Thanksgiving Break: Travel Tips and Things to Do
- af3-admin
The buzz is real—Thanksgiving break is just around the corner, and for Arizona State University students, that means a well-deserved pause. Whether you’re planning to travel home to family or stick around Tempe for a local holiday, you’ve got options. This guide is here to help you navigate both, showing you how SoL Apartments is the perfect home base for ASU students, no matter your plans.
Key Takeaways
- Travel Smart: Book flights and transportation early to save money and avoid stress. Use our pre-travel checklist to make leaving your SoL apartment a breeze.
- Stay Local, Live Large: Tempe offers a variety of fun events and activities during the break, from local festivals to outdoor adventures near campus.
- Give Back: The Thanksgiving holiday is a great time to volunteer and support the local Tempe community.
- Your SoL Holiday Hub: Whether you’re coming or going, SoL’s amenities like the 24-hour fitness center and relaxing spas make your break more enjoyable.
Traveling Home for the Holiday: A Pre-Break Checklist
Heading home for the holiday is a great way to recharge and reconnect. A little planning can make the journey smooth and stress-free, so you can focus on family, friends, and food.
Booking Your Trip
To avoid last-minute price hikes, book your flights, bus, or train tickets as far in advance as possible. Most ASU students fly out of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), so check for deals from there.
Pro-Tip: Coordinate with roommates or friends to share a ride to the airport and split the cost.
Prepping Your SoL Apartment
Before you head out, make sure your apartment is secure. Run through this quick checklist: clean out the fridge, take out the trash, unplug any electronics that aren’t essential, and double-check that all windows and doors are locked. With in-unit laundry, you can even wash your clothes before packing, making your return to your spacious SoL apartment that much easier.
Packing Essentials
Pack light, but pack smart. Don’t forget your chargers, any study materials you might need for when you get back, and a good book or podcast for the trip.
Staying in Tempe: A Sun Devil’s Guide to a Local Thanksgiving Break
Not traveling? No problem. A “staycation” in Tempe can be just as fun and relaxing, especially when you have the right home base. Here’s how to make the most of your break without leaving town.
Enjoying Your SoL Amenities
Your break is the perfect time to take full advantage of what SoL has to offer. Relax by the resort-style pool, unwind in one of the two heated spas, or hit the 24-hour fitness center. If you want to get a head start on finals, our quiet study lounges are perfect for focusing.
Ready to see it all? You can explore our amenities online.
Local Events and Activities
Tempe is full of things to do over the break. Hike “A” Mountain for amazing campus views, explore Tempe Town Lake, or check out the shops and restaurants on Mill Avenue. For a festive kickoff to the season, don’t miss the Fantasy of Lights Opening Night Parade in downtown Tempe.
Giving Back to the Community
Spending some of your free time volunteering is a rewarding way to connect with the local community. It’s a great option for international students or anyone looking to make a difference. Consider joining the City of Tempe Volunteer Program; you can sign up online to volunteer.
The Territorial Cup Tradition
If the timing is right, the ASU vs. U of A football game is a can’t-miss event. The battle for the Territorial Cup is a time-honored ASU tradition. Gather some friends to watch the game at a local spot, or host a small watch party in your apartment.
FAQs: Your Thanksgiving Break at ASU
When is Thanksgiving break at ASU?
Thanksgiving break is a university-observed holiday. For the most accurate dates, students should always check ASU’s academic calendar for up-to-date information.
How long is Thanksgiving break at ASU?
The official break includes Thanksgiving Day and the following Friday. However, many professors cancel Wednesday classes, giving students a longer weekend. You can find more details on the Thanksgiving holiday page.
Do college kids go home for Thanksgiving?
It’s a mix! Many students travel home, but others, especially those from far away or international students, stay near campus. SoL Apartments is a welcoming community for everyone, whether you’re staying for the break or returning after the holiday. You can see what life at SoL is like in our gallery.
What activities can you do for Thanksgiving?
Besides a traditional dinner, you can volunteer, explore local parks like Tempe Town Lake, attend the Territorial Cup game, catch up on studying, or just relax and recharge using your apartment’s amenities.
Make SoL Your Home for the Holidays and Beyond
Whether you’re heading home or staying in Tempe, SoL Apartments provides the comfort, convenience, and community to make your Thanksgiving break a great one. We offer the perfect home base for every part of your ASU journey.
Ready to learn more about living at SoL? We’d love to show you around. Contact us today to schedule a tour!
