Live in Southern California and looking to avoid the crowds on Labor Day? AAA has identified certain travel times over the holiday weekend that are better, and certain travel times that are worse.
Labor Day falls on Monday, Sep. 7 this year, but millions of travelers are expected over the days leading up to the holiday.
“Labor Day weekend travelers are looking to squeeze the most out of the unofficial end of summer ... ” AAA said in an Aug. 24 news release. " ... Many travelers will hit the road after work on Thursday or during the day on Friday. That will bring holiday traffic onto roads that are already carrying normal commuter volumes."
AAA also identified the top holiday destinations for SoCal residents, and peak congestion routes in certain
metro areas this weekend.
What are the best travel times over Labor Day weekend?
The best travel times this Labor Day weekend, according to AAA, are:
- Friday, Sep. 4 before 12 p.m.
- Saturday, Sep 5 before 10 a.m.
- Monday, Sep. 7 before 12 p.m.
Minimal traffic impact is expected on Sunday, Sep. 6.
What are the worst travel times over Labor Day weekend?
The worst travel times this Labor Day weekend, according to AAA, are:
- Friday, Sep. 4 between 12 p.m. and 8 p.m.
- Saturday, Sep. 5 between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.
- Monday, Sep. 7 between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.
AAA said peak congestion in Southern California will be on Interstate Highway 5 South from Los Angeles to San Diego on Friday at 6 p.m., with an expected traffic time of 5 hours and 19 minutes.
What are the top Labor Day destinations for SoCal residents?
AAA told USA TODAY Network in an email that the top Labor Day destinations for SoCal residents are San Diego, Las Vegas, Palm Springs and the Central Coast.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: The best travel times over Labor Day weekend in California. And worst
