The Most Popular Thanksgiving Destinations for 2020

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Thanksgiving will look different in 2020 as families weigh difficult decisions about spending time with extended family or sticking to their bubble. Some may avoid the tradition of traveling to Grandma’s house this year and instead opt for a destination that offers hiking, warmer temperatures, or just a change of scenery. Whichever you decide, the holidays can still be celebrated and celebrated safely. 

Many families are opting for a more private space in a turkey-day getaway by booking a vacation rental rather than a hotel. Airbnb has released its trends for Thanksgiving travel in 2020, and the destinations (as with much of the year) are not as predictable compared to a typical year. While most big-city travel has been substituted for an escape from crowds, some travelers are opting for the security of an Airbnb space just outside a city.

Here are the top destinations on Airbnb this Thanksgiving. 

Kissimmee, FL

Located less than 30 minutes from the Walt Disney World Resort, an Airbnb in Kissimmee allows travelers to escape the possibility of crowds around the Disney parks and resorts but yet still enjoy some of the festivities. Kissimmee offers tons of things for visitors to do over the Thanksgiving holiday. There are of course all of the Disney parks (open, but with many new safety protocols and required reservations) to explore with the added bonus of a lesser crowd capacity. But a few other Kissimmee attractions include LEGOLAND, Gatorland and Wild Florida. For travelers looking to remain socially distant while experiencing attractions, Gatorland, with its 2,700 animals is a mostly outdoor animal park, and Wild Florida, offers a drive-thru safari park. 

In Kissimmee, Airbnb offers condos, houses, cottages and more. We love this gorgeous and spacious, six-bedroom home that offers bunk beds, a private outdoor pool at the house, as well as a clubhouse pool within the community that offers a larger waterslide, splash pad, outdoor basketball and beach volleyball courts.

Sevierville, TN

Sevierville, Tennessee is situated just 15 minutes from Dollywood Amusement Park, and the town of Pigeon Forge, and about 30 minutes north of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. So whether you are looking for amusements or nature, Sevierville provides both in a Thanksgiving destination. Visitors can enjoy an escape into nature with fishing, hiking, ATV rides, canoeing, horseback riding and more when visiting Sevierville. But if you are a fan of Dolly Parton, Sevierville is a must-explore as it is the hometown of the singer/songwriter. The Smoky Mountain Christmas will be in full swing at Dollywood Amusement Park (reservations highly suggested) over Thanksgiving weekend. Holiday lights, fireworks, shopping and shows will keep everyone warm this holiday season. 

Multi-bedroom cabins, condos, and houses are available on Airbnb in Sevierville. Many feature pools, hot tubs and impeccable views, too. We love this two-bedroom, riverfront condo that offers an outdoor, community pool and gorgeous views of Little Pigeon River from the condo’s private balcony.

Las Vegas, NV

While Las Vegas may not be your first thought for a Thanksgiving destination, booking an Airbnb in Vegas allows visitors that added security of being removed from crowds on The Strip, while allowing for the occasional socially distanced casino, show or attraction pop-in. Despite the pandemic, this AirBNB top destination says Americans are still seeking to be entertained this holiday season. 

The cost of vacation rentals in Las Vegas during this Thanksgiving holiday are also lower than ever. From a tiny home to a luxury studio or penthouse suite, Airbnb is showing many rental options in Vegas for under $100 or even under $50 per night. We love this artistic, yet luxurious tiny home, as well as this penthouse suite inside the MGM Signature condo building. Listed per night for under $90 and $140, respectively.

Big Bear Lake, CA

Located about two hours east of Los Angeles in Southern California, Big Bear Lake offers Thanksgiving travelers nature at its finest. Hiking, night skiing, and snow tubing are just some of the Thanksgiving activities available to visitors. Black Friday shopping at The Village offers unique gift ideas and at night the tree lighting ceremony is expected to take place complete with carolers. 

Airbnb rentals offer options for all budgets at Big Bear Lake this Thanksgiving. There are budget-friendly cozy cabins and lakefront, luxury chalets for rent on Airbnb. We like this three-bedroom chalet option that features an indoor fireplace and an outdoor hot tub to relax in after feasting on turkey. 

Atlanta, GA

For those seeking a true food feast, consider Atlanta this holiday. You can take a trip around the world through food on Atlanta’s Buford Highway, where all the fantastic Cantonese, Thai, Spanish, and Bangladeshi foods and more can be found. Whether you visit a restaurant or shop at the local market there, you will find everything you could want to fill your belly this Thanksgiving. 

Airbnb has something for everyone in Atlanta. Whether you want to stay downtown or just outside of the city center, Atlanta has many inexpensive options with many daily rates listed for under $150. We love the location of this guest house cottage situated above the garage of the main house. The studio cottage is just a one minute walk to Atlanta’s Piedmont Park. It’s spacious, pretty, and pet friendly. 

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