Road-tripping Your Way to Thanksgiving Dinner

By AAA Travel Editors | April 19, 2023

Many choose to relax during Thanksgiving break and take a road trip to visit friends and family. If you will be traveling along the East Coast, we've put together a list of recommendations for some of the best places to eat Thanksgiving dinner.

Charleston Grill/Andrew Cebulka

Charleston Grill

224 King St.

This historically charming Southern city does wonders for soothing frazzled nerves. Gracious mansions overlook the harbor, a central market sells Gullah baskets and other handicrafts, and lovely courtyard gardens fill passersby with landscaping ideas. If you’re up for a worthy splurge at $115 per person, Charleston Grill provides a decadent feast. Roasted turkey is among the entrées offered, but the dessert alone may tempt you to try this classically stylish spot—Pumpkin Pie Pot de Crème, anyone?

iStockphoto.com/cobraphoto

Dan'l Boone Inn

130 Hardin St.

The North Carolina mountains provide numerous fun things to do with family. Adventurous pursuits such as snow skiing, hiking and fly-fishing beckon, as do relaxing pastimes like sightseeing and shopping. At some point during their excursions, generations of visitors have stopped at the Dan’l Boone for generous helpings of family style comfort food. Thanksgiving is no exception, with turkey and all the trimmings served up to a packed house. It’s a deal at $24.95 for adults, but seating is first come, first served. Many have proclaimed that the wait is well worth it.

AAA/Inspector 420

The Garlic

556 E. 3rd Ave.

If you’re planning to wander Central Florida’s beaches during Thanksgiving break, The Garlic is definitely a restaurant to write home about if you’re looking for fun things to do with friends or family. Feast on a traditional turkey dinner or house specialty while taking in the eclectic décor, a delightful medley of colorful kitsch and bric-a-brac (and of course, all things garlic). Think laid-back beach spot meets whimsical tree house. If you are looking for a sedate meal, this probably isn’t the place, but you’re sure to meet some friendly locals. Seating is first-come, first serve.

iStockphoto.com/AlphotographicJessop's Tavern & Colonial Restaurant

114 Delaware St.

Jessop’s Tavern touts its cooking as “comfort food, Colonial style.” Indeed, the 1674 structure welcomes hungry patrons with hearty portions of pub fare, including an award-winning chowder. So, if you’re up for Thanksgiving with a Colonial twist, step back in time and choose from a selection of main courses, including turkey, ham and filet mignon, along with side dishes and desserts.

AAA/Inspector 49

The Kings Contrivance

10150 Shaker Dr.

Situated between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., Columbia is well positioned for those planning to explore some of the Northeast’s finest GEM attractions. If you plan to be in the area on Thanksgiving, make your reservations in advance. The Kings Contrivance offers fine dining in a restored 19th-century mansion surrounded by gardens. You’ll feel like you are having dinner at a country estate, yet the cuisine has an international flair with influences from Europe and Asia. Turkey is on the three-course fixed price menu ($49, per person), along with fish and other meat selections. Prices vary for children's menu items.

AAA/Sherry Mims

The Olde Pink House

23 Abercorn St.

In need of a dash of history sprinkled with some Southern hospitality? Those wishing to dodge Savannah’s oppressive summer humidity travel there during the fall and may choose to spend Thanksgiving strolling along the town’s storied lanes. Quaint architectural offerings captivate visitors, and many have admired the stately pink building housing this local favorite on the culinary scene. The elegant yet cozy spot specializes in Lowcountry fare, and the restaurant offers selections from the menu. However, roasted turkey with all the fixings should please most traditionalists. Reservations are often booked far in advance, but fortunately Arches Bar is open to walk-in guests.

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