AAA Predicts Record Holiday Travel: Central Oregon, Portland and Coast Top Lists; Road Advice

Published 06/23/25 at 4:35 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Portland, Oregon) - As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, AAA projects a historic travel surge, and it's no surprise the Oregon coast is one of those destinations at the top of the list for regional travelers.

AAA said it expects an estimated 72.2 million Americans - including 875,000 Oregonians - planning to journey 50 miles or more from home during the holiday period.

The forecast marks a significant 1.7 million increase over 2024 and a staggering 7 million jump from 2019, making it the busiest Independence Day travel period on record. Driving and flying are poised to lead the charge, with 61.6 million Americans, including 686,000 Oregonians, expected to hit the road- a record for automobile travel. Air travel is also expected to reach new heights, with 5.84 million flyers nationwide and 124,000 Oregonians taking to the skies.

Fueling the surge in road trips is relative price relief at the pump. While Oregon fuel prices remain more or less the same compared to 2024, motorists across much of the U.S. are seeing lower prices than last year - and a significant drop from the record-high prices of 2022.

“Despite concerns about the economy, consumers are making travel a priority,” said Marie Dodds, public affairs director for AAA Oregon/Idaho. “Road trips remain the most popular way to celebrate Independence Day. Traveling by car is often more affordable and offers greater flexibility.”

Destination trends reveal Americans are flocking to theme parks, beaches, and cruise gateway cities. Anaheim ranks as the top U.S. destination for AAA Oregon/Idaho members, with Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. also scoring high due to the seasonal popularity of Alaska cruises. Among international travelers, European cities dominate.

Closer to home, central Oregon and the Oregon coast continue to shine, with both regions contributing two cities each to AAA's list of the top 10 regional travel destinations. Newport and Lincoln City lead the coast-bound choices.

AAA offered some advice to motorists – especially handy to those coming and going to the Oregon coastline.

Complete List of Oregon Coast Fourth of July Celebrations 2025 - Brookings, Gold Beach, Port Orford, Coos Bay, Bandon, Florence, Yachats, Newport, Lincoln City, Rockaway Beach, Manzanita, Cannon Beach, Seaside, Astoria

Travelers should expect heaviest traffic on Wednesday, July 2, and Sunday, July 6, especially during afternoon and evening hours. AAA advises motorists to hit the road early in the day to avoid peak congestion.

Check the new Portland, Oregon Traffic page for highway traffic Portland, Oregon Highway Traffic, Road Conditions - Traffic Cams: I-5 - I-205 - I-405 - Hwy 217 - I-84, or the Oregon Coast Traffic / Road Conditions page to preview your trip.

To support travelers, AAA will offer full roadside services throughout the holiday period. Last year, the organization responded to more than 700,000 assistance calls across the U.S. - 7,000 of those in Oregon alone. Common holiday mishaps include dead batteries, flat tires, and vehicle lockouts.

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