Thanksgiving Shuts Down Most Businesses, Casinos Remain Open


Published on: November 26, 2025, 09:52h.

Updated on: November 26, 2025, 09:52h.

  • Las Vegas is again a prime destination for Thanksgiving festivities
  • AAA forecasts an all-time high of Americans traveling this holiday season
  • Casino buffets feature Thanksgiving meals at various price levels

An estimated 82 million Americans are anticipated to travel for Thanksgiving, marking an increase of 1.6 million from the previous year. The holiday travel period extends from Tuesday, November 25, to Monday, December 1.

Thanksgiving Las Vegas casino buffet
A festive autumn pumpkin display adjacent to the Grand Buffet at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, captured on November 22, 2018. AAA recognizes Las Vegas as a top Thanksgiving travel hotspot. (Image: Shutterstock)

While many businesses close their doors for Thanksgiving, casinos operate as usual. Gaming establishments throughout the nation remain open year-round without pause.

Casinos continue to be an appealing choice for those who prefer not to spend the holiday with family or friends, leading AAA to name Las Vegas a premier Thanksgiving destination for over a decade.

AAA’s Most Popular Thanksgiving Getaways

According to AAA, known for its extensive roadside assistance network, this Thanksgiving is poised to break the record for the number of Americans traveling at least 50 miles from home.

“Each year, Thanksgiving travel statistics impress, as this holiday is synonymous with venturing out to connect with loved ones,” stated Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel. “People are willing to navigate crowds and modify their plans at the last minute to create unforgettable memories, whether visiting family or reconnecting with friends.”

For many, the rendezvous point is Las Vegas. This gaming capital ranks among the top 10 Thanksgiving destinations, alongside Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Los Angeles, Tampa, New York, San Francisco, Honolulu, and Atlanta.

Hertz has reported that Las Vegas has the third-highest demand for rental cars, following Orlando and Atlanta.

Las Vegas attracts visitors for multiple reasons. While many cities and towns close down for the holiday, the casino resorts of Southern Nevada remain vibrant and operational. From gaming floors to diverse dining options, Vegas facilitates straightforward and enjoyable holiday planning.

Thanksgiving Offers in Las Vegas

If you’re considering a spontaneous Thanksgiving getaway in Las Vegas, favorable options await you, with numerous hotel rooms still available at budget-friendly prices.

Hotels such as Virgin Las Vegas, Linq, Horseshoe, Golden Nugget, and Rio offer rooms for under $100 per night, including resort fees. For those seeking luxury, Aria starts at $160 per night, Fontainebleau at $205, Wynn Encore at $230, Bellagio at $254, and The Venetian at $256.

Across the city, casinos are preparing a variety of Thanksgiving buffets and special meal options.

If you’re on a budget, the Coronado Café at South Point features a three-course traditional Thanksgiving meal with freshly carved turkey and all the trimmings, including a complimentary cocktail or glass of wine, for just $17.95. For a more upscale dining experience with premium options like crab, lobster, and prime rib, The Buffet at Wynn and Bacchanal at Caesars Palace charge around $100 per person.

The Palms A-Y-C-E Buffet presents a mid-range choice, featuring turkey and lobster on the menu for $79.99. However, this Thanksgiving deal, which includes a seating duration of 90 minutes from 10 am to 10 pm, is currently fully booked, but a waitlist is available by contacting the casino.



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