6 Getaway Ideas for Spending Thanksgiving in New England

Date

Sep 22nd, 2025

Business

Location

Connecticut

Article Summary

Thanksgiving in New England is a deeply traditional celebration, offering a homegrown experience that feels like coming home. From cozy inns and winding back roads to festive town events, the region provides an idyllic backdrop for a fall getaway. This guide highlights the most unique destinations, activities, and dining options to help you plan the perfect holiday retreat.

Experience a Picture-Perfect Thanksgiving in New England

Thanksgiving in New England is no mere holiday; it's a homegrown event. As someone who runs an inn and lives for the fall season, I've picked up a few tips and tricks over the years. It’s the last big hurrah of the fall season, filled with winding back roads, cozy inns, and a charm that feels more like coming home than anything else. The holiday has all the classic appeal of a Currier & Ives print, with fires crackling in old hearths, kids bundled up for parades, and couples strolling through lantern-lit villages. Whether you’re looking to escape the city or visit family, New England is the perfect place to experience Thanksgiving the old-fashioned way.

Top New England Destinations for Thanksgiving

Cape Cod, Massachusetts: In November, Cape Cod swaps its beach towels for blankets, offering peace and quiet with fewer traffic jams. Off-season rates make it an affordable getaway, and the day after Thanksgiving, the Cape turns into a holiday wonderland with highlights like Gardens Aglow at the Heritage Museum in Sandwich.
Newport, Rhode Island: Thanksgiving in Newport means top-tier meals with stunning views. You can stroll scenic Ocean Drive, peek into Gilded Age mansions, and explore cobblestone streets without the peak-season prices.
Greenwich, Connecticut: Greenwich offers a perfect mix of New England charm and holiday spirit. You can stroll Greenwich Avenue, which is a must for picking up gifts or window shopping. Some of the town’s best restaurants serve festive menus that blend classic comfort with creative flair, making Greenwich an easy pick for a getaway that feels like home.

Activities and Events for an Unforgettable Thanksgiving

Plymouth, Massachusetts: For an authentic experience, visit where Thanksgiving began. The weekend before Thanksgiving, downtown Plymouth hosts America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Celebration, which includes a parade, live music, and family fun. On Thanksgiving morning, a traditional Pilgrim Progress march takes place from North Street past Plymouth Rock to Burial Hill. For a deeper perspective, the National Day of Mourning is held at noon to honor Indigenous people and share their stories.
Mystic, Connecticut: Mystic goes full storybook during this time of year with events like Santa arriving by tugboat and a festive boat parade. Pair these with visits to the Mystic Aquarium and Seaport Museum for a perfect family weekend.
Cape Neddick, Maine: The Lighting of Nubble Lighthouse is a must-see holiday event on November 24th. Santa makes an appearance, and there's music, cookies, and hot cocoa for all.

Plan Your Thanksgiving Getaway

After a day filled with festive events and a delicious feast, you'll need a cozy place to relax and unwind. Your Thanksgiving home base is essential for a memorable holiday. Look for an inn that blends historic charm with peaceful corners and warm hospitality, like the Stanton House Inn. This type of lodging provides not just a place to stay, but a personal and peaceful experience that makes your Thanksgiving feel perfectly New England. With a welcoming inn as your home, you can easily explore local traditions and create your own unforgettable holiday memories.