Pennsylvania is the 12th-best state for a summer road trip, according to a new WalletHub study comparing all 50 U.S. states across 32 key metrics. The analysis considered factors ranging from the number of attractions to road quality to costs.
Nearly 72% of American adults are planning some kind of road trip this year, with more than one-third expected to take more than one trip. However, choosing the right destination and staying within budget can be challenging. The national average for gas prices is still above $4.00 per gallon, and that's far from the only cost travelers have to consider.
“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,” said WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo. “Safe roads are also key, and so is having plenty of worthwhile attractions to stop at along the way. The best states for summer road trips keep costs low while providing the best driving experience and most fun activities.”
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In-Depth Look at Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania displays some strengths for summer road trippers, including the fact that it has the fourth-most national historic landmarks and the sixth-most zoos and botanical gardens per capita, as well as the 10th-most attractions. The state also ties for the lowest increase in vehicle travel over the past 25 years, which helps preserve road conditions and minimize congestion.
However, Pennsylvania has room for improvement in other areas. For example, the state has the second-worst behaved drivers. In addition, it has the sixth-worst-maintained bridges and the 11th-highest gas prices.
How Pennsylvania Ranks in Key Categories
- 35th for costs
- 21st for safety
- 16th for activities
This puts Pennsylvania in 12th place out of the 50 states in WalletHub's study.
Best Summer Road-Trip Destinations
Overall Rank | State | Total Score | Costs Rank | Safety Rank | Activities Rank |
1 | Minnesota | 61.11 | 16 | 3 | 20 |
2 | Utah | 60.15 | 34 | 6 | 8 |
3 | Louisiana | 60.03 | 1 | 42 | 10 |
4 | New York | 58.88 | 42 | 13 | 3 |
5 | Florida | 58.55 | 21 | 49 | 2 |
6 | Texas | 58.18 | 15 | 39 | 5 |
7 | Maine | 58.15 | 29 | 1 | 32 |
8 | Georgia | 57.8 | 2 | 32 | 25 |
9 | North Carolina | 57.79 | 17 | 35 | 6 |
10 | Ohio | 57.23 | 24 | 25 | 14 |
The methodology can be found on the full version of the article on WalletHub.
