Road Trip Day

Road Trip Day: Celebrating the Open Road

Road Trip Day is a celebration of adventure, freedom, and the joy of exploring the world on wheels. Whether it’s a short weekend getaway or a cross-country journey, road trips have a way of creating unforgettable memories. This special day reminds us to embrace the thrill of the journey as much as the destination.

Quick Facts

When is it? The Friday before Memorial Day each year (May 23 in 2025).
Tagged as: Travel, Adventure, Exploration.
What’s the hashtag? #NationalRoadTripDay.
When was it founded? 2019.
Who founded it? Pilot Flying J, North America’s largest travel center operator.

History of Road Trip Day

The origins of National Road Trip Day can be traced back to America’s long-standing love affair with road travel. The first recorded road trip occurred in 1903 when Horatio Nelson Jackson made a bet to drive from San Francisco to New York City in under 90 days. This journey, completed in just 63 days, marked a significant moment in automotive history and inspired countless others to explore the country by car.

In 2019, Pilot Flying J established National Road Trip Day to coincide with the long Memorial Day weekend, making it an ideal time for families and friends to embark on their summer adventures.

Timeline

1903: Horatio Nelson Jackson completes the first U.S. transcontinental road trip.
1930s: Route 66 opens, becoming a symbol of American road travel.
1950s: The Interstate Highway System expands, revolutionizing road trips.
2019: National Road Trip Day is officially established.

Dates from 2025 to 2030

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	May 23	Friday
2026	May 22	Friday
2027	May 28	Friday
2028	May 26	Friday
2029	May 25	Friday
2030	May 24	Friday

Observed

Road Trip Day is observed by hitting the open road! Families and friends pack their cars with snacks, playlists, and maps to embark on journeys that strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.

Fun Facts About Road Trips

Route 66 is often called “The Mother Road” for its historical significance.
The longest U.S. interstate is I-90, stretching from Boston to Seattle.
The first woman to cross the U.S. by car was Alice Huyler Ramsey in 1909.
Road trips are known for quirky roadside attractions like giant statues and unique museums.

Quiz

What year was National Road Trip Day established?
What famous route is known as “The Mother Road”?
Who completed the first U.S. transcontinental road trip in 1903?

Answers:

2019
Route 66
Horatio Nelson Jackson

FAQs

What should I pack for a road trip?
Essentials include snacks, water, a first-aid kit, and a map.

How can I make my road trip budget-friendly?
Plan your route carefully, pack meals instead of eating out, and look for free attractions along your path.

Why is National Road Trip Day celebrated before Memorial Day?
It marks the unofficial start of summer travel season in the U.S.

What makes road trips special?
They offer freedom, bonding opportunities, and a chance to explore hidden gems.

How can I celebrate Road Trip Day?
Plan a trip with friends or family, explore scenic routes, and enjoy roadside attractions!

Importance of National Road Trip Day

This day emphasizes the importance of breaking free from daily routines and exploring new places. It fosters connections with family and friends while promoting responsible travel practices that respect local communities and environments.