Google Maps 2025 holiday trends
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.
'Tis the season to shop smarter 🎁
The roads aren’t the only place that get busy — find the best times to shop and learn about local trends with these insights:
Enjoy a merrier mall trip: That feeling of finally finding the perfect parking spot, only to walk into a wall of crowds? Skip that this year. We analyzed busyness trends from popular malls in each state to share the best and worst times to shop in November and December (excluding Black Friday) — so you can get ahead without getting stressed.
Check out which states procrastinate: Some states are full of eager elves who cross off their gift lists before Thanksgiving, while others are part of Santa’s Scramble Squad. Check out our analysis below to see if your state is on the last-minute “naughty list” (looking at you, December 23 shoppers! 👀).
Shop mom-and-pop ‘til you drop: This year, holiday shoppers are expected to hit up local craft stores and electronics stores. Sporting goods stores, clothing shops and bookstores are popular with procrastinators, with directions to these spots spiking from December 20-25.
Want to know what last-minute preparation looks across the country? San Franciscans like to hit up specialty chocolate shops for those final gifts, while Honolulu residents turn to delectable coffee, desserts and Japanese snacks. Check out your city below!
Navigate the post office rush 📬
Need to mail cards and packages before the reindeer take flight? Avoid the postal gridlock!
Avoid Monday madness and opt for Tuesday tranquility: Mondays at 2 p.m. are the busiest time at post offices and shipping stores — especially two Mondays before Christmas. For a more peaceful shipping experience, head there on Tuesdays at 2 p.m.
Keep your receipts and your calm: Got a gift you’re not crazy about? Don’t rush to return it — post offices are busiest the Monday before New Year's Day. Head there after the new year to avoid the lines and still make your return window.
Holiday cheer from coast to coast ⛷️
The best part about the holidays is spending quality time with loved ones. Beyond holiday classics like hitting the slopes or catching a movie, here’s some inspiration for where to go from around the country.
Think outside the (gift) box: Bowling gets popular in Indiana and North Dakota, while day spa visits spike in New Jersey — a great way to steam off the holiday stress!
Enjoy a silent night: Looking to escape the hustle and bustle? National and state parks, zoos and aquariums are far less busy in November and December — just make sure to bundle up if you’re outside!
With a little planning (and some helpful data), you can spend less time navigating crowds and more time making memories this holiday season.
