A Relaxing Inn and a Wonderful Thanksgiving Dinner

shindig thanksgiving table runner2Thanksgiving equals family time, laughter, and stories, with the added gifts of kitchen sinks full to the brim, piles of guest sheets waiting to be washed, and the headache of finding somewhere to store all the leftovers. This year, make Thanksgiving all about the good times. Escape with (or perhaps without) the family to a relaxing inn and let someone else do the cooking.

memberimageMinnesota
Thanksgiving is more than just an American holiday at the Historic Calumet Inn in Pipestone, Minnesota, it’s also a celebration of the inn’s anniversary and 2013 marks the 125th year of operation. In honor of this grand accomplishment, guests can enjoy a harvest buffet with free mimosas on Sunday, November 24. Continue your exploration of history after brunch by walking to one of the 20 nearby sites on the Historic Register. You might invite the whole family; with 36 guest rooms boasting antique furniture, Jacuzzis, or kitchenettes, there is room for everyone.

mianstreetrockiesColorado
The Frisco Lodge in Frisco, Colorado is pleased to offer a free thanksgiving dinner to holiday guests. Snow is already falling in Summit County and the area is bursting with winter wonderland activities including skiing, sleigh rides, and tubing. The welcoming town is right at your doorstep as the inn is located on Main Street, yet quiet serenity can be found in the evening in the courtyard hot tub under the stars. The community dining table is a popular spot to sit back and chat with friends old and new.

greenrm-thmbIndiana
The Scottish Bed and Breakfast in Bremen, Indiana sits on two acres in Amish Country. Stay two nights, bring your favorite side dishes and desserts, and the innkeepers will provide the turkey. After dinner, sip a cocktail by the fireplace in your guest room or challenge dad to a game of pool. Feeling a little guilty about that extra slice of pie? The indoor swimming pool is open through the end of November. Don’t leave Fido at home; the pet-friendly inn features an indoor/outdoor “doggie hotel.”

carriage exterior 448California
The Hartmann Inn in Boulder Creek, California is ideal for a couple who wants to get away for the holiday. The cottage boasts a romantic wood-burning stove, open and sunny floor plan, and a comfortable queen-size bed with a plethora of pillows. A local establishment since 1915, nearby Scopazzi’s Restaurant and Lounge is a historical location for your Thanksgiving dinner; be sure to bring home leftovers to reheat in the fully-equipped kitchen at the inn. On Friday, walk one block to the downtown area for the annual Holiday Event and Tree Lighting which features caroling, carriage rides, and shopping.

cedar_gables_seaside_inn_chincoteague_virginia-img2772811Virginia
Cedar Gables Seaside Inn on Chincoteague Island in Virginia is a romantic, waterfront refuge. The weather outside is no concern when your guest room has a Jacuzzi and a full size gas fireplace. Breakfast is a culinary delight served on the all-season waterfront porch. Contact the innkeepers to plan your special Thanksgiving meal. Visit for the holiday and stay for the 27th Annual Deborah Waterfowl Show and Auction on November 29-30 and the Town Christmas Tree Lighting on November 30.

thanksgiving-foodMore Thanksgiving Dinners
More Thanksgiving specials can be found at the Asa Ransom House in Clarence, New York. The inn opened its doors on Thanksgiving Day 39 years ago and is offering a Thanksgiving dinner with champagne to any guests with a birthday in November. Stay at least three nights, including Thanksgiving Day, at the Black Bear Inn in Arnold, California and receive a complimentary traditional holiday meal. The Thanksgiving Package at The Inn at Jim Thorpe in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania features a two-night stay and a scrumptious Thanksgiving Day dinner. If your travels extend beyond these towns, simply look for the location of your choice and ask innkeepers in the area for their suggestions-they’ll be happy to help.