If your idea of Thanksgiving involves palm trees instead of pumpkin pie, you’re not the only one. According to Hilton’s newly released Turkey Day Travelers report, Americans are swapping sweaters for swimsuits this year, with Hawaii topping the list as the most searched Thanksgiving destination in the United States.
Based on Hilton.com search data for stays of four nights or more between November 26-30, 2025, the study found that travelers are craving warm-weather escapes and sunshine over snow.
And honestly, who can blame them? November in Hawaii means mid-80s temperatures, calmer crowds, and ocean views that pair perfectly with a Mai Tai instead of mulled cider. Thanksgiving weekend brings local luaus, festive island feasts, and torch-lit hula performances, plus special menus at resorts like Hilton Hawaiian Village and the Grand Wailea. Travelers can also squeeze in hikes along the Diamond Head Trail or snorkeling at Hanauma Bay.
Coming in second place? New York City, where holiday travelers are gearing up for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, ice skating at Rockefeller Center, strolling through Central Park, and window-shopping along Fifth Avenue.
Third on Hilton’s list is Cancun, Mexico, followed by Orlando, Florida, and Las Vegas, Nevada.
Even more trending destinations
Hilton’s data didn’t stop at the top five. It also spotlighted the destinations seeing the biggest surge in interest compared to last year.
Leading the list of fast-rising favorites is Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, where travelers can trade stuffing and cranberry sauce for white-sand beaches and all-inclusive luxury.
On the other end of the spectrum, Seattle, Washington, and Chicago, Illinois both saw major spikes in Thanksgiving searches, signaling that many travelers are still drawn to classic city escapes filled with holiday lights, cozy coffee shops, and markets. Think sipping hot cocoa at Pike Place or taking in Chicago’s Magnificent Mile Lights Festival before the holiday rush hits full swing.
Rounding out the list is Costa Rica, a tropical playground that’s fast becoming a Thanksgiving favorite for adventure seekers. Between rainforest ziplining, surf towns like Tamarindo, and eco-lodges tucked in the jungle, travelers are clearly craving a side of nature with their holiday getaway.
