The roads are jammed, airports are buzzing, and hotel bookings are vanishing fast in Orlando. Across the country, Americans are on the move—but nowhere quite like this city.
This Memorial Day weekend, AAA reports that a record-breaking 45.1 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home. That’s more than any Memorial Day in U.S. history, surpassing the previous record of 44 million set back in 2005. But one question is on everyone’s mind: Why is Orlando the epicenter of it all this year?
Orlando: Welcome to the New Capital of Family Travel
Orlando isn’t a stranger to tourism fame, but this weekend, the Central Florida city officially takes the crown. AAA has named Orlando the No. 1 most-visited destination in the U.S. for Memorial Day 2025, and for good reason.
Families aren’t just taking road trips—they’re making pilgrimages. The draw? Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and nearby Port Canaveral, offering easy access to both land-based and cruise adventures. It’s an unbeatable combination for families, thrill-seekers, and vacationers of all kinds.
Florida alone is expected to see 2.6 million travelers by car, many of them making their way into Orlando’s orbit for what’s shaping up to be an unforgettable kickoff to summer.
Epic Universe: A Grand Opening That’s Changing Everything
And then there’s the main event: Universal’s Epic Universe.
Opening just in time for the holiday rush, the new theme park is ushering in a bold new era for theme park entertainment. Set to fully debut in 2025, Epic Universe is hosting soft openings and grand opening celebrations over Memorial Day weekend—and fans are flooding in for a first look.
Featuring entire lands dedicated to Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, and How to Train Your Dragon, the park promises cutting-edge attractions and immersive worlds never before seen on this scale.
It’s a generational milestone for theme park fans—and Orlando’s hospitality industry is already feeling the impact.
Why It Matters: More Than Just a Vacation
So what’s the real takeaway behind these numbers? Orlando’s climb to the top of AAA’s travel charts reflects more than just sunshine and roller coasters. It’s part of a post-pandemic travel transformation—one where people are not only eager to escape, but also craving meaningful, memory-making experiences.
While New York, Seattle, Las Vegas, and Miami also landed in the top five, it’s Orlando’s combination of convenience, family fun, and brand-new offerings that made it the clear favorite.
For Central Florida, the boost in tourism means more than foot traffic. It signals economic revival, job growth, and a strengthening of Orlando’s identity as America’s ultimate entertainment destination.
Florida Roads: High Volume, Higher Caution
Of course, with record numbers comes real-world impact—especially on the roads.
AAA spokesperson Mark Jenkins issued a public reminder ahead of the busy weekend:
“There are a lot of people on the roads who haven’t been here in a while—or ever. Don’t let one mistake ruin your—and somebody else’s—vacation.”
Drivers are urged to stay alert, avoid distractions, and watch for delays on major routes like I-4, State Road 528, and the Florida Turnpike. Nighttime driving and roadside stops will require added attention as the volume of unfamiliar drivers peaks.
Orlando: The Bigger Picture for the Summer Ahead
What we’re seeing this Memorial Day weekend may just be a preview of summer 2025. As travel continues to rebound, and new experiences like Epic Universe fuel even more interest, Orlando’s visitor numbers could remain elevated for months to come.
If the Memorial Day forecast is any indicator, theme parks, cruise ports, and Florida tourism are heading into one of their strongest seasons in years. And for anyone who thought the magic of Orlando had peaked—it’s clear the real adventure is just beginning.
Bottom Line:
Whether you’re heading for the magic of Disney, the thrill of Epic Universe, or the serenity of a cruise, Orlando is the place to be this weekend—just be ready for the crowds.
