The good news motorists are finding at area gas stations could provide a spark for tourism and shopping this holiday season.

According to AAA, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Wisconsin is $3.73, slightly lower than the averages in Kewaunee County ($3.78) and Door County ($3.82) as of Friday morning.

While prices remain nearly a dollar per gallon higher than a year ago, they have dropped 31 cents in the past week and nearly 40 cents over the past month.

Destination Door County CEO Jon Jarosh acknowledges that higher gas prices have affected travel destinations, although it is still too early to determine the extent of the impact. With gas prices trending downward and holiday activities such as the Door County Christmas Movie Trail ramping up, Jarosh hopes more people will visit the area and do some shopping during their stays.

Thursday marked the first time since July that the national average fell below $4 per gallon, with forecasts indicating prices could drop further in the coming weeks.

Diesel prices have also declined, falling to $5.96 per gallon in Wisconsin, down about 25 cents from a week ago.