- Book your Thanksgiving travel as early as possible. It's hard to think about the chilly November air of Thanksgiving when you're basking in the sun in August, but experts say this is the best time to purchase your tickets for airline and train travel. If you choose to play the procrastinator's game, check out last-minute travel deals from Expedia.com
- The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the year in the United States. Try to avoid travel on this day, if possible.
- Consider travel on Thanksgiving morning. As most Americans will have left earlier in the week for their Thanksgiving destinations, Thanksgiving morning is often a quiet day in airports and train stations.
Thanksgiving Parades
Another reason to travel on Thanksgiving is to view huge Thanksgiving Day parades. The two biggest Thanksgiving parades take place in New York City and Chicago.
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, New York City
The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade has been a Thanksgiving tradition in New York City since 1924. The famous parade takes place on Thanksgiving morning and includes floats, giant inflatable balloons, marching bands, and other performers. The parade is televised nationally, but attending the parade is a must-see for many travelers to New York City. One of the most anticipated activities for visitors to the Macy's Day Parade is attending the balloon inflation, which takes place on the Wednesday before the parade.
- Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Route Map
- Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon Inflation
- Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Photos
- Hotel Rooms With Views of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
McDonald's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Chicago
Chicago's Thanksgiving Day Parade, sponsored by McDonald's, has been a tradition in that city since 1934. The parade, which features bands, balloons, and floats and attracts about half a million spectators annually, goes through the heart of downtown Chicago on State Street.
