Published on August 28, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
Denver joins Atlanta, Chicago, Boston, New York as the autumn travel season starts with US Labor Day trips, and what Americans are planning right now shows a powerful mix of tradition and change. Denver and Atlanta with mountain escapes and urban breaks. Chicago, Boston, and New York welcome millions with culture, history, and Broadway energy.
As the autumn travel season starts, US Labor Day trips act as the bridge between summer holidays and school routines. Denver joins Atlanta, Chicago, Boston, New York in pulling in families, couples, and solo travellers.

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What Americans are planning right now reflects shifting costs and new habits. Flights are cheaper, hotels are more affordable, and car rentals are in high demand. The autumn travel season starts with excitement and anticipation, and US Labor Day trips remain a symbol of togetherness, discovery, and the joy of one last summer escape.

A Final Holiday Before Autumn Routines Begin

US Labour Day weekend 2025 is proving once again why it is one of the busiest travel times of the year. Millions of Americans are on the move. They are booking cruises, visiting theme parks, or flying into the nation’s top cities. For many, this is the final chance to escape before schools reopen and work routines settle into place. According to AAA, Seattle, Orlando, and New York are the most popular domestic destinations. These cities capture the imagination of holidaymakers thanks to cruises, entertainment, and theme parks.

The mood is optimistic. Families and solo travellers alike are searching for both affordable options and dream trips. The good news is that domestic costs are lower this year. Flights, hotels, and car rentals are all cheaper than in 2024. The combination of price relief and holiday tradition has created a powerful surge of travel demand.

Seattle Stands Tall as the Cruise Capital

Seattle sits at the very top of the domestic list. The city has long been the gateway for Alaska cruises, and this season is ending on a strong note. Cruise ships departing from Seattle have drawn both domestic and international passengers. Downtown hotels have seen a return to pre-pandemic demand. Reports show June 2025 hotel sales matched 2019 levels, and July even surpassed them. That momentum spills directly into the Labour Day weekend.

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Seattle is not only about cruises. Its waterfront, Pike Place Market, and vibrant culture make it a magnet for short city breaks. Families can combine a few days in the city with an Alaska sailing, while regional travellers often drive in for a weekend stay. This mix of cruise and land tourism has boosted Seattle into the number one spot.

Orlando Shines with Theme Parks and Family Fun

Orlando is never far from the top of the travel charts. For Labour Day 2025, the Florida hub is again a magnet for families. The appeal is simple. Orlando is home to the world’s most famous theme parks. Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld all attract millions of visitors each year. AAA data shows that Orlando is also among the busiest for car rentals, with many travellers collecting vehicles to explore beyond the parks.
The state of Florida recorded 34.4 million visitors in the second quarter of 2025, a record for that period. The majority were domestic tourists, but international visitors are also returning. Orlando benefits directly from this growth. Lower hotel rates this summer have added to the attraction. For families wanting a memorable end to summer, Orlando is the easy choice.

New York Remains a Star Attraction

New York City is also one of the most popular domestic destinations this Labour Day. Visitors are drawn by Broadway shows, museums, shopping, and iconic sights such as Times Square and the Statue of Liberty. Hotel data from June 2025 showed occupancy rates in the city at 88.5 percent, the highest among all top U.S. markets.
Even though forecasts for overall 2025 visitor numbers to New York have been revised down, the city remains strong. International travellers continue to arrive in high numbers, while domestic demand is steady. For Labour Day, New York is buzzing. Tourists are filling hotels, attending shows, and making the most of late-summer weather in the city’s parks and public spaces.

Boston, Chicago, Denver, and Atlanta Join the Rush

Beyond the top three, other major cities are seeing heavy demand. Boston, with its historic landmarks and lively harbour, is climbing the ranks. Chicago offers culture, food, and architecture. Denver is popular for road trips and serves as a launch pad to the Rocky Mountains. Atlanta is both a travel hub and a tourism destination in its own right.
AAA and its car rental partner Hertz list Denver and Atlanta among the busiest rental car cities this weekend. Atlanta’s airport is preparing for one of its busiest holiday periods, expecting more than 325,000 passengers on peak days. Denver’s location makes it perfect for families combining city breaks with national park visits. These cities demonstrate the diverse reasons Americans are travelling, from history to adventure to family fun.

Las Vegas Faces Shifts but Remains a Magnet

Las Vegas is also among the top ten domestic destinations for Labour Day. However, the city has faced some softness in its visitor numbers. Reports from June 2025 showed a decline of more than 11 percent in visitation compared to the previous year. Occupancy was down, and average daily rates also slipped.
Yet Las Vegas continues to attract tourists looking for entertainment, nightlife, and events. For Labour Day, special deals are encouraging last-minute bookings. The city’s ability to reinvent itself, combined with its global reputation, means it remains in demand even during weaker months. As one of AAA’s top picks, Las Vegas shows the resilience of destination branding.

Anchorage and Alaska Cruises End a Strong Season

Anchorage is also high on AAA’s list of Labour Day hotspots. It benefits directly from the cruise industry. Alaska cruises have enjoyed a strong season in 2025. As the season draws to a close, Anchorage sees both embarkations and land-based travellers. National parks, wildlife tours, and cultural attractions add to the appeal. The presence of Anchorage in the top ten reflects how cruises continue to power U.S. holiday travel.

Flights, Hotels, and Car Rentals Cheaper This Year

One of the main reasons for strong demand this Labour Day is affordability. Domestic round-trip flights are averaging $720, down six percent compared to last year. Hotels are 11 percent cheaper on average. Car rental prices are down three percent. This combination of lower prices is giving many households confidence to book.
International travel tells a different story. While overseas hotels are slightly cheaper, international airfares are up eight percent. This has not stopped European cities such as Rome, Dublin, London, and Paris from attracting large numbers of Americans. But it does show why domestic trips are surging most strongly this year.

Gas Prices Stay Steady and Boost Road Trips

Road trips remain a vital part of U.S. travel. Gas prices are steady and affordable. The national average is around $3.20 per gallon, below last year’s $3.33 on Labour Day. Crude oil prices have been stable, and no major storms have disrupted Gulf Coast refineries. This has kept fuel costs predictable for families planning long drives.
AAA and INRIX also provide advice on the best travel times. They warn that afternoons will see heavy traffic, with mornings being the best option for smoother journeys. Many families will hit the roads early to reach beaches, mountains, or nearby towns. This stable fuel environment ensures road trips remain one of the most accessible options for Labour Day holidays.

TSA Expects Record Screening Numbers

The Transportation Security Administration is bracing for record volumes. More than 17 million passengers are expected to pass through U.S. airports from Thursday, August 28 to Wednesday, September 3. The busiest single day is projected to be Friday, with almost three million people passing through checkpoints. This underlines the scale of demand and the importance of holiday weekends for the aviation sector.
Airlines are benefiting from the strong domestic market. Fuel prices for airlines have also been lower compared to last year, helping to offset costs. International carriers face challenges with higher fares, but the demand for Europe and Canada remains strong. Vancouver, a key port city for Alaska cruises, tops the list of international destinations this Labour Day.

Q2 2025 Tourism Data Offers Deeper Clues

The Labour Day rush builds on broader travel patterns seen in the second quarter of 2025. U.S. hotels ended June with an average occupancy of 68.5 percent, down slightly from last year. Revenue per available room also slipped, even as average daily rates rose modestly. This shows that while travel is strong, it varies by market. Cities like New York are thriving, while Las Vegas faces challenges.
Airlines carried more than 85 million passengers in May, with strong domestic demand and steady international growth. June fuel consumption by airlines rose three percent compared to May, reflecting increased capacity. The inbound international market remains uneven. While the U.S. is projected to welcome more than 77 million international visitors in 2025, some months show declines. Overseas visitation in June 2025 was down 3.4 percent compared to 2024.
Florida’s record 34.4 million visitors in Q2, however, shows that key states are setting benchmarks. Denver and Colorado’s performance highlights steady recovery, especially in mountain towns and city hubs. These Q2 figures provide important background for understanding why certain cities lead during Labour Day.

What the Trends Mean for the Travel Industry

The Labour Day 2025 holiday is more than just a long weekend. It reveals deep insights into the travel industry. Domestic demand remains the backbone of U.S. tourism. Families are more willing to book when costs are stable or falling. Cruises continue to be a powerful force, particularly in Seattle, Vancouver, and Anchorage. Road trips are thriving thanks to low gas prices.
Airlines, hotels, and car rental firms all benefit, but in different ways. Airlines enjoy record passenger numbers. Hotels win from lower rates that boost occupancy. Car rental companies prepare for peak days, especially in cities like Orlando and Denver. The wider travel industry also sees the resilience of the American traveller. Despite uneven international flows, the domestic market ensures stability.

A Strong End to the Summer

Labour Day 2025 has arrived with strength and optimism. Seattle, Orlando, and New York lead the way, while Boston, Chicago, Atlanta, Denver, Las Vegas, and Anchorage add to the mix. Families are taking advantage of lower costs, steady fuel prices, and accessible options. Cruises are closing their season on a high, while theme parks and Broadway are thriving.
The second quarter of 2025 provided the foundation, and this holiday confirms the momentum. The travel industry can take confidence that Americans remain committed to making memories. As summer fades and autumn routines return, this final holiday shows that travel continues to play a central role in U.S. life.

Americans Seize Final Summer Escapes

Labor Day weekend is here, and millions of Americans are preparing for one last summer adventure. Whether it’s an Alaska cruise, a Central Florida theme park, or a Broadway show, travellers are packing bags for short breaks. AAA booking data reveals the three most popular cities are Seattle, Orlando, and New York. These cities dominate because they connect travellers to cruises, theme parks, and world-class entertainment. The trend is clear. People want to make the most of their final holiday before autumn routines begin. Costs are also easing this year, making it more affordable for many families.

AAA Highlights Top Destinations

Seattle tops the domestic list. It is the main hub for Alaska cruises, which are ending a strong season. Orlando is a magnet for theme park lovers, while New York attracts visitors with Broadway and iconic sights. Beyond the top three, AAA shows Boston, Anchorage, Chicago, Atlanta, Denver, Miami, and Las Vegas rounding out the top ten. On the international side, Vancouver holds the top spot, also serving as a major port for Alaska cruises. European favourites like Rome, Dublin, London, Paris, and Amsterdam also draw strong numbers.

Air Travel Becomes More Affordable

Flights are cheaper this year. Domestic roundtrip airfare is averaging $720, down six percent compared to last year. Families heading to Orlando, New York, Denver, or Atlanta benefit the most. AAA data confirms many travellers are prioritising short-haul trips with affordable airfares. While the average may still feel high for some, the year-on-year drop gives budget relief. For those eyeing Europe, the news is mixed. International flights are up eight percent, even as hotels show slight price declines.

Hotels Offer Lower Rates This Year

Travellers are saving more on overnight stays. Hotel rates across the US are down eleven percent compared to last year. This drop is significant for families booking last-minute stays in big cities. In places like Boston, Las Vegas, and Miami, lower rates are encouraging longer visits. Internationally, hotels are also slightly cheaper, down two percent on average. For those choosing Vancouver or Rome, this softening in accommodation costs offsets rising airfare.

Car Rentals Ease but Remain Busy

Car rentals are another area of relief. Prices are three percent cheaper compared to last year. Hertz, AAA’s partner, expects the busiest pick-up day to be Friday, August 29. The most popular rental cities are Orlando, Denver, Boston, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. Families driving to beaches, national parks, and nearby towns are a strong part of the market. This highlights how many Americans are choosing road trips to close out their summer season.

Gas Prices Remain Steady and Affordable

Summer petrol costs have been stable. The national average for a gallon of regular fuel is expected to stay below last year’s $3.33. This stability is due to steady crude oil prices and limited disruptions. Unless a tropical storm or hurricane affects Gulf Coast refineries, prices should remain calm. Drivers hitting the highways for beach weekends or mountain escapes will not face unexpected fuel shocks. This adds to the affordability of domestic travel in 2025.

Cruises Close Out a Strong Season

Alaska cruises are ending the year on a high. AAA forecasted a strong season, and the results confirm it. Both Seattle and Vancouver anchor this trend as the top ports. Travellers looking for dream voyages have boosted demand throughout summer. As September nears, many cruise lines are preparing to shift back to Caribbean and European itineraries. The popularity of these sailings underscores the growing appeal of cruise holidays across multiple age groups.

Road Trips Offer Simple Escapes

Not every family is flying this weekend. Many Americans are sticking close to home. AAA notes that national parks and nearby beaches are seeing higher bookings. Road trips remain a trusted option for those who want quick getaways. Lower hotel rates and steady gas prices make driving holidays attractive. This reflects a wider trend. While luxury cruises and European vacations capture headlines, simple road trips continue to define the core of US travel habits.

International Travel Shows Mixed Trends

For international travellers, the story is not uniform. Hotels abroad are cheaper, but flights are rising. Vancouver holds the top spot, showing the continued pull of cruises. European cities such as Rome, London, and Paris are still magnets for American tourists. Dublin, Amsterdam, and Barcelona also remain firm favourites. Despite higher airfare, the mix of cultural experiences, heritage attractions, and late-summer festivals makes Europe irresistible for many. This shows a divide between price concerns and the power of destination appeal.

The Broader Travel Industry Impact

This weekend is more than just leisure. It reflects wider industry trends. Airlines benefit from strong domestic demand even as international tickets rise. Hotels see occupancy lifted by lower rates, which encourage more bookings. Car rental firms prepare for peak demand. Gas prices, meanwhile, remain a steady driver for road trips. Together, these elements confirm travel is resilient, even as costs shift. The balance between affordability and demand defines the 2025 Labor Day holiday.

Conclusion: Travel Demand Holds Strong

Labor Day 2025 demonstrates that Americans are still eager to travel. Lower domestic costs are boosting confidence, while international trips continue despite rising airfare. Cruises, road trips, and city breaks highlight diverse preferences. Seattle, Orlando, and New York stand tall as the top cities, while Vancouver proves the strength of the international market. This final summer weekend shows travel demand is resilient, flexible, and deeply tied to tradition. Families, couples, and solo travellers are all finding ways to celebrate one last summer escape.

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Tags: AAA booking data, Alaska Cruises, Labor Day Travel 2025, US tourism trends, US Travel News

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