So, here is (perhaps) something of a surprise. A new study by WalletHub says the best state for a road trip in the U.S. is Minnesota.
The study considered a wide variety of criteria, including “fun, scenery, and affordability,” and looking at everything from the number of attractions in each state, to the quality of its roads, and naturally, the average cost of gas.
Travel and Leisure reports the North Star State has the fourth-highest spending per capita on parks and recreation, and the fourth-most fairs and festivals per capita during the summer, so there’s plenty to do. It’s also safe, with the second-fewest vehicle fatalities per million miles traveled, the fourth-best bridge quality in the nation, and the ninth-lowest prevalence of speeding. Last, but certainly not least, it’s also relatively affordable.
A lovely vista in Minnesota. Luke Tanis/Unsplash Photo
It shouldn’t come as a great surprise to anyone (like me) who lives on one of the Great Lakes. The scenery is just as spectacular in parts of Ontario as it is in California or Oregon or Washington state, so why not Minnesota? All those lakes, and the super-friendly locals, have to count for something.
Coming second was Utah, a remarkable driving trip state where I once took in four national parks and a state park in less than three days. The Beehive State (someone needs a better state name than this) was followed by New York, Florida, Texas, Maine, Georgia, North Carolina, and Ohio, another Great Lakes state.
As a native Californian, I’m somewhat surprised that it’s not in the top ten. Affordability could be an issue, but there’s no comparison (sorry Minnesota) with the scenery between The Golden State and the North Star State, which has nice lake views but nothing quite like Big Sur, and definitely no towering, snow-clad mountains such as Mount Shasta or Mount Whitney. And also no towering redwoods and no Death Valley, Golden Gate Bridge, Lake Tahoe or Yosemite. I’m also surprised that Oregon wouldn’t be here. Still, it’s a fun list for summer. Safe driving!
WHERE TO GO IN EUROPE THIS YEAR
Mallorca, Spain. Chloe-Lefleur/unsplash photo
Looking for a European island getaway? Forbes.com says a new ranking by Saga Holidays has some suggestions, factoring in key vacation prerequisites like weather, greenery and food. From volcanic landscapes to fascinating marine wildlife and sunshine galore to gastronomic paradise, here are some ideas for your next island break in Europe.
Coming out on top was Tenerife in the Canary Islands of Spain, which are off the coast of northwest Africa. La Palma in Mallorca came second. Which is interesting because Air Canada will soon launch direct flights to both destinations from Canada.
Coming third in the Saga Holidays study was Madeira (Portugal), followed by Korčula in Croatia and Mljet, Croatia.
I have a few personal faves, including Malta, the Italian island of Ponza, and the Isle of Arran in Scotland.
Meanwhile, MSN.com has a short look at less-crowded European destinations you might want to try. Their brief list detailed trips to Sibenik, Croatia (instead of Dubrovnik), Chioggia, Italy (instead of Venice) and Tarragona, Spain (instead of Barcelona). I don’t know Tarragona but I think Valencia is a lovely alternative to Barcelona.
ROYAL LAHAINA MAUI HOSTING MUSIC EVENT
In a historic celebration of Maui, Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra (HSO), in its 15th Anniversary Season recently designated as The Official State Orchestra of Hawai‘i, is set to return to Maui for the first time in 10 years on Saturday, September 19, 2026, 6:30PM – 9:00PM. In a symbolic celebration of September’s National Classical Music Month, MELE FOR MAUI is a free summer concert event to be held at Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows, fondly considered ‘The People’s Place,’ commemorating the legacy and resilience of Lahaina, Kihei, and Kula and the vibrant spirit of Maui.
A bungalow at the Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows in Maui, Hawaii.
Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows is a long-standing, popular place to stay on north Ka’anapali Beach on West Maui. It’s a fabulous area of the island, with amazing weather, fantastic beaches, excellent restaurants and first-rate shopping.
To learn more about MELE FOR MAUI please visit www.royallahaina.com/mele-for-maui.
