I was born in Chicago and my family still resides there. I've been living in and around Akron, OH since 1978. The best Thanksgiving weekend travel advice I can give is to avoid peak travel periods. Wednesday evening and Sunday late afternoon/evening are the worst.
It seems that during these times every semi- truck in existence is on the road along with everyone that thinks they could out drive Mario Andretti. If the weather is questionable, it's even worse.
I'll leave for Chicago early Thursday morning. My return trip to Ohio will start Saturday afternoon. Yes, it cuts down on visiting time, but it also cuts down on wasted fuel and idiot induced driving stress.