Minnesota Named Top State for Summer Road Trips
WalletHub highlights Minnesota; AAA recommends local destinations to make the most of your travel plans
MINNEAPOLIS (July 16, 2025) — WalletHub named Minnesota the best state for a summer road trip this year, based on 32 key metrics including affordability, fun, and scenery. The official rankings highlight Minnesota’s ample parks, safety on the roadways, and lower costs for accommodations like camping or hotels.
“We know that everyone is looking for ways to make memories in the summer, and large vacations aren’t always accessible,” said Brynna Knapp, spokesperson for AAA. “Road trips are a great way to manage affordability while still soaking up all the best parts of summer. Find a regional festival, state park, or one of our famous attractions to build your road trip around and get to planning before summer’s end!”
Top findings that make Minnesota great for a road trip:
· Fourth highest spending per capita on parks and recreation
· Third highest number of festivals and fairs per capita during summer months
· Ranked 12th lowest in camping costs and 15th lowest for average hotel cost
· Third fewest traffic fatalities per million miles traveled, you’re likely to be safe on the road!
Here's a few ideas to get you inspired for your next Minnesota road trip:
Art in Bayfront Park – Duluth, MN (August 16-17) | More information
Make it a weekend in Duluth in August for Bayfront Park’s largest art festival. Enjoy the art festival and stay for the Lake Superior views, restaurant and brewery scene, and ample activities along the North Shore.
Minnesota State Fair – St. Paul, MN (August 21- September 1) | More information
If you live outside of the Twin Cities or Minnesota, you’ll be joining the 1.9 million other fairgoers who make the annual trek to the Great Minnesota Get Together, the State Fair. Get in touch with your local AAA travel agent for hotel deals near the fairgrounds.
Mountain Biking in Cuyuna Lakes – Crosby, MN | More information
The Cuyuna Lakes State bike trail system has supported the significant rise in tourism to this area of state, and for good reason! Enjoy the 25+ miles of scenic paved trails and mountain bike trails through the Cuyuna Country State Recreation area. The nearby town of Crosby boasts ample unique accommodations like tiny houses, waterfront cabins, and more.
Stillwater day trip + Riverboat cruise – Stillwater, MN (Riverboat live music series through August 28) | More information
If you’re looking for an affordable one-day road trip, Stillwater is a perfect option the whole family will enjoy. Stillwater’s iconic Riverboat cruises are hosting a summer-long live music series—what better way to enjoy the St. Croix river with sunshine and live music? After your riverboat cruise, enjoy strolling Main St. and exploring the shops and restaurants.
About AAA - The Auto Club Group
The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 65 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA’s mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on social media.
The Auto Club Group (ACG), named a 2026 Forbes Most Trusted Company in America, is the second-largest AAA club in North America, with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG is part of the national AAA federation, which serves more than 66 million members across the United States and Canada. AAA’s mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, download the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on social media.