Phoenix Leads Thanksgiving Travel with Florida, Arizona, Hawaii as Holidaymakers Flock to Popular U.S. Destinations

Published on November 22, 2025

Phoenix is quickly becoming a premier Thanksgiving travel destination as holidaymakers prioritize sunshine, convenient flights, and unforgettable experiences. Alongside Florida, Arizona, and Hawaii, the surge reflects a growing preference for mild weather, scenic outdoor attractions, and family-friendly resorts. Travelers are also embracing regional airports and direct routes, making holiday trips smoother, faster, and more accessible.

Across the United States, popular regions like Florida, Arizona, and Hawaii are set to see a significant influx of visitors this Thanksgiving. Despite occasional disruptions in air traffic, Americans are demonstrating a strong commitment to travel, seeking quality time with family, friends, and memorable leisure experiences. The combination of sunny climates, streamlined travel options, and vibrant destinations signals a robust rebound in holiday travel this year.

Data from Amadeus Travel Intelligence on November 19 highlights a projected 4% year-over-year increase in U.S. air traffic during Thanksgiving week. While disruptions in airport and airline operations have introduced some uncertainty, the overall commitment of travelers suggests a resilient holiday season.

Phoenix and Atlanta Capture Attention with Steady Growth

Arizona’s Phoenix airport is emerging as a hotspot this Thanksgiving, with departures rising 3.4% and arrivals surging 10.5% between November 25 and December 2. This increase reflects the city’s draw as a mild-weather destination offering outdoor attractions, desert landscapes, and a mix of urban and natural experiences. Similarly, Atlanta is showing significant growth, with departures up 5.4% and arrivals increasing 6.3%. The city’s dual role as a major transportation hub and leisure destination makes it a magnet for travelers in the southeastern U.S.

Sun-Drenched Destinations Dominate Hotel Bookings

Sunshine-filled destinations are leading the Thanksgiving hospitality surge, with seven of the top ten fastest-booking U.S. hotel markets located in Arizona, Florida, or Hawaii. Resort areas in Hawaii are particularly in demand, with occupancy levels reaching 69% for the week of November 23-29—more than double the national average. Kahului, Honolulu, and Waikoloa stand out as the top performers, reflecting sustained interest in island getaways.

On the mainland, Sedona, Arizona ranks as the most sought-after destination, while Page, home to Lake Powell and near Glen Canyon Dam, comes in ninth. Florida’s Gulf and Atlantic coasts, including Key West and Key Largo, are also experiencing strong demand. While occupancy is high, rate increases remain moderate, offering travelers value-driven options. Notably, destinations like Kahului and Key West are slightly cheaper than last year, providing opportunities for budget-conscious vacationers.

Smaller Airports Gain Ground Amid Busy Hubs

Regional and mid-sized airports are quietly capturing more attention this holiday season. Data from Amadeus shows a 9% increase in bookings at smaller airports, even as traffic at the largest hubs remains relatively steady. California exemplifies this trend, with airports in Long Beach, Oakland, Burbank, and Sacramento ranking among the fastest-growing. The shift suggests travelers are increasingly prioritizing convenience, avoiding congestion, and favoring direct flights to minimize stress.

College Football Adds Local Travel Spikes

Thanksgiving weekend is also marked by college football, which drives unique travel patterns and regional hotel demand. Cities with major college programs—such as Auburn, AL; Ann Arbor, MI; and Norman, OK—are seeing substantial jumps in average daily hotel rates, with increases of $214, $145, and $129, respectively. The influx of fans for home games transforms otherwise quiet towns into bustling destinations, illustrating the significant economic impact of sporting events during holiday periods.

Travelers Seek Comfort, Convenience, and Sun

Across the U.S., the overarching trend this Thanksgiving points to travelers prioritizing experiences that combine ease of travel, pleasant weather, and family-friendly activities. Resorts, beaches, and sunny destinations are seeing heavy bookings, while smaller regional airports and direct flights are gaining preference. The mix of leisure, tradition, and local events like college football underscores the evolving dynamics of holiday travel, where convenience, value, and destination appeal guide decision-making.

As Americans embark on Thanksgiving journeys, the travel landscape reflects both resilience and adaptation: a willingness to navigate minor disruptions, a preference for warmer climates, and an embrace of destinations that promise both relaxation and memorable experiences. From Hawaiian beaches to Arizona deserts, Florida coasts to college football towns, the 2025 Thanksgiving travel period is shaping up to be both busy and diverse.