As the United States approaches its 250th birthday, the Trump Administration is rolling out a nationwide initiative encouraging Americans to explore the country by car. Branded as “The Great American Road Trip,” the effort is part of a broader campaign to mark the nation’s semiquincentennial.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) is partnering with The Great American Road Trip Inc. to curate a list of more than 250 destinations across the country. The initiative emphasizes lesser-known locations; small towns, family-owned restaurants, and “hidden gems” rather than major metropolitan centers or traditional tourist hotspots.
According to the department, participating lawmakers will distribute “Great American Road Trip Passports,” small booklets that travelers can stamp at featured locations. Each stop will also include a QR code offering additional information, creating an interactive experience for participants.
Among the highlighted destinations are a mix of historic, cultural, and natural sites. These include the Mark Twain House, the New England Aquarium, the National Railroad Museum, and the The Alamo. Outdoor attractions such as New River Gorge National Park and Grand Teton National Park are also featured.
Travelers are encouraged to take part in themed experiences, such as exploring the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, visiting Haystack Rock, or sampling regional foods like Vermont’s cheese. The initiative is designed to highlight the variety and culture of American landscapes and communities.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy framed the effort as more than just tourism, describing road travel as a way for Americans to better understand the country’s identity and character. He emphasized that experiencing the nation firsthand—through its towns, people, and geography—offers a deeper perspective than what’s possible via digital or media consumption.
“The Great American Road Trip” is one of several programs tied to the broader “Freedom 250” initiative, a nonprofit-backed campaign established to commemorate the nation’s founding. Other planned events include the “250 Grand Prix,” an IndyCar-style race scheduled to take place in Washington, D.C., as well as a “Great American State Fair” on the National Mall beginning in June.
Additional events range from athletic competitions featuring high school students nationwide to cultural and religious gatherings, including a May celebration titled “Rededicate 250: National Jubilee of Prayer, Praise, and Thanksgiving.” Organizers describe these efforts as an opportunity to reflect on the country’s history while fostering national unity.
Festivities officially began on December 31, 2025, with a countdown event illuminating the Washington Monument. With a full calendar of activities planned throughout the year, the administration is positioning the anniversary as both a celebration and a moment of national reflection—encouraging Americans to engage with the country not just in theory, but experientially, by hitting the open road.
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What a great idea! I have ridden back roads, as much as possible, on my motorcycle and have visited 26 states so far starting in California and as far east as Ohio. It is the best way to see the country either by car or other means. You see hidden gems, wave at farmers, ride through corn fields on both sides of the road, etc. I just turned 80, still like back road trips and hope to take another, budget allowing. LOL!