Published on November 24, 2025
This Thanksgiving, Miami is joining major cities like Houston, Dallas, Seattle, Nashville, and Denver in a historic travel surge that will see millions of passengers soaring to new heights. Airports across the U.S. are bracing for an unprecedented number of travelers as the holiday season takes off. With millions flocking to airports, this surge is expected to be the busiest in history, especially as families reunite and holiday plans unfold. The increased number of flights and packed terminals highlight how essential air travel has become for Thanksgiving gatherings. Cities like Miami, Houston, and Dallas are at the forefront of this busy travel period, making it crucial for travelers to prepare. As flights fill up and skies get crowded, travelers must get ready for the sky-high rush and plan their journeys accordingly. Expect longer lines, busy terminals, and a thrilling, yet challenging, travel experience.
According to Airlines for America (A4A), more than 31 million passengers are expected to fly between November 21 and December 1, 2025, marking the busiest Thanksgiving travel period on record. With such a massive increase in air travel, airports across the country are preparing for heavy crowds, long lines, and potential delays. These six cities — Miami, Houston, Dallas, Seattle, Nashville, and Denver — are expected to be at the heart of this travel surge.
The number of people flying is expected to grow by 4% compared to last year, and with key airports in these cities seeing a huge influx of passengers, the challenges are clear. As we look at each of these cities, we’ll break down what you can expect during this hectic holiday season.
Miami is set to be one of the busiest cities this Thanksgiving, with Miami International Airport (MIA) expected to see nearly 1.96 million passengers between November 21 and December 2, 2025. This marks a 4% increase compared to last year’s travel numbers. Miami is not only a popular destination for families visiting relatives but also a prime location for travellers looking to enjoy the sunny weather during the winter months.
The busiest days at Miami International Airport will be November 21–22, when many travelers will be departing for the holiday, and November 29–December 1, when people return home after spending time with family. Miami is also a major international hub, with many flights coming in from destinations in Latin America and the Caribbean. This makes the airport even busier as it serves both domestic and international travellers.
With the surge in travel, Miami International Airport is taking steps to accommodate the massive crowds. However, long lines at check-in counters, security checkpoints, and crowded terminals are to be expected. To avoid missing flights, passengers are advised to arrive early — at least three hours prior to international flights and two hours for domestic flights. It’s also a good idea to check parking availability in advance, as the airport anticipates high demand for parking spots.
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In Houston, two major airports — George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) — will see around 2.1 million passengers during the Thanksgiving period. This includes the days between November 20 and December 1, 2025, with an expected peak around the weekend of November 29–December 1. This surge will be a significant challenge for both airports, which are already some of the busiest in the United States.
Houston officials are warning travelers about heavy parking demand, long check-in lines, and the potential for weather-related disruptions. Severe weather, such as storms in Texas, could affect flight schedules and lead to delays or cancellations. Travelers should keep this in mind when planning their trips and make sure to stay updated on the weather forecast in the days leading up to their flight.
To manage the expected crowd, both IAH and HOU have ramped up staffing and improved customer service operations, but the increased number of passengers means that passengers will still need to plan for extra time at the airport. The busiest days at Houston airports are expected to be November 21 and the last weekend of November, with the heaviest traffic anticipated on November 30.
Dallas is expected to face one of the largest surges in travel this Thanksgiving. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), the primary airport in the city, along with Dallas Love Field, is projected to handle more than 3 million passengers between November 20 and December 2. This number represents a sharp increase from last year, with November 30 forecast to be the busiest day of the holiday period.
DFW is one of the busiest airports in the world, and the expected surge in travelers means that long queues at security checks and crowded terminals will be common. With flights filling up quickly, passengers are encouraged to book early and plan for potential delays. To manage the surge, DFW has made improvements to its security systems and introduced new technology to help speed up the check-in process. However, with millions of people passing through the airport, it is wise for passengers to arrive at least two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours for international flights.
While Dallas is a major travel hub, it is also an important gateway for connecting flights, meaning that even if you’re not starting or ending your journey in Dallas, you might find yourself passing through one of the busiest airports in the country during this time.
Seattle is another key city that will see unusually high travel volumes this Thanksgiving. Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) is gearing up for a record-breaking travel period, joining Dallas, Miami, and Denver in the group of airports with the highest passenger numbers this season. While precise passenger numbers for Thanksgiving 2025 are not yet available, Sea-Tac has been preparing for this massive surge in several ways, including expanding check-in areas and increasing staffing to handle the crowds.
Peak days for Sea-Tac will likely be November 21–22 for outbound travel and November 29–December 1 for return flights. This means that travelers flying to or from Seattle should expect long lines at check-in counters, security, and baggage claim. Sea-Tac has also been working to improve its facilities, including making adjustments to its security checkpoints to help manage the higher volume of passengers.
Travelers should plan accordingly by arriving early, staying updated on flight statuses, and considering alternative transportation options, as airport parking and public transit systems will also be under stress.
While Nashville may not traditionally be known for handling massive numbers of holiday travelers, this year, it is joining the ranks of major airports expecting a significant increase in passengers. Nashville International Airport (BNA) has been identified as one of the key hubs for the Thanksgiving travel surge, despite not being as large as cities like Dallas or Miami.
This year, Nashville is experiencing an influx of travelers due to its growing popularity as both a tourist destination and a place for family reunions. With a rise in flights, especially from domestic locations, BNA is seeing an increase in passengers flying in and out of the city during the Thanksgiving period. While the numbers may not be as high as those in Dallas or Miami, travelers should still anticipate busier-than-usual conditions at the airport. As a result, arriving early for your flight and preparing for longer wait times at security and check-in is recommended.
Denver is another city that will experience a significant surge in passengers this Thanksgiving. Denver International Airport (DEN) is set to see more than 845,000 passengers during the November 21–December 1 period, a 10% increase compared to last year. Peak days at DEN are expected to be November 29 and 30, with more than 96,000 passengers passing through TSA checkpoints on November 30 alone.
As a major inter-regional hub, Denver is critical for flights connecting the East Coast, West Coast, and Midwest. With flights filling up quickly and high demand for airport services, passengers should prepare for crowded terminals, longer wait times, and potential delays. The airport has been preparing by increasing staff levels and expanding screening processes, but the high volume of passengers means that travelers will need to plan extra time for check-in, security, and baggage claim.
With so many passengers flying this holiday season, planning ahead is essential. Here are some tips for navigating the Thanksgiving travel rush:
This Thanksgiving, the surge in air travel is unprecedented. With millions of passengers expected to fly through major U.S. cities like Miami, Houston, Dallas, Seattle, Nashville, and Denver, it’s important for travellers to be prepared. While airports are doing everything they can to accommodate the rush, passengers will need to plan ahead, stay patient, and expect longer waits at check-ins, security checks, and terminals. By following the right advice and staying informed, you can ensure your Thanksgiving travel experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Safe travels!
Miami, often referred to as the “Magic City,” is a vibrant destination known for its stunning beaches, rich culture, diverse nightlife, and Latin-American influence. Whether you’re a beach lover, art enthusiast, or food aficionado, Miami offers something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive travel guide to help you explore the best that this iconic city has to offer.
South Beach is the heart of Miami’s tourism scene, famous for its glamorous atmosphere, white-sand beaches, and art deco architecture. It’s the perfect place to spend a day soaking up the sun, people-watching, and taking in the beautiful ocean views.
Insider Tip: Visit South Beach early in the morning to avoid the crowds and catch a breathtaking sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean.
Miami is home to a large Cuban-American community, and Little Havana is the epicenter of this cultural influence. The neighborhood is buzzing with lively music, delicious food, and colorful street art. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in Miami’s Latin culture.
Insider Tip: Stop by Azucar Ice Cream Company for a scoop of Cuban-inspired ice cream, like the popular tres leches flavor.
For art lovers, Wynwood Walls is a must-visit. This outdoor museum of street art is a vibrant, ever-changing space that showcases murals from some of the world’s best graffiti artists. The area also features galleries, trendy cafes, and shops, making it a perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring.
Insider Tip: Take a walking tour of Wynwood to learn more about the artists and the evolution of the neighborhood.
If you’re looking for a blend of history, culture, and nature, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is the perfect stop. This historic mansion, once the winter home of industrialist James Deering, is set in 10 acres of beautifully manicured gardens, offering a tranquil retreat from the city’s bustle.
Insider Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid the midday crowds.
Coconut Grove is one of Miami’s oldest neighborhoods, offering a relaxed, bohemian vibe with plenty of green spaces, outdoor cafes, and waterfront views. It’s the perfect place to enjoy Miami’s laid-back lifestyle while still being close to downtown.
Insider Tip: Stop by Greenstreet Cafe, a Coconut Grove staple, for a delicious brunch in a cozy outdoor setting.
For families visiting Miami, the Miami Seaquarium is a fun, educational experience for all ages. Home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees, this aquarium offers exciting exhibits and live shows.
Insider Tip: Plan to arrive early to catch all the animal shows and avoid the afternoon crowds.
Biscayne National Park is a stunningly beautiful marine park that covers over 170,000 acres of protected waters, coral reefs, and islands. It’s the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts to explore Miami’s natural beauty, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Insider Tip: The best time to visit Biscayne National Park is early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the calm waters and avoid the midday heat.
Just a short drive from downtown Miami, Key Biscayne is an idyllic island paradise offering beautiful beaches, nature reserves, and outdoor activities. This area is perfect for those looking for a more relaxed, quiet experience while still being close to the city.
Insider Tip: Rent bikes or scooters to explore Key Biscayne’s scenic trails and beaches at your own pace.
If you love luxury shopping and contemporary art, the Miami Design District is the place to be. Known for its high-end boutiques, art galleries, and cutting-edge architecture, the Design District is a cultural and retail hub.
Insider Tip: Stop by Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink for a delicious meal in one of the district’s trendiest restaurants.
Miami is world-famous for its nightlife, offering everything from glamorous rooftop bars to vibrant nightclubs. Whether you prefer a relaxed evening sipping cocktails or dancing until dawn, Miami has it all.
Insider Tip: Dress to impress, as many of Miami’s nightclubs have a strict dress code.
Miami is a city full of excitement, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, exploring vibrant neighborhoods like Little Havana, or admiring contemporary art in the Design District, Miami offers an unforgettable travel experience. From its famous nightlife to its hidden gems, there’s always something new to discover in this dynamic city. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure in the Magic City!
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Tags: Denver, florida, seattle, Texas, United States
Monday, November 24, 2025
Monday, November 24, 2025
Monday, November 24, 2025
Monday, November 24, 2025
Monday, November 24, 2025
Monday, November 24, 2025