Gas prices are higher than ever, so don’t waste your gas taking a road trip just anywhere. With flight after flight being canceled, road tripping is a good way to ensure you make it to and from your trip destination without a hiccup. According to the Vacationer, it is estimated that nearly 80% of American adults intend to take a road trip over the summer. As a result, road trips will be the most popular type of travel in the United States in 2022.
Road trips can often feel never-ending, but traveling through a state with jaw-dropping views definitely speeds up the process. A survey conducted by Economy Bookings found that 74% of respondents believed the journey to be more important than the final destination when road tripping. It was also discovered in an American Resort Development Association survey that traveling closer to home to save money is on 30% of timeshare owners’ minds and 26% of other travelers.
Most Popular Road Trip Destinations
Arrivalist’s Daily Travel Index shows that Americans enjoy road trips that lead to secluded areas, hidden beaches, and other areas where few people are present. Road trippers are looking for hidden natural gems that are away from crowds.
Travelers in the United States choose the beach as their preferred destination for a road trip, with 45% choosing to visit the ocean. In a close second place, 41% of travelers choose to visit another city during their road trip. There are several other popular destinations, including 21% visiting national parks, 17% visiting lakes and 14% visiting resorts, according to Citizens Bank. So make gas prices worth it by road tripping to or through these destinations.
South Carolina
SEOClarity reports that South Carolina has taken more road trippers than any other state in the United States. Its pristine beaches, world-class golf courses and endless entertainment make it a bucket list destination. Charleston, Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island are among the top final destinations for a South Carolina road trip. Also, stop at McClellanville, Clemson, Cheraw and Walterboro along the way for some small-town charm.
Both Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach are excellent beach vacation locations with family-friendly attractions, historic sites and golf courses. Harbour Town is a must-visit location when visiting Hilton Head. It offers great food and shopping opportunities. In Myrtle Beach stop by Family Kingdom Amusement Park and South Carolina Hall Of Fame for a memorable experience.
Arizona
Arizona is a popular location for road trips because it houses the Grand Canyon. Sixt conducted a poll with 30 destinations across the United States, out of which the Grand Canyon was chosen by 44% as the most popular stop. Breath-taking canyons, river tributaries and surrounding grounds are all part of Grand Canyon National Park. Around 6 million people make a trip to the Grand Canyon every single year, making it the second most visited National Park.
Phoenix is about 250 miles from the Grand Canyon, making it a great place to explore. Phoenix offers incredible attractions, whether you take a morning hot balloon ride or a desert ATV tour. Nature lovers will also want to visit Petrified Forest National Park, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon as well as Havasu Falls on their Arizona road trip.
Florida
Among American adults, 59% plan domestic trips only in 2022, according to an Expedia survey. In terms of domestic road trips, Orlando and Destin are the most researched cities. Florida is unlike any other place in the world with its beautiful beaches and state parks, fun shopping, tasty dining options and incredibly thrilling amusement parks. There is something that will intrigue everyone in the family, making it a top destination to take a road trip to.
Orlando is known as the theme park capital of the world. There is never a dull moment with theme parks such as Disney World, Universal Studios and Seaworld. Destin has incredible beaches and is perfect for a road trip with its geographic location not being too south into Florida. In addition, Destin has excellent snorkeling and fishing opportunities.
North Carolina
The North Carolina landscape is a fusion of mountain and beach vibes. Its scenic drives are among the best in the world, making it an enjoyable state to road trip around. Regarding cities with most road trips, Raleigh-Cary, NC, ranked first in large metros according to seoClarity research. Also, Durham-Chapel Hill, NC, ranked second in midsized metros. In addition, North Carolina vacations offer golf, fishing, skiing and other activities you’ll love.
Nature lovers must add Carl Alwin Schenk Memorial Forest in Raleigh to their trip itinerary. This 245-acre outdoor attraction is perfect for wildlife spotting, scenic views and bike rides. On the other hand, Durham, NC, is a great place for history buffs. Visitors will enjoy the Museum of Durham History, where guests will better understand the community’s background.
California
A road trip to the Southwest is the most popular choice for road trippers in the United States, with 38% selecting it as their top destination. Whether you explore Yosemite National Park or drive down Pacific Coast Highway, your road trip through California will bring lots of adventure. California has you covered with everything from skiing in the mountains to surfing at the beaches. Top cities include San Diego, Santa Cruz, Palm Springs as well as Santa Barbara.
Pacific Coast Highway runs from Orange County to the California coast, then all the way to Mendocino county. Along the way, stop at one of the most notable Northern California beaches, Stinson Beach. Or at Pacifica, home to the most beautiful Taco Bell. There is even a Bigfoot Discovery Center in Santa Cruz that it worth making a stop at.
