The 13 best truck stops in america

By Barry

September 29, 2023

Navigating the open road can be both an adventure and a challenge, especially when you're a truck driver who needs to rest, refuel and recharge. Where to stop isn't just a question of convenience: You need to find a location that has everything you need to keep on trucking.

In addition, what makes a great truck stop for one driver might not be the same for another. By understanding some of the qualities that make truck stops great — and where they are — you can make any route more comfortable and enjoyable, even if your stop is unexpected.

In this article, we’ll guide you through 13 of America’s best truck stops, each offering a unique mix of amenities, services and comforts.

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Table of Contents

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What makes a truck stop great?

For truckers, truck stops are essential pit stops that offer a range of amenities designed to make life on the road more manageable. It’s not always about the necessities like fuel. They may offer easy truck parking, repair service or even clean showers. These features can make the difference between a forgettable stop and one that becomes a regular go-to on your route. And, while not all truck stops are created equal, some stand out as must-see places for each region of the country.

Ready to discover the best truck stops America has to offer? Let's get this show on the road.

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Best Truck Stops in America

The United States is home to a vast network of truck stops, each offering a variety of services and amenities. However, some truly stand out for their commitment to meeting the unique needs of truck drivers. In the following sections we've curated a list of the best truck stops that go above and beyond to provide a superior experience on the road.

Let's get started by exploring these exceptional stops by region.

Best Northeast Stops

Flynn's Truck Plaza in Shrewsbury, MA

Flynn's Truck Plaza in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts is more than just a place to refuel: it's a haven for truckers. With spacious parking areas designed to accommodate even the largest rigs, Flynn's sets the standard for convenience. On-site repair services and a variety of dining options set this stop apart, making it a one-stop-shop for truckers looking to rest and recharge.

Dysart’s Restaurant & Truck Stop in Hermon, ME

Dysart's in Hermon, Maine is renowned for its homey atmosphere and exceptional amenities. Beyond the basics, Dysart's offers a full-service restaurant that serves home-cooked meals, a feature that's a big hit among truckers. Clean showers and a well-stocked convenience store add to the appeal, making it a reliably restful stop.

Keystone Restaurant & Truck Stop in Loretto, PA

Keystone Restaurant & Truck Stop in Loretto, Pennsylvania is a trucker's paradise. Offering ample parking and quality repair services, it also hosts a restaurant that serves up hearty meals 24/7. The unique feature here is an on-site barber shop, providing truckers with the opportunity for a quick, off-duty trim.

Beckley/Tamarack Travel Plaza in Beckley, WV

Beckley/Tamarack Travel Plaza in Beckley, West Virginia stands out for its unique blend of amenities and cultural offerings. In addition to standard truck stop features like spacious parking and clean showers, it houses a fine art gallery and a theater. This gives truckers a break from the road with an extra touch of culture and entertainment, too.

Best Southern Stops

Kenley 95 Petro in Kenly, NC

Kenley 95 Petro in Kenly, North Carolina truly understands truckers. With an expansive parking lot and top-notch repair services, it's already a strong contender. But the movie theater and gym set it apart, providing truckers with a unique way to unwind (and stay fit) on the road.

South of the Border in Hamer, SC

South of the Border in Hamer, South Carolina is definitely above-average for a truck stop. This iconic location offers more than just fuel and food; it's actually a mini-amusement park with a sombrero-shaped observation tower. Truckers can enjoy a variety of shops and even a reptile exhibit, making it a memorable stop with more than just the essentials. It makes a great date for couples who drive as a team.

Busy Bee Travel Center in Live Oak, FL

Busy Bee Travel Center in Live Oak, Florida, is a hive of activity and convenience. With clean showers and a well-stocked convenience store, it already ticks the basic boxes. What makes it special is its wide array of local honey products, giving truckers an extra sweet reason to stop by.

Big Horn Travel Center in Fort Worth, TX

Big Horn Travel Center in Fort Worth, Texas, goes big in true Texas fashion. Alongside the standard amenities like spacious parking and showers, truckers can also head to the shooting range to blow off some steam safely. It's a unique feature that sets it apart from the rest.

Noble's Restaurant and Truck Stop in Corinth, KY

Noble's Restaurant and Truck Stop in Corinth, Kentucky, welcomes truckers with a cozy atmosphere that they always appreciate. Beyond the standard amenities, Noble's stands out for its home-cooked Southern meals and live music events. It's a place where truckers can feel at home, even when they're far from it.

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Best Stops in the Midwest

The south has several great stops, but the list doesn't end there. The midwest beckons, with states like Illinois and Iowa making the list.

Big Apple Travel Center in Joplin, MO

Big Apple Travel Center in Joplin, Missouri, is a haven for truckers in the heartland. With its spacious parking and top-notch repair services, it's already a go-to for many. But what sets it apart is its pet-friendly amenities, including a dog park, making it a perfect stop for truckers with furry co-pilots.

Mach 1 in Frankfort, IL

Mach 1 in Frankfort, Illinois, lives up to its name by offering speedy and efficient services that truckers appreciate. Beyond the basics, Mach 1 offers a barber shop and a gaming area, to get a quick trim or enjoy some leisure time. It's these extra touches that make Mach 1 a standout stop in the Midwest.

lowa 80 Truck Stop in Walcott, IA

lowa 80 Truck Stop in Walcott, lowa, is often referred to as the "World's Largest Truck Stop," and for good reason. This massive facility offers everything a trucker could need and more, from a trucking museum to a dentist's office. It's not just a place to stop and refuel; it's a destination in itself.

Let's cross the Mississippi and head west to Oregon, Wyoming, and other pioneer states to learn about the best spots for truckers.

Best Stops in the West

Jubitz Travel Center in Portland, OR

Jubitz Travel Center in Portland, Oregon, is more than just a truck stop:it's a full-service entertainment complex. With its own cinema and live music venue, truckers can enjoy a bit of culture while on the road. Of course, it also offers all the essential amenities like spacious parking and quality repair services, making it a top choice for truckers in the Pacific Northwest.

Little America in Little America, WY

Little America in Wyoming is a truck stop that feels like a small town. With its own golf course and a hotel that rivals many in quality, it's a place where truckers can truly relax and rejuvenate. The facility also offers a wide range of dining options, from fast food to fine dining.

Ready to make your journey more comfortable and affordable?

Finding the right place to stop on the road shouldn't be a hassle. Now that you know what makes a truck stop truly great - from easy parking and repair services to showers and other amenities, we hope that deciding on a truck stop along your next route is a little easier. Our top picks across the United States each offer unique features to make your journey more comfortable and efficient.

At Engine, we work with a lot of truckers, and so we understand some of what it takes to succeed on the road. That's why we're proud to have over 700,000 properties to choose from, with more options along more routes than traditional OTAs. When truck stops are not enough, we can guide you to hotels that are equipped with truck parking, and help with other important driver needs: like late night booking and checking.

Ready to make your on-the-road experience even better?

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Article written by

Sara Kern

Sara Kern is a Copywriter at Engine. She worked as a writer in the tech and apparel industries for almost a decade before joining Engine, but also has experience coordinating business travel for fast-moving nonprofits, so she knows firsthand how hard it can be.