Google Maps 2025 Holiday Trends
Google Maps shares insights on how to make the holiday season smoother with data on traffic, post office visits, and shopping patterns across the United States. The findings reveal the best times to travel, shop, and avoid seasonal slowdowns.
Traffic Tips for Thanksgiving Week
Timing is everything during one of the busiest travel weeks of the year. Data shows that avoiding congested hours can make a major difference in travel time.
- On the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, traffic is about 14% heavier than normal starting at 10 a.m.
- The most congested hours are between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., so travelers are advised to hit the road earlier or later.
- When returning home, expect peak traffic between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Shopping Smarter During the Holidays
Google Maps data also reveals when and where shoppers are most active throughout the holiday season, helping you plan errands and grocery runs efficiently.
- Thanksgiving Day grocery runs are busiest around midday, with smoother visits earlier in the morning.
- Some states finish their gift shopping earlier than others, while others see a surge of last-minute buyers closer to the holidays.
“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.”
Author’s Summary
Google Maps’ 2025 holiday insights help travelers and shoppers plan better, revealing peak hours and smarter times to move, shop, and celebrate with fewer delays.