How to Have a Thrilling Thanksgiving

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

17 Nov 2008 10:50 PM

If your idea of a thrilling Thanksgiving consists of fishing Aunt Louise's dentures out of the mashed potatoes and safeguarding your fine crystal from your overzealous uncle, who insists he's a professional juggler after a few cocktails, then I have two words for you: Universal Studios.

For the first time since opening in 1964, Universal Studios Hollywood will be open on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Ditch your dysfunctional relatives and head to a place where the thrills and chills don't involve your wedding china. The amusement park has long been a favorite destination for families to celebrate special occasions. In addition, it's also a great place to visit with out-of-town guests.

By opening the gates on Thanksgiving and Christmas, Universal Hollywood will be open 365 days this year. The park will operate from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Christmas.

Eat your turkey dinner early this year and catch some real thrills on The Simpsons Ride, Revenge of the Mummy, Shrek 4-D, Jurassic Park The Ride, and the Studio Tour. You'll be grateful you did.

If thrill rides are not your thing, but you still want to get out of the house during the long holiday weekend consider traveling to the place where the very first Thanksgiving took place--family-friendly Plymouth, Massachusetts. The site where Mayflower passengers famously disembarked back in 1620 is open to the public on Turkey Day.

After you visit the landing site, at Plymouth Rock, consider paying your respects to the statue of native Wampanoag chief Massasoit, who signed an accord with the pilgrims in 1621. Locals say what few members remain of his tribe can be found living across the water, on Martha's Vineyard.

Another must-see area attraction is Plimouth Plantation. The popular tourist site is a massive estate that recreates the 17th-century pilgrim village that once stood there. You and your family can tour authentic timber houses and barns and take photos next to livestock. The plantation is also home to a replica of the Mayflower and a host of other historic artifacts.

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Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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