Hertz
With summer 2025 in full swing, millions of Americans are hitting the road in search of memorable vacations. According to WalletHub and Hertz, road trips remain a top choice for travelers, offering flexibility, affordability, and adventure. But where should you go—and how can you make the most of the journey?
WalletHub’s annual ranking of the best U.S. states for summer road trips and Hertz’s analysis of top July 4th destinations combine to paint a clear picture of where—and how—Americans are planning their getaways this year. Whether you’re looking for scenic drives, cost savings, or the most popular holiday hotspots, these two reports offer useful guidance for your next road trip.
WalletHub compared all 50 U.S. states using 32 metrics grouped into three major categories: costs, safety, and activities. These included factors such as average gas prices, road safety statistics, the number of attractions, and park spending per capita. The resulting scores identify the most road trip–friendly states in the nation.
Minnesota tops the list thanks to its abundance of parks, fairs, and festivals, along with some of the safest driving conditions in the country. New York follows closely, with a strong lineup of historic landmarks, attractions, and nightlife. Ohio comes in third, offering a mix of attractions and cost-effective lodging and food options.
While planning your route, safety and affordability are key. States like Idaho and Wisconsin scored high in road safety, while Louisiana and Tennessee ranked among the cheapest for car-related costs. Minnesota stands out by combining relatively low lodging and car repair costs with top-tier road safety and recreational offerings.
In contrast, states like California, Hawaii, and Delaware ranked near the bottom, mainly due to high costs and limited road trip–friendly infrastructure. That doesn’t mean they aren’t worth visiting—but road-trippers may find fewer options for budget-friendly, activity-rich itineraries.
Hertz, one of the leading global car rental companies, shared its top 10 U.S. destinations based on advance bookings for the Independence Day holiday period (June 28–July 6). With AAA forecasting over 72 million travelers for this stretch, of which more than 61 million will drive, the demand for rental cars is at a seasonal high.
These destinations blend urban fun with scenic drives and popular attractions. Orlando remains a family favorite with theme parks and day-trip opportunities. Cities like Denver and Seattle offer mountain views, while coastal areas like Oahu and Maui promise sunny beach escapes.
Hertz anticipates July 3 to be the busiest pickup day for rental cars. To skip long lines, travelers are encouraged to join the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program. Membership is free and allows renters to bypass the counter at most major airports.
Additionally, Hertz is running seasonal promotions. Travelers can save up to 25% on rentals through July 6 by booking directly on Hertz.com. For those looking to embrace the American spirit, a 20% discount on 2025 Jeep Wrangler rentals is also available, making it easier to hit the road in style.
Hertz also reports that small SUVs are the most booked vehicle type for the holiday weekend. Early booking is strongly recommended for larger vehicles like 7-seater SUVs, minivans, or pickup trucks, which tend to sell out quickly during peak periods.
Between soaring fuel prices and inflation’s impact on accommodation and food, strategic planning is more important than ever for summer road trippers. Tools like WalletHub’s state ranking and Hertz’s rental data help travelers make smart decisions based on safety, cost, and experience.
From scenic byways in Utah to music-filled nights in Louisiana, and fireworks in Boston to beach drives in Maui, summer 2025 is full of possibilities. Where you go matters—but how you get there can make all the difference. Whether you’re cruising down Route 66 or navigating the Great Lakes, now’s the time to map out the ultimate American road trip.
Photo credit: Andriy Blokhin / Shutterstock.com
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