As summer winds down, many Americans are planning one last getaway before fall routines return. Whether it’s an Alaska cruise, a Broadway show, or a theme park visit, Labor Day weekend remains one of the busiest travel periods of the year. According to AAA booking data, Orlando ranks as one of the top three domestic destinations, alongside Seattle and New York.
The good news for Florida-bound travelers is that overall travel costs are trending lower than last year. Domestic round-trip flights are averaging $720, a 6% decrease compared to 2024. Hotel rates have dropped by 11%, and car rental prices are down 3%. Orlando, in particular, continues to draw visitors with its world-class theme parks, attractions, and family-friendly resorts.
“Labor Day caps off summer travel and provides one final holiday weekend before the fall routine begins,” Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel said in a press release. “The top cities on the domestic and international lists are Seattle and Vancouver, both port cities for Alaska cruises. While some people are going on dream cruises or European vacations, many travelers are staying closer to home and taking road trips to nearby beaches or national parks.”
Orlando a Top Pick for Travelers
In Central Florida, Orlando remains a magnet for both out-of-state visitors and Florida residents. Families are expected to head to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando for late-summer vacations. In addition, AAA car rental partner Hertz projects Orlando as the number one U.S. destination for rental car demand this Labor Day weekend, with Friday, August 29 anticipated as the busiest pickup day.
Travelers can also take advantage of lower gas prices. National averages are expected to remain below 2024 levels, barring any tropical storms or hurricanes disrupting Gulf Coast refineries. Last year, the Labor Day national average for regular gasoline was $3.33 per gallon. So far in 2025, steady crude oil prices have helped keep fuel costs stable.
Florida Road Trips and Congestion
For Floridians and regional visitors, road trips remain a popular option. Tampa-to-Orlando along I-4 is projected to see heavy traffic Friday afternoon, August 29, with travel times increasing by as much as 78% compared to normal conditions, according to INRIX, a transportation data provider. Drivers are encouraged to hit the road earlier in the day to avoid peak congestion.
INRIX reports that the best times to drive over Labor Day weekend are before lunchtime, while afternoons and early evenings tend to experience the heaviest traffic. Saturday, August 30, is expected to be particularly busy for those taking day trips or heading out of town.
International Travel Still Popular, But Costs Rise
While Central Florida will see strong domestic traffic, international travel is also on the rise. AAA reports that airfare for overseas trips is 8% higher than last year, while international hotel rates are slightly cheaper at 2% less. European cities dominate the top international destinations, but Vancouver holds the number one spot thanks to its popularity as a departure port for Alaska cruises.
Florida Labor Day Travel Outlook
With lower domestic airfare, reduced hotel rates, and stable gas prices, Central Florida is set to welcome a wave of travelers this Labor Day weekend. Orlando’s continued popularity highlights its role as one of the nation’s leading holiday destinations.
For residents and visitors alike, the key to a smoother trip will be planning ahead—whether booking car rentals early, avoiding peak road congestion, or scheduling theme park visits strategically to beat the crowds.