If a traditional Thanksgiving celebration doesn’t seem feasible this year, a change of scenery may be just what is needed. Whether you’re in the mood for a mountainside feast or a beachfront brunch, these properties within a three-hour drive don’t disappoint. Thankfully, many hotels and resorts host festive meals and activities, so you don’t have to miss out on tradition just because you’re not home for the holidays. The best part? You won’t have to lift a finger to clean up when you’re all finished.
ON THE LAKE
The iconic Sagamore Resort, overlooking the shores of Lake George in New York’s Adirondack Mountains, offers tranquil beauty, a multitude of lodging options, eight dining venues (including some of the most celebrated restaurants on Lake George), and activities for every type of traveler—there’s a reason the legendary resort has welcomed guests to the shores of Bolton Landing for over a century. The Sagamore’s two- or three-night Thanksgiving packages include overnight accommodations, Thanksgiving dinner, breakfast on Friday and Saturday morning, a family movie night on Thanksgiving eve, a broadcast of the Macy’s Day Parade, gingerbread-house making, a mini-golf invitational, and a tree lighting on Friday. thesagamore.com
IN THE MOUNTAINS
Nestled within historic Manchester Village, expansive views of the Taconic Mountains and Green Mountains aren’t the only reason to stay at the Kimpton Taconic. Each guestroom in the 86-room boutique hotel, which boasts a quintessential Vermont experience but with a contemporary feel, features a fireplace, locally made hiking sticks from Manchester Woodcraft, a yoga mat, and more. This Thanksgiving, Taconic’s Giving Thanks packages include a two-night stay, a Thanksgiving meal for two at Copper Grouse, and a pie-baking class, with the resulting pies donated to Meals on Wheels Manchester. As with all Kimpton properties, cats, dogs, and all pets are welcome—at no extra charge. taconichotel.com
AT THE BEACH
Gurney’s Montauk may be known as a summer destination—and it certainly is—but the beachfront hotel shines in autumn, too. All 146 guestrooms boast panoramic ocean views—perfect for those seeking a dose of vitamin sea. Gurney’s private 2,000-foot beach is perfect for crisp beach walks, and the soulful Italian restaurant, Scarpetta Beach, is open nightly year-round. This Thanksgiving, guests can enjoy live music and beach bonfires, stargazing, and s’mores. And, of course, Gurney’s spirited oceanfront igloos, which will open in October and continue through the winter season. gurneysresorts.com/montauk