LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – It was a busy week of travel leading up to July 4 with millions of Americans traveling for the holiday.
From last weekend through Sunday, more than 70 million Americans are expected to travel for the July 4 holiday, including more than 810,000 Kentuckians, by car or plane.
“From last Thursday to Sunday, we saw about 11,000 travelers depart from Lexington, so I think we will definitely see those passengers return this coming weekend,” said Lauren Simmerman, community relations manager for the Bluegrass Airport.
Simmerman says this summer is the busiest tourist season the airport has ever seen.
“We knew this was coming, so we worked with all of our partners on the ground to make sure they were ready to welcome our travelers,” Simmerman said.
According to AAA, the worst traffic jams are expected on July 7, when most travelers are expected to return home.
AAA says the best times to travel are before 10 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday, but after 7 p.m. on Monday, July 8.
On Saturdays, the worst times to travel are between 10am and 2pm, on Sundays between 2pm and 8pm and on Mondays between 1pm and 5pm.
“So we advise you to make sure you arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before your flight departs,” Simmerman said.
She gave this advice to those considering flying.
“Be patient and take your time. The last thing you want to do is feel stressed about trying to find parking or something like that when you’re getting ready to travel. So, take your time to fully enjoy the experience.”
