Americans are ready to hit the road for Labor Day weekend, with a survey from the American Automobile Association (AAA) revealing Seattle, Orlando, Boston, Denver and New York as the top domestic destinations. Rome, Vancouver, London, Dublin and Paris top the international list. This is also the time of year when savvy travelers begin planning vacations for next spring and summer, according to AAA.
Labor Day weekend travelers staying in the U.S. are paying 2 percent more for round-trip flights than last year, averaging $750 per ticket. The price is even higher for travelers heading to the top domestic destinations. AAA booking data shows flights to those destinations are 20 percent more expensive than last year, averaging nearly $800 per ticket. International flights are 4 percent cheaper this Labor Day weekend, averaging $1,240 per ticket.
AAA said Labor Day weekend travelers are looking to make the most of the unofficial end of summer. Mild temperatures and longer days mean many travelers opt to explore the outdoors. AAA bookings show Seattle, Anchorage and Vancouver are among the top destinations, with a common thread: Alaska cruises.
AAA travel agents say U.S. national parks are also popular this time of year, with many travelers renting cars in Denver and Las Vegas and driving to Rocky Mountain National Park, Arches National Park, Zion National Park and Grand Canyon National Park.
Friday, Sept. 4, will be the busiest pickup day, according to the survey. In addition to Denver and Las Vegas, Hertz says Orlando, Los Angeles and Boston also have high demand for rental cars during Labor Day weekend.
“Travelers are seeking memorable experiences, and these top Labor Day destinations reflect that desire,” said Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel. “AAA members are embarking on Alaska cruises and river cruises, touring national parks and sightseeing in Europe. Many of our members are also looking ahead to 2027 and booking cruises and tours now before they sell out.”
For travelers taking road trips, gas prices are higher this Labor Day weekend than they were last year. The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline was $3.19 on Labor Day in 2025, when crude oil prices were lower.
