Saturday, March 22, 2025

As the summer season winds down, one popular U.S. city is making waves as a prime Labor Day vacation spot. According to AAA booking data, Seattle has emerged as the top destination for Labor Day weekend travel, boasting a 30% increase in popularity among domestic travelers compared to last year. This marks Seattle’s second consecutive year at the top of the list.
Overall domestic travel has risen by 9%, with the cost of U.S. trips showing a slight decline of 2%. For those hitting the road this holiday weekend, the good news is that gas prices have dropped. The average cost of gasoline stands at around $3.50 per gallon, down from the $3.81 average last year. This drop is attributed to a reduced demand for gas, partially due to the shift in driving habits brought about by the pandemic and remote work.
International travel, on the other hand, is seeing fewer takers this year. A slight decrease in demand for overseas vacations is noted, with international travel costs rising by 11%. The majority of American travelers are flocking to Europe, with European destinations dominating the list of the top international spots.
Best Travel Times for Labor Day Weekend
Travel experts suggest that those planning to travel during the Labor Day weekend should prepare for crowded airports and highways starting on Thursday, August 29. To avoid heavy traffic, it’s recommended to start the journey early on Thursday or Friday morning. If you’re departing on Saturday, afternoon travel is likely your best option to avoid congestion.
Experts also advise travelers to keep an eye on traffic apps and local news for real-time updates to navigate around the busiest spots.
Top Domestic and International Destinations for Labor Day
Top 10 Domestic Destinations:
- Seattle, WA
- Orlando, FL
- Anchorage, AK
- New York, NY
- Boston, MA
- Las Vegas, NV
- Denver, CO
- Chicago, IL
- Juneau, AK
Top 10 International Destinations:
- Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Rome, Italy
- London, England
- Paris, France
- Dublin, Ireland
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Barcelona, Spain
- Athens, Greece
- Mexicali, Mexico
- Edinburgh, Scotland
Whether you’re enjoying a getaway close to home or venturing across the globe, the 2025 Labor Day weekend promises to be an exciting time for travelers.