With limited travel opportunities due to the pandemic, many Western and Central New York families have made the most of travel within New York this summer. In fact, we saw many hotels in New York flashing the “no vacancy” sign this past weekend. With summer winding down, travelers are anxious to get one last road trip in before Labor Day and the start of school – whether virtual or hybrid. As the holiday approaches, here are some of the trends we’re seeing at AAA:

Top destinations within New York: 1000 Islands, Adirondacks, Finger Lakes, Catskills, Chautauqua, Lake George, Niagara region.

Top destinations outside New York: Orlando, coastal Maine, out West – National Parks (Mount Rushmore and Yellowstone very popular), non-quarantine Northeast beach destinations.

I Love New York: AAA Western and Central New York has seen above average interest in New York destinations – maps and tour books for New York are in high demand as travelers look to avoid a quarantine.

Gas prices: Gas prices remain reasonable. The national average is $2.19, 41 cents lower than last year. The New York State average is $2.25, 55 cents lower than last year.

Fall travel: AAA expects to see high demand for long weekend getaways this year with more travelers looking for closer to home experiences such as the Finger Lakes and the Niagara region for fall foliage tours. Requests for Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont should remain popular as long as quarantines are not necessary.

Holiday travel: Travelers are inquiring about holiday travel yet taking a “wait and see approach.” AAA expects holiday travel bookings to be last minute this year, compared to advance plans in past years.

Future travel: Both interest and bookings for 2021 and 2022 are strong and inventory may be limited so travelers should plan ahead and arrange future travel now.

Safe travel: Check the CDC’s COVID-19 data tracker for updates on coronavirus cases. Use AAA’s COVID-19 Travel Restrictions Map at www.AAA.com/TripTik for the latest state and local travel restrictions and to plan your route with rest stops and more. Download the AAA app at www.AAA.com/Mobile to find the lowest gas prices, make travel arrangements and to request AAA roadside assistance.