While Christmas and New Year get most of the attention, Thanksgiving is one of the best times of year to visit Michigan. Whether it is a Traverse City Turkey Trot, visiting the downtown Marquette Farmer’s Market, or participating in the Downtown Petoskey Holiday Parade, there is always something fun to do on a Thanksgiving in Michigan! It’s time to gather the entire family for a large group getaway or plan an escape from the ordinary for a party of two, and we have you covered.
For more information on how to craft the perfect trip itinerary, you can request access to our complimentary Michigan Vacation Guide.
Why You Should Plan a Thanksgiving Getaway to Michigan
Take a Trip to Traverse City
There are plenty of things to do on a Thanksgiving trip to Traverse City, Michigan. You can visit the wineries and breweries in the area, hike in the nearby forests, or drive along the scenic Lake Michigan coastline. You can signup online for the Up North Media Traverse City Turkey Trot (or watch for free) as locals run for fun, sometimes dressed as turkeys to work off some holiday calories.
You can also check out the charming downtown district with brick streets and quaint shops and restaurants. And, of course, don’t forget to sample some of the delicious local cuisines, including cherry pie, trout dinners, and venison sausage. There are plenty of options for those who are not concerned with sticking to a traditional Thanksgiving meal.
Book your Northern Michigan vacation rental near Traverse City.
Explore Marquette in the Upper Peninsula
If you’re looking for a fun and festive Thanksgiving getaway, look no further than Marquette, Michigan! This charming small town is located on the banks of Lake Superior and offers plenty of things to do and events to see during the holiday season. Highlights include the annual Thanksgiving parade, tree lighting ceremony, and shopping. You can also enjoy dining in the historic downtown district. In addition, Marquette is a great place to enjoy outdoor adventures in the snow, such as skiing and snowboarding. There are also many other late fall & wintertime activities, such as hiking. After the Thanksgiving festivities are over, check out one of the breweries or wineries on the UP.
Browse our selection of Upper Peninsula rentals and find one near Marquette that is ideal for your Thanksgiving in Michigan.
Enjoy a Michigan Thanksgiving in Downtown Petoskey
The town of Petoskey is located in the northern part of the state of Michigan and is a popular destination for people looking to get away during Thanksgiving. Guests and locals can enjoy a wide selection of things to do and holiday events, including exploring the natural beauty of the great outdoors, shopping at local stores, and dining at some of the best restaurants in the state. Petoskey is home to the Downtown Holiday Parade on Thanksgiving weekend which is a great way to celebrate the holiday season with friends and family. If you don’t want to cook while on vacation, check out the fantastic Thanksgiving buffet at the Inn at Bay Harbor.
Be sure to explore more incredible events and activities during a November in Michigan, so you can celebrate all month long.

Stay at a Freshwater Vacation Rental This Thanksgiving
Are you searching for the best Michigan vacation rental for your holiday getaway? Well, look no further than Freshwater Vacation Rentals! Our collection of cottages, cabins, and suburban homes features a variety of sizes and locations around the state, from the shores of Northern Michigan to the tranquil woods of Eastern Michigan. We have vacation rentals that will sleep up to eighteen guests, perfect for a large family gathering. Our homes have well-equipped kitchen, spacious dining rooms, and comfortable living areas, so you can cook a turkey dinner, join hands around a table, and kick-back in front of TV to watch the big game!