As we gather around tables laden with gratitude this Thanksgiving season, I find myself reflecting on the incredible gift of travel right here in our own backyard. The United States offers such extraordinary diversity of experiences, from coast to coast, that some of my most treasured travel memories have happened on American soil. Whether you’re planning a long weekend escape or a short holiday retreat, these beloved destinations have captured my heart and continue to surprise even this seasoned traveler.
1. Georgia’s Hidden Gem: The World of Quercus
Sometimes the most extraordinary experiences come from the most unexpected places. Just a few hours from Atlanta lies a destination that perfectly embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving (gratitude for the land, farm-to-table dining, and intimate gatherings). This weekend sanctuary in Gay, Georgia, represents everything I love about discovering America’s hidden treasures.
The story itself is delightful. Duke and Duchess Visconti di Modrone fell in love with this piece of Georgia heaven in 1977, creating a working farm that has now evolved into one of the most unique dining experiences in the Southeast. Today, under the guidance of the next generation and Atlanta’s Michelin-starred Staplehouse duo, Quercus offers an all-inclusive escape where every meal is a celebration of local terroir.
With just 30 seats at Uberto restaurant, this intimate tasting menu experience showcases the farm’s own produce alongside carefully selected local ingredients. It’s the kind of place where you disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with what truly matters, making it perfect for a Thanksgiving weekend retreat.
Where to Stay: The World of Quercus features four luxury cabins (Cypress, Ember, Sylva, and Naya Suites) in an authentic farm setting, each filled with fascinating family heirlooms and artwork dating back to the Crusades.
Read More: The World of Quercus: A Weekend in Gay, GA
2. Utah’s Natural Cathedral: Five National Parks Adventure
For those seeking dramatic landscapes and active adventures, Utah’s “Big Five” national parks continue to rank among America’s most spectacular destinations. The geological formations are simply mind-blowing, and each park offers its own personality. From the towering red rocks of Arches to the otherworldly landscape of Bryce Canyon, Utah delivers experiences that humble and inspire in equal measure.
The beauty lies not just in the scenery, but in how these parks offer more active adventures than a week allows. Whether you’re hiking through slot canyons or watching sunrise paint the hoodoos, Utah provides that perfect blend of natural wonder and physical challenge that makes for unforgettable long weekends.
Where to Stay: For the ultimate Utah luxury, Amangiri offers an all-suite property with just 45 accommodations on 600 acres, featuring spacious suites with outdoor lounges, fireplaces, and some with private pools. For a more rustic experience near Moab, Sorrel River Ranch provides cabin studios on the banks of the Colorado River.
Read More: Unbelievable UTAH!!!
3. New Mexico’s Cultural Heart: Santa Fe
Santa Fe captivates with its unique blend of Spanish and Native American culture, attracting artists, foodies, and culture-seekers to America’s oldest capital. The adobe architecture, vibrant art scene, and exceptional dining make this high-desert city perfect for a cultural Thanksgiving getaway that feeds both body and soul.
Where to Stay: The Inn of Five Graces offers an extraordinary sensual experience in the historic Barrio de Analco, with each unique room showcasing handcrafted artisan pieces from the Silk Road. Alternatively, Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado provides exceptional service with a superb adventure center, or the newly renovated Bishop’s Lodge by Auberge Resorts offers everything from rooms to multi-bedroom casitas.
Read More: Santa Fe: A Girl’s Trip to America’s Oldest Capitol
4. Florida Keys Paradise: Little Palm Island
For a tropical escape without a passport, Little Palm Island offers America’s equivalent to Bora Bora. This adults-only private island, just a boat ride from Little Torch Key, embodies the perfect “get lost” mentality with 30 thatched-roof bungalows, no phones, no TVs, and nothing but pristine beaches and rum punches.
Where to Stay: Little Palm Island Resort features 30 beachfront bungalows with British West Indies aesthetic, private outdoor showers, and ocean views. Splurge for a Bungalow Suite with extended outdoor living areas for the ultimate tropical retreat.
Read More: Little Palm Island: The Keys
5. Vermont’s Country Estate: Twin Farms
For those seeking sophisticated tranquility, Twin Farms offers a Relais & Chateaux country estate experience that epitomizes New England charm. Located in charming Barnard, Vermont, this adults-only retreat (16+) provides the perfect setting for grateful reflection amid Vermont’s stunning fall foliage and rolling countryside.
Every detail speaks to luxury and thoughtfulness, from hand-crafted chocolates and Dom Pérignon welcomes, to personalized STAVE puzzles and overflowing snack baskets. The all-inclusive experience means no reservations, no bills, and no worries, just pure indulgence in beautifully appointed cottages and suites, each with its own unique charm and character.
Where to Stay: Twin Farms features individually designed cottages and suites scattered across the estate, including the spectacular Chalet with panoramic views, fireplace, his-and-her bathrooms, and Japanese bath. Each accommodation offers distinct character with luxury amenities and personalized touches.
Read More: Twin Farms: Heaven found in Vermont!
6. Colorado’s Crown Jewel: Aspen
Aspen remains the quintessential “IT” destination, drawing jet-setters not just for world-class skiing but for the entire lifestyle experience. This chic mountain town offers the perfect blend of authentic charm and sophisticated luxury, making it ideal for a Thanksgiving weekend that celebrates both adventure and indulgence. Whether you ski or not, Aspen’s dining, après-ski scene, and mountain elegance create an unforgettable holiday escape.
Where to Stay: The Little Nell offers Aspen’s most privileged location, with ski concierge steps from the main gondola and ski-in/ski-out access. For a more budget-friendly option, The Limelight provides excellent four-star accommodations just a block away. History lovers will appreciate Hotel Jerome, Aspen’s social hub since 1889 with authentic old-west character.
Read More: Aspen: Still the IT Place!
7. The Adirondacks’ Great Camp: The Point
For those seeking old-world elegance in America’s wilderness, The Point on Lake Saranac offers a historic Great Camp experience where rustic luxury meets Gilded Age grandeur. This all-inclusive retreat provides the perfect backdrop for reflection and gratitude.
Where to Stay: The Point is a Relais & Chateaux property featuring historic accommodations in a true Great Camp setting on Lake Saranac’s shores.
Read More: The Point: An Historic Great Camp on Lake Saranac
8. New York City’s Neighborhood Magic: Firmdale Hotels
The beauty of New York lies in how dramatically the vibe changes from neighborhood to neighborhood. For a perfect Thanksgiving weekend in the city, experiencing different areas through thoughtfully designed hotels makes all the difference. Firmdale Hotels offers two distinct perspectives: midtown elegance near Central Park and bohemian charm in the heart of Soho.
Where to Stay: The Whitby in Midtown sits just off Fifth Avenue and a block from Central Park, featuring Kit Kemp’s signature colorful design and floor-to-ceiling windows. For a different vibe, Crosby Street Hotel brings whimsical British charm to Soho’s artistic streets.
Read More: Manhattan: Midtown to Soho with Fabulous Firmdale Hotels
9. Virginia’s Culinary Temple: The Inn at Little Washington
Just 90 minutes from Washington D.C., this Relais & Chateaux property represents American hospitality at its finest. Chef Patrick O’Connell’s three-Michelin-starred restaurant and the inn’s theatrical approach to service create an unforgettable Thanksgiving weekend that celebrates American culinary excellence and the gratitude that comes with exceptional experiences.
Where to Stay: The Inn at Little Washington offers luxury suites in historic buildings throughout the charming town of Little Washington, Virginia. Each accommodation features colonial design with English accents, and the entire experience includes high tea, cocktail hour, and world-class dining.
Read More: The Inn at Little Washington, Virginia
10. Montana’s Big Sky Country: The Ranch at Rock Creek
For the ultimate escape that celebrates gratitude for the land and authentic American experiences, The Ranch at Rock Creek offers a slice of western paradise. This Forbes Five-Star guest ranch and Relais & Chateaux property provides the perfect setting to step back in time, breathe deeply, and reconnect with family in Big Sky Country’s stunning wilderness.
Everything is included at this 6,600-acre ranch, from world-class fly-fishing and horseback riding to mountain biking and shooting sports. The Silver Dollar Saloon becomes the heart of evening gatherings, while accommodations range from authentic lodge rooms and cabins to luxury canvas tents that make you feel like you’re camping without sacrificing any comfort.
Where to Stay: The Ranch at Rock Creek offers diverse accommodations including historic lodge rooms, private cabins, luxury homes, and canvas tents at Camp Roosevelt. Each option provides authentic western design with modern amenities, and all feature en-suite bathrooms and cozy furnishings perfect for Montana’s crisp fall weather.
Read More: Big Sky Country – Breathing Deeply at the Ranch at Rock Creek
The Art of the American Long Weekend
What I love most about domestic travel is the ease of creating meaningful getaways without the complexity of international planning. A long weekend can transport you to entirely different worlds, whether that’s the historic elegance of The Point in the Adirondacks, the cultural richness of Santa Fe’s adobe streets, the tropical paradise of Little Palm Island, or the pristine wilderness of our national parks.
The key to successful American getaways lies in understanding that luxury isn’t always about thread count or Michelin stars (though both have their place). Sometimes it’s about the perfect combination of place, pace, and purpose. It’s watching the sunrise over the Grand Canyon, savoring a perfectly prepared meal made from ingredients grown just steps from your table, or finding that spa treatment that leaves you feeling renewed and grateful.
Planning Your Perfect Thanksgiving Escape
As we approach the holiday season, I’m reminded that the best travel experiences often happen when we slow down enough to truly appreciate where we are. Whether you’re drawn to the artistic inspiration of Georgia’s countryside, the natural grandeur of Utah’s red rocks, the cultural richness of Santa Fe, the tropical paradise of the Florida Keys, Montana’s mountain adventures, Colorado’s ski town glamour, the historic elegance of the Adirondacks, New York City’s vibrant neighborhoods, Vermont’s country estate charm, or Virginia’s culinary excellence, America offers endless opportunities for meaningful escapes.
The beauty of domestic travel during Thanksgiving season is the flexibility it offers. You can create a long weekend that feels like a world away without the jet lag or extensive planning that international travel requires. Plus, you’re supporting local communities and discovering the incredible diversity that exists within our own borders.
From my perspective as someone who has traveled to over 60 countries, I can honestly say that some of my most profound travel experiences have happened right here at home. There’s something special about rediscovering your own country through fresh eyes, whether that’s through a new culinary experience, a challenging hike, or simply taking time to be present in a beautiful place.
This Thanksgiving, I’m particularly grateful for the opportunity to share these discoveries with fellow travelers who understand that the journey is just as important as the destination. Whether you’re planning a family gathering at a special resort, a romantic getaway to reconnect, or a solo retreat to reflect and recharge, America’s diverse landscapes and experiences offer something for every type of traveler.
Ready to plan your own American adventure?
I’d love to help you discover these hidden gems and create your own grateful moments on the road. After all, the best trips are the ones that leave you thankful not just for where you’ve been, but for the journey itself.
For an expertly guided travel experience, Resort to Laura Madrid offers full-service itinerary planning for a select group of clients. We keep our client list intentionally small to ensure every journey receives the care and attention it deserves. Please click here for more information.
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