I think most people don't do that in America

How many families can afford the travel costs of visiting a dozen plus schools? I doubt it's a common practice. I certainly can't afford that long trip and my household income is above the median income of the whole population. So I don't think most American familes travel to visit colleges because it's quite expensive with the hotel fee, food, gas, and the time lost from not working.  Also when you spend $$$ for taking this one kid to see the places, you have to leave the other kids to someone else's care. Only the wealthy, upper income families with both parents can do this. Single parent and low to median income families cannot afford it. I only know one kid, both of her parents are doctors, made this trip. She went to Oberlin college to study music. Definitely privileged.