Denver among top Labor Day destinations
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People traveling through Denver International Airport. Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images
Labor Day travelers are in for near-record crowds at airports and on the road — plus higher prices — as they squeeze in one last summer getaway.
Why it matters: Denver's in the thick of it as the fourth most popular domestic destination this holiday weekend, according to AAA booking data.
✈️ Flying: More than 368,000 travelers are expected to pass through Denver International Airport security checkpoints Thursday through Monday, roughly matching last year.
- Friday and Monday will be busiest, according to DIA, with more than 87,000 passengers expected each day.
- The airport recommends arriving at least two hours before boarding.
🚗 Driving: Stay off the roads Thursday afternoon and much of Friday to avoid the worst traffic, according to forecasts from AAA and INRIX.
- Sunday should be calmer.
State of play: Gas prices are running roughly $1 more per gallon nationally than last Labor Day, while airfare to top destinations including Denver is averaging nearly $800 round trip — up about 20%, per AAA.
⛈️ Watch the weather: Travelers heading toward southwest Colorado should keep an eye on the forecast.
- Meteorologists are warning of elevated flash flood and mudslide risks over the weekend.
The bottom line: Leave early — whichever way you're getting out of town.