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While traveling across the United States you might see truck stops throughout your trip. Although they are all convenient, some stand out more than others. We already know truckers are professionals in navigating the road, but sometimes it is good to research what’s out there and explore new destinations on your travels. From huge truck stops that are breaking world records to small and homey truck stops, we will go over our top 5 that are located throughout the East, Midwest, and South. Let’s see which ones are the coolest on the road (at least in our opinion)...

1. Iowa 80 Truck Stop : World’s largest truck stop with amenities for both truckers and pets

Number one would have to be the World’s Largest Truck Stop, Iowa 80 located in Walcott, Iowa. Instead of listing the things they do have, you might as well list the things they do not have because they pretty much cover all the bases. Iowa 80 of course has a convenience store and truck wash for drivers, but they also have a pet wash for those traveling with their pet, a museum, a movie theater, a barbershop, a library, a chiropractor, a dentist, a workout room, and an embroidery shop. This truck stop is a great resource for self-care, anything you need, Iowa 80 will deliver it.

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2. Wally’s Truck Stop: Great American Road Trip experience with specialty gifts and treats 

In Pontiac, Illinois and Fenton, Missouri, there is a truck stop that invites everyone to stop in with their “Great American Road Trip” sign. Wally’s is filled with gifts, hot meals, specialty snacks from popcorn to baked goods, jerky to ice cream. Whatever you are craving, Wally’s will fulfill it! Packed with awesome items and a lively atmosphere, Wally’s will provide a genuinely enjoyable experience for all!

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3. Keystone Truck Stop: Hole-in-the-wall pit stop with free parking and a home like feel

home-likeLocated right off of Route 22 in Loretto, Pennsylvania the Keystone Restaurant and Truck Stop is a hole-in-the-wall truck stop that is sure to satisfy you whether you need a space to fuel up and park or to grab dinner. It might seem old school, but it has that sense of nostalgia when you see it. They offer plenty of free truck parking spots, just what every trucker wants! Another plus is that they have a menu full of home-style cooking, from meatloaf to pie, you will be sure to get the feeling of home when you’re at the Keystone Restaurant and Truck Stop. Based on everyone’s reviews, they also offer great service with their kind staff, another plus! 

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4. Wawa’s: East Coast chain known for a clean and welcoming environment 

Wawa’s is a chain truck stop and convenience store that opened up in the 80’s, their main goal is to offer visitors a “sense of place” meaning they take pride in each and every one of their store’s environments. They are now located all along the East Coast from New Jersey to Virginia, each location offers an extensive menu. They are known for their famous iced teas and sandwiches but are now also offering healthier food options and even catering! Fun fact, Wawa is the Ojibwe word for snow goose! Wawa’s is a truck stop that gives back to the community. They launched the Wawa Foundation in 2014, focusing on health, fighting hunger, and everyday heroes. Great to see this chain truck stop supporting good causes.

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5. Buc-ee’s: Record-breaking stop with a lot to offer 

Buc-ee’s is another chain travel center and truck stop that entered the industry back in the 80’s. They are located in almost 50 different locations from Florida to Texas, they are known for having clean bathrooms and some of the largest fueling station lots you’ll ever see. You might be familiar with their mascot, a cartoon beaver, hence the name, Buc-ee’s which is a convenience store sensation.  Their location in Sevierville, Tennessee broke the record for being the world’s largest convenience store, being 74,707 square feet, which is about 30 times the size of the average convenience store which is typically 2,500 square feet. Their location in Katy, Texas also holds the world’s longest car wash, which is 255 feet long! In addition to their world records, they also have a variety of hot meals and specialty snacks, and Buc-ee’s gifts that are perfect for you to take with you and share (or not). 

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Have a favorite truck stop? Take a photo next time and share why you think that truck stop is great and send it to marketing@real.us.

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