Florida was first in the U.S. for attractions, but came in near the bottom for safe roads.
Florida’s one of the best states to get around by car for a road trip during the Summer, according to a new study.
WalletHub found Florida is the fifth best state in the nation when it comes to travelling by auto before Fall sets in. Analysts with the personal finance website looked at 32 key metrics to compile its list ranging from the number of attractions to road quality to costs associated with road trips among other factors to compile a road trip score.
Florida racked up a score of 58.55 and, not surprisingly, finished first in the number of attractions, second in activities, sixth in nightlife options, 10th in car thefts per capita, 14th for the lowest price of three-star hotels and 16th for access to scenic byways.
With the Independence Day holiday stretch is in the rear view mirror, WalletHub analysts say they expect 72% of all Americans to take part in some sort of road trip while temperatures are comfortable and kids have to go back to school.
“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 road. The best states for summer road trips therefore are those that keep costs low while providing the best driving experience and most fun activities.”
While Florida has a lot going for it when it comes to motoring around the state, there are some drawbacks. It was ranked 49th among safest roads in the country and 21st for the overall cost of traveling by auto around the state.
Minnesota was tops in the country with a total score of 61.11 coming in third for safety. Utah came in second, Louisiana third and New York fourth.
Rhode Island came in 50th with a travel score of 37.66 and was preceded by Delaware in 49th, Connecticut 48th, California 47th and Maryland 46th.
