<p>Episode 199: The Best Family Thanksgiving Getaways in the U.S.</p> <p><b>Hosts:</b> Rob &amp; Traci</p> <p> <b>Release Date:</b> November 2025</p> <p>When you think <i>Thanksgiving</i>, you probably picture turkey, football, and the Macy’s Parade—but what if your family celebrated somewhere new?</p> <p>In Episode 199, Rob and Traci explore <b>America’s best Thanksgiving destinations</b>—from mountain towns and colonial villages to rivers lined with glowing holiday lights. Whether you want cozy, coastal, or full-on festive, this episode is stuffed with ideas for a holiday you’ll truly be thankful for (and yes, the dad jokes are fully baked).</p> <p><br /></p> <p>🗺 Top Thanksgiving Destinations</p> <p><b>Plymouth, Massachusetts</b> – Where it all began! Enjoy parades, concerts, and a hands-on history experience at the Plymouth Patuxet Museums, complete with a traditional feast served 17th-century style.</p> <p><b>Asheville, North Carolina</b> – The Biltmore Estate sparkles with lights and decorations by Thanksgiving. Add Blue Ridge hikes and farm-to-table dining for the ultimate mountain holiday.</p> <p><b>Williamsburg, Virginia</b> – Step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg. Dine in historic taverns by candlelight, then head to Busch Gardens’ Christmas Town for lights and thrills.</p> <p><b>Smoky Mountains, Tennessee</b> – Cozy cabins, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, and mountain views for miles. Feast first, hike later!</p> <p><b>San Antonio, Texas</b> – Celebrate along the River Walk under glowing lights. Try Tex-Mex twists on the holiday meal—like turkey enchiladas—and don’t miss the Ford Holiday River Parade.</p> <p><b>Santa Fe, New Mexico</b> – Classic Thanksgiving meets Southwestern flair with green chile mashed potatoes and pumpkin empanadas. Explore art markets, museums, and the historic plaza.</p> <p><b>Charleston, South Carolina</b> – History, charm, and Southern cooking at its best. Feast on sweet potato pie and stroll the Battery afterward for “gravy steps.”</p> <p><b>Mackinac Island, Michigan</b> – No cars, just peace. Arrive by ferry, enjoy quiet island charm, and dine at historic inns before winter sets in.</p> <p><b>Lake Tahoe, CA/NV</b> – Ski if it’s snowing, hike if it’s not. Resorts serve full Thanksgiving dinners—perfect for families who love adventure and cozy evenings.</p> <p><b>Branson, Missouri</b> – Silver Dollar City’s Christmas lights, live holiday shows, and hearty meals make Branson a cheerful, family-friendly choice.</p> <p><b>Bonus Picks:</b> Stowe (VT) for a snowy New England vibe, Lancaster County (PA) for a slower pace, and St. Augustine (FL) for warm-weather lights.</p> <p><br /></p> <p>✨ Thanksgiving Travel Tips</p> <ul><li><b>Book early</b>—popular spots fill fast.</li><li><b>Leave early</b> if you’re driving.</li><li><b>Let someone else cook.</b> Restaurant feasts taste better when you’re not washing dishes!</li><li>Kids won’t remember perfect stuffing—they’ll remember the laughter and stories.</li></ul> <p>💬 Favorite Quotes</p> <p>“Kids won’t remember if the stuffing was perfect. They’ll remember the trip, the laughter, and the stories.” — Rob</p> <p>“It’s Thanksgiving and a mountain retreat all in one—just watch out for bears. They’re not great at sharing dessert.” — Traci</p> <p>📚 Announcements</p> <p>🎉 <b>Rob’s New Book:</b> <i>The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel</i> releases <b>Nov. 11, 2025</b> — filled with stories and tips for travel that connects. Pre-orders open soon!</p> <p>🎙 <b>Episode 200 Live in Orlando!</b></p> <p> Join Rob &amp; Traci at <b>Caribe Royale</b>, Dec. 13–15, 2025, for a live recording of <i>The Family Vacationer’s</i> 200th episode!</p> <p>🌍 Connect</p> <p>Instagram &amp; Facebook: <a href="https://instagram.com/thefamilyvacationer" target="_blank">@TheFamilyVacationer</a></p> <p> Website: thefamilyvacationer.live</p> <p> Email: [email protected]</p> <p><br /></p>