Fourth of July travel could reach historic levels, AAA says
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Diverging Reports Breakdown
Summer travel surge to once again hit record levels ahead of Independence Day
AAA anticipates nearly 62 million people will take to the roads over the Fourth of July weekend — a jump of 1.3 million from last year. Las Vegas, Orlando, Tokyo, and London are seeing a surge in visitors as Americans seek out diverse travel experiences. A Bankrate survey found less than half of adults nationwide plan to travel this year, citing expenses. Some travelers are using AI to help plan their dream summer vacations or weekend getaways. See a spelling or grammatical error in our story? Please click here to report it.
Independence Day Travel Peaks
The Independence Day holiday is proving to be a major travel milestone in 2023. According to AAA, air travel will see a notable increase, with the number of flyers ticking up more than 1% over last year’s record. The volume of travelers is significant, with all the top 10 heaviest travel days in TSA’s history occurring within the past year.
At Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, advancements in technology are enhancing the traveler experience. A new technology using facial recognition is reducing wait times by 25%, as implemented at nine major airports. Furthermore, DFW is piloting a program to allow customs officials to review X-ray images of checked bags from London, sparing travelers from having to clear security twice.
Some travelers are using AI to help plan their dream summer vacations or weekend getaways. Susan Campbell shows us the new AI tool.
Driving Trends in Travel
AAA anticipates nearly 62 million people will take to the roads over the Fourth of July weekend — a jump of 1.3 million from last year. The numbers indicate a growing trend; traveling isn’t just a matter of practicality but also emotional fulfillment. “We’re seeing travel in record numbers because people want to escape their daily routines and experience something new,” says an industry insider. Interestingly, cost isn’t a significant deterrent for many travelers who are seeking a change of scenery.
A Bankrate survey found less than half of adults nationwide plan to travel this year, citing expenses. Whitney Clark explains some ways to save on your trip.
Top Destinations for Summer Travelers
This summer, popular destinations like Las Vegas, Orlando, Tokyo, and London are seeing a surge in visitors as Americans seek out diverse travel experiences. The choice of destinations reflects a combination of leisure, adventure, and cultural exploration.
The summer of 2023 is shaping up to be one for the record books, as travel demand continues to climb, driven by a mixture of practical needs and a strong desire for exploration and leisure. Safe travels to all those hitting the road and skies this Fourth of July!
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Fourth of July travel could reach ‘historic’ levels in Florida, AAA says
AAA projects 72.2 million domestic travelers nationwide, including 4.6 million Floridians. The projection marks an increase of 1.7 million travelers over 2024 and 7 million compared to 2019. AAA also put out a list of the best and worst times to be on the road if you’re driving during the upcoming holiday travel period. The average price of gas in the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater area is $3.17 per gallon, down from $ 3.63 on this date a year ago. The best times to drive are before 10 a.m. and before noon on July 4. The worst times are between 2-4 p.m and 2-6 p.M. on July 6. The Independence Day travel period could set records in 2025, according to AAA.
The Independence Day travel period could set records in 2025, according to AAA.
AAA projects 72.2 million domestic travelers nationwide, including 4.6 million Floridians.
Gas prices are lower as of June 20 compared to the same date last year.
TAMPA, Fla. – The Fourth of July travel period could be a record-breaker nationwide and in Florida, according to new projections released by AAA.
How many people will travel for July 4?
By the numbers
AAA says about 72.2 million people nationwide will travel domestically during the Independence Day travel period, which runs from June 28 through July 6.
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The projection marks an increase of 1.7 million travelers over 2024 and 7 million compared to 2019.
In Florida, AAA says nearly 4.6 million people will travel for the holiday, broken down as follows:
Road trip: 4 millionUp from 3.9 million in 2024
Up from 3.9 million in 2024
Flying: 329,762Up from 325,471 in 2024
Up from 325,471 in 2024
Other modes: 203,629Up from 188,809 in 2024
Up from 188,809 in 2024
File: Tampa traffic
Gas prices in Florida
As of Friday, June 20, Florida drivers are paying an average of $3.14 per gallon for regular gas, according to AAA – slightly less than the national average of $3.21.
The average price of gas in the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater area is $3.17 per gallon, down from $3.63 on this date a year ago.
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AAA warns prices at the pump could fluctuate over the next two weeks, with the cost of crude oil surging last week amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.
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Best and worst times to drive
Dig deeper
AAA also put out a list of the best and worst times to be on the road if you’re driving during the upcoming holiday travel period.
Best times to drive
Saturday, June 28: Before 10 a.m.
Sunday, June 29: Before 11 a.m.
Monday, June 30: Before noon
Tuesday, July 1: Before 2 p.m.
Wednesday, July 2: Before noon
Thursday, July 3: Before noon
Friday, July 4: Before noon
Saturday, July 5: Before 11 a.m.
Sunday, July 6: Before 11 a.m.
Worst times to drive
Saturday, June 28: Noon-5 p.m.
Sunday, June 29: 2-4 p.m.
Monday, June 30: 2-6 p.m.
Tuesday, July 1: 3-6 p.m.
Wednesday, July 2: Noon-9 p.m.
Thursday, July 3: 2-6 p.m.
Friday, July 4: Noon-7 p.m.
Saturday, July 5: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sunday, July 6: Noon-6 p.m.
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Record 1.6 Million Tennesseans Expected To Travel For July 4th Week
AAA projects 72.2 million Americans will travel domestically during the Independence Day holiday period (Saturday, June 28 to Sunday, July 6) This represents an increase of 1.7 million travelers (2.4%) over last year and 7 million more than in 2019. Tennessee travel is expected to reach historic levels, with 1.6 million Tennesseans hitting the road, skies, and rails – that’s up 30,000 (or 1.9%) from last year. AAA responded to nearly 700,000 roadside assistance calls nationwide during last year’S holiday period for issues like dead batteries, flat tires, and empty gas tanks. The national average is currently $3.21. That is approximately 24 cents per gallon less than last year’s holiday. AAA booking data reveals the most sought-after travel spots for July 4: Orlando, Florida, and Seattle, Washington. Alaska cruises, beaches, and fireworks are the main motivators for travelers heading to these cities, according to AAA.
To better reflect holiday travel trends, AAA’s forecast now accounts for two weekends, capturing extended trips and varied departure schedules.
Tennessee Travel Trends
Tennessee travel is expected to reach historic levels, with 1.6 million Tennesseans hitting the road, skies, and rails – that’s up 30,000 (or 1.9%) from last year.
Driving: Almost 1.5 million Tennesseans will take a road trip, an increase of 1.8% over last year.
Flying: More than 72,000 Tennesseans will fly domestically, almost the same as last year.
Other Modes: More than 73,000 Tennesseans will take buses, trains, or cruises, an increase of 5.5% compared to last year.
Tennessee Independence Day Travelers Auto Air Other Total 2025 1.5 million 72,332 73,371 1.62 million 2024 1.4 million 72,073 69,540 1.59 million 2019 1.3 million 63,856 73,370 1.46 million
“Independence Day is one of the most popular times for travel, with Americans eager to take advantage of summer vacation opportunities,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of AAA Travel. “This year, we’re seeing strong demand for road trips, flights, and cruises, especially with the holiday falling on a Friday. This is allowing travelers to extend their getaways and make lasting memories with loved ones.”
How Americans Are Traveling This Independence Day
By Car:
AAA estimates 61.6 million Americans will drive—a 2.2% increase from last year and the highest number ever recorded. 1.3 million more road travelers are expected compared to 2024.
Drivers should prepare their vehicles in advance, as AAA responded to nearly 700,000 roadside assistance calls nationwide during last year’s holiday period for issues like dead batteries, flat tires, and empty gas tanks.
Gas prices are likely to fluctuate before Independence Day. Last week, oil prices surged in response to Israel’s strikes on Iran, increasing gasoline production costs. While analysts suggest this may be a short-term reaction, it’s too early to know whether prices will stabilize before the holiday. The national average is currently $3.21. That is approximately 24 cents per gallon less than last year’s holiday. Visit GasPrices.AAA.com for the latest gas price averages.
Road Trip Inspiration: Take a road trip to one of the 10 Best National Parks to Visit in Summer on AAA Trip Canvas.
By Air:
Air travel is reaching record-breaking numbers nationwide, with 5.84 million people flying, a 1.4% increase over last year’s previous high. This figure exclusively represents domestic leisure travel, counting complete round-trip itineraries as a single trip. This differs from TSA data, which tracks each individual airport screening separately and includes both domestic and international travel.
AAA data shows round-trip domestic flights averaging $810, up 4% from 2024. Travelers booking last-minute can find better deals by flying midweek (Tuesdays or Wednesdays).
Air Travel Inspiration: Need family-friendly ideas? Explore the 17 Best Vacation Spots for Families on AAA Trip Canvas.
By Other Modes:
Nearly 4.78 million people will travel by bus, train, or cruise, marking a 7.4% rise over last year. Cruising continues to fuel this growth, particularly in peak Alaska cruise season.
Cruise Inspiration: Check out the 9 Best Alaska Cruises for Every Traveler for your next adventure.
AAA’s Top Independence Day Destinations
AAA booking data reveals the most sought-after travel spots for July 4th:
DOMESTIC INTERNATIONAL ORLANDO, FL VANCOUVER, CANADA SEATTLE, WA ROME, ITALY NEW YORK, NY PARIS, FRANCE ANCHORAGE, AK LONDON, ENGLAND FORT LAUDERDALE, FL BARCELONA, SPAIN HONOLULU, HI DUBLIN, IRELAND DENVER, CO AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS MIAMI, FL CALGARY, CANADA BOSTON, MA ATHENS, GREECE ATLANTA, GA LISBON, PORTUGAL
These destinations are based on AAA booking data for the Independence Day travel period. Cruises, beaches, and fireworks are the main motivators for travelers heading to these cities. Alaska cruises are in peak season, Florida and Hawaii are in high demand for their resorts and attractions, and New York and Boston host two of the most popular fireworks shows in the nation.
Internationally, Vancouver tops the list for its mild weather and perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. This is followed by Europe’s most in-demand cities like Rome and Paris.
Best & Worst Times to Drive
According to INRIX, expect heavy road congestion on Wednesday, July 2 and Sunday, July 6. The busiest times will be afternoons, while mornings offer the best escape from traffic.
Ideal Travel Times:
Worst hours: Afternoon to early evening
Best hours: Early morning
Drivers should remain alert for construction delays, crashes, and severe weather. AAA reminds all motorists to Slow Down, Move Over for emergency responders assisting roadside travelers.
Best and Worst Times to Travel by Car Date Worst Travel Time Best Travel Time Saturday, Jun 28 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM Before 10:00 AM Sunday, Jun 29 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Before 11:00 AM Monday, Jun 30 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM Before 12:00 PM Tuesday, Jul 01 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Before 2:00 PM Wednesday, Jul 02 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM Before 12:00 PM Thursday, Jul 03 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM Before 12:00 PM Friday, Jul 04 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM Before 12:00 PM Saturday, Jul 05 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Before 11:00 AM Sunday, Jul 06 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM Before 11:00 AM
“We encourage travelers to consider purchasing travel insurance to protect their plans,” said Ms. Haas. “Unexpected disruptions like flight delays, lost luggage, or medical emergencies can turn a dream vacation into a stressful experience. Travel insurance provides peace of mind, ensuring you can enjoy your Independence Day getaway with confidence.”
AAA: Record 2.6 Million Michiganders Expected to Travel for July 4th
AAA: Record 2.6 million Michiganders Expected to Travel for July 4th. 72.2 million Americans will travel domestically during the Independence Day holiday period (Saturday, June 28 to Sunday, July 6). This represents an increase of 1.7 million travelers (2.4%) over last year and 7 million more than in 2019. Michigan travel is expected to reach historic levels, with more than 2.4 million Michigan residents will take a road trip (+59,000 from last year, up 2.5%). AAA responded to nearly 700,000 roadside assistance calls nationwide during last year’s holiday period for issues like dead batteries, flat tires, and empty gas tanks. The holiday falls on a Friday, allowing travelers to extend their getaways and make lasting memories with loved ones.
June 20, 2025
Nik Rajkovic / news@whmi.com
AAA projects 72.2 million Americans will travel domestically during the Independence Day holiday period (Saturday, June 28 to Sunday, July 6). This represents an increase of 1.7 million travelers (2.4%) over last year and 7 million more than in 2019.
To better reflect holiday travel trends, AAA’s forecast now accounts for two weekends, capturing extended trips and varied departure schedules.
Michigan travel is expected to reach historic levels, with more than 2.6 million Michiganders hitting the road, skies, and rails – that’s up 71,000 (nearly 3%) from last year.
• Driving: Nearly 2.4 million Michigan residents will take a road trip (+59,000 from last year, up 2.5%).
• Flying: Nearly 96,000 Michigan residents will fly domestically (+1,000, up 1%).
• Other Modes: More than 160,000 Michiganders will take buses, trains, or cruises (+11,000, up 7%).
Michigan Independence Day Travelers:
Auto Air Other Total
2025 2.4 million 95,681 161,302 2.6 million
2024 2.3 million 94,613 150,273 2.5 million
2019 2.1 million 90,195 158,604 2.3 million
“Independence Day is one of the most popular times for travel, with Americans eager to take advantage of summer vacation opportunities,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of AAA Travel.
“This year, we’re seeing strong demand for road trips, flights, and cruises, especially with the holiday falling on a Friday. This is allowing travelers to extend their getaways and make lasting memories with loved ones.”
How Americans Are Traveling This Independence Day:
By Car:
AAA estimates 61.6 million Americans will drive—a 2.2% increase from last year and the highest number ever recorded. 1.3 million more road travelers are expected compared to 2024.
Drivers should prepare their vehicles in advance, as AAA responded to nearly 700,000 roadside assistance calls nationwide during last year’s holiday period for issues like dead batteries, flat tires, and empty gas tanks.
Gas prices are likely to fluctuate before Independence Day. Last week, oil prices surged in response to Israel’s strikes on Iran, increasing gasoline production costs. While analysts suggest this may be a short-term reaction, it’s too early to know whether prices will stabilize before the holiday.
Michigan drivers are currently paying $3.30. That is approximately 30 cents per gallon less than last year’s holiday.
By Air:
Air travel is reaching record-breaking numbers nationwide, with 5.84 million people flying, a 1.4% increase over last year’s previous high. This figure exclusively represents domestic leisure travel, counting complete round-trip itineraries as a single trip. This differs from TSA data, which tracks each individual airport screening separately and includes both domestic and international travel.
AAA data shows round-trip domestic flights averaging $810, up 4% from 2024. Travelers booking last-minute can find better deals by flying midweek (Tuesdays or Wednesdays).
By Other Modes:
Nearly 4.78 million people will travel by bus, train, or cruise, marking a 7.4% rise over last year. Cruising continues to fuel this growth, particularly in peak Alaska cruise season.
Mobile celebrates Juneteenth with parade and other activities at Mardi Gras Park
The Miss Juneteenth America Scholarship Pageantry Program is celebrating Juneteenth. Leatha Joyner will begin Mobile’s official celebration at 2 p.m. at Mardi Gras Park. Simone Sharod, WKRG News 5 anchor and former Miss Tuskegee University, is set to lead the Second Line Parade through downtown Mobile.
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According to a City of Mobile Facebook post, the city has several activities planned as part of the Miss Juneteenth America Scholarship Pageantry Program.
2024 pageant winner Leatha Joyner will begin Mobile’s official celebration at 2 p.m. at Mardi Gras Park.
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Then, at 6:19 p.m., Simone Sharod, WKRG News 5 anchor and former Miss Tuskegee University, is set to lead the Second Line Parade through downtown Mobile from the Battle House.
The event is free and open to the public. Handkerchiefs, second-line umbrellas, festive attire and comfortable shoes are encouraged
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To find out more about the second line parade, the program, and other events, visit the Miss Juneteenth website.
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