Thanksgiving is a day set aside for giving thanks and is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. Traditionally, it is a day spent with family, eating turkey and trimmings. The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is the busiest day for air travel in the US as families try to get together for this special day.
Global private jet company Bitlux created a list that highlights lesser-known destinations that are the perfect getaway for private jet travelers this upcoming Thanksgiving.
Private jets offer a less stressful experience for the discerning traveler. Using regional airports closer to home is relatively stress-free, and you can be through the airport and onboard in less than thirty minutes. Of course, the private jet experience adds something to this special time and, most importantly, saves precious time that can be spent with friends and family.
To make the most of the four-day holiday, consider a private jet charter to a small town and make the most of the experience this Thanksgiving.
Lake Placid, New York
This idyllic and peaceful location offers plenty, including its Olympic Heritage. You can go hiking, fishing, biking, or go on a scenic drive in the Adirondack Mountains. There might even be snow at Thanksgiving so that you can go on a skiing adventure, ice skate, or bobsled. If that's not your thing, you can visit a cozy cafe on Main Street and visit the Lake Placid Olympic Museum.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Portsmouth is a picturesque working seaport, and eating the local seafood is a must. There is lots of history to explore, including the Strawbery Banke Museum, which has 17th—and 18th-century houses and costumed staff who demonstrate traditional crafts. There are beaches and parks where you can enjoy nature and many boutiques to explore if you prefer to shop. You can even go on a sunset cruise and go whale watching.
Santa Barbara, California
This coastal town, with the Santa Ynez Mountains as a backdrop and littered with Mediterranean-style houses, is known as the American Riviera. The Old Mission, founded in 1786, houses Franciscan friars. A museum unveils its rich heritage. There are beaches to explore, or you can hike in the mountains that capture fall colors. On the way back, stop at one of the vineyards and sample their offerings. Some upscale boutiques and restaurants would suit any VIP.
Leavenworth, Washington
This West Coast town is strongly Bavarian and is in the Cascade Mountains in central Washington State. Front Street has lots of Alpine restaurants serving German beer and food. There is a Nutcracker Museum featuring thousands of unusual items dating back centuries. At Waterfront Park, eagles and osprey are in their natural habitat. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to visit the traditional Christkindlmarkt. You can also visit local breweries and wineries or spend a day on the ski slopes.
Plymouth, Massachusetts
This Thanksgiving, you could take a pilgrimage to where the event was born in the 1620s. You can discover its fascinating history at the Plimoth Plantation, a living history museum recreating life in the 17th century. A replica of the famous Mayflower II sits on the waterfront, or there is the Wampanoag Homesite and Plimoth Grist Mill. There are various events on Thanksgiving, including 'The Story of Thanksgiving Dinner.'
Estes Park, Colorado
Estes Park is a retreat from the early 1900s with a rustic mountain town feel. It sits at the base of the Rocky Mountains within the Rock Mountains National Park. There is plenty of natural scenery to explore, and you can take the Lily Lake Trail or the Sprague Lake Nature Trail, a must-see, as well as Copeland Falls. If you don't like hiking, there is plenty of wildlife watching on offer, as well as traveling by the aerial tramway. You can also make the most of your trip by staying at the iconic Stanley Hotel.
Greenbrier Valley, West Virginia
The Greenbrier Valley is an area of natural beauty with towns such as White Sulphur Springs, Ronceverte, and Lewisburg. You can visit the stunning Beartown State Park, take the Greenbrier River Trail, or tour the Lost World Caverns. It is also a historic area with museums and antique shops to explore. To complete the experience, stay at The Greenbrier Resort for the ultimate luxury and a quiet mountain retreat.
Kennebunkport, Maine
Kennebunkport is a coastal town in southern Maine. It is especially known for its beaches, including Goose Rocks and Arundel Beach. The rustic St Ann's Episcopal Church sits overlooking the ocean and dates from 1887. You can learn more about streetcars at The Seashore Trolley Museum and visit the Goat Island Lighthouse, which dates back to 1833 in the harbor of Cape Porpoise. Of course, the local seafood is a must-try.
While these destinations are not the usual tourism magnets, it is highly recommended to charter a private jet at least a few weeks before the flight to secure all the amenities that your travel group might require during travel, especially the private aircraft that is most suited to your needs.
Bitlux delivers various services across the air charter industry, but Executive Travel is closest to heart. Whether you are flying for business or leisure, Bitlux provides a top-tier private jet service that actively exceeds expectations.
