New Jersey Joins Texas, California, Florida, New York and Other US States in Expecting More Than Millions of Americans Can Travel to International Destinations This Thanksgiving Day

Published on November 24, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

This Thanksgiving, New Jersey joins states like Texas, California, Florida, and New York in expecting millions of Americans to travel to international destinations. With Thanksgiving Day fast approaching, more than ever, people are planning to escape to exotic locations, marking a massive surge in holiday travel. The forecast shows that many US residents, especially those in states like New Jersey, Texas, California, Florida, and New York, are opting for international destinations for their Thanksgiving getaway. Travel And Tour World urges you to read on and discover where the millions of travellers from New Jersey, Texas, California, Florida, and New York are heading this Thanksgiving season.

Over 2 Million New Jerseyans to Travel for Thanksgiving Day

Over 2 million New Jersey residents are set to travel for Thanksgiving 2025, with a projected 1.8 million of them travelling by car. This marks a 1.6% increase from the previous year’s record. Nationally, 81.8 million people are expected to travel at least 50 miles away from home during this busy holiday period. With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, many New Jerseyans are thinking about their dream vacation destinations. Surprisingly, staying local is a top choice for many residents. Despite the allure of sunny Florida or tropical Hawaii, New Jersey’s local gems like Cape May, theme parks, and excellent dining experiences are proving to be the go-to spots. In fact, a recent survey showed that 25% of frequent flyers in New Jersey prefer to stay local for their dream vacation. As we head into the holiday season, New Jersey residents are embracing the idea of enjoying what their home state has to offer, instead of venturing far and wide.

New Jersey Travel Surge Over Thanksgiving Holiday

As Thanksgiving 2025 approaches, New Jersey is gearing up for a surge in travel. AAA’s latest report forecasts that over 2 million residents of New Jersey will be heading out for the holiday between Tuesday, November 25th, and Monday, December 1st. This represents a 1.6% increase over last year’s record-breaking numbers. The majority of travellers—approximately 1.8 million—will choose to travel by car, avoiding the hassle of crowded airports and the high cost of flying. This trend highlights New Jerseyans’ preference for convenience and accessibility when it comes to holiday travel. With such a large number of people on the move, it’s clear that Thanksgiving remains one of the busiest travel periods of the year, not just nationally, but especially for residents of New Jersey.

In addition to the travel predictions, the state’s residents are already thinking about what comes next after the holiday. As the stress of travel subsides, New Jerseyans are dreaming of their next vacation destination. For many, the desire to stay close to home is stronger than ever. The local travel market is thriving, and the state is becoming a destination in its own right. The allure of exotic getaways may be tempting, but there’s something about staying in New Jersey that resonates deeply with its residents. This shift towards staying local is an exciting trend for the state’s tourism industry.

Texas and Florida – The Powerhouses of Thanksgiving Travel

Texas and Florida will experience some of the highest travel volumes in the U.S. during Thanksgiving 2025. AAA Texas has reported that 5.8 million Texans are expected to travel during the holiday, a 1.1% increase from last year. The majority of these travellers—around 5.3 million—will be hitting the roads. Highways such as I-35 and I-45 will be clogged, making long drives even longer. As the second-largest state in the U.S., Texas sees massive traffic on both state and interstate roads during the Thanksgiving period. If you’re planning to drive in Texas, be ready for heavy congestion and delays.

In Florida, the travel surge is no less intense. Miami International Airport (MIA) is expecting nearly 1.96 million travellers this Thanksgiving, marking a 4% increase from the previous year. Florida, known for its beaches, theme parks, and world-class resorts, remains one of the most popular destinations for Thanksgiving travellers. AAA has named Florida the top destination for domestic travel in 2025, and the numbers don’t lie. If you plan on flying into Miami, Orlando, or Tampa, expect crowded airports, long waits at baggage claim, and potentially delayed flights. Even local highways and roads will be packed with tourists flocking to the state’s many attractions. Whether you’re heading to Disney World or a quiet beach on the Gulf Coast, be prepared for major congestion in all major Florida cities.

California and New York – Iconic Thanksgiving Hotspots

While Texas and Florida dominate the travel forecast, California and New York are also seeing significant Thanksgiving travel volumes. In California, major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego attract millions of tourists each year, and Thanksgiving 2025 will be no different. AAA estimates that around 4.5 million Californians will travel during the Thanksgiving period. Whether it’s visiting Hollywood, enjoying the California coastline, or exploring the Napa Valley, California is a go-to destination for many. However, the surge in travel means heavy traffic on the freeways, crowded airports, and full hotels. You’ll have to plan your trip carefully, as rental cars will be in short supply, and accommodation prices will spike in popular areas.

New York is another top state for Thanksgiving tourism. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade draws millions of visitors to New York City, making it one of the most exciting and iconic events of the holiday. But with this large influx of people comes the inevitable congestion. Expect high foot traffic in Times Square, long waits for taxis, and crowded subways. If you plan to travel into the city, consider alternatives to traditional transport, such as private cars or staying within walking distance of major attractions. With Port Authority New York and New Jersey managing the city’s busiest transport hubs, travellers should prepare for long lines and crowded terminals. However, New York’s allure is undeniable, making it a top destination for those looking to experience the magic of Thanksgiving in the Big Apple.

California – Sunshine, Beaches, and Theme Parks!

California is a classic Thanksgiving destination, drawing millions of tourists every year, and Thanksgiving 2025 will be no different. California remains a top choice for those looking for fun-filled, sunny holidays. Whether it’s soaking up the rays on the beaches of Santa Monica or San Diego, or getting lost in the magic of Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood, California has something for everyone. AAA predicts a massive influx of visitors to the state, as more people flock to popular destinations like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Lake Tahoe.

However, with this increase in tourism comes higher competition for accommodations, flights, and car rentals. If you’re planning on spending Thanksgiving in California, make sure to plan ahead and secure your bookings early. The state’s mix of beaches, nature, and entertainment is hard to beat, and it will continue to be a favourite for holidaymakers. Prepare for the crowds and have fun as you explore California’s most exciting spots during this popular holiday period.

New York – The Empire State is a Must-Visit Destination this Thanksgiving!

New York continues to reign supreme as one of the most sought-after destinations for Thanksgiving travel in 2025. With its iconic Thanksgiving Day Parade, bustling Times Square, and endless entertainment options, it’s no surprise that the Empire State is expecting record-breaking travel numbers. New York City is a prime destination for domestic and international visitors, and with New Jersey right next door, the state is poised to host millions of visitors over Thanksgiving weekend. Tourists flock to New York not only for its famous attractions but also for its world-class shopping, food, and cultural experiences.

Airports like John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport will be filled with passengers arriving to enjoy the magic of New York during the most festive time of the year. Expect higher-than-usual hotel prices and busy restaurants, especially around key tourist areas. If you’re planning to visit New York for Thanksgiving 2025, prepare for the crowds, but also prepare for a truly unforgettable experience.

Local Travel Gaining Popularity Among New Jerseyans

When asked about their dream vacation, New Jersey residents surprised many by choosing to stay local. A survey conducted by Airport Parking Reservation in 2024 found that 25% of frequent flyers from New Jersey opted to remain within the state for their dream holiday. This choice to stay in New Jersey reflects a growing trend of residents opting for local travel experiences rather than flying out to distant locations. While destinations like Florida and Hawaii top the charts for popular vacation spots, New Jersey offers its residents a wealth of attractions that are hard to beat. From the stunning beaches of Cape May to the thrilling theme parks and world-class restaurants, New Jersey has everything a traveller could want, all within a short drive.

In addition to its beaches and theme parks, New Jersey is also home to many picturesque towns, offering excellent dining, historical sites, and vibrant arts and culture scenes. The convenience of travelling locally allows visitors to avoid the high costs and stress of airports while still enjoying a wide variety of activities. Whether it’s a quiet weekend getaway or a family-friendly vacation, New Jersey provides a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment. This local travel trend is likely to continue as more New Jerseyans discover the joys of staying close to home during the holidays and throughout the year.

Florida and Hawaii – The Top Dream Vacation Spots for New Jerseyans

Despite the popularity of local travel, Florida and Hawaii remain at the top of many New Jerseyans’ dream vacation lists. These two states consistently rank as the most desired destinations for those seeking a sunny holiday. Florida, with its theme parks, beaches, and year-round warm weather, is a natural choice for families and sun-seekers alike. Hawaii, on the other hand, is often seen as a tropical paradise offering beautiful beaches, volcanic landscapes, and a laid-back lifestyle. Both destinations offer distinct experiences, making them the perfect getaways for New Jersey residents who want to escape the cold and enjoy a more exotic vacation.

However, it’s important to note that travelling to Florida or Hawaii comes with its challenges. Both destinations require long flights, which can be time-consuming and expensive, especially for families. While these destinations are appealing, the hassle and cost of flying often make them less attractive compared to local options. For many, the thought of spending hours at the airport and dealing with the complexities of air travel outweighs the benefits of a faraway tropical vacation. This is one reason why New Jerseyans are increasingly turning to local travel options for their dream vacations, seeking convenience and comfort instead of far-flung destinations.

The Benefits of Staying Local for Your Dream Vacation

Staying local for your dream vacation has several benefits. First and foremost, it saves time and money. There’s no need to worry about expensive flights, long waits at airports, or the stress of navigating through unfamiliar cities. New Jersey offers a wealth of options for those seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment, all within a short drive from home. The state’s beautiful beaches, vibrant towns, and family-friendly attractions make it a perfect destination for a dream vacation that doesn’t require a long flight.

In addition to the convenience and cost savings, staying local also allows you to support the local economy. By choosing to vacation within New Jersey, you’re helping to boost the state’s tourism industry, which is an important driver of economic growth. From hotels and restaurants to local shops and attractions, your vacation dollars will help sustain small businesses and contribute to the overall prosperity of the region. Furthermore, local travel offers the chance to explore new places and experiences you might not have considered before, allowing you to rediscover the beauty and charm of your home state.

Conclusion: New Jersey is the Ideal Dream Vacation Destination

In conclusion, while destinations like Florida, Hawaii, Europe, and Australia are tempting, New Jersey offers its residents a wide array of attractions that make it the ideal place for a dream vacation during Thanksgiving Day Holiday. From the stunning beaches of Cape May to the thrilling theme parks and delicious cuisine, New Jersey has something for everyone. With the growing trend of local travel, more and more New Jerseyans are discovering the joys of staying close to home. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway, an exciting theme park adventure, or a cultural experience, New Jersey has it all. So this holiday season, consider exploring what your own backyard has to offer and enjoy a dream vacation without the hassle of long flights or expensive travel costs.