Thanksgiving is one of the few times a year when families make the effort to get everyone in the same place. And while hosting at home can be nice, it often means stress, crowded kitchens, and not enough space for everyone to sleep. Renting a larger home changes the equation. You can spread out, cook together, and still have private corners to retreat to when you’ve had your fill of togetherness.
Houfy makes it easy to book directly with hosts, so you’re not stuck paying extra fees. You’ll find all kinds of vacation rentals, whether that’s a cabin in the mountains, a beach house, or something in a central spot where relatives can meet halfway. What really matters is choosing a place that feels right for your family and makes the holiday simple.
Where to Stay for a Memorable Thanksgiving Getaway
1. Game Barn Retreat: Cozy Firepit Nights, Hill Country Fun - Fischer
Thanksgiving in the Texas Hill Country feels special, and this home sets the stage for it. The fully stocked kitchen and large dining table mean you can cook a proper holiday meal without juggling cramped counters or too few seats. And when dinner’s over, the firepit outside becomes the natural gathering spot, perfect for roasting marshmallows or just sitting under the stars. It’s the kind of setting where family time comes naturally, away from distractions.
The Game Barn is a big hit, especially if you’re bringing kids or a mix of ages. Pool tables, axe-throwing, and even a movie projector keep everyone entertained when the turkey-induced drowsiness kicks in. It’s easy to imagine the adults lingering over dessert while the kids run off to play. The setup gives the whole group space to spread out, but still come together when it counts.
And because the home’s location puts you close to Wimberley, Canyon Lake, and Gruene, you can pair your Thanksgiving traditions with a little Hill Country exploring. Spend a morning walking small-town streets, an afternoon by the water, and come back to a cozy house ready for your holiday meal. Between the food, the games, and the quiet countryside, it’s a Thanksgiving stay that feels both relaxed and memorable.
2. Mt. Maplewood Lodge, Lake Naomi, Near Everything - Pocono Pines
Thanksgiving at Mt. Maplewood Lodge feels like a proper family gathering in the woods. The open floor plan, stone fireplace, and wraparound deck create plenty of space for everyone to spread out, while the fully equipped kitchen and dining area make hosting a holiday meal less stressful. After dinner, the hot tub and fire set the tone for a cozy evening together, no matter the weather.
The lodge is designed with families in mind. There’s a crib and high chair for little ones, a game room with a pool table for older kids, and a rec room with TVs so no one misses their holiday football. Outside, you can take in the wooded surroundings or listen to the stream running past the property. It’s peaceful, private, and still close enough to attractions, if you want to mix in a little adventure before or after the big meal.
For guests staying longer, the optional Lake Naomi Club membership adds even more to the experience—heated pools, indoor splash parks, saunas, and lake activities. Whether you spend the weekend cooking, relaxing, or trying out the local attractions, Mt. Maplewood Lodge is set up for family togetherness.
3. 92SL - Mt Baker Lodging Cabin - Sleeps 10 - Glacier
Thanksgiving at this traditional family ski chalet is all about mixing the holiday spirit with mountain adventure. The woodstove sets the stage for cozy evenings after a full day outside, while the open kitchen and dining area make preparing a family feast feel natural. With space for up to ten people, it’s the kind of house where generations can gather under one roof without feeling cramped.
The wraparound deck and mountain air give you a setting that feels worlds away from everyday life. During the day, families can hike or ski in the Mount Baker Recreation Area, then come back to share stories over dinner or warm drinks by the fire. It’s simple, comfortable, and designed for people who’d rather focus on time together than fancy extras.
For those who like a bit of activity mixed in with their holidays, the location can’t be beat. You can spend Thanksgiving weekend snowshoeing, sledding, or even trying your hand at fishing if the weather allows. At night, the chalet becomes a place to reset—bunk beds for the kids, a queen for the adults, and no Wi-Fi to distract from real connection. It’s Thanksgiving in its purest form: food, family, and the outdoors.
4. Your Ultimate Family Getaway: Perdido Key, Florida - Perdido Key
Thanksgiving at Perdido Oasis is a full coastal experience. This townhouse in the Banana Bay community gives families a mix of comfort and convenience, with a main-floor master suite, a fully equipped kitchen for preparing a festive meal, and enough space for everyone to spread out. The covered patio with a grill is perfect for those who’d rather cook outdoors, while the dining space indoors keeps the holiday feeling traditional.
The location adds to the charm. A private beach is just steps away, so you can start your day with a morning coffee while watching the water. Afternoons can be spent swimming in the community pool, relaxing in the sauna, or taking a walk along Johnson Beach. The mix of coastal beauty and on-site amenities makes it easy to keep the whole family entertained before and after your Thanksgiving meal.
In the evenings, families can gather in the loft for games, head to nearby restaurants for live music, or simply enjoy quiet time by the water. Whether you want fishing, golf, or just a calm setting to recharge, Perdido Oasis makes it all accessible. For a holiday gathering, it strikes the right balance: a house with plenty of space, a beautiful setting, and all the comforts you’d expect during a Thanksgiving getaway.
5. Lookingglass, Hill Country, Canyon Lake, Sleeps 15 - Canyon Lake
Lookingglass Place sets the stage for a Thanksgiving that feels both peaceful and festive. Spread across 3,300 square feet and surrounded by 3 acres of natural woodland, this home has room for the whole family to gather. The Great Tree Room, with its stone fireplace and 16-foot cedar centerpiece, makes a fitting spot for sharing a holiday meal or just swapping stories late into the night. The hand-painted artwork and unique décor give the house a personality you won’t find in a standard rental.
The setting is just as special. From the upper deck, you get panoramic views of Canyon Lake and the Texas Hill Country, a backdrop that feels perfect for a holiday weekend. During the day, you can walk to the lake, explore nearby trails, or even watch the local deer wander through. And when it’s time to slow down, the outdoor hot tub offers a quiet space to soak, relax, and recharge after a long day of cooking or exploring.
Thanksgiving here is about the experience of being together in a place designed for connection. With indoor and outdoor dining areas, there’s space for both traditional holiday dinners and casual gatherings under the stars.
6. Log Cabin on Lake Near Minneapolis - Sleeps 14 - Maple Lake
Rock Lake Lodge is the kind of place where Thanksgiving feels both relaxed and full of life. Just under an hour from Minneapolis, this log cabin has room for 14 guests, making it a great choice for larger families. The main living area, with its big windows overlooking the lake, creates a warm setting for sharing meals, playing games, or just slowing down together. And when the day winds down, the basement bar and game area offer plenty of space for evening fun—air hockey, arcade games, or a movie on the 75-inch screen.
The outdoor areas make this home just as appealing. Imagine starting your day with coffee on the porch, then moving to the deck for a holiday meal with the lake as your backdrop. Even in late fall, gathering around the firepit at the water’s edge feels like a Thanksgiving tradition in the making. It’s peaceful, but with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.
For families who enjoy mixing relaxation with adventure, Rock Lake Lodge delivers. Kids can run around by the shoreline, and anglers can take advantage of the private dock for some fishing. Whether your group prefers cozy indoor time or outdoor exploration, this cabin makes it easy to spend Thanksgiving surrounded by nature while staying close to the city.
Where to Book Your Thanksgiving Stay
Thanksgiving is all about slowing down, sharing a meal, and being together, and the right rental makes it even better. From cabins in the woods to lakeside lodges with space for the whole crew, these homes set the stage for memories you’ll actually want to repeat next year.
On Houfy, you can book these vacation rentals directly with hosts, skipping extra fees and getting the full story straight from the people who know the homes best. Whether you want a quiet countryside escape or a house big enough for a family feast, Houfy has options that make planning simple. Find your spot, gather your people, and let the holiday unfold.
