3 Great Ways to Opt for Outside This Thanksgiving Weekend

While Thanksgiving in our country is often celebrated over a big meal or by preparing to shop for holiday gifts, there are outdoor options for expressing gratitude while spending time with family and friends. What if we made a shift to focus on outdoor family activities that are healthy for our bodies and minds? Check out these three great ways to opt outside over Thanksgiving weekend.

Take a Hike at a State or National Park

Find out which state or national parks are open over the holiday weekend and plan a family hike. All Florida State Parks are open on Thanksgiving, November 28th and some National Parks, including Everglades National Park. Walking on the trails at a park can be a great way to spend quality family time while also getting in some light exercise after a meal. According to the Cleveland Clinic, research shows that walking for at least 20 minutes after a meal can help significantly with managing blood sugar levels and improving digestion.

Go Freshwater Fishing on Thanksgiving

Studies have shown that fishing lowers your cortisol levels (cortisol is known as the stress hormone), and that this positive effect can last for as long as three weeks after a fishing trip. Consider planning a freshwater fishing trip over Thanksgiving weekend to relax and decompress.

In many parts of the country, the timeframe around this holiday often means the last stretch of mild weather. Lakes, rivers, or ponds are usually still accessible, and fish are often active as they start to feed heavily in preparation for the cold winter months. Species like bass, rainbow trout, and crappie are likely to bite, making it an ideal time for families to enjoy a day on the water.

Create Saltwater Family Fishing Traditions

If you want to find Thanksgiving fishing opportunities focused on some of the Atlantic coastal areas, check the Places to Boat and Fish Map. The fall migration of striped bass, redfish, and bluefish along the East Coast will often overlap with the holiday weekend, which makes it a great time to start a surf fishing tradition. In the state of Florida, the Saturday following Thanksgiving also happens to be a license-free saltwater fishing day.

Start a coastal family fishing tradition by doing some research on saltwater pier fishing experiences near where you live. Most fishing piers offer easy access to the water with the conveniences of restrooms and picnic areas, or concession stands, nearby. The Daytona Beach Fishing Pier, the Pensacola Beach Fishing Pier, Sebastian Inlet State Park Pier, and the Juno Beach Park Pier are a few examples of the best fishing destinations in Florida.

Making the Most of Thanksgiving Family Activities

Hiking and fishing activities can be great ways to enjoy the fall season while embracing a spirit of gratitude. Whether you’re planning a trail hike with your friends or fishing with your family, these outdoor activities allow you to stay active, connect with nature, and reflect on all that you’re thankful for.