Top U.S. Destination for Labor Day Travel: Seattle
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. According to AAA booking data, the city’s appeal as a late-summer getaway has been on the rise, making it a sought-after destination for many.
Cost of Travel and Gas Prices
Despite the increase in domestic travel, the overall cost of traveling within the United States has dropped by 2% compared to previous years. This is good news for travelers looking to explore new destinations without breaking the bank.
Americans who choose to drive can also save money on gas, as the typical cost of gasoline is currently around $3.50 per gallon, lower than previous years. The decrease in gas prices can be attributed to a decrease in overall demand, as remote working and changing driving habits have become more prevalent due to the pandemic.
Domestic vs. International Travel Trends
While domestic travel is on the rise, fewer Americans are planning to travel overseas for the Labor Day weekend. According to AAA, the cost of international travel has increased by 11%, making domestic destinations more appealing for holiday getaways.
European countries remain the top choice for U.S. tourists when it comes to international travel, with eight of the top ten destinations booked through AAA being located in Europe.
Best Time to Travel on Labor Day
For those planning to travel during the Labor Day weekend, it’s important to consider the best time to hit the road or head to the airport. Airports and roadways are expected to be busiest on Thursday and Friday before the weekend, with traffic congestion peaking in the afternoon and evening.
Experts advise travelers to avoid traffic by traveling in the morning on Thursday or Friday, and in the afternoon on Saturday. Sunday afternoon and Labor Day Monday are expected to see the heaviest traffic, so plan accordingly to avoid delays.
Top 10 Destinations for Labor Day Travel
For travelers looking for inspiration, here are the top 10 domestic and international destinations to consider for a Labor Day getaway:
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
