Introduction to Thanksgiving Destinations
The holiday season is upon us, and the two most popular destinations people flock to for Thanksgiving might surprise you. A travel technology company and hotel booking platform examined 2024 and 2025 hotel bookings for Thanksgiving weekend in five major U.S. cities: Las Vegas, New York, Chicago, Boston, and San Francisco.
Popular Destinations
The experts noted that many Americans are booking stays in Sin City and the Big Apple. Las Vegas has managed to surpass NYC as the #1 annual vacation destination with 56% of travelers visiting there. The platform also said Vegas’ popularity increased 13% last year, while New York City increased 7%, securing the title of second most popular destination for Turkey Day.
Ranking of Destinations
Chicago came in third, San Francisco came in fourth, and Boston rounded out the top five. The news that Vegas is the most popular Thanksgiving destination this year comes as a surprise, considering people complain about the Nevada city’s sky-high prices.
Cost of Traveling
Hotel prices in Vegas are up 23% compared to 2024, with the average room rate per night at about $218. Even a diluted cocktail and a breakfast sandwich are bad for visitors’ wallets. Drinking a coffee that cost $14 was crazy, and bottled water is so expensive. “Price gouging in Las Vegas is out of control,” complained one user.
Comparison with Other Cities
And while these prices may be staggering to many, New York is at the top as travel there is actually considered even more expensive. The average cost of a hotel here has increased by 53% since 2024, according to the booking platform.
Travel Precautions
If you’re planning on traveling to one of these major cities or elsewhere next month, keep in mind that airports may be particularly chaotic due to the ongoing partial government shutdown. “Airports will be inundated with flight cancellations and delays as it is the busiest travel time of the year,” said one official.
