Maui Unites Las Vegas, Tampa, Honolulu, Anaheim, Miami, Fort Lauderdale and More Set to Welcome More Than Multi Million Tourists this Christmas and New Year, This is Unbelievable Surge in Travel Sector

Published on December 13, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Maui unites Las Vegas, Tampa, Honolulu, Anaheim, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and more, as these iconic destinations set to welcome more than multimillion tourists this Christmas and New Year. This unbelievable surge in travel is reshaping the holiday tourism landscape in ways no one expected. These cities, known for their world-class attractions, vibrant cultures, and luxurious resorts, are drawing record-breaking crowds during the festive season.

From Maui’s tropical beaches to the sparkling lights of Las Vegas, travelers are flocking to these top spots, eager to celebrate the holidays in style. As demand skyrockets, the surge in holiday tourism is not just a trend – it’s a testament to how deeply travel has rebounded and evolved in recent years. Maui, Las Vegas, Tampa, Honolulu, Anaheim, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale are leading the charge, offering something for every traveler this holiday season. Keep reading to find out why!

AAA’s projections reveal that a record 122.4 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home during the year-end holiday period, from December 20 to January 1. This marks a 2.2% increase from last year, surpassing the previous record of 119.7 million travelers. Year-end travel is expected to see a mix of family road trips, tropical vacations, and friend getaways, with warm destinations like Orlando and Cancun topping the charts. AAA’s forecast underscores how important it is for families, couples, and solo adventurers to embrace the holiday season through travel, whether by car, air, or other modes. This year, AAA projects 109.5 million people will hit the road by car, while air travel is set to see a major jump, with domestic flights hitting a new milestone of over 8 million passengers. Whether you’re planning a festive getaway to Orlando or a relaxing holiday in Cancun, the season’s travel is set to be as bustling as ever.

Road Trip Mania – 109.5 Million Americans Hit the Road

In 2024, 109.5 million Americans are expected to drive to their year-end destinations, reflecting a 2% increase from last year. Road trips remain the most popular mode of transportation for holiday travel, with 89% of holiday travelers opting to drive. The convenience and affordability of driving make it a top choice, particularly with lower gas prices compared to last holiday season. This year, for the first time in four years, gas prices have dropped below $3 per gallon, which is great news for travelers looking to save on fuel costs. With such a high volume of drivers on the roads, AAA urges travelers to make safety a top priority, especially as December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. As the roads get busier, AAA also reminds drivers of the importance of roadside assistance, with over 860,000 emergency calls responded to last year alon

Air Travel Surges – 8.03 Million People to Fly Domestically

Air travel is set for a record-breaking year, with 8.03 million Americans expected to board domestic flights this holiday season. This marks a 2.3% increase compared to last year, making it the first time ever that domestic air travel over the year-end holiday period will exceed 8 million passengers. While the uptick in air travel signals a robust demand for flights, it also comes with higher costs. A round-trip domestic flight will average nearly $900 this year, a 7% increase from last year. AAA’s data shows that the most expensive flights will occur just before Christmas, with prices typically dropping on Christmas Day itself. For those planning to return home or extend their holiday into the New Year, flying on January 1 or 4 is likely to cost less. Regardless of cost, travelers should expect busy airports as holiday air traffic reaches new heigh

Travel by Other Modes on the Rise – 9% Increase in Bus, Train, and Cruise Travel

Travel by other modes is also on the rise, with a 9% increase expected this year, bringing the total to 4.9 million travelers. This increase is driven largely by the resurgence of cruise vacations, with many choosing to celebrate the year-end holidays aboard ships to warm, tropical destinations. Since 2019, demand for cruises has increased by 25%, marking a significant shift in how people are spending their holidays. Additionally, bus and train travel remains a staple for those looking for affordable and scenic ways to reach their destinations. Whether by bus, train, or cruise, these alternative modes of transportation provide flexibility and often more scenic routes, offering a relaxing way to ring in the New Year.

The holiday season is almost here, and with it, a mind-blowing surge in tourism to some of the most iconic destinations in the U.S. From the sunny beaches of Maui to the bustling streets of Las Vegas, this year’s Christmas and New Year holidays are expected to attract more than 8 million tourists to cities like Miami, Anaheim, Fort Lauderdale, and Honolulu. As travellers flock to these top spots for a festive escape, tourism experts and government bodies are forecasting record-breaking numbers, marking a significant milestone for the travel and tourism industry. These cities are not only known for their glamorous attractions and rich culture but are set to dominate the tourism landscape over the holidays.

Maui’s Remarkable Recovery & Record-Breaking Tourism Numbers

Despite facing adversity due to last year’s devastating wildfires, Maui has made an astounding recovery, and it’s gearing up for its busiest holiday season ever. According to Hawaii Tourism Authority, Maui welcomed over 1.89 million visitors from January to September 2025, an 8.6% increase over the previous year. This marks an impressive rebound, as Maui continues to attract tourists from around the globe. Visitors seeking a tropical escape during the holidays can expect a robust demand for accommodation and attractions, including the famous beaches of Wailea and Lahaina, which will likely see record-breaking crowds. If you’re planning a trip to Maui this holiday season, prepare for a destination brimming with festive spirit and unparalleled natural beauty.

The official statistics from Hawaii Tourism Authority also highlight an upward trend in tourism expenditure, indicating that Maui is not only attracting more visitors, but they’re also spending significantly more. Whether you’re visiting to soak up the sun on its world-famous beaches, explore its volcanic landscapes, or enjoy a cultural experience, Maui is undoubtedly a top contender for your next holiday getaway. Find out more about the tourism surge here (Hawaii Tourism Authority).

Las Vegas – The Unstoppable Entertainment Capital of the World

Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world, is no stranger to being a holiday hotspot. In 2025, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is anticipating an influx of tourists, thanks to its iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations, high-stakes gaming, and star-studded entertainment options. With over 3.1 million visitors already in August 2025 alone, Las Vegas is gearing up for a record-breaking winter tourism season. The famous Las Vegas Strip will be buzzing with visitors, flocking to enjoy world-class performances, upscale dining, and of course, the high-energy atmosphere that makes this city a perennial favourite.

Official LVCVA data reveals that even though visitor numbers have softened slightly in some quarters, Las Vegas remains one of the most-visited destinations globally. The New Year’s Eve celebrations alone draw hundreds of thousands to the Strip, with fireworks, celebrity-hosted events, and spectacular shows at every turn. As a holiday destination, Las Vegas offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit location for tourists looking to end the year in style. Read more on the Las Vegas tourism trends here (LVCVA).

Tampa – Setting Records and Raising the Bar for Florida’s Tourism

This year, Tampa is celebrating its most successful year for tourism yet. According to Visit Tampa Bay, the city has seen unprecedented growth, with tourism generating over $1.2 billion in taxable hotel revenue in 2025 alone. The Tampa Bay area has become a vibrant tourism hub, with visitors flocking to its sunny beaches, museums, and events. As the city enters the holiday season, hotel occupancy rates are skyrocketing, and the demand for car rentals is hitting record levels.

This trend highlights Tampa’s rise as a key holiday destination, attracting domestic and international tourists alike. Whether it’s family-friendly attractions like Busch Gardens or the festive Christmas Town at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this Floridian paradise. This holiday season is expected to be one of the busiest yet, with over 8 million tourists estimated to visit Florida, and Tampa will certainly see a share of that influx. Find more about Tampa’s tourism boom here (Visit Tampa Bay).

Honolulu – The Heart of Hawaii’s Holiday Tourism Boom

The Hawaiian capital of Honolulu continues to shine as a prime holiday destination. O‘ahu, the island that houses Honolulu, welcomed over 4.3 million visitors in 2025, contributing to its reputation as one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Honolulu’s strong tourism demand is largely driven by its iconic beaches, luxury resorts, and historical sites. As the holidays approach, Honolulu is set to host a variety of festive events, from traditional Hawaiian luaus to cultural celebrations that attract global visitors looking for an authentic holiday experience.

According to Hawaii Tourism Authority, Honolulu continues to benefit from the rise in international travel and the strong demand for luxury beach resorts. During the year-end holiday period, expect Honolulu’s hotels and resorts to be fully booked as tourists flock to its sandy shores to celebrate the New Year. Read more about Honolulu’s tourism surge here (Hawaii Tourism Authority).

Anaheim – Disneyland and Theme Park Magic Bring Holiday Cheer

In Anaheim, the magic of Disneyland takes centre stage this holiday season. Anaheim’s tourism has already been forecasted to see an uptick as visitors from across the world head to Southern California for festive celebrations, shopping, and theme park fun. AAA reports that Anaheim is one of the top holiday destinations, attracting families and thrill-seekers looking to visit the Disneyland Resort during the most magical time of the year.

As Disneyland unveils its seasonal decorations, attractions, and parades, Anaheim becomes a key destination for those looking for a magical holiday experience. Whether you’re into thrilling rides, character meet-and-greets, or simply soaking in the holiday cheer, Anaheim is set to be the ultimate family-friendly getaway for the holidays. Disneyland alone is expecting record crowd sizes during the festive season. Read more on Anaheim’s tourism rise here (AAA).

Miami and Fort Lauderdale – Florida’s Dynamic Duo for Holiday Fun

When it comes to holiday travel, Miami and Fort Lauderdale lead the pack in Florida. Miami’s impressive tourism performance, with over 28 million visitors in 2024, sets the stage for another record-breaking holiday season. From the lively streets of South Beach to the glittering waterfront resorts, Miami offers endless attractions. Meanwhile, Fort Lauderdale is seeing a similar boom, with its iconic beaches and upscale shopping districts drawing increasing numbers of tourists each year.

Miami and Fort Lauderdale share the spotlight during the holidays, thanks to the region’s beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and dynamic arts scene. Expect massive crowds at famous landmarks like the Miami Beach Boardwalk, Bayside Marketplace, and the Miami Seaquarium. As Florida continues to dominate the holiday tourism scene, these two cities are set to make a lasting impression. Read more on Miami and Fort Lauderdale’s holiday tourism here (Visit Florida).

The Year-End Surge in U.S. Tourism Is Unstoppable

As the holidays approach, Maui, Las Vegas, Tampa, Honolulu, Anaheim, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale are on track to welcome more than 8 million tourists this year. With their unique offerings, from luxurious resorts to family-friendly attractions, these destinations have successfully cemented themselves as the go-to spots for holiday getaways. Whether you’re drawn to Maui’s tranquil beaches, Las Vegas’s world-class entertainment, or Miami’s vibrant nightlife, the U.S. has something for everyone this holiday season. With tourism trends showing impressive growth, now is the perfect time to plan your trip to one of these top destinations. Don’t miss out on the excitement!

AAA’s Top Destinations for Year-End Travel

When it comes to top holiday destinations, AAA’s data reveals a clear trend towards warm climates. Orlando, Florida, tops the list of domestic destinations, followed closely by Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Anaheim/LA. Hawaii remains a favourite for those looking for a tropical escape, with Honolulu and Maui among the most sought-after locales. For international travel, Cancun, Mexico, takes the top spot, with Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic and Cozumel also emerging as popular choices. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and San Jose, Costa Rica, are also favoured by American travellers seeking warmth and sunshine to celebrate the year’s end. As travel preferences shift toward tropical escapes, these destinations are likely to see record numbers of visitors, all eager to usher in the new year in paradise.

Tips for Avoiding Traffic and Peak Travel Times

According to INRIX, traffic congestion will peak during the week leading up to Christmas. The busiest days on the road are expected to be the weekend before Christmas, as travellers rush to reach their destinations. Friday, December 26, will also see heavy traffic as many begin their post-Christmas journeys. Fortunately, the extended year-end holiday period offers more flexibility for travel dates, meaning fewer travellers will be on the road on the actual holidays themselves, with Christmas Day and New Year’s Day typically seeing the lightest traffic. Despite this, adverse weather conditions and accidents can still cause unexpected delays, so travellers are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and allow extra time for travel.

A Record-Breaking Holiday Season for Travel

The 2024 year-end holiday season is shaping up to be a record-breaking time for travel. With 122.4 million Americans expected to travel during this period, it’s clear that people are eager to make the most of the holiday season, whether through family road trips, tropical vacations, or festive getaways. AAA’s forecast highlights the ongoing popularity of car travel, with over 109 million Americans expected to drive, and air travel continuing its growth, with over 8 million passengers expected to fly domestically. As demand for alternative modes like cruises increases, the travel landscape has become more diverse, offering something for every kind of traveller. Whether driving to Orlando, flying to Cancun, or sailing through the Caribbean, travellers are set to make memories that will last well into 2025. Safe travels and happy holidays