
While observing the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade from a crowded Midtown Manhattan sidewalk is a classic holiday tradition, visiting the Big Apple during this festive season can be quite costly.
For those planning a Thanksgiving getaway this year, numerous festive cities offer memorable experiences without draining your finances. After analyzing the 100 largest U.S. cities across 20 key metrics, WalletHub identified Atlanta, Georgia, as the top destination. Atlanta secured the top spot for the highest number of Thanksgiving events and holiday decorations shops per capita. Additionally, it ranked third for its high giving ratio, which includes volunteer opportunities, charitable donations, and more, as well as for its favorable weather conditions. In essence, Atlanta embodies the true spirit of Thanksgiving and celebrates it with enthusiasm.
When it comes to the most successful state, Florida stands out. Three of its cities—Orlando, Miami, and Tampa—landed in the top 10. For those eager to explore pumpkin patches, Miami is the place to be, boasting the highest number of patches per capita in the South. If Florida’s intense humidity doesn’t appeal to you, Arizona offers an excellent alternative for a Thanksgiving escape. The state features three underrated gems in the top 20: Scottsdale in third place, Gilbert in 11th, and Chandler in 17th.
The rankings also debunk the notion that New England, celebrated for its colonial history and stunning fall foliage, is the ultimate destination for Thanksgiving. No city from New England cracked the top 20, with Boston securing only the 32nd spot.
Source: WalletHub