Skip to main content
Search Background

American Thanksgiving is just Around the Corner: Some History and Great Places to Visit

Submitted by robyn on November 2, 2017
Holiday Travel
American Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and great food.
Here are some of the best places to celebrate across the United States.
American Thanksgiving travel — great destinations to celebrate with family and an affordable rental car

Give Thanks: Pack up the family and road trip to one of these incredible Thanksgiving destinations

American Thanksgiving is just around the corner. This is such a fun holiday as it is a time when family and friends get together to celebrate by giving thanks. Thanksgiving became a national holiday in 1863 when Abraham Lincoln made the proclamation (during the civil war) to "set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of Thanksgiving and praise". In 1941, Congress declared Thanksgiving Day as a Federal Holiday.

Why Do We Eat Turkey?

Many years ago, unlike today, turkey was hard to come by and hence a real delicacy. Even though you can find frozen and fresh turkeys in most supermarkets, delis and meat markets today, turkey remains the traditional holiday treat. And of course, you can't forget all the other yummy foods that accompany this festive meal: cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes and yams, stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, Brussels sprouts and last but definitely not least, pumpkin pie!

If you are thinking of renting an affordable car there are many great places to visit in the United States to celebrate Thanksgiving. Below is a list of 4 major hubs that cannot be missed:

Thanksgiving in Hawaii

November is a great time of year to visit Hawaii because there are much less tourists. Because of this hotels will be somewhat more affordable and you won't have to battle large crowds. Most hotels and resorts offer turkey dinners with all the trimmings. Rent a budget-friendly car and drive through Waikiki where you can view the annual Thanksgiving Parade. And of course, you'll be able to get some quality beach time in with family and friends. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, diving and much, much more.

Thanksgiving in Orlando

Most Disney World Resorts offer Thanksgiving feasts so you and your family will not miss out on the celebrations. Park your affordable Orlando rental car at the hotel and spend the day in the theme park and Universal Studios. Disney Cruise Line has a special Thanksgiving cruise that includes all the Disney characters dressed in Thanksgiving attire, a holiday meal and special Thanksgiving decorations. Check out our Florida travel guide for more trip ideas.

Thanksgiving in New York City

Without a doubt, one of the most exciting places to visit for Thanksgiving is New York City. The Big Apple is famous for its Thanksgiving Day Parade. Thousands of people participate, all decked out in holiday costumes and paraphernalia. Over 50 million viewers watch this parade on TV from home! It is definitely not something to be missed whether you can physically be there or if you are sitting at home on the couch. If you are going to go, make sure to plan ahead so you have a place to park your rental car. You don't want to miss out on this fantastic event!

Thanksgiving in Chicago

The 'Windy City' has many free Thanksgiving Holiday attractions and activities. So save additional cash by checking out our holiday deals and see the three hour annual Thanksgiving Day Parade - one of the largest parades in the country! You should also make sure to visit Millennium Park in Chicago where you and your family can go ice skating for free!

Plan Your Thanksgiving Road Trip

Whether you're heading to the beaches of Hawaii or the parades of New York City, Thanksgiving is the perfect time for a family road trip. Book your rental car early to lock in the best rates for the holiday weekend.

Ready to Hit the Road This Thanksgiving?

Compare affordable rental cars and plan your holiday getaway today.

Find Holiday Rentals →

Attachment Size
AmericanThanksgiving.jpg (410.04 KB) 410.04 KB
Blog post categories