Lots Of Traffic Expected For Thanksgiving Weekend

ST. LOUIS, MO — Strong consumer confidence and low gas prices will make for a crowded commute this holiday weekend, according to the American Automobile Association. About 50 million Americans will travel more than 50 miles from home from Wednesday to Sunday, with most choosing to take to the roads. Air travel will also see a spike, so get to the airport early if you plan to fly.

Google Trends has released some helpful insights on holiday travel using data from Google Maps. When are grocery stores going to be busiest? Around noon Wednesday. How does the commute look for Friday for those of us that don't have the day off? Not bad.

Based on last year's travel trends, Google says the best time to leave is before 4 a.m. Wednesday, while the worst is after 4 p.m Wednesday. The best time for heading home? Before 4 a.m. Friday. The worst? After 3 p.m. Sunday.

Of course, once you arrive at your destination, you might be interested in some Black Friday shopping. Check out the list of what malls and department stores are open around St. Louis. Forgot the cranberry sauce? Click here for a list of grocery stores that are open Thanksgiving Day. Or, don't bother cooking at all. Here are some restaurants serving turkey dinners.

Plan ahead and be safe out there. Happy Thanksgiving!