The Best Labor Day Travel Destinations for Americans
As Labor Day approaches, many Americans are looking for the perfect destination to enjoy a late-summer getaway. According to AAA booking data, Seattle has emerged as the top Labor Day weekend destination in the United States, with a 30% increase in popularity among domestic travelers this year.
Domestic travel overall has seen a 9% increase, and the cost of travel within the United States has actually decreased by 2%, making it more affordable for travelers to explore different parts of the country.
For those planning to travel by car, there is good news on the gas prices front. The average cost of gasoline is currently around $3.50 per gallon, which is lower compared to last year’s national average of $3.81 over Labor Day weekend. This decrease in gas prices can be attributed to the reduced demand for gasoline, as the pandemic has led to changes in driving habits and the rise of remote work.
Changing Travel Trends: Domestic vs. International
While domestic travel is on the rise, there has been a shift in travel patterns when it comes to international destinations. According to AAA, fewer Americans are planning to travel overseas this Labor Day weekend compared to the previous year. Additionally, the cost of international travel has increased by 11%, making domestic travel a more attractive option for many.
European countries continue to be a top choice for U.S. tourists when it comes to international travel. Eight out of the top ten international destinations booked through AAA are European cities, highlighting the allure of European culture and history for American travelers.
Best Time to Travel and Top Destinations
As Labor Day weekend approaches, it’s important to plan your travels wisely to avoid congestion and maximize your vacation time. Airports and roadways are expected to be busiest starting Thursday, August 29, with traffic peaking in the afternoon and evening on Thursday and Friday.
For those hitting the road on Thursday or Friday, experts recommend traveling in the morning to beat the traffic. If you’re flying on Saturday, it’s best to schedule your flight for the afternoon to avoid the rush.
According to Inrix traffic analyst Bob Pishue, drivers should expect the worst traffic congestion ahead of the holiday weekend as commuters mix with travelers. Monitoring traffic apps, local news stations, and 511 Passenger information services can help you navigate the roads more efficiently and reduce frustration during your Labor Day travels.
For those looking for inspiration on where to travel, here are the top 10 domestic and international destinations to consider:
Top 10 Domestic Tourist Destinations
- Seattle, Washington
- Orlando, Florida
- Anchorage, Alaska
- New York City, New York
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- Denver, Colorado
- Chicago, Illinois
- Juneau, Alaska
Top 10 International Destinations
- Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Rome, Italy
- London, UK
- Paris, France
- Dublin, Ireland
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Barcelona, Spain
- Athens, Greece
- Mexicali, Mexico
- Edinburgh, Scotland