Vrbo reveals the top American road trips under 250 miles  

The Great American Road Trip season is in full swing. Road trips are the top planned vacation type in 2026 with nearly half of Americans planning to take one this year. To celebrate America250 and the 100th anniversary of Route 66, Vrbo is sharing the most popular road trips and stops across the country. 

“Nearly a century ago, roadside tourist cabins helped launch America’s road trip culture. Today, Vrbos are carrying that tradition forward, giving travelers a comfortable place to stay between destinations,” said Melanie Fish, Vrbo Travel Expert.  

Where to stay along the “Mother Road”     

Route 66 has inspired movies, TV, music, and 100 years of aspirational American road trips. Sometimes the hardest part of planning a road trip is figuring out where to stay. These “Loved by Guests” Vrbos are close to the Mother Road, family-friendly detours, and must-see stops:    

• Chicago, IL: There’s been a double-digit increase in searches for Vrbos in Chicago. Kick off the journey from a 2-bedroom home in the Loop, near the official starting point of Route 66.  

• Amarillo, TX: Stop in Amarillo for the Cadillac Ranch and some of the best-preserved Route 66-era shops. Stay in a mid-century modern home with a fire pit and grill. 

• Flagstaff, AZ: Step back in time among historic buildings and neon signs, then recharge in a luxury forest cabin .     

• Albuquerque, NM: Explore Nob Hill’s vintage neon, boutique shops, and unique architecture. Stay in a one-of-a-kind adobe for a Southwest experience.   

• Santa Monica, CA: Santa Monica marks the end of Route 66 at the iconic “End of the Trail” sign.  Searches on Vrbo have jumped. Celebrate the finish with a stay in a newly remodeled waterfront home on the Venice Canal.   

Most Popular Road Trips Under 250 Miles   

Because not everyone can spare time for the 2,400-mile trip on Route 66, Vrbo data revealed the top road trips under 250 miles.  

• Washington, D.C. to Delaware Coast, DE (90 miles) 
• Philadelphia, PA to Cape May, New Jersey (95 miles) 

• Philadelphia, PA to Ocean City, MD (150 miles) 

• Boston, MA to Cape Cod, MA (70 miles) 

• Boston, MA to White Mountain, NH (165 miles) 

• Charlotte, NC to Myrtle Beach, SC (175 miles) 

• Houston, TX to Galveston, TX (50 miles) 

• Montgomery, AL to Gulf Shores, AL (195 miles) 

• Portland, OR to Bend, OR (165 miles) 

Vrbo’s Tips for Planning Your Road Trip Stops  

• Use last-minute deals: When on the road, not every stop is planned weeks in advance. Use Vrbo filters to find properties offering discounts for bookings made within 14 days, helping travelers save on last-minute or even same-day bookings. 

• Filter for your road trip needs: Whether you need an EV charger, pet-friendly accommodations, or parking for multiple cars, Vrbo’s filters make it easy to find homes with the amenities that matter most for your journey. 

• Book with confidence with Premier Hosts: When making stops in unfamiliar destinations, look for Vrbo’s Premier Host badge. These highly– rated hosts are recognized for delivering excellent guest experiences.