Drawn in by the fanciful covers or the intricate hand-drawn cartography of early maps, or tracing the tremendous changes in the landscape brought about by the construction of the Interstate highway system, collectors find maps to be an inexpensive aid in armchair travel. Old maps are still widely available online and at antique stores, garage sales, and swap meets, and new ones may be just a toll-free call away at the many tourism departments.

Collectors joined together to promote the hobby and network with trading partners in the Road Map Collectors Association. Since starting 25 years ago, this group now has over 150 members, and holds an annual map swap meet and Expo to give collectors a chance to visit with each other and learn more about the hobby.