Top National Parks to Visit for Thanksgiving 2024: Celebrate in Nature’s Splendor

From the steep ocean cliffs to the untouched woodlands, the national parks of the United States not only showcase but also protect the nation’s stunning natural environments. Luckily, numerous locations within and nearby these parks host special events for Thanksgiving.

Whether you’re already traveling or searching for a unique place to enjoy a turkey dinner, here are some national parks that offer a memorable Thanksgiving celebration.

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Tennessee and North Carolina

As the most frequented national park in the country, the Great Smoky Mountains provide an ideal backdrop for Thanksgiving festivities.

Nestled in Southern Appalachia, Fontana Village Resort’s Mountainview Restaurant offers panoramic views of the ancient mountains and hosts a hearty Thanksgiving banquet. Priced at $59.99 for adults and $29.99 for children aged 5-12, the meal features roasted turkey, sweet potato gratin, blistered Brussels sprouts, cornbread dressing, and more. The dinner is complemented by a variety of traditional desserts including pumpkin and pecan pies. It’s advisable to book your spot at the resort in advance.

2. Yosemite National Park

California

Formerly known as the Majestic Yosemite Hotel, the Ahwahnee Hotel continues to live up to its grandeur with a vast lobby accentuated by several large fireplaces and a dining area featuring towering 34-foot beamed ceilings.

Thanksgiving at the Ahwahnee offers an unforgettable experience enhanced by a luxurious buffet and various celebrations. This year, the set menu includes items like roasted butternut squash soup, roast turkey, prime rib, brown rice salad with fresh vegetables, ratatouille, traditional stuffing with Italian sausage, and whipped mashed potatoes, all priced at $150 per adult and $75 per child. Reservations are required and can be made by contacting the hotel directly.

3. Arches National Park

Utah

Just a short drive east of Arches National Park is Sorrel River Ranch, a luxury resort set amidst the iconic red rock landscapes the area is famous for.

Located on 240 acres along the Colorado River, this tranquil hotel and spa is offering a Thanksgiving buffet featuring carved turkey, prime rib, and traditional sides like sage and mushroom stuffing and candied sweet potatoes. Dessert options include caramel pecan pie and blackberry cheesecake. Adult tickets are priced at $95, and children’s tickets at $35.

4. Rocky Mountain National Park

Colorado

Located just 10 minutes from the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, famous for inspiring The Shining, offers an annual Thanksgiving meal.

This season, the hotel presents a three-course à la carte menu featuring dishes like a candied walnut and goat cheese salad, a smokehouse turkey dinner with all the classic trimmings, and a sophisticated pumpkin crème brûlée for dessert. Adults are charged $99 each, children aged 6-12 are $30, and kids 5 and under dine for free. Reservations are required and can be made by phone.

5. Shenandoah National Park

Virginia

The Thanksgiving season and Shenandoah National Park’s autumn colors are a perfect match, offering some of the most spectacular fall foliage in Virginia.

Situated along Skyline Drive at mile markers 41.7 and 42.5 is the Skyland restaurant, which provides a full-service dining experience. For Thanksgiving, they offer a special menu that includes roast turkey and traditional sides with a Southern twist.