Best states for summer road trips in 2025
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. (Photo by David Joles/Star Tribune via Getty Images)
Summer is here, and the travel season is in full swing!
Can't figure out where to go? WalletHub has listed the best, and worst, states for a summer road trip.
By the numbers:
According to WalletHub, nearly 75% of American adults plan to take some sort of road trip, with around 33% planning to travel more than 250 miles from home.
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With regard to gas prices, WalletHub cited that they remain high, with the national average at over $3.20 per gallon now.
Methodology:
WalletHub researchers analyzed all 50 U.S. states using 32 key metrics to identify the best — and worst — road trip destinations in terms of fun, scenery, and affordability. The study factored in everything from the number of attractions and road quality to travel costs.
Best states for a summer road trip
Dig deeper:
Minnesota
Minnesota ranks as the top state for summer road trips, offering abundant outdoor activities, high park spending, and the third-most fairs and festivals per capita. It's also one of the safest states to drive in, with low vehicle fatality rates and top-tier bridge quality. Travel costs are reasonable, with low prices for camping, hotels, and car repairs.
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New York
New York ranks second for summer road trips thanks to its abundance of attractions, nightlife, and top-rated accommodations and restaurants. It also boasts the second-most National Historic Landmarks per capita, offering rich historical stops across the state. Road safety is strong, with low rates of uninsured drivers, strict driving laws, and minimal phone use behind the wheel.
Ohio
Ohio ranks third for summer road trips, offering a wide range of attractions like zoos, botanical gardens, and amusement parks perfect for short or extended stops. It hosts the second-most summer fairs and festivals in the U.S., adding plenty of seasonal fun. With top-rated accommodations and a strong restaurant scene, Ohio is a great place to enjoy Midwest flavors along the way.
Top 10 list:
- Minnesota
- New York
- Ohio
- Utah
- Louisiana
- Florida
- Idaho
- Texas
- North Carolina
What they're saying:
"Taking a summer road trip can be a very exciting way to experience a new place, but with the prices of gas, food and accommodations still impacted by inflation, you’ll want to be in a state that makes this type of vacation affordable," WalletHub Analyst Chip Lubo said online. "Safe roads are also key, and so is having plenty of worthwhile attractions to stop at along the road. The best states for summer road trips therefore are those that keep costs low while providing the best driving experience and most fun activities."
The Source: The information in this story comes from WalletHub’s annual study, which analyzed all 50 U.S. states using 32 key metrics to evaluate road trip quality. This story was reported from Los Angeles.