The Loft Cinema

Volunteer Fritzi Redgrave directs patrons through the gates during a soft re-opening of The Loft Cinema in May 2021.

If you're searching for someplace to go this Thanksgiving for whatever reason — you can't make it out to your family on the east coast or maybe the turkey in the oven didn't turn out as tasty as planned — here are some local spots staying open for the holiday.

This list isn't comprehensive, so let us know if we missed your favorite spot.

Note: Some restaurants may require reservations.

Cruz, a 10-year-old mountain lion, sticks out its tongue while sunbathing on a ledge inside its enclosure inside the Mountain Woodland exhibit at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Road.

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum — It's one of Tucson's favorite attractions and it's open 365 days a year. 

Brother John's Beer, Bourbon & BBQ — This barbecue spot will be open with limited seating from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 

Casa Video & Film Bar — Catch a double feature of "Home for the Holidays" and "Planes, Trains & Automobiles" at the iconic Casa Video. Movies start at 7 p.m.

Casino Del Sol — There will be Thanksgiving dining specials at PY Steakhouse, Moby's and Festa International Buffet.

Charro Steak & Del Rey — For $54.95, enjoy a three-course Thanksgiving meal with salad, turkey and various accompaniments, plus your choice of dessert.

Chef Wang — Find Northeastern Chinese food at Chef Wang, which is staying open this Thanksgiving.

Che's Lounge — Che's will open its doors at 7 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.

Cup Cafe — The restaurant at Hotel Congress has a $65 prix fixe menu for the holiday, including a choice of slow-roasted turkey breast, prime rib, or a veggie option.

El Conquistador Tucson — Thanksgiving brunch includes salmon fillet, turkey enchiladas, vegan posole, stuffed poblano peppers, roasted turkey, prime rib, honey ham and lots more from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Fiesta Lanes — Reserve a lane online for Thanksgiving Day and you'll get a free gift!

Golf N' Stuff — Hit the arcade or maybe try your hand at a round of mini golf.

Govinda's — Enjoy an all-vegan menu, including tofu turkey, from noon to 6 p.m. The meal is priced at $19.95 for adults.

Jewel's Noodle Kitchen — Our former food writer Andi Berlin ❤️s the meat pies from Jewel's Noodle Kitchen, which will be open this Thanksgiving!

Jun Dynasty — Get traditional Szechuan items from Jun Dynasty on Thanksgiving this year.

The Loft Cinema — Catch a movie at Tucson's independent theater. Screenings include "Twilight: Breaking Dawn" and "Priscilla." 

Lucky Strike Bowl — Try to get some strikes this Thanksgiving while bowling at Lucky Strike. The bowling alley opens at 4 p.m.

Omni Tucson National — Enjoy Thanksgiving brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Find breakfast favorites, turkey, steak, ham, shrimp and grits, traditional Thanksgiving sides and pie for $89 for adults, $49 for kids ages 6-12.

Presta Coffee Roasters — The Presta location on First Avenue will be open 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Nomico — This shop is known for their snacks like raindrop cakes, crepe cakes and milk tea.

The Nugget — This neighborhood bar will be open on Thanksgiving!

Roadhouse Cinemas — Enjoy dinner and a movie at Roadhouse, with screenings that include "Wish" and "Napoleon." (Movie theater chains are also often open on Thanksgiving, check with your nearby theater to confirm.)

Sher-e-Punjab — Order curry and samosas this holiday.

Sullivan's Steakhouse — A three-course turkey dinner will be available on Thanksgiving for $49. The dinner menu will also be available.


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