Trucking is more than a job—it’s a way of life. It has its own culture, music, and food. For anyone who’s spent time on the road, you’ll know that one of the most central components to this way of life is the truck stop. Truck stops are places where the otherwise lonely existence of a trucker comes alive. They’re social hubs where truckers go to rest, socialize, and let off some steam. Here at REY Logistics, we’ve picked the top 5 truck stops in the US and explained why they’re so great.
1. Iowa 80 – Walcott, IA
Known as “Trucker’s Disneyland”, Iowa 80 is one of the country’s most renowned truck stops, and for good reason. First opened in 1964, this huge truck stop complex offers just about everything you could imagine including a dentist, barbershop, service center, pet wash, private showers, a trucking museum, and eight restaurants. With so much going on, anyone could spend days there. As most truckers only pass through for the night or a couple of hours, they will need to visit many times before they’ve explored the whole place!
2. Jubitz Travel Center – Portland, OR
In true Portland fashion, this notorious truck stop offers top-class grub and a night to remember. Featuring an onsite movie theatre and the amazing Cascade Grill restaurant, you can relax with a great meal and unwind while watching the latest Hollywood movies. If you feel like blowing off some steam and having a dance, the Ponderosa Lounge & Grill is Portland’s largest country and western bar—the perfect place to show off your moves on the dance floor!
3. Johnson’s Corner Truck Stop – Johnstown, CO
If you’ve got a hankering for something sweet and you happen to be passing through Johnstown, CO, you really need to stop in at Johnson’s Corner Truck Stop. The bakery serves some of the best baked goods you’ll ever taste. Their famous cinnamon rolls are not to be missed. Besides the mouthwatering food, there’s also free Wi-Fi, CAT scales, a TV lounge, and even a place where you can get your DOT physicals done.
4. Coldfoot Camp – Fairbanks, AK
Coldfoot Camp is the world’s furthest north truck stop, but there’s much more to it than this novelty accolade. It offers brilliant food, excellent service, and a great (and very warm) room for the night. Best of all, the camp offers the best views of the northern lights during the winter months—no need for a movie theatre at this truck stop!
5. Palace Truck Stop and Casino – New Orleans, LA
If you’re hauling your load down by the Big Easy, you can’t miss out on the spectacular Palace Truck Stop and Casino. With a massive parking lot, showers, free Wi-Fi, incredible cajun food, and a large TV lounge, there’s everything you could want. If you like to try your
luck, there’s a 24-hour casino where you can have some (responsible) fun to pass the time. Even if you don’t spend much, it’s a great place to get complimentary snacks and drinks while you wait.
Trucking in the US is more than just a job. It takes you to places that most people only see in the movies! If you’re heading near any of these outstanding truck stops on your route, make sure you stop in to get the full experience.
