Thanksgiving is a time of reflection and gratitude, but for members of Seeking.com with a taste for the extraordinary, it also offers an opportunity to explore the world in style. This holiday, why not trade the traditional dining room table for a sun-drenched beach, a historic estate, or a bustling cityscape? Here, we present a curated selection of exceptional destinations that promise both luxury and unforgettable experiences.
Key West Escape
Casa Marina, a Hilton Curio Collection resort in Key West, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern luxury, making it an ideal destination for a Thanksgiving getaway. Built in 1920 by Henry Flagler, and renovated in Spring 2024, this Mediterranean-style resort has been beautifully restored to offer guests an opulent retreat amidst Key West’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.
Casa Marina boasts the largest private beach in Key West, providing an exclusive setting for relaxation and adventure. Guests can choose from elegantly appointed rooms and suites featuring ocean views and direct beach access. The recent renovation has enhanced the resort’s appeal with modern amenities and artwork curated by local artists, ensuring a contemporary yet authentic Key West experience.
The resort’s Thanksgiving buffet is a culinary delight, replacing traditional turkey with fresh seafood that reflects the island’s coastal bounty. Dining is an experience, with options ranging from the historic Flagler’s ballroom to beachfront sophistication at Dorada. Guests can enjoy their meals while enjoying breathtaking ocean views, creating a memorable holiday atmosphere.
Casa Marina offers a plethora of activities for those looking to blend relaxation with adventure. Water sports enthusiasts can partake in snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, or deep-sea fishing excursions directly from the resort’s private piers. For a more leisurely experience, guests can enjoy sunset sails or eco-adventures that showcase the natural beauty of the Florida Keys.
Key West is renowned for its vibrant events and cultural offerings. During your stay at Casa Marina, you can immerse yourself in local festivities such as the Key West Songwriters Festival or the Taste of Key West culinary event. These events provide an opportunity to engage with the community while enjoying world-class entertainment and cuisine.
Casa Marina features Spa al Mare for ultimate relaxation, offering therapeutic services in beachfront cabanas. Guests can also partake in morning yoga classes on the beach or maintain their fitness routine at the resort’s state-of-the-art fitness center equipped with Peloton bikes.
In summary, Casa Marina in Key West provides an exquisite setting for a Thanksgiving escape that combines luxury accommodations with rich cultural experiences and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re lounging on the private beach or exploring Key West’s vibrant community events, this resort promises an unforgettable holiday retreat.
Island Life
Nestled on the sun-drenched Kohala Coast of Hawai’i’s Big Island, Mauna Lani, by Auberge Resorts Collection epitomizes luxury and tranquility. This resort offers an idyllic setting for a Thanksgiving retreat, blending the natural beauty of the Hawaiian landscape with rich cultural experiences and world-class amenities.
Mauna Lani features a range of accommodations, from oceanfront rooms to private bungalows with their pools, ensuring privacy and comfort. The resort’s design harmoniously integrates with its surroundings, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and lush tropical gardens. Guests can enjoy modern amenities while being enveloped in the serene ambiance of the island.
Thanksgiving at Mauna Lani is a celebration of both gratitude and Hawaiian culture. Guests can indulge in a Thanksgiving buffet dinner at HāLani or a four-course tasting dinner at CanoeHouse, where local ingredients are transformed into culinary masterpieces. Dining by tiki torchlight under the stars adds a magical touch to the holiday experience.
Mauna Lani offers many activities that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind. Guests can embark on private snorkel tours or learn the fundamentals of surfing on Hawai’i’s legendary waves. For a more relaxed pace, sunrise paddle canoe excursions offer a peaceful way to start the day.
Cultural experiences are at the heart of Mauna Lani’s offerings. Guests can participate in lei-making workshops, ‘ukulele lessons, and storytelling sessions that bring the rich history of Hawai’i to life. The annual Hawai’i Steel Guitar Festival is a highlight, featuring interactive workshops and performances celebrating this unique musical tradition.
Beyond the resort, the Big Island offers an array of attractions for exploration. Guests can visit nearby historical sites such as Pu’ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site or explore the diverse landscapes of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. The island’s natural beauty provides endless opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and photography.
For those in need of relaxation, Mauna Lani’s spa offers treatments inspired by ancient Hawaiian healing traditions. The resort also features yoga classes on the beach and wellness workshops designed to rejuvenate body and mind.
In summary, Mauna Lani provides an exquisite setting for a Thanksgiving escape that combines luxury accommodations with cultural enrichment and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether lounging by your private pool or exploring the Big Island’s vibrant landscapes, this resort promises an unforgettable holiday retreat filled with gratitude and aloha spirit.
Bucolic Bliss
Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Vermont, Twin Farms offers an intimate and luxurious setting for a memorable Thanksgiving getaway. This all-inclusive Relais & Châteaux property spans 300 acres of pristine woodland and meadows, providing a perfect blend of rustic charm and sophisticated elegance.
Accommodations at Twin Farms are uniquely designed, ranging from cozy cottages to spacious suites. Each space is adorned with curated art collections and custom furnishings, ensuring a personalized and luxurious experience. Many rooms feature fireplaces, screened porches, and stunning views of the Vermont landscape, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for the Thanksgiving holiday.
The Thanksgiving feast at Twin Farms is a culinary highlight, showcasing the talents of Chef Nathan Rich and his team. The multi-course dinner elegantly reimagines traditional Thanksgiving dishes, featuring local, farm-raised turkeys, roasted root vegetables from the resort’s garden, and seasonal pies and desserts. Guests can enjoy this exquisite menu in Twiggs or the Dining Room, offering intimate and elegant settings.
To enhance the Thanksgiving experience, Twin Farms offers a range of activities. Guests can embark on guided hikes through the fall foliage, participate in cider pressing demonstrations, or take cooking classes focusing on seasonal ingredients. Wine tastings featuring selections from the resort’s impressive 15,000-bottle wine cellar and spa treatments incorporating local, natural ingredients are also available. Outdoor activities such as canoeing, fly-fishing, or tennis (weather permitting) provide additional opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment.
Unique offerings at Twin Farms include farm-to-table dining experiences that highlight Vermont’s local produce and artisanal products. Guests can also enjoy private art tours of the resort’s extensive collection, which features works by renowned artists such as David Hockney and Roy Lichtenstein. Customized itineraries tailored to each guest’s preferences ensure a truly personalized experience.
While Twin Farms provides a secluded retreat, guests can also explore nearby attractions. The charming town of Woodstock is known for its covered bridges and quaint shops, while Billings Farm & Museum offers insights into Vermont’s rural heritage. Additionally, visitors can check out the Simon Pearce glassblowing workshop and restaurant in Quechee.
In summary, Twin Farms provides an exclusive and intimate setting for a Thanksgiving getaway. With luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and a range of activities that celebrate the beauty of Vermont in autumn, the resort’s attention to detail and personalized service ensure a memorable holiday experience for discerning travelers pursuing relaxation alongside seasonal festivities.
Westcoast Serenity
Perched high in the Santa Barbara hills, El Encanto offers a sophisticated and serene setting for a memorable Thanksgiving getaway. This iconic hideaway, part of the prestigious Belmond collection, combines the charm of old Hollywood glamour with modern luxury, making it an ideal destination for those desiring an upscale holiday experience. El Encanto features 92 bungalows and suites, each uniquely designed to reflect California’s relaxed coastal style. Many rooms offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean or the Santa Barbara cityscape. The accommodations blend Spanish Colonial Revival and California Craftsman styles, featuring private terraces, fireplaces, and marble bathrooms, ensuring a comfortable and elegant stay.
For Thanksgiving, El Encanto pulls out all the stops. The resort offers a special four-course pre-fixe menu showcasing the best California cuisine with a holiday twist. Guests can choose from main courses such as turkey roulade, herb-roasted beef tenderloin, miso-glazed ora king salmon, or butternut squash ravioli. The meal includes all the traditional fixings and concludes with a flight of desserts, allowing diners to sample multiple sweet treats. Beyond the Thanksgiving feast, El Encanto’s dining options are exceptional year-round. The Dining Room and Terrace offer panoramic ocean views and a menu emphasizing locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. For a more casual experience, The Lounge provides a relaxed setting for light bites and craft cocktails.
El Encanto offers a range of activities to keep guests entertained throughout their stay. The infinity-edge swimming pool overlooks the Pacific Ocean, providing a stunning setting for relaxation. The Spa at El Encanto offers treatments inspired by the surrounding coastal environment. Guests can explore Santa Barbara on complimentary electric bikes provided by the hotel. The fitness center features state-of-the-art equipment and offers yoga classes with ocean views.
Santa Barbara, known as the American Riviera, offers numerous attractions within easy reach of El Encanto. The historic Santa Barbara Mission is just a short drive away. Wine enthusiasts can explore the nearby Santa Ynez Valley wine country. The vibrant downtown area offers shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Beaches like East Beach and Butterfly Beach are perfect for sunbathing or water sports.
El Encanto can arrange bespoke experiences for guests, such as private picnics in the hotel’s seven acres of gardens, sunset sailing excursions, or guided tours of local art galleries and museums. In conclusion, El Encanto provides a luxurious and tranquil setting for a Thanksgiving getaway. Its stunning views, gourmet dining, and range of activities offer a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence for those looking to celebrate the holiday in style.
Stay and Play
Kingsmill Resort in Williamsburg, Virginia, offers a unique and luxurious setting for a Thanksgiving getaway, blending historical significance with modern amenities. Situated on the site of the first official Thanksgiving in 1619, the resort provides a meaningful backdrop for holiday celebrations, allowing guests to reflect on the origins of Thanksgiving while enjoying contemporary comforts.
The resort features 425 villa-style rooms and suites, many offering stunning views of the James River. Accommodations range from standard guest rooms to spacious multi-bedroom condos catering to families of various sizes. Many units come equipped with full kitchens, creating a homey atmosphere during the holiday season.
Kingsmill typically offers special packages for Thanksgiving, including a traditional buffet featuring classic dishes alongside local specialties. The resort is beautifully decorated for the holiday, enhancing the festive spirit. Family-friendly activities and entertainment are also part of the Thanksgiving experience, ensuring guests of all ages feel included in the celebrations.
Dining options at Kingsmill are diverse and cater to various tastes. Elements 1010 offers upscale dining with panoramic river views, while James Landing Grille provides a seasonal waterfront restaurant experience. Eagles serve casual American cuisine, and The Mill functions as a coffee house and marketplace for quick bites and groceries.
Kingsmill provides a wide array of activities suitable for the fall season. Guests can enjoy three championship golf courses, including the renowned River Course. The resort features 15 tennis courts with professional instruction and a full-service spa offering seasonal treatments. A state-of-the-art fitness center and an indoor pool are available for guests looking to stay active during their visit. Additionally, the marina offers fishing, kayaking, and other water activities (weather permitting), while scenic biking and hiking trails wind throughout the 2,900-acre property.
The resort’s location in Williamsburg allows easy access to popular attractions such as Colonial Williamsburg, where guests can experience life in the 18th century at this living history museum. Nearby Jamestown Settlement recreates the 17th-century colony experience, while Yorktown Battlefield marks a pivotal Revolutionary War site. Busch Gardens theme park may also feature seasonal events during this time of year, and wine enthusiasts can visit Williamsburg Winery for tours and tastings.
Kingsmill Resort is particularly family-friendly, offering a kids’ camp with supervised activities that may include special Thanksgiving programs. An indoor game room provides entertainment for all ages, and unique Segway tours allow guests to explore the property excitingly (weather permitting).
Typically, Kingsmill offers a Thanksgiving package that includes accommodations, daily breakfast, a traditional Thanksgiving dinner buffet, access to resort amenities, and special holiday activities and entertainment. With its blend of historical significance, modern luxury, and family-friendly features, Kingsmill Resort makes an appealing choice for those pursuing a meaningful and comfortable Thanksgiving getaway. The resort’s proximity to Williamsburg attractions allows guests to create a holiday experience that balances relaxation with an exploration of America’s colonial history.
American West
Brush Creek Ranch in Wyoming offers a unique and luxurious Thanksgiving getaway combining authentic Western culture and all-inclusive luxury. Nestled in the heart of Wyoming’s Platte River Valley, the ranch spans 30,000 unspoiled acres, providing a secluded and picturesque setting for a Thanksgiving retreat. Guests can immerse themselves in stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal destination for adventure and relaxation.
The ranch features a variety of secluded ranch-style accommodations, ranging from cozy cabins to spacious lodge options. Each lodging choice is designed to provide comfort while maintaining an authentic Western feel, allowing guests to unwind in style after a day of activities.
For Thanksgiving 2024, Brush Creek Ranch has planned an exciting five-day celebration from November 27 to December 1. The holiday weekend is packed with activities and events designed to create memorable experiences for guests of all ages. Traditional elements include an annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning and a festive feast at the fine-dining restaurant Cheyenne Club, complete with family portraits and live music.
Culinary experiences are a highlight of the Thanksgiving program. Guests can participate in a complimentary pie baking class with the Executive Pastry Chef at The Farm, enjoy a wine reception featuring Lokoya Wines, and indulge in a cheese and wine-tasting experience. For those looking for an extra special evening, an optional five-course wine dinner with Lokoya Wines is available at an additional cost.
Outdoor activities abound at Brush Creek Ranch, making it perfect for adventure seekers. Guests can enjoy horseback riding on outdoor trails or in the indoor arena, guided ranger tours, hiking or snowshoeing (weather permitting), mountain or fat tire biking, and archery. The ranch also features a heated indoor/outdoor gun range for those interested in shooting sports.
Wellness and relaxation are prioritized at the ranch as well. Guests can participate in sunrise gratitude yoga sessions or indoor yoga classes, while spa treatments are available at an additional cost. Access to the fitness center ensures guests can maintain their wellness routines during their stay.
Family-friendly activities are plentiful at Brush Creek Ranch. The Li’l Wranglers Children’s Program caters to kids aged 4-9, offering engaging activities throughout the holiday weekend. Families can also enjoy game nights, pickleball competitions, and evening fireside s’mores for a cozy end to their days.
Unique experiences add to the charm of the Thanksgiving getaway. Guests can join a “Cowboy Coffee” session with Ron Hawkins to learn about authentic cattle ranching and ranch history. Black Friday shopping at the Mercantile offers a chance to find unique gifts, while afterglow line dancing provides fun entertainment for all ages.
The ranch’s all-inclusive nature means that most meals and activities are included in the room rate, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the Thanksgiving experience without worrying about additional costs. Brush Creek Ranch’s Thanksgiving getaway offers a perfect blend of traditional holiday elements with unique Western experiences, all set against the backdrop of Wyoming’s beautiful natural landscape. It’s ideal for families or groups looking for a luxurious and activity-filled Thanksgiving retreat.
Upstate Ease
Wildflower Farms, an Auberge Resort in the Hudson Valley, offers a unique and luxurious Thanksgiving getaway experience. Since its opening last year, this resort has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination in the region. Nestled on 140 acres just 90 minutes from New York City, Wildflower Farms provides a verdant escape that allows guests to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying upscale accommodations and amenities.
For Thanksgiving 2024, Wildflower Farms hosts a long weekend filled with festive activities and culinary delights. The celebrations kick off on Thursday with an epic Thanksgiving feast prepared by the resort’s executive chef. The menu showcases the finest ingredients from the surrounding landscape, emphasizing a farm-to-table dining experience that highlights the best of the Hudson Valley’s harvest.
Throughout the Thanksgiving weekend, guests can participate in various themed activities and events. Wine tastings led by expert sommeliers allow guests to explore local and international wines. Art workshops offer creative outlets through painting, sketching, or other artistic pursuits inspired by the natural surroundings. Guided gratitude hikes provide opportunities for mindfulness and appreciation of nature, while mixology classes teach guests how to craft seasonal cocktails using local ingredients and spirits. Unique experiences such as Botanical Hour and Botanical Baking encourage interaction with the local flora and seasonal ingredients. For sports enthusiasts, the resort offers comfortable spaces to watch Thanksgiving football games, ensuring everyone finds something enjoyable.
Accommodations at Wildflower Farms cater to families or groups looking to spend Thanksgiving together, with generously sized Meadow Cottages providing ample space and privacy while maintaining a connection to the stunning natural environment. The resort’s design integrates seamlessly with its surroundings, emphasizing the beauty of the Hudson Valley. The Great Porch and The Shop are transformed into festive spaces featuring enchanting installations celebrating the region’s serene beauty during the holiday season.
Culinary excellence is a cornerstone of Wildflower Farms’ offerings, strongly emphasizing progressive dining experiences that highlight local and seasonal ingredients. The Thanksgiving feast serves as a centerpiece of this culinary philosophy, allowing guests to savor the best flavors of the Hudson Valley.
In addition to holiday-specific activities, Wildflower Farms likely offers various wellness practices that promote relaxation and renewal—perfect for guests looking to destress during the holiday weekend. With its perfect blend of luxury, nature, and festive spirit, Wildflower Farms provides a fresh take on the traditional Thanksgiving holiday, making it an ideal choice for those aiming for a unique getaway experience.
With 2025 fast approaching, it’s a great time to think about gratitude in our dating lives. These destinations offer more than just an escape; they redefine what it means to celebrate Thanksgiving by providing luxurious settings where guests can create lasting memories while embracing gratitude amidst stunning locales. Here, you won’t have to compromise on your standards or settle for less than you deserve. So why wait? And while you are dreaming about the perfect holiday setting, join Seeking.com and kickstart your journey into luxury dating —and adventure—today.
