note: some web sites may not have updated yet for 2008, but typically similar packages will be offered again
New Hampshire: Dana Place Inn, Jackson NH
In the White Mountains, Traditional Thanksgiving Package includes full country breakfasts, afternoon tea with hot mulled cider, Traditional Thanksgiving Afternoon dinner; dinner by candelight on other evenings; box lunch for day of sightseeing. Dana Place Inn -- built in the 1890's-- has family suites; no charge for children in room with parents, just a small food charge based on age and plan.
Pennsylvania: Woodloch Pines Resort
Another top Pennsylvania resort for families. Thanksgiving package includes meals and special activities (Thanksgiving arts and crafts, holiday games, nighttime entertainment, scavenger hunts) in addition to regular daily activities. Also, Christmas trees and decorations go up on Thanksgiving weekend.
Florida: Amelia Island
Amelia Island, in northeast Florida has historic town and fort, nature tours, and resorts that celebrate Thanksgiving big-time.
- At the Amelia Island Ritz-Carlton, Thanksgiving Package typically includes Annual Christmas Tree Lighting & Dinner, with surprise visit from Santa; Thanksgiving Day Feast; official arrival of Santa by horse-drawn carriage, Children's Story Book Tea, Santa tuck-ins, giant Gingerbread House. See the Ritz-Carlton site, or call 904-277-1100.
- Amelia Island Plantation: 1350 acres, with beach, marshlands, nature center; Thanksgiving Weekend typically includes Grand Buffet, Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest, Holiday Bingo, family crafts, Just for Kids dinner party, Holiday Light Celebration and more.
Florida: Club Med Sandpiper
A terrific resort for families! A rare all-inclusive in the US, with outstanding programs for kids including babies, several unique features, and located just two hours southwest of Orlando-- read a review of Club Med Sandpiper, which is undergoing a major renovation in late 2008. At
Thanksgiving, expect special celebrations such as comedy shows under the circus tent, a special Mini Club Med show, Grand Buffet and special show .
Florida & California: Thanksgiving at Disney Theme Parks
Thanksgiving is a popular time to visit Disneyland and Walt Disney World. Yes, the parks are extremely crowded, but they're beautifully decorated and stay open late, often until midnight; also you can see special shows and parades. Hint: if you're not restricted to travel during school holidays, the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas has been of the best times to visit Disney Parks- but even these weeks are getting crowded now!
Florida round-up - Thanksgiving - About's Guide for Florida for Visitors lists festivities at resorts, Disney parks, Cypress Gardens, town festivals, and more.
continue to p. 3 Thanksgiving 2008 getaways
