4th of July Travel: Best and worst times to drive, weather forecast and more
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Over the next week and a half, millions of Americans will be hitting the road for the Fourth of July.
AAA predicts that nearly 71 million people will travel 50 miles or more from home.
"With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day," AAA Travel Senior Vice President Paula Twidale said.
Save this summer with these free family activities
Whether you're traveling, heading to the beach, or attending a parade or fireworks display, below you'll find everything you need to plan ahead.
Jump to a section: Travel Tips | Weather Forecast | Fireworks, Parades & Other Events | Beach Information
Travel
Of the 71 million people expected to travel this week, more than 60 million will do so by car, according to AAA.
Gas prices are slightly lower, with regular currently averaging $3.44 per gallon, compared to $3.53 at this time last year.
GAS TRACKER: Find the best price in your area
Here are the best and worst times to travel by car, according to AAA:
DateBest TimeWorst TimeMonday, July 1Minimal traffic expectedMinimal traffic expectedTuesday, July 2After 7 p.m.2 p.m. – 6 p.m.Wednesday, July 3Before noon2 p.m. – 7 p.m.Thursday, July 4Before noon2 p.m. – 7 p.m.Friday, July 5Before 10 a.m.11 a.m. – 4 p.m.Saturday, July 6Before 10 a.m.10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.Sunday, July 7Before 11 a.m.2 p.m. – 8 p.m.Monday, July 8After 7 p.m.1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
AAA said another 5.75 million Americans will fly to their Independence Day destinations. Travel experts recommend arriving at the airport two hours early, reserving a parking spot in advance, and using a carry-on bag instead of checking luggage, if possible.
FLIGHT TRACKER: Check arrivals and departures at TF Green, Logan
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) also issued a reminder to flyers about what they can and cannot bring onto flights. Some items can be packed in a carry-on bag, while others must be in a checked bag or simply left at home. Visit the TSA's website for a full list.
Weather Forecast
After an expected stormy day on Sunday, the forecast calls for dry and mostly sunny conditions in the days leading up to July 4.
LOOKING AHEAD: Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Stay with 12 News for updates in the coming days, and be sure to download the free Pinpoint Weather App to get the latest information and alerts on the go.
Close
Thanks for signing up!
Watch for us in your inbox.
Subscribe Now
Pinpoint Weather 12 Today
SIGN UP NOW
Local Events
Fireworks displays, parades and other festivities will be held in many cities and towns over the next couple of weeks.
Be sure to keep an eye your community's website or social media pages for any changes.
LIST: Where to watch 4th of July fireworks in RI, MA
Beach Information
As of Friday, all local beaches are fully opened and staffed.
The R.I. Department of Health regularly checks the water conditions to ensure that swimming is safe. Any recommended beach closures are posted on the agency's website.
Ocean, Bay & Beach // A look at the conditions by the coast »
The R.I. Department of Environmental Management (DEM) recommends buying your parking pass ahead of time to avoid a long line at the entrance. The DEM warned, however, to buy passes as early as possible since they can take up to 24 hours to take effect.
Beach Parking: Pricing and how to purchase passes
LIVESTREAMING LOCAL VIEWS
Close
Thanks for signing up!
Watch for us in your inbox.
Subscribe Now
Ocean, Bay & Beach Report
SIGN UP NOW
Welcome to Billionaire Club Co LLC, your gateway to a brand-new social media experience! Sign up today and dive into over 10,000 fresh daily articles and videos curated just for your enjoyment. Enjoy the ad free experience, unlimited content interactions, and get that coveted blue check verification—all for just $1 a month!
Account Frozen
Your account is frozen. You can still view content but cannot interact with it.
Please go to your settings to update your account status.
Open Profile Settings