Top 10 College Thanksgiving Break Travel Destinations
Traveling for Thanksgiving break means more than just having fun with friends. It's an opportunity to take a break from the study sessions, papers and exams that dominate the rest of the year, and to prepare for cramming school, work and family time together during the looming holiday season. If you're an international student without family in the U.S., it makes sense to explore the country instead of heading home. Plus, it's entirely possible to have an amazing Thanksgiving break experience while sticking to a typical college student's budget. Here are some of the best locations across the United States to do just that.
Niagara Falls, New York
Spend Thanksgiving break admiring one of the most awesome natural wonders of the world, Niagara Falls. In fact, fall is perhaps the best time to visit, as the flow remains at its peak while big summer crowds (and high prices) are long gone. Do splurge on a Maid of the Mist boat ride to feel the falls on your face - you'll never forget it.
Orlando, Florida
Thanksgiving in Orlando, Florida means smaller crowds and lower prices, but there's still an abundance of sunshine and warmth. Many of Orlando's world-famous theme parks are on the expensive side, but there's so much to do in the city you can have plenty of fun without spending big bucks. Many museums, gardens, bike trails, boat tours, the SeaLife Aquarium and the kitschy glory of Gatorland all cost under $30.
Branson, Missouri
Beautiful fall foliage isn't only on the East Coast - visit Branson, Missouri and see the Ozarks alive in glorious colors. Mountains, lakes and rivers inspire outdoor activities, while Branson's iconic entertainment offerings keep you enthralled day and night. Stay in town or rent a secluded mountain cabin for the rustic Thanksgiving experience.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is the place to party, with its casinos and clubs running 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. But during Thanksgiving, the burning desert temperatures drop enough for you to enjoy spending time outside, whether lounging beside a pool or strolling down The Strip.
New Orleans, Louisiana
During Thanksgiving in New Orleans, the humidity abates and breezes waft in, making all that outdoor drinking perfectly pleasant. Plus, NOLA's Thanksgiving calendar is packed with great festivals, including the Voodoo Music and Arts Experience, the Jazz in the Park series, the Tremé Fall Festival and many food fests.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is a delightful Thanksgiving break destination, especially if you're interested in American history. Stroll Boston Common and take in some beautiful fall foliage without having to leave the city, and enjoy all the benefits of a college town - great coffee shops, cheap bars and people watching - without having to study (at least for a few days).
Ashland, Oregon
Leafy Ashland, Oregon, is known for its summertime Shakespeare Festival, but in late fall its charming B&Bs and lodges drop their rates. Hang out in pretty Lithia Park and listen to the babbling of Ashland Creek, bike ride around the city or go hiking in the mountains, which include a stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Visit Milwaukee for Thanksgiving break and enjoy its countless urban attractions while the fall foliage is still hanging in there, but the real cold weather is yet to arrive. Brewery tours and beer gardens, cheap eats at Milwaukee Public Market and the renowned Milwaukee Art Museum, one of the largest in the nation, are among the must-dos.
Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee & North Carolina
America's most-visited national park is arguably at its most beautiful in late fall when the Blue Ridge Mountains are truly breathtaking. It's a dream destination for outdoor activities like hiking, camping and photography, but scenic drives are popular too, especially during late fall. Most campgrounds, visitor centers and roads remain open through Thanksgiving.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Picturesque pueblo architecture, a vibrant arts scene and ever-blue skies all make Santa Fe an appealing Thanksgiving break destination. In this season the aspen trees in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains turn golden, while a number of annual festivals take over historic downtown Santa Fe.
You can't relax on a Thanksgiving break vacation if you're stressed about money. A personal loan from Boro can help you enjoy your trip at an affordable rate.