Sunday, June 1, 2025
In a powerful display of national pride, innovation, and forward-thinking tourism planning, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean P. Duffy launched the first-ever Great American Road Trip Expo at the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) headquarters in Washington, D.C. The event marks the Department’s kickoff to a year-long celebration leading to the 250th anniversary of the United States in July 2026.
Hosted in collaboration with Brand USA, the U.S. government’s official destination marketing organization, the Expo celebrated the unique freedom of the open road—a hallmark of the American experience—and unveiled the new road trip logo along with a specially designed website that features 250 curated road trip stops across the country.
A Vision for America’s Semiquincentennial: Road Trips, Unity, and Economic Boost
During his keynote remarks in front of the USDOT building, Secretary Duffy emphasized the enduring importance of the road trip in American culture and its potential to galvanize domestic and international tourism in the lead-up to America 250, the official name for the semiquincentennial celebration.
“There’s nothing more Americana than a road trip,” said Secretary Duffy. “Now, with gas prices down, inflation easing, and American spirits up, this is the perfect time for families to get in the car and see their country.”
The event reflects President Biden’s executive support for revitalizing domestic tourism and transportation infrastructure as part of broader recovery and unity efforts. It aligns with priorities outlined in the National Travel and Tourism Strategy (2022–2027) issued by the U.S. Department of Commerce, and the America 250 Commission, which coordinates national commemorative programs through public-private partnerships.
A Website Designed for Adventure
At the heart of the campaign is a new Great American Road Trip website, built by Brand USA in close coordination with USDOT. The website highlights 250 uniquely American destinations, offering families a digital roadmap to iconic landmarks, small towns, and hidden gems. Visitors can filter destinations based on region, interest, accessibility, and historical significance.
Fred Dixon, President and CEO of Brand USA, shared the organization’s vision:
“International visitors travel longer, spend more, and see road trips with multiple stops as top activities of interest. The 250 destinations reflect our rich diversity—big cities, scenic routes, national parks, and cultural heritage.”
The site is also optimized for accessibility and includes curated itineraries for travelers with disabilities, reflecting compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and DOT’s own accessibility standards.
Automotive Icons on Display
The Expo itself featured a showcase of 40 vehicles from 19 American and international car manufacturers, underscoring the central role of automotive innovation in the U.S. identity. Participating brands included Ford, GM, Tesla, Rivian, BMW, Honda, Toyota, Subaru, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes, Nissan, Lucid, Mazda, Volkswagen, Volvo, and electric and recreational vehicle makers like RBW and RVs.
In a walk-through with mechanics and engineers, Secretary Duffy viewed engine displays, EV technology panels, and future-focused mobility designs. He praised the efforts of automakers for investing in the domestic manufacturing resurgence supported by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and the CHIPS and Science Act, both of which incentivize clean energy vehicles and advanced mobility.
“There’s something very American about freedom in a vehicle,” Duffy remarked. “American cars, road trips—they define our national character.”
CEOs and policy leaders from across the automotive and travel spectrum joined Duffy for panel discussions and remarks. Featured speakers included:
- John Bozzella, CEO, Alliance for Automotive Innovation
- Christine Feuell, CEO, Chrysler Brand
- Steven Croley, Chief Policy Officer, Ford
- Sebastian Mackensen, CEO, BMW North America
- Stuart Countess, President, Kia Georgia
- Geoff Freeman, CEO, U.S. Travel Association
Each underscored the need for strategic public-private partnerships to enhance sustainable tourism and transport solutions that align with both consumer demand and federal climate objectives.
Economic Impact and Tourism Recovery
According to the U.S. Travel Association, road trips account for over 80% of domestic leisure trips, and international travelers view U.S. highways as a uniquely immersive experience. The National Park Service, Department of the Interior, and Small Business Administration (SBA) have also indicated road trip tourism supports thousands of local businesses, gas stations, motels, and attractions in rural and gateway communities.
The timing of this initiative complements major upcoming international events hosted in the United States, including:
- FIFA Club World Cup (2025)
- FIFA World Cup (2026)
- Los Angeles Olympics (2028)
Secretary Duffy emphasized that foreign visitors traveling for these events can extend their stay with a road trip, helping to distribute economic benefits across non-urban centers.
“When they come for FIFA, the Olympics, or concerts, they can stay an extra week and take a road trip. Eat at our diners. Stay at our hotels. Experience real America.”
Vendor Participation and Cultural Crossroads
Beyond automotive participants, the Expo also included booths from major consumer brands and travel services:
- U.S. Travel
- Pilot/Flying J
- McDonald’s
- Chick-fil-A
- Academy Bus
- Racetrac
- Dunkin’
Each vendor offered samples, road trip maps, and interactive experiences. These commercial partnerships highlight the intersection of American culture, commerce, and travel that defines the road trip experience.
The DOT also confirmed it will host additional regional road trip expos throughout 2025, aligning with America250 programming in partnership with state tourism departments, tribal nations, and local chambers of commerce.
Federal Support and Future Mobility
This inaugural event is more than symbolic—it represents a practical strategy to integrate transportation innovation, tourism growth, and civic pride.
As emphasized in the DOT’s National Roadway Safety Strategy and the U.S. Climate Action Plan, vehicle safety, emissions reductions, and smart infrastructure are central to modernizing road trips while preserving their timeless appeal.
In fact, Duffy hinted at possible future integrations of autonomous vehicle technology, EV charging corridors, and AI-powered route planning, all priorities supported by federal transportation innovation grants.
“This is just the beginning,” he said. “The Great American Road Trip will evolve with the times, but it will always be rooted in freedom, curiosity, and connection.”
Conclusion: Reviving the American Spirit Through the Open Road
As the United States prepares to mark its 250th year of independence, the Department of Transportation and Brand USA have provided a compelling invitation: rediscover the nation through its highways, its stories, and its communities. The Great American Road Trip Expo is more than a celebration—it’s a national call to unity, experience, and adventure.
With carefully planned stops, visionary partnerships, and a spirit of inclusiveness, the initiative not only celebrates where America has been but also where it’s going.
Official Sources Referenced:
- U.S. Department of Transportation – Great American Road Trip Expo
- Brand USA
- America 250 Commission
- National Travel and Tourism Strategy – U.S. DOC
- U.S. Travel Association
- National Park Service – Road Trip Resources
- Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
