Car cruising is a social activity that primarily consists of driving a car. It is distinguished from regular driving by the social and recreational nature of the activity. Cruising culture was an evolution of old traditions of strolling down Main Street or around the town square. Although cruising was predominantly boys showing off their cars (ostensibly to meet girls), groups of girls joined in cruising as well. One appeal of cruising was that youths could evade the supervision of parents and family. There are two main types of cruise: regular cruises, also known as meets, and one-off cruises. The events that take place are similar; cars meet in car parks, park up or cruise (drive slowly) around a set route, and then disperse. Car cruises can be a meeting of car enthusiasts at a predetermined location, organized predominantly through the internet, mobile phone, word of mouth, or simply by a cruise being established enough that it becomes a regular event.

Car cruising is not always legal, as some drivers perform dangerous stunts. Attempts to legally define cruising have been difficult, as people have different interpretations of what constitutes cruising. However, car cruising has become a safe escape for many during the coronavirus pandemic, as it allows people to get behind the wheel, drive slowly, and often aimlessly, hoping to see and be seen.