Atlanta Joins New York City, Charlotte, Dallas, Philadelphia in Becoming All Time Favourite Places to Drive for Americans, Full Guide Here What to See and Explore

Published on November 26, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Atlanta joins New York City, Charlotte, Dallas, and Philadelphia as one of the most beloved destinations for American drivers. As the trend of road travel continues to rise, these cities have become the all-time favourite places to drive to for millions of Americans. Whether you’re looking for a festive getaway, rich history, or vibrant culture, Atlanta has something to offer, just like New York City, Charlotte, Dallas, and Philadelphia. With a growing tourism economy, Atlanta is rapidly becoming a top destination for both long-distance road trips and short family getaways.

This exciting update reveals that Atlanta, alongside New York City, Charlotte, Dallas, and Philadelphia, continues to drive increasing numbers of visitors each year. If you’ve ever thought about driving to these iconic American cities, now is the perfect time to start planning your trip. With so many attractions, festivals, and activities in these cities, it’s no wonder why they’ve become all-time favourites. So, get ready for an unforgettable experience! Travel And Tour World urges you to dive into the full story to find out why Atlanta, New York City, Charlotte, Dallas, and Philadelphia are leading the charge in American road travel this year.

As Thanksgiving Day 2025 approaches, travel experts predict that people will be driving to some of the most popular metro areas across the US. The top five metro areas people are driving to during Thanksgiving Day travel include Atlanta–Sandy Springs–Alpharetta, New York–Newark–Jersey City, Charlotte–Concord–Gastonia, Dallas–Fort Worth–Arlington, and Philadelphia–Camden–Wilmington. These regions are expected to see millions of travellers, making them some of the busiest destinations for the holiday season.

With heavy traffic, travel disruptions, and increasing demand for accommodation, the travel industry is preparing for an exceptional holiday season. Let’s take a closer look at why these five metro areas are so popular and what makes them the go-to destinations for Thanksgiving 2025.

Atlanta–Sandy Springs–Alpharetta, GA: A Thanksgiving Favourite

Atlanta, Georgia, is a popular destination for Thanksgiving travel, with millions of visitors heading to the city each year. In 2025, Atlanta–Sandy Springs–Alpharetta will once again be one of the top metro areas people are driving to during Thanksgiving Day travel. The city’s rich history, southern hospitality, and bustling cultural scene make it a top spot for families and tourists alike. Atlanta’s travel industry sees a significant increase in traffic and accommodation demand over the holiday season.

From world-class museums like the Georgia Aquarium to delicious southern cuisine, Atlanta offers a little bit of everything for visitors looking to enjoy their Thanksgiving getaway. This year, there will be more events and family-friendly activities, such as the famous Atlanta Thanksgiving Day Parade, which is expected to draw large crowds.

Those driving to Atlanta will also experience the city’s unique charm, with its famous skyline and southern hospitality welcoming visitors from all over the country. As more people continue to travel to this metro area during Thanksgiving, the demand for hotel rooms, restaurants, and attractions will likely see an increase. With plenty of activities and events to enjoy, Atlanta remains one of the top destinations to visit for a memorable Thanksgiving experience.

New York–Newark–Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA: The Big Apple at Thanksgiving

There’s no denying the magnetism of New York–Newark–Jersey City when it comes to Thanksgiving travel. Every year, millions of visitors flood into the city to witness the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, see the incredible holiday lights, and experience the festive atmosphere of the Big Apple. In 2025, New York–Newark–Jersey City will continue to be one of the most sought-after metro areas people are driving to during Thanksgiving Day travel.

Tourists from around the world head to the tri-state area to indulge in shopping, entertainment, and the famous sights that the city offers. From Central Park to the Empire State Building, New York City is the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable holiday experience. The bustling streets, decorated storefronts, and welcoming spirit of the city make it an attractive destination for those looking to embrace the holiday season.

This Thanksgiving, New York will also see thousands of visitors flocking to nearby Jersey City and Newark, adding to the overall attraction of the metro area. As always, the travel industry anticipates a surge in visitors and increased demand for both accommodation and travel services. If you’re planning to drive to New York this Thanksgiving, be prepared for the crowds, traffic, and an unforgettable experience in the heart of the city.

Charlotte–Concord–Gastonia, NC-SC: Southern Charm Meets Thanksgiving Joy

The Charlotte–Concord–Gastonia metro area in North Carolina and South Carolina is rapidly gaining popularity as a top destination for Thanksgiving travel. With its unique mix of southern charm, modern attractions, and a growing tourism sector, this region is set to attract millions of visitors during Thanksgiving 2025. Whether it’s the bustling Charlotte Motor Speedway, the vibrant NASCAR Hall of Fame, or the family-friendly atmosphere in Concord, there’s something for everyone.

Visitors can also enjoy the diverse range of shopping, dining, and outdoor activities available in the region. With its beautiful parks and mild autumn weather, Charlotte offers a relaxing destination for families who want to experience Thanksgiving away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. The travel industry in this region has been growing rapidly, and Thanksgiving 2025 will only accelerate this trend.

As more people look to avoid crowded cities, Charlotte–Concord–Gastonia has become an increasingly attractive option. The metro area’s expanding infrastructure and entertainment offerings make it a top contender for those planning to drive to their holiday destination.

Dallas–Fort Worth–Arlington, TX: A Texas-sized Thanksgiving

The Dallas–Fort Worth–Arlington area in Texas is a massive destination for Thanksgiving travellers. Known for its rich cultural heritage, thriving economy, and world-class attractions, the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex is undoubtedly one of the top metro areas people are driving to during Thanksgiving Day travel.

With major events like the Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Day game, the region will be buzzing with excitement. In addition to its sports attractions, visitors can explore the Sixth Floor Museum, Fort Worth Stockyards, and Dallas’ top-rated restaurants, offering a perfect mix of family-friendly fun and Texan culture. With its sprawling landscapes and endless attractions, the Dallas–Fort Worth–Arlington area remains a top Thanksgiving getaway destination in 2025.

The region’s travel industry is booming, with hotels and restaurants preparing for a significant increase in demand. Those who choose to drive to the area can expect a wide range of experiences, from shopping and dining to exploring the many outdoor activities that Texas has to offer. Thanksgiving 2025 promises to bring even more visitors to this iconic metroplex, making it one of the busiest regions in the country during the holiday season.

Philadelphia–Camden–Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD: The Heart of Thanksgiving Tradition

Philadelphia–Camden–Wilmington is known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and festive atmosphere, making it a prime destination for Thanksgiving travel. As Thanksgiving Day 2025 approaches, this metro area will continue to attract millions of visitors. Philadelphia, the birthplace of American independence, offers iconic attractions like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the famous Philadelphia Museum of Art. The travel industry is bracing for a surge in visitors, with accommodations and events being prepared for the holiday rush.

The area’s proximity to nearby cities such as Camden, Wilmington, and Baltimore makes it an attractive destination for travellers who want to explore more than one region during their Thanksgiving trip. This year, visitors will flock to Philadelphia to experience the Thanksgiving Day Parade, enjoy the local cuisine, and celebrate the spirit of the season.

The city’s welcoming atmosphere, combined with its historical significance, will make it one of the top destinations for holiday travellers. As Thanksgiving travel continues to surge, the Philadelphia–Camden–Wilmington area will be one of the busiest metro areas, and the travel industry will work hard to accommodate the growing number of visitors.

The Top 5 Thanksgiving Day Metro Areas to Visit in 2025

Thanksgiving Day 2025 promises to bring millions of travellers to some of the most exciting metro areas in the US. Atlanta–Sandy Springs–Alpharetta, New York–Newark–Jersey City, Charlotte–Concord–Gastonia, Dallas–Fort Worth–Arlington, and Philadelphia–Camden–Wilmington are all expected to experience significant increases in tourism, making them the top destinations for holiday travel.

Each of these regions offers unique attractions, a welcoming atmosphere, and plenty of activities to enjoy with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or festive events, these five metro areas are the places to be for Thanksgiving 2025.