This Theme Park Hotspot Is Officially the Busiest Memorial Day Destination in the U.S.
If you're planning to kick off the summer with a trip to the theme-park capital of the world, you're going to have plenty of company. According to the latest data from AAA, Orlando has officially secured the #1 spot as the busiest Memorial Day travel destination in the country for 2026.
With a record-breaking 45 million Americans expected to travel over the holiday weekend, the demand for Florida's iconic attractions-from Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando to the newly opened Epic Universe-is at an all-time high. AAA projects that nearly 39 million of those travelers will be hitting the road, despite gas prices sitting at their highest levels since 2022.
"Travel demand remains strong, and despite higher fuel prices, many people are prioritizing leisure travel during holiday breaks," says Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. This sentiment is clearly playing out in Central Florida, where the volume of visitors is expected to set new records for the holiday period.
Related: Check out the least crowded and cheapest days to visit Disney World to see how holiday weekends compare to off-peak times.
Related: Learn how to maximize your time with Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours, which are confirmed to return through 2027.
To make the most of your holiday weekend without getting swept up in the high-velocity chaos, here are a few expert tips for navigating the rush:
- Master the "Early Bird" Strategy: To beat the worst of the I-4 traffic, AAA recommends hitting the road before 11 a.m. on Friday or after 9 p.m. on Thursday.
- The Sunday Sweet Spot: If your schedule allows for it, Sunday, May 24 is predicted to have the lightest traffic of the entire weekend. It's the perfect day for a slower 3-2-1 style day at the parks.
- Book Your Reservations Now: With Orlando at the top of the list, dining reservations and park entry for spots like Epic Universe will disappear fast. Don't wait until you arrive at CityWalk to decide on dinner.
- Pack for "High-Humidity" Prep: Memorial Day in Florida is notoriously warm. Between the crowds and the heat, staying hydrated and having a "cooling" plan-like mid-day breaks at your resort pool-is essential for keeping the vacation fun and avoiding burnout.
While the crowds will be dense, the draw of a three-day weekend at the parks remains the unofficial start of summer for many. Whether you're navigating the new world of Epic Universe or catching a classic parade at the Magic Kingdom, the consensus is clear: Orlando is the place to be this May-just make sure you pack your patience along with your sunscreen.
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This story was originally published May 14, 2026 at 5:10 AM.