Why Are Road Trips Becoming the Popular Choice for US Travelers in Summer 2025? Explore Florida, California, Pennsylvania, New York and Beyond!

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

As summer 2025 approaches, US travelers are embracing the call of the open road, prioritizing culinary adventures, and seeking rich cultural experiences. Despite concerns about rising costs and economic uncertainty, the American spirit of adventure is alive and well, with road trips leading the way for domestic travel. According to the latest data from the Enterprise Mobility Summer Travel Survey, 66% of Americans plan to take at least one overnight trip this summer, underscoring the importance of travel as an essential part of life, even during challenging economic times.

With the summer season upon us, travelers are increasingly focused on the joy of discovering new destinations, diving into local cultures, and indulging in regional cuisines. Whether it’s exploring Florida, savoring fresh seafood along the California coast, or visiting the historic landmarks of Pennsylvania, Americans are opting for trips that offer both relaxation and an immersive cultural experience. But what are the key trends defining summer 2025 travel? Let’s break down the key insights shaping this season’s travel patterns.

Road Trips Reign Supreme

There’s something inherently American about the road trip, and it continues to be a dominant trend for summer travel in 2025. The freedom of the open road, the ability to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, and the flexibility to create your own itinerary make road trips the ideal choice for many. According to the Enterprise Mobility survey:

• 60% of Americans intend to travel by personal or rental vehicles this summer.
• 23% will rent a vehicle, either as their primary mode of transport or to use upon arrival.

Among different age groups, Baby Boomers (63%) and Gen X (65%) are the most likely to opt for road trips, while Millennials (25%) and Gen Z (23%) are more inclined to rent cars for added flexibility once they reach their destinations. The trend toward renting cars is indicative of a desire for more independence and exploration.

In fact, Enterprise Mobility is seeing a significant year-over-year increase in demand at its non-airport locations, reflecting a surge in road trip interest. This signals that more and more travelers are choosing neighborhood car rental services to embark on their adventures, further fueling the road trip phenomenon.

Culinary & Cultural Escapes Take Center Stage

In addition to road trips, culinary and cultural experiences are among the top priorities for American travelers this summer. As people return to travel with renewed energy, many are gravitating toward destinations that offer a combination of sightseeing, local food experiences, and cultural immersion.

• 50% of survey respondents indicated that their ideal holiday combines relaxation with sightseeing.
• 46% are focused on indulging in local food and cuisine, highlighting the growing trend of gastronomic tourism.
• 40% of travelers are drawn to beaches and pools, while 39% seek the tranquility of lakes, mountains, or countryside settings. Only 21% of respondents prefer visiting urban centers.

These figures point to a shift in traveler preferences—fewer people are flocking to city destinations, while nature-based and culturally rich locations are gaining in popularity. A deeper connection with the history and traditions of a destination, coupled with authentic food experiences, is becoming the essence of the dream vacation for many.

Culinary tourism, in particular, is experiencing an uptick, with travelers eager to explore the food scene wherever they go. From savoring fresh farm-to-table dishes in rural towns to enjoying internationally inspired flavors in cosmopolitan cities, food is no longer just a necessity but a central part of the travel experience.

In addition to food, travelers are seeking meaningful cultural experiences. Nearly a third of respondents (33%) listed experiencing local culture and history as a key feature of their dream holiday. This may include visiting museums, exploring historical landmarks, or taking part in cultural festivals, making culture a significant driver of travel plans this year.

Travel Amid Economic Uncertainty

Despite the allure of travel, economic challenges are certainly top of mind for many Americans this summer. Inflation and rising costs have led a significant portion of the population to reconsider their spending habits. According to the Enterprise Mobility survey, 34% of respondents do not have travel plans due to financial constraints, with 39% citing personal finances and 35% concerned about inflation.

This trend is not surprising in light of rising travel costs, including the prices of accommodations, transportation, and dining out. However, Americans remain committed to taking vacations and are actively finding ways to reduce expenses to make their travel dreams a reality.

• 62% of travelers are cutting back on discretionary spending to save for their trips. Common areas where people are reducing costs include dining out, buying new clothes, and ordering takeout.

Interestingly, Millennials are the most cost-conscious group, with 75% of them adjusting their spending to accommodate travel. On the other hand, Baby Boomers (48%) and Gen X (60%) are less likely to make financial cutbacks, though they still feel the strain of rising prices.

While some are scaling back, others are choosing to visit bucket list destinations, where the experience is seen as worth the investment. For those willing to splurge, destination experiences—such as luxury beach resorts, cultural tours, or adventure travel—are becoming increasingly popular.

The Rise of Local and Staycation Travel

In response to both financial constraints and an increased interest in cultural exploration, local travel and staycations are gaining in popularity. As people seek more affordable options, they are rediscovering hidden gems closer to home. Whether it’s a weekend getaway to a neighboring state, a visit to a nearby national park, or a cultural tour in one’s own city, Americans are embracing the idea that you don’t have to travel far to experience something extraordinary.

Staycations—vacations spent in one’s local area—offer a more affordable alternative, allowing travelers to enjoy a break without the hefty price tag of long-distance travel. This trend is especially prominent among younger travelers and families looking to balance relaxation with financial prudence.

What’s Next for US Summer Travel in 2025?

As we look ahead to the remainder of summer 2025, these trends are expected to continue shaping the travel landscape. With road trips dominating, and an emphasis on cultural and culinary adventures, it’s clear that Americans are finding new ways to engage with the world around them. Though economic factors are influencing travel choices, the desire to explore, experience, and discover remains strong.

For those planning their own summer adventures, now is the perfect time to embrace these trends. From driving down scenic routes to savoring local delicacies and immersing in diverse cultures, the summer of 2025 promises to be a season of memorable, meaningful travel experiences.

Conclusion

As we move into the summer of 2025, American travelers are embracing a blend of road trips, cultural exploration, and culinary adventures, all while balancing economic concerns. The road trip remains a central aspect of domestic travel, and local cuisine and cultural experiences are now top priorities for travelers. While some are adjusting their budgets, the spirit of exploration and adventure is stronger than ever, proving that travel is more than just an escape—it’s an integral part of modern life.

Whether you’re setting out on a cross-country road trip or booking a staycation, the 2025 summer travel season is set to offer something for every type of traveler. As the year progresses, these trends will continue to evolve, but one thing is clear: Americans are finding new ways to experience the world, and they’re doing it with passion and curiosity.

«Enjoyed this post? Never miss out on future posts by following us»