Memorial Day weekend 2025 is shaping up to be the busiest in two decades. AAA forecasts that 45.1 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home, surpassing the 2005 record of 44 million. With pent-up demand for vacations, lower gas prices, and a strong desire to reconnect with loved ones, millions are hitting the road, boarding planes, and setting sail to kick off the summer season.
Driving Surge Leads the Travel Boom
Road travel is dominating the 2025 Memorial Day forecast. An estimated 39.4 million people will drive to their destinations, up by 1 million from last year. This trend is fueled largely by a significant drop in gas prices. The national average for gasoline currently sits at $3.08 per gallon, compared to $3.59 during the same period in 2024. The affordability of fuel has made long-distance driving more attractive for families and budget-conscious travelers.
AAA recommends that drivers plan their routes carefully and depart early in the day to avoid peak congestion. According to transportation analytics firm INRIX, the busiest travel times are expected to be between noon and 8 p.m. on Friday and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Memorial Day itself. To help with planning, AAA’s mobile app offers up-to-date information on traffic conditions and nearby gas prices.
Air Travel Hits Post-Pandemic Highs
Airports are preparing for a heavy wave of passengers, with 3.61 million Americans expected to fly over the holiday weekend. While this number is just shy of the 2005 record of 3.64 million, it represents a nearly 2% increase from 2024 and a 12% rise over pre-pandemic levels. Airfare for domestic round-trip flights is averaging around $850, a modest 2% increase from the previous year.
TSA officials are urging travelers to arrive at airports early and ensure they have a REAL ID-compliant license or passport. With stricter ID enforcement and longer security lines anticipated, preparation is key to a smooth airport experience. Airlines are also warning of possible delays due to air traffic control constraints and staffing shortages in some regions.
Alternative Travel Options on the Rise
Other modes of travel—such as trains, buses, and cruises—are seeing renewed interest. AAA expects 2.08 million people to travel using these alternatives, an increase of 8.5% compared to 2024. Cruises, in particular, are making a notable comeback, with Alaska emerging as a top destination. Ports in Anchorage, Juneau, and Fairbanks are reporting high passenger volumes and strong booking numbers.
Amtrak and long-distance bus companies are also expanding capacity to meet rising demand. Travelers looking for cost-effective or scenic options are turning to these forms of transport, especially for mid-range travel between cities or regional getaways.
Top Memorial Day Destinations for 2025
AAA booking data reveals the most popular travel destinations for Memorial Day weekend 2025. Domestically, Orlando, Seattle, Las Vegas, and Miami lead the list, along with perennial favorites like San Francisco and New York City. Chicago, Boston, and Denver round out the top ten, drawing visitors for their cultural offerings and spring weather.
International travelers are gravitating toward European hotspots such as Paris, London, and Rome, as well as Vancouver and Punta Cana. With the dollar slightly weaker this year, many are choosing to travel closer to home, though strong demand for transatlantic flights indicates that international travel is rebounding robustly.
Final Word on Memorial Day Travel Trends
This year’s Memorial Day surge confirms that Americans are prioritizing experiences and connection over economic uncertainty. Despite inflationary pressures and concerns about delays, travelers are moving forward with plans at record-breaking levels. With smart planning and attention to timing, this holiday weekend can be both enjoyable and manageable for those taking part in the summer’s first big getaway.