locals recommend that if you’re spending Thanksgiving in Dallas, you’ll have a blast at their 14-stop trolley tour featuring Klyde Warren Park and Deep Ellum. But the real buzz is all about sports! Catch the Cowboys in action, and Hockey fans can cheer on the Stars against the Avalanche or Jets. And don’t miss the YMCA’s Dallas Turkey Trot—this 5K run/walk is complete with turkey mascots and free shirts for participants!
Whether you’re a sports fan, a culture vulture, or just looking for a good time, Dallas ranks fifth overall for the best Thanksgiving celebrations, second for its festive vibe, and ninth for the best weather forecast!
Lexington, Kentucky
Lexington ranks in the top 20 for great weather, safety, accessibility, and affordability—making it a top Thanksgiving destination. Many families visit to stay in cozy hotels, rent cars, and take day trips to places like Sky Bridge or Mammoth Cave.
But you don’t have to leave the city to have fun! Try the Southern Lights for a magical three-mile tour of sparkling lights, or head to the Holiday Village to explore festive activities. Triangle Park in Downtown Lexington also becomes a winter wonderland, perfect for ice skating under the stars, whether you’re with family or on a date!
San Antonio, Texas
From strolling along the River Walk under twinkling lights to lively markets filled with seasonal treats, San Antonio shines with holiday cheer. It has the second-best weather and top rankings for affordability and celebrations.
The food scene is a Thanksgiving delight with Texas twists on classic dishes—turkey, stuffing, and smoked brisket. You can experience the Ford Holiday River Parade, where festive riverboats and live music light up the River Walk. And when you’re ready to shop, explore The Shops at La Cantera or the Pearl to complete the experience.
Las Vegas, Nevada
You probably guessed Las Vegas would make the list—it’s famous for fine dining, world-class shows, and hop-on, hop-off tours. Turns out, it also ranks fifth for best celebrations and traditions, with the highest number of holiday decoration shops per capita.
If you’re ready to splurge, Vegas delivers. Savor gourmet Thanksgiving feasts, take a romantic gondola ride at the Grand Canal Shoppes, or enjoy live performances and luxury shopping. Feeling adventurous? Try retro roller skating or adults-only mini golf with cocktails served by caddies!
Louisville, Kentucky
Skip the usual Thanksgiving in New York or Chicago and try Louisiana this year—you might just love it more! The state ranks ninth for best weather forecast and 16th for celebrations and traditions. You’ll find plenty of holiday shops here to get in the spirit.
Ever considered visiting a Derby Museum on Thanksgiving? Churchill Downs Racetrack, the world’s most famous racing venue, is a must-see. The Kentucky Derby Museum offers historic tours and exhibits, and the track serves around 3,000 pounds of turkey! Just be prepared—it’s their second busiest day of the year!
Orlando, Florida
When it comes to food and fun, Orlando is hard to beat! It ranks 10th for best celebrations and traditions and lands in the top 30 for affordability among big cities.
Thanksgiving here means amazing feasts everywhere. Enjoy buffets at Amatista Cookhouse, vegan and non-vegan at Drunken Monkey, or snag a 25% discount at Rosen Shingle Creek. Disney World also joins in on the fun with amazing rides, shows, parades, and fireworks. Don’t forget to kick off holiday shopping on Black Friday with unbeatable deals across Orlando!
Source: WalletHub
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