Thanksgiving Travel 2024: What to Expect on Northeast Ohio’s Roads, Rails, and Airways

November 27, 2024

As Northeast Ohioans prepare for Thanksgiving festivities, travel is expected to reach its peak, with thousands taking to roads, airports, and public transit to visit family and friends. Here’s what you need to know to navigate the holiday weekend smoothly.

Road Travel: Congested Highways Expected

According to AAA, Thanksgiving travel is set to surpass pre-pandemic levels, with many opting for road trips. Interstates I-71, I-77, and I-480 are expected to see the heaviest traffic, particularly on Wednesday afternoon and Sunday evening.

Peak Congestion: Wednesday (3-7 PM) and Sunday (4-8 PM).
Hot Spots: Traffic backups are anticipated near major urban centers like downtown Cleveland, Akron, and areas surrounding shopping hubs due to Black Friday crowds.
Gas Prices: Average gas prices in Ohio are hovering around $3.45 per gallon, slightly lower than the national average, encouraging more drivers to hit the road.

Tips for Drivers:

Avoid peak travel times by leaving early in the morning or late at night.
Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates.
Check the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) website for road construction updates and closures.

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport: Busy Skies

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) is bracing for one of its busiest Thanksgiving weekends in recent years, with an estimated 180,000 passengers expected between Wednesday and Sunday.

Peak Times: Wednesday and Sunday mornings are forecasted to have the highest passenger volumes.
Security Wait Times: The TSA advises travelers to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights. Expect longer waits during peak hours.
Parking: On-site airport parking is near capacity. Alternative options include off-site lots offering shuttle services.
Weather Impact: No significant weather disruptions are currently forecasted, but travelers should monitor for potential delays caused by high winds or precipitation.

Tips for Flyers:

Use mobile boarding passes to streamline check-in.
Check airline apps for real-time updates on flights and baggage.

Amtrak and Regional Rail

Amtrak’s Capitol Limited service, which connects Cleveland to Chicago and Washington, D.C., is fully booked for peak travel days. Passengers traveling via Elyria, Sandusky, or Alliance are advised to confirm reservations and arrive early at stations.

Delays Possible: Increased demand and freight traffic sharing the rail lines may lead to delays.
Onboard Services: Amtrak offers complimentary Wi-Fi and dining car services for travelers making long-distance trips.

New Services: The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is running holiday-themed excursions, providing a festive option for local travel and sightseeing within the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Bus Travel

Greyhound and Megabus are operating at full capacity, with extra routes added for the Thanksgiving weekend to accommodate demand.

Popular Destinations: Buses departing from Cleveland to Columbus, Cincinnati, and Pittsburgh are experiencing high ticket sales.
Terminals: The Greyhound station on Chester Avenue in Cleveland is expected to be busy, with increased security measures and extended hours for ticket counters.

Tips for Bus Travelers:

Arrive at the terminal at least an hour before departure.
Bring snacks and entertainment for potential delays.

Looking Ahead

With a mix of modes available—roads, air, rail, and bus—travelers in Northeast Ohio have plenty of options to reach their Thanksgiving destinations. Planning ahead, staying updated on conditions, and exercising patience can help ensure a smooth journey.

Wherever you’re heading, safe travels and a happy Thanksgiving!