Tennessee Joins Kentucky, Michigan, Georgia, California, Texas, and Others to Experience Year-End Travel Surge in US Tourism, with a Significant Hike in Flight and Hotel Charges: Everything You Need to Know

Published on December 11, 2025

Tennessee joins Kentucky, Michigan, Georgia, California, Texas, and others in experiencing a record year-end travel surge in US tourism, driven by increased travel demand and a significant hike in flight and hotel charges. As millions of Americans plan to hit the road and take to the skies during the holiday season, states across the country are seeing an unprecedented rise in travel activity. This surge comes as travelers, eager to reunite with loved ones and explore popular destinations, face rising costs for flights and accommodations. While road trips remain the dominant mode of travel, air travel and other transportation options are also seeing substantial growth, contributing to the booming tourism numbers. With both rising travel demand and elevated costs, this year-end holiday season is set to be one of the busiest and most expensive in recent history, shaping the future of US tourism in exciting new ways.

Record-Breaking Year-End Holiday Travel Projections

The year-end holiday travel period (December 20 – January 1) is expected to set a new record, with 122.4 million Americans projected to travel, reflecting a 2.2% increase compared to last year. The majority of travelers, 109.5 million, will choose road trips, making up 89% of all travelers. Air travel is forecasted to hit a new high with 8.03 million domestic travelers, while other modes of transportation, including buses, trains, and cruises, will see a notable increase, with 4.9 million travelers.

Tennessee Bound: Road Trips and Scenic Escapes Lead the Way

Tennessee is on track for a vibrant holiday season, with 2.8 million travelers expected. The state will see a 2.2% increase in holiday traffic, with 2.6 million auto travelers taking to the highways. Air travel is also on the rise, with 76,613 passengers flying into and out of Tennessee. Additionally, 129,997 will rely on other transportation options like buses, trains, and cruises. Known for its music scene in Nashville and natural beauty in the Smoky Mountains, Tennessee will be a prime destination for those looking to enjoy the holidays with a mix of city excitement and outdoor adventure.

Kentucky Roads Calling: A Quiet but Steady Rise in Holiday Travel

Kentucky is set to welcome 1.56 million travelers this holiday season, with a modest 1% increase from last year. Nearly 92% of these travelers—1.44 million—will drive through the state’s charming towns and scenic byways. Kentucky has no significant air travel projections this year, but its roads will be full as people head to family gatherings or winter festivities. From the bourbon trail to the rolling hills of horse country, Kentucky offers travelers a serene yet unforgettable holiday experience.

Michigan on the Move: Record Road Trips and Air Travel Surge

Michigan is gearing up for a bustling holiday season, with 3.9 million travelers expected to hit the roads, skies, and rails. The vast majority—3.5 million—will travel by car, reflecting Michigan’s strong road trip culture. Air travel is also rising, with over 219,000 passengers flying out of the state. Additionally, more than 158,000 people will opt for buses, trains, and cruises, ensuring a steady flow of travelers across the state. Michigan’s picturesque roads, from the Great Lakes to scenic rural routes, will be packed as families head out to enjoy the winter season.

Georgia’s Holiday Rush: More Travelers, More Roads to Explore

Georgia is projected to see 3.8 million travelers this holiday season, marking a 2.1% increase from last year. The bulk of this travel will be by car, with 3.4 million road trips planned. Air travel in Georgia is growing steadily, with over 198,000 passengers expected to take flight, while buses, trains, and cruises will transport over 201,000 travelers. Georgia’s popular destinations, like Atlanta’s festive events and Savannah’s holiday charm, are sure to draw travelers from near and far. Whether driving or flying, Georgia will be a major hub for holiday movement.

California Dreamin’: Soaring Holiday Travel Numbers and Sunny Roads

California is expecting a record-breaking holiday season, with millions of travelers heading to the Golden State’s iconic beaches, cities, and national parks. Over 12 million people are projected to travel, with 10.5 million of them choosing to hit the road. Air travel is also on the rise, with over 1.5 million people expected to fly into California’s major airports. Another 500,000 will take trains, buses, or cruises, ensuring that every mode of transport sees a steady flow of visitors. Whether heading to the surf in San Diego or experiencing holiday magic in San Francisco, California’s roads and airports will be packed throughout the season.

Texas Bound: Road Trips and Big Skies Await Holiday Travelers

Texas is gearing up for a busy holiday season, with 10.2 million travelers expected to make their way across the state. Over 8.7 million will travel by car, taking advantage of the vast Texan highways. Air travel is also on the rise, with 1.1 million passengers expected to fly to or from Texas airports. Buses, trains, and cruises will serve an additional 400,000 travelers, adding to the state’s bustling transportation network. From the lively streets of Austin to the historic charm of San Antonio, Texas offers something for every traveler this holiday season. The Lone Star State will be a major stop for those seeking a mix of southern warmth and festive cheer.

Average Holiday Travel Costs

As the holiday season approaches, travelers can expect a range of price changes across various travel categories. Domestic flights are seeing a 7% increase, with the average cost reaching $890. International flights, however, have decreased by 14%, with an average cost of $1,400. Domestic hotel stays are up by 13%, averaging $750, while rental car prices have only slightly increased by 1%, bringing the average to $635.

Tennessee joins Kentucky, Michigan, Georgia, California, Texas, and others in experiencing a record year-end travel surge in US tourism, driven by increased travel demand and a significant hike in flight and hotel charges.

Conclusion

Tennessee joins Kentucky, Michigan, Georgia, California, Texas, and others in experiencing a record year-end travel surge in US tourism, driven by increased travel demand and a significant hike in flight and hotel charges. As millions of Americans embark on their holiday journeys, the surge in travel across these states highlights the growing desire to reconnect with family and friends after years of uncertainty. The rise in travel demand, coupled with higher costs for flights and accommodations, has created a unique travel season where both road trips and air travel are seeing substantial increases. This year’s holiday season is not only marked by an exceptional number of travelers but also by the financial challenges posed by rising travel expenses. As a result, US tourism is experiencing an unprecedented boom, with these travel trends expected to influence future holiday seasons and travel patterns for years to come.