6. Alabama
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- Composite score: 84.83
- Average hotel nightly rate: $124
- Average gas price: $3.94
- Cost of everyday expenses (compared to average): -11.2%
- Annual National Park Service visits: 1,433,413
- Total National Park Service sites: 6
- Arts, entertainment & recreation density: 2.7
- Share of roads in good condition: 72.8%
With nearly 73% of its highways rated in good condition, Alabama provides a remarkably smooth drive that is gentle on both your vehicle and your wallet. Daily travel costs here are a major draw, with everyday expenses tracking 11.2% below the national average. Road trippers can explore a rich variety of terrain, driving from the mountain overlooks of the Talladega Scenic Drive down to the white sand beaches of Gulf Shores. The state is also packed with historic landmarks, allowing travelers to tour the USS Alabama Battleship in Mobile or follow the deeply impactful United States Civil Rights Trail. While its recreation density sits on the lower side nationally, the sheer diversity of sights paired with deep affordability makes the state a compelling summer route.
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