The Cool Side Of Road Travel
Road trips become magical adventures when you discover the right places to stop along the way. Thankfully, America's highways hide extraordinary rest areas that transform quick breaks into memorable experiences. These aren't just places to stretch your legs but attractions worth planning your route around. Here's our collection of 20 remarkable American rest stops that you need to check out on your next road trip.
The Ultimate Rest Stop - Little America Travel Center In Wyoming by Someplace or Another
1. Western New York Welcome Center, Grand Island, New York
A grand welcome awaits travelers at the Western New York Welcome Center. This state-of-the-art facility serves as the perfect gateway to Niagara Falls. Visitors can explore regional culture through engaging exhibits and sample local delicacies at the Taste NY Market.
Andre Carrotflower on Wikimedia
2. Alligator Alley Rest Stops, Everglades, Florida
The Alligator Alley rest stops along Interstate 75 are scenic spots in the Florida Everglades that provide safe viewing areas. Here, travelers can spot native alligators and diverse bird species. Shaded picnic areas let visitors relax while enjoying sweeping sunset views.
3. Iowa 80 Truck Stop, Walcott, Iowa
America's crown jewel of truck stops awaits travelers on I-80 in Walcott. The sprawling Iowa 80 earned its title as the world's largest truck stop by offering an impressive trucking museum, massive retail store, barbershop, and even a pet wash station.
formulanone from Huntsville, United States on Wikimedia
4. South Of The Border, Dillon, South Carolina
South of the Border stands as an unforgettable roadside adventure. Located where the Carolinas meet, this iconic attraction draws travelers with its giant sombrero observation tower, playful billboards, and endless photo opportunities. Its kitschy charm makes every visit memorable.
Leonard J. DeFrancisci on Wikimedia
5. Buc-ee’s, New Braunfels, Texas
The famous beaver mascot of Buc-ee's welcomes visitors to New Braunfels' premier rest stop. Road trippers marvel at the immaculate facilities and expansive store space. Fresh snacks—including their signature beaver nuggets—line the aisles alongside unique gifts, creating an essential Texas travel experience.
6. Tamarack Marketplace, Beckley, West Virginia
Local artistry thrives at Tamarack Marketplace, where a bold red peaked roof catches every traveler's eye. This creative sanctuary along the West Virginia Turnpike features glass blowing workshops, Appalachian heritage displays, and a welcoming food court. Over 2,800 regional artists showcase their work.
Tamarack in West Virginia: West Virginia Made Items by The Traveling Underwood
7. Rio Grande Gorge Rest Area, Taos, New Mexico
At the Rio Grande Gorge Rest Area, desert meets drama in spectacular fashion. The massive canyon cuts through the area, while convenient viewing areas let travelers safely appreciate its grandeur. Here, you get some of New Mexico's most impressive natural scenery.
8. Jubitz Travel Center, Portland, Oregon
Since 1952, the Jubitz Travel Center has been Portland's premier roadside attraction. A sophisticated stop along I-5, it features an 80-seat theater, the lively Ponderosa Lounge with pool tables and live music, and a welcoming motel. It's called the "World's Classiest Truck Stop."
Jubitz Travel Center by jubitzcorp
9. Bear Lake Rest Area & Overlook, Garden City, Utah
Bear Lake Rest Area stands out as a photographer's paradise. The overlook showcases the lake's famous turquoise waters against a dramatic mountain backdrop. Summer visitors discover an extra treat from Garden City's celebrated raspberry vendors.
10. Will Rogers Archway, Vinita, Oklahoma
Travelers on I-44 near Vinita shouldn't miss the spectacular Will Rogers Archway. This innovative rest stop features a McDonald's and other eateries suspended above the highway. Named after Oklahoma's cherished humorist, it transforms a simple food stop into an upgraded roadside adventure.
11. Crystal Springs Fountain Rest Area, Crystal Springs, North Dakota
A cherished piece of Depression-era artistry awaits travelers on I-94 in North Dakota. The Crystal Springs Fountain Rest Area showcases beautiful stonework and a continuously flowing artesian spring. Its peacefulness offers a perfect chance to refuel and recharge.
Andrew Filer from Seattle (ex-Minneapolis) on Wikimedia
12. Cumberland Gap Tunnel Welcome Center, Cumberland Gap, Tennessee
This welcome center connects three states and centuries of history. Once called the First Great Gateway to the West, the stop provides fascinating exhibits about frontier life. Visitors can explore surrounding trails for stunning mountain vistas.
13. Trail’s Travel Center, Albert Lea, Minnesota
Trail's Travel Center delivers an unexpected oasis along I-35 in Albert Lea, Minnesota. Road warriors appreciate the spotless facilities, while entertainment seekers love the on-site movie theater. From the full-service tavern to the cozy chapel, this stop offers both comfort and convenience.
Learning a Lesson in Flat Bedding and Visiting Trail's Travel Center by Trucking Resources
14. Little America Travel Center, Little America, Wyoming
For decades, Little America Travel Center has served as Wyoming's premier rest stop. The facility's countdown billboards build anticipation for miles. Travelers discover a complete package: clean restrooms, fuel stations, picnic spots, and those beloved 75-cent ice cream cones.
Little America, Wyoming Travel Center by Adventures With Jeff Martinez
15. Bonneville Salt Flats Rest Area, Wendover, Utah
The pristine white surface of Bonneville Salt Flats greets travelers at this exceptional rest area off I-80. Near Wendover, the surreal scenery appears like a giant natural mirror, stretching endlessly toward the horizon. Race fans recognize this spot as sacred ground.
Pink Sherbet Photography from USA on Wikimedia
16. Babcock Memorial Park, Elk River, Minnesota
Travelers seeking a serene break will find solace at Babcock Memorial Park. This Minnesota gem, positioned along the mighty Mississippi River in Elk River, provides pristine picnic areas and scenic walking paths where visitors can decompress from their journey.
ElkRiverCommunications on Wikimedia
17. Devils Tower Rest Area, Sundance, Wyoming
This extraordinary rest stop offers travelers pristine views of Devils Tower, a formation that gained Hollywood fame in Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Located near Sundance, the area remains sacred to Plains Indian tribes and provides peaceful picnic spots overlooking the Black Hills.
18. Columbia Gorge Scenic Rest Area, Cascade Locks, Oregon
Stop at the Columbia Gorge Rest Area and discover more than just a break spot. The site delivers front-row views of windswept cliffs and the mighty Columbia River. Visitors can walk scenic trails or relax at peaceful picnic tables.
Bala from Seattle, USA on Wikimedia
19. Vermont I-89 Sharon Welcome Center, Sharon, Vermont
The Sharon Welcome Center stands as Vermont's crown jewel of rest stops, offering sweeping views of the Green Mountains. Travelers can browse local artisanal products while enjoying the center's rustic architecture, and the staff make every visitor feel like a welcomed neighbor.
Sharon Northbound Welcome Center, Sharon, Vermont, USA by TheSkyIsMyRoof
20. Okahumpka Service Plaza, Okahumpka, Florida
Located on Florida's Turnpike, the Okahumpka Service Plaza delivers everything travelers need for a refreshing break. The facility's modern design welcomes visitors with pristine restrooms and multiple dining options. Drivers appreciate the well-maintained grounds and convenient fuel stations on their Florida adventures.
