Vacation News

Texas gives up crown as top U.S. summer road-trip destination

Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo is a popular stop for road trippers heading out of Texas.

A mere two years ago, Texas was the No. 1 state for summer road trips, but now it lags far behind: The Lone Star State has dropped down to a sorry No. 8 on WalletHub's latest 2025 list of "Best & Worst States for Summer Road Trips."

Each year, the report compares all 50 states to figure out which are the most wallet-friendly, safe places to travel with plenty of fun activities for all. The report analyzes factors that road trippers prioritize for their trip plans, such as the average gas prices in each state, the type of attractions in each state, and more.

Texas was pushed aside by Minnesota, which climbed through the ranks to claim the No. 1 spot this year.

Texas salvaged its status with its affordable costs, with the report citing gas prices and inflation rates as major concerns for travelers this summer.

"[Gas prices have] remained high this year, with the national average at over $3.130 per gallon now," the report's author wrote. "On top of that, [travelers will] need to consider accommodations, activities and dining, all of which continue to be impacted by inflation."

Texas also performed well in the category of "attractions," ranking No. 4 nationwide. (WalletHub has previously praised Texas' family-friendly activities such as zoos and amusement parks, while the beach remains a popular choice for travelers that need a coastal getaway.)

Sunflower Beach, Port Aransas Texans love the beach. Photo courtesy of Sunflower Beach

Texas didn't do as well when it comes to safety, ranking 39th for the second year in a row (though the report didn't explain why). Factors included the road quality in each state, the number of car thefts per 1,000 residents, the number of uninsured drivers, and the rate of violent crimes per 1,000 residents.

Despite Texas' relatively low safety ranking, WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo says states like Texas were dubbed the best places for road trips because they "keep costs low while providing the best driving experience and most fun activities."

The top 10 best states for summer road trips in 2025 are:

No. 1 – Minnesota
No. 2 – New York
No. 3 – Ohio
No. 4 – Utah
No. 5 – Louisiana
No. 6 – Florida
No. 7 – Idaho
No. 8 – Texas
No. 9 – North Carolina
No. 10 – Pennsylvania

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Refreshed & renewed

Luxury Texas Hill Country resort unveils stylish spa glow-up

Photo courtesy of Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas

The spa boutique is all Hill Country charm.

The Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas in San Antonio is giving guests a reason to linger longer: The Windflower Spa has completed a full refresh with new treatment rooms, a sunlit event space, poolside lounges, and upgraded amenities integrated with the resort’s new luxury villas.

“We are thrilled to continue to elevate our resort experience with the debut of the updated Windflower Spa, available to our guests and local community,” says Steven J. Smith, General Manager at Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas, in a release. “Our gorgeous and tranquil setting, surrounded by giant oak trees and lush greenery, lends itself to relaxation and serenity.”

The spa renovation includes a 1,105-square-foot customizable event space, the Talpa Room, decked out with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the outdoor pool. The venue offers a space for wellness-themed gatherings and group events.

The nearby pool has been refinished and updated with seating areas featuring new lounge chairs and revamped landscaping. Inside, the spa received snazzy new décor, artwork, fixtures, and a salon equipped with state-of-the-art manicure and pedicure stations.

The pool got a refresh, too.Photo courtesy of Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas

Photo courtesy of Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas

The spa boutique is all Hill Country charm.

Keeping with the ranch-chic theme, Windflower’s spa treatments draw inspiration from local botanicals and the property’s legacy. Services include CBD-infused facials, a deluxe pedicure retreat, and Aunt Mary’s Herbal Remedies, which features aromatherapy, gentle body brushing, and a soothing massage.

The spa renovations come on the heels of the resort adding five new luxury villas in June. The 2,336-square-foot ranch-style buildings, ideal for family get-togethers or group getaways, include a roomy open-plan living and dining space, a fully-equipped kitchen, and two patios with barbecue grills, firepits, and seating.

Still to come is the resort’s most ambitious project to date. In the spring, the property will debut a 2.2-acre man-made crystal-clear lagoon with white sandy beaches, private cabanas, water sports, and a poolside restaurant and bar.

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