Pigging out and bumming around with family or friends is one way to spend the long Thanksgiving weekend (if you don’t mind endless small talk and that inevitable food coma!). But if you haven’t yet committed to turkey and cranberry sauce with your crew, it’s not too late to steal away to an easy-to-reach destination in the U.S. where you can overindulge in breathtaking surroundings, good food, and alcohol-fueled diversions. See below for our picks for last-minute gay vacations you can truly be thankful for.
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Sedona, Arizona
Famous for its soaring, rust-colored canyon walls and flourishing arts community, Sedona makes a great getaway for those who need some R&R before the holiday season is in full swing. As temperatures reach into the high 60s here, you can look forward to a long weekend of mild weather and plenty of opportunities to hike in the pine forests surrounding town. For creature comforts like shopping and dining, follow Highway 89A, an anchor for galleries, hotels, and eateries.
Where to Stay:
- Sky Rock Inn of Sedona, a gay-friendly property offering jaw-dropping views of red rocks, plus a free hot signature breakfast buffet. Book the hotel’s special offer for 20% off the best available rate and a $20 daily food and beverage credit.
Los Angeles, California
The City of Angels is more than just palm trees, celebrities, and the Hollywood Sign. The neighborhood of West Hollywood holds an abundance of treasures for gay travelers, including more LGBT nightlife options than you can shake a stick at. Head to The Abbey, one of the area’ most legendary gay bars, for its yearly Thanksgiving event, including a three-course Thanksgiving meal. Hickory smoked turkey breast, truffled mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce are just the start!
Where to Stay:
- Elan Hotel is located at the crossroads of Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, making it the perfect base for L.A. adventures. Get in on the Black Friday frenzy and book the shopping package for a $25 gift card, an executive king room, and free expanded continental breakfast, among other perks.
Miami Beach, Florida
A trip to “America’s Gay Riviera” doesn’t usually take much convincing, regardless of the time of year. Beckoned by an ever-inviting stretch of Atlantic coast, plenty of design and architecture eye-candy, and sizzling-hot gay nightlife, LGBT travelers flock to this seaside hot spot in droves. And with so many chef-driven, world-class restaurants, there’s no chance of going hungry on this food-focused holiday.
Where to Stay:
- Eden Roc Miami Beach, a stylish oceanfront property offering luxe amenities and amazing views. Reserve a spot for the hotel’s Thanksgiving feast, including farm-to-table selections and homemade traditional items including herb-roasted turkey, broccoli mashed potatoes and more. Call 305-674-5579 to reserve.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
This artsy, historic city at the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains offers an escape for those who like anything but the expected. Artists and artisans have long been drawn this desert beauty, resulting in an electric creative energy that’s hard to resist. Head to Canyon Road, home to the highest concentration of galleries in the city, to browse regional, contemporary, and international art or to learn how to sculpt or make pottery. Then, in lieu of a traditional Thanksgiving meal, get your fill at one of the many restaurants along this busy thoroughfare.
Where to Stay:
- Inn on the Alameda, the closest hotel Santa Fe hotel to Canyon Road galleries, and just steps from the historic Santa Fe Plaza.
Key West, Florida
Looking for a gay getaway that feels a million miles away from home but isn’t hard to reach? The island of Key West, Florida’s southernmost point, oozes tropical charm and offers an especially welcome relief for those who aren’t big fans of November’s chilly temperatures and gray skies. This month is the best time to come — the threat of hurricanes is gone but the elbow-to-elbow high season is not yet in full swing. That means you can party at the gay bars anchored to Duval Street or sunbathe at beautiful Smathers Beach without feeling smothered.
Where to Stay:
- The Perry Hotel Key West, a charming boutique hotel surrounded by a scenic marina village.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
It doesn’t get more authentic than Carmel-by-the-Sea, a small seaside community tucked into a sandy stretch of the Monterey Peninsula. Here, a cluster of privately owned boutiques and bistros transport gay travelers to a tight-knit village that feels light years away from commerce-driven tourist traps. And since the village itself only encompasses about one square mile, it’s easy to set out on foot and explore the many cafes, parks, pubs, and art galleries contained in this pine-tree-dotted sector. But don’t neglect the beach — Carmel Beach’s pristine white sand and epic sunsets make it a mecca for nature lovers.
Where to Stay:
- Carmel Mission Inn, a stylish boutique hotel with a heated pool, a hot tub, and spa services.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
For a gay-friendly beach break that’s easy to reach, Fort Lauderdale is a real standout. Its airport is served by most major airlines, and direct flights to this city are offered from dozens of North American cities. Hop down to “Venice of America” for deliciously warm weather, top-notch restaurants, and a huge collection of gay bars — everything from fetish joints and nightclubs to drag brunches and even a gay country western bar. For a slice of old Florida, head south to Hollywood Beach, a retro seaside community with a scenic oceanfront boardwalk.
Where to Stay:
- GALLERYone - A DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel, boasting spacious suites with separate parlor areas and fully equipped kitchens.
