For many of us, the holidays mean a mix of long car rides, family gatherings, poultry, and whatever concoction grandma chooses to whip up this year. Things don’t always have to be so routine, however; instead of staying home watching the parade, a mini vacation where you can celebrate the holidays the way you see fit can turn a boring Thanksgiving into one you won’t soon forget, full of new traditions, excitement, and memories that will last a lifetime. If you find yourself in the Boston area this holiday season, pack up the family and head out to one of these fun and festive locations:
Salem, MA
The home of the Salem witch trials and plenty of haunted history is also a surprisingly quaint and cheerful place to celebrate Thanksgiving this year. After checking out local attractions like Nathaniel Hawthorne’s birthplace, the Peabody Essex Museum, and the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, treat yourself to some shopping at any of the numerous local antiques shops or pick up some magical gifts at Crow Haven Corner or Angelica of the Angels. If you don’t feel like cooking for Thanksgiving, don’t worry — restaurants like Finz and Passage to India will be serving supper.
Hudson, NY
Just two hours north of New York City, this charming town nestled in New York’s Hudson Valley has everything you could ask for from a holiday getaway. On Warren Street, the city’s main drag, you’ll find high-end antiques shops, galleries, performance venues, and eateries appealing to a wide variety of palates. Check out visual art at Davis Orton Gallery, take in a performance at Basilica Hudson, or stop in for a great meal at Baba Louie’s before you head home.
Mystic, CT
Set on the banks of the Mystic River, this stunning New England town is about as quaint and quiet as they come. With a population of just over 4,000, you won’t spend your vacation waiting in lines or competing for a table, you’ll get to simply relax and enjoy the scenery. Spend your days enjoying sights like the Mystic Seaport, Mystic Aquarium, and Mystic Museum of Art, grab some of the freshest seafood you’ve ever eaten at Oyster Club, or check out the famous Mystic Pizza, made famous by the Julia Roberts movie of the same name.
Providence, RI
Just an hour’s drive from Boston, Providence is a big city with a distinctly small town feel. Spend your days enjoying attractions like the Roger Williams Park Zoo, the Rhode Island School of Design Museum, and the Providence Performing Arts Center, and treat yourself to a concert at any of the city’s clubs and lounges, like The Spot Underground and Dusk.
Northampton, MA
Enjoy all the convenience of a college town with all the perks of a grown-up vacation by setting you sights on Northampton this Thanksgiving. Home to prestigious Smith College, this creative town is teeming with history and arts culture. Tour the Smith College Museum of Art or the Northampton Historical Society during the day, check out the lush landscaping at Look Memorial Park, or take in a performance at the Calvin Theatre or the Academy of Music Theatre.
Pack up your things and prepare for an idyllic Thanksgiving this year by giving yourself a change of scenery. Whether you’re enjoying a New England town or heading up the mighty Hudson, you’re sure to have an exciting and unique Thanksgiving getaway.
