When is the absolute worst time to drive during Thanksgiving week? And which state has the most last-minute shoppers? We dug into Google Maps trends to answer these questions and more. Check out our data-driven guide to making your holidays run as smoothly as Santa’s Workshop — and learn a few fun local facts along the way.
Sleigh traffic 🛷
Whether you need to baste the turkey or drop off your cousin at the airport, timing is everything during Thanksgiving week. Here are the best and worst times to be on the road:
Avoid getting stuck in the (cranberry) jam: On the Wednesday before turkey day, expect traffic to be 14% more stuffed than usual between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Roads are most congested from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., so avoid those hours if you can.
Shop without wasting your thyme: If you need a last-minute herb or a few more dinner rolls on Thanksgiving Day, head to the grocery store early! The roads (and aisles) will be busiest between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Don’t get left in traffic with your leftovers: When it’s time to head home, avoid driving from 12-3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday when traffic is heaviest.
