NC identified as a top summer road trip destination. What makes the state special?
Summer is the season for traveling and one of the best times for a road trip.
And North Carolina is among the top states to make a pit stop.
In WalletHub’s 2023’s Best & Worst States for Summer Road Trips, North Carolina ranked third as one of the most fun, scenic, and cost-friendly destinations based on costs, safety and the number of activities.
Out of all 50 states, North Carolina is on the list right behind Texas and New York.
“As a North Carolinian, we have an abundance of options to suit many interests,” Daniel J. Findley, associate director of the Institute for Transportation Research and Education at North Carolina State University, said. “On the eastern side of the state, NC 12 traverses the coast and outer banks with fantastic views of the coastline and access to beaches and lighthouse.
“On the western side of the state, the Cherohala Skyway features amazing views of the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests (each lends part of their name to the name of the road), which is flanked by scenic overlooks and access to hiking trails.
RELATED: Here are the 30 free things you can do and see right now without leaving NC
In addition to North Carolina ranking third nationally overall, here’s how the Tar Heel state ranks based on specific key factors:
Road tripping in North Carolina (1=Best; 25=Avg.):
20th: Number of attractions
6th: Lowest price of three-star hotel room
13th: Average gas prices
20th: Nightlife options per capita
20th: Car thefts per capita
4th: Access to scenic byways
22nd: Lowest price of camping
27th: Driving laws rating
Here’s what other states made the list of top-rated summer road trip destinations:
Texas
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Idaho
Louisiana
Florida
Wyoming
Minnesota
Maine
Alaska
Utah
Pennsylvania
Alabama
Virginia
Nevada
Georgia
Michigan
Colorado
Missouri
