Thanksgiving: The Best & Worst Times To Travel in New York State

Thanksgiving travel in New York State can be hectic, but with some planning, you can avoid the worst of it.

The days and times to steer clear of are Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving, especially in the late afternoon and early evening. Rush-hour traffic mixed with holiday travelers clogs major highways like the Northway and the Thruway.

Also, New York airports see long lines and delays during these peak times. Similarly, Sunday after Thanksgiving is notoriously bad, as everyone heads home. From noon to 8 PM, expect packed highways and crowded airports, making travel slow and frustrating.

For a smoother trip, consider traveling on less popular days. Monday or early Tuesday before Thanksgiving is a great option, especially during off-peak hours like early morning or late evening. If you don’t mind traveling on Thanksgiving Day itself, heading out in the early morning offers quiet roads and minimal crowds. For your return, avoid Sunday if possible. Traveling on Friday or Saturday after Thanksgiving, particularly in the morning, is typically less stressful.

If you’re driving, apps like Google Maps or Waze can help you avoid congestion by offering real-time traffic updates and alternate routes. Flying? Booking the first flight of the day can minimize the chance of delays.

Alternatively, taking Amtrak might be a more relaxing way to get around the state. With a little planning and flexibility, you can sidestep the worst Thanksgiving travel headaches and enjoy the holiday stress-free.