Making the most of the four-day holiday weekend By Suzanne Rowan Kelleher on Nov 9, 2013
Have you vowed to make the most of the four-day Thanksgiving weekend this year? For a growing number of families, that may mean taking the clan on the road for a getaway that combines holiday celebrations with the chance to relax and reboot with loved ones. We’ve picked seven Thanksgiving packages that deliver on all counts.
Wild Dunes Resort
Where: Isle of Palms, South Carolina Why: Because great rates and spacious condo accommodations make this luxe South Carolina beach resort, set on a lush barrier island just outside of Charleston, a great choice for a family reunion during the holidays. The resort’s Thanksgiving festivities include golf and tennis clinics for kids, arts and crafts workshops, a parade, tree-lighting ceremony, turkey trot, and Thanksgiving feast. Families can also take advantage of kayaking, hiking, and a raft of other activities. The Deal: The three-night Thanksgiving Family Vacation Package starts at $239 a night for a family of four. Use promo code THANKS.
Affinia Manhattan
Where: New York, New York Why: Because nobody does Thanksgiving bigger than the Big Apple, and this midtown hotel has a weekend package that gives your family prime seats at the Macy’s parade and all you need to take Manhattan by storm. The Deal: The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Package includes a three-night stay, $100 food and beverage credit, breakfast-to-go before the parade, Central Park grandstand parade tickets, plus dining and shopping discounts.
The Broadmoor
Where: Colorado Springs, Colorado Why: Because this luxurious and family-friendly Rocky Mountain resort offers the proverbial “something for everyone,” from golf, tennis, and spa services to an indoor pool and even its own movie theater showing first-run flicks. The Deal: The Thanksgiving Package starts at $95 per person, per night—which is a 40-percent discount on published suite rates.
(MORE: View a family trip itinerary: 3 days in Colorado Springs with kids.)
Ohio State Park Lodges
Where: 5 state parks in Ohio Why: Because bargain hunters know that holidays are sweeter when family time doesn’t break the bank, and Ohio’s state lodges offer myriad family-friendly amenities such as indoor pools, bike rentals, golf courses, and hiking trails. The Deal: With the 3 for 2 Special, get your third night free at your choice of five Ohio state park lodges. Available through Dec. 30, including holiday periods. Use promo code 3FOR2.
Silverado Resort
Where: Napa, California Why: Because this luxurious Napa resort, set on 1,200 beautiful acres of California wine country, has plenty for both epicureans and families to love. Besides the expected food, wine and spa, you’ll also find golf, tennis, bicycling and hiking. The Deal: The three-night Thanksgiving Package costs $325 a night and includes accommodations in a two-bedroom suite and a free Thanksgiving dinner for two adults. Kids 4 and up will be charged at the buffet rate; children 3 and under eat free.
(MORE: Find parents’ reviews of kid-friendly things to do in Napa.)
Fairbanks House
Where: Amelia Island, Florida Why: Because Thanksgiving weekend at this historic mansion hideaway includes a pumpkin pancake breakfast, Thanksgiving day boat tour, Thanksgiving dinner, and a Black Friday pajama party. The Deal: The Thanksgiving Holiday Package is available for two-, three-, or four-night stays and includes accommodations, daily breakfast, boat tour, an elegant Thanksgiving dinner at the nearby Ritz Carlton, plus a Friday night pajama party.
Red Jacket Mountain View Resort
Where: North Conway, New Hampshire Why: Because this kid-friendly resort in New Hampshire’s White Mountains promises a no-hassle Thanksgiving weekend including a holiday dinner and lots of waterpark fun. The Deal: The two-night Thanksgiving Package includes breakfast, Thanksgiving dinner, unlimited admission to the resort’s 40,000-square-foot waterpark, and coupons for tax-free shopping at nearby outlets. Book online or call 800/RJACKET and use promo code THANK.
Suzanne Rowan Kelleher contributed this to www.MiniTime.com.
