As a trucker, finding the best truck stops along your route is essential for a smooth and convenient journey. Truck stops not only provide fuel and restrooms but also offer amenities like showers, laundry facilities, and parking spaces. With over 2,500 truck stops in the United States, it can be overwhelming to determine which ones are worth a visit. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the 10 best truck stops in America, based on ratings and reviews from experienced truckers.
What Makes a Truck Stop the Best?
Before we dive into the list of the top truck stops in America, it’s important to understand what sets them apart from the rest. Seasoned truckers consider several factors when determining the quality of a truck stop. These factors include:
- Convenience: Truck stops that are easily accessible from the highway are preferred by truckers, as they don’t want to deviate too far from their routes.
- Truck Parking: Parking is a major concern for truckers, so the best truck stops offer ample parking spaces for commercial vehicles.
- Amenities: Truck stops that provide additional amenities like showers, laundry, weigh scales, and truck maintenance services are highly regarded by truckers.
Now, let’s explore the 10 best truck stops in America, based on feedback from experienced drivers.
1. Iowa 80 Truck Stop (Walcott, Iowa)
The Iowa 80 Truck Stop in Walcott, Iowa, has consistently been rated as the best truck stop in America. Known as “The World’s Largest Truckstop,” it offers an array of amenities and services that cater to the needs of truckers. With 900 truck parking spaces, 20 showers, truck maintenance facilities, and even a movie theater, Iowa 80 Truck Stop provides everything a trucker could ask for. It also features eight restaurants, including options for chiropractic and dental services. On average, it serves over 5,000 customers daily.
2. Kenly 95 Petro (Kenly, N.C.)
Kenly 95 Petro, located in Kenly, North Carolina, is renowned as the largest truck stop on the East Coast. Owned by the same group as Iowa 80 Truck Stop, it has garnered praise for its exceptional services and facilities. With a barbershop, truck showroom, truck service center, and 350 truck parking spots, Kenly 95 Petro ensures that truckers have everything they need. It also offers a variety of dining options and features a truck wash for a complete truck care experience.
3. Jubitz Travel Center (Portland, Ore.)
Situated in Portland, Oregon, the Jubitz Travel Center has gained recognition as one of the top truck stops in America. It offers 250 free and 18 reserved truck parking spots, ensuring that truckers can find a place to park even during peak hours. In addition to showers, towels, and weigh scales, Jubitz Travel Center provides amenities like a dog wash, driver lounge, and truck service center. Adjacent to the truck stop, the Jubitz Marketplace offers a range of services and accommodations, including a barbershop, cinema, and postal services.
4. Big Apple Travel Center (Joplin, Mo.)
Located in Joplin, Missouri, the Big Apple Travel Center is a favorite among truckers due to its clean facilities and diverse food options. It offers convenience store snacks and even features an Indian food take-out café called Rasoí. With free Wi-Fi, charging stations, showers, a dog park, and other amenities, Big Apple Travel Center ensures that truckers have a comfortable and enjoyable stop. It is conveniently situated just off Interstate 44, making it easily accessible for truckers on the go.
5. Dysart’s Restaurant & Truck Stop (Hermon, Maine)
Dysart’s Restaurant & Truck Stop in Hermon, Maine, has been a go-to stop for truckers since 1967. This family-owned truck stop is open 24/7 and offers a range of amenities and services. With two restaurants, eight convenience stores, showers, free Wi-Fi, a bakery, and a full-service truck and tire center, Dysart’s caters to all the needs of truckers. It even gained national recognition when one of its commercials was featured on Saturday Night Live.
6. South of the Border (Hamer, S.C.)
Situated in Hamer, South Carolina, South of the Border is not only a popular tourist destination but also a renowned truck stop. Offering restaurants, gas stations, a motel, mini-golf course, shopping, an amusement park, and even an indoor reptile display, this truck stop provides a unique experience for truckers. Despite its many attractions, it remains a trucker-friendly stop with ample parking and facilities for truckers on the road.
7. Flynn’s Truck Plaza (Shrewsbury, Mass.)
Known as New England’s largest family-owned truck stop, Flynn’s Truck Plaza in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, provides truckers with exclusive access to facilities like on-site laundry and shower facilities. Since its establishment in 1935, it has expanded to offer 24/7 access to multiple diesel pumps, free truck parking, an on-site Dunkin Donuts, TV lounges, a trucker’s store, and a convenience store. Flynn’s Truck Plaza is a reliable and convenient stop for truckers in the New England area.
8. Big Horn Travel Center (Fort Worth, Texas)
Located in Rhome, Texas, in the greater Fort Worth area, Big Horn Travel Center is a 24-hour truck stop that offers numerous amenities and services. With multiple diesel fuel lanes, public parking, showers, CAT scales, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, a wildlife exhibit, a food court, and on-site service facilities, Big Horn Travel Center ensures that truckers have everything they need for a comfortable stop. The facility is staffed with TIA and ASE certified technicians, providing truckers with peace of mind.
9. Little America (Little America, Wyo.)
Little America Travel Center in Little America, Wyoming, is a 24-hour truck stop located off Interstate 80. It offers a range of services and amenities, including the Fuel Center Hot Grill and Deli, fueling islands, a driver’s lounge, showers and bathtubs, laundry facilities, a convenience store, and a U.S. post office. Little America also provides daily auto and commercial truck services through its Rocky Mountain Truck Center, ensuring that truckers can find assistance when needed.
10. Keystone Restaurant & Truck Stop (Loretto, Penn.)
Located in Loretto, Pennsylvania, the Keystone Restaurant & Truck Stop is a hidden gem for truckers traveling on Route 22. It offers a cozy stop with amenities such as showers, a deli, trailer drop, convenience store, and parking. The restaurant at Keystone is known for its tasty homemade meals, providing truckers with a satisfying dining experience. Truckers can rest and refuel at this welcoming truck stop while enjoying the warm hospitality of the staff.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best truck stops in America, seasoned truckers have spoken. From the Iowa 80 Truck Stop in Walcott, Iowa, to the Keystone Restaurant & Truck Stop in Loretto, Pennsylvania, these top-rated truck stops offer convenience, ample parking, and a wide range of amenities to cater to the needs of truckers. Whether you’re in need of a hot meal, a refreshing shower, or a safe place to park, these truck stops provide a reliable and comfortable stop along your journey. So, the next time you hit the road, be sure to check out one of these 10 best truck stops in America for an exceptional trucking experience.
Additional Information: For more information on truck stops and to access a free truck stop guide, visit Trucker Tools.
