Exit ahead: 11 truck stops worth the detour

Heart-stopping vistas, legendary highways, iconic destinations. It seems that everyone has a bucket list of must-see travel spots. So, even if you’re a carrier with a million miles in the rearview mirror, you’ll appreciate our list of one-of-a-kind truck stops. It features places with tasty food, a bit of interesting history, or an extra level of comfort for the road-weary. After all, when drivers have something to look forward to, the miles just seem to go faster.

1. Iowa 80 Truckstop

They grow ‘em big in the Hawkeye state. The Iowa 80 Truckstop, just a few miles west of the Mississippi River on I-80 in Walcott, claims to be the world’s largest. The long list of carrier amenities includes a “Supertruck Showroom,” chiropractor, truck museum, and more. Be sure to swing through in mid-July for their annual Truckers Jamboree.

2. The Tennessean Travel Stop

Off I-65 in Cornersville, the Tennessean Travel Stop offers over 150 truck parking spots, and as the home of Pops Barbeque, they need every one of them, too. If you’re looking for an interesting souvenir, browse the general store that features hand-carved furniture and hard-to-find gourmet foods. Got a furry sidekick? Take them to the new pet park located behind the main building.

3. Trail Travel Center

If you’re looking to watch the home team when you’re on the road, the Trails Travel Center in Albert Lea, Minnesota should be on your list. The Skol Tavern, its full-service sports bar, is the perfect spot to catch all the action. Once the game is over, the facility, located at the intersection of I-35 and I-90, includes 10 fuel islands to help drivers fill up fast.

4. Boise Stage Stop

This Boise, Idaho favorite is almost as old as trucking itself. Founded in the early 1900s, it features rustic stagecoaches out front and time-honored dishes inside. While the place is loaded with history, it features all the modern amenities truckers want, including showers and a 24-hour laundry. The Boise Stage Shop, located just off I-84, also sells Idaho wines.

5. Jubitz Travel Center

This famous Portland facility along I-5 has served truckers for over 65 years. Today, the Jubitz Travel Center offers everything drivers need to recharge their batteries. Catch live music and line dancing at the Ponderosa Cafe. Kick back and watch a movie at their cinema. And if you have a four-legged co-pilot, take advantage of the self-service dog wash.

6. Common Man Roadside

Located just inside the New Hampshire state line, these north- and southbound I-93 welcome centers feature food that’s as fresh as it is fast. Many entrees on the Hi-Way Diner menu feature organic ingredients; there’s also a top-notch veggie burger. The Common Man Roadside also has a 24-hour general store and the League of N.H. Craftsmen Hooksett Gallery.

7. Tiger Truck Stop

At this mom and pop shop in Gross Tete, Louisiana, you’ll find some of the best Cajun cooking out there. The 24-hour Tiger Cafe serves up bonafide Louisiana favorites, including red beans and rice, jambalaya, crayfish etouffee, and smoked alligator sausage. Located off I-10 just 15 minutes from Baton Rouge, the Tiger Truck Stop also offers a full range of mechanical services.

8. Little America Flagstaff

There’s nothing small about this place. The Little America Travel Center in Flagstaff, Arizona is a full-service truck stop that’s just one part of a larger vacation resort. Make the most of your reset with a luxurious room available at driver’s rates. Be sure to enjoy the natural scenery at one of the many nearby parks or sneak in 18 holes of golf before returning to the road.

9. Johnson’s Corner

World famous cinnamon rolls. If that’s not enough to make you hit the brakes when passing through Johnstown, Colorado, maybe it’s time to hang up your keys. Located on I-25, this enduring gem serves down-home cooking and genuine hospitality. The fare is so good, in fact, Johnson’s Corner has been featured by a range of media outlets and won a number of awards.

10. Whiskey Pete’s Stateline Stop

Feel lucky? Just across the California border off I-15, the Whiskey Pete’s Stateline Stop offers fast-food options, driver amenities, and gaming options. If you have a little more time, their casino and resort next door feature live entertainment, full-service restaurants, and a fascinating Bonnie and Clyde exhibit.

11. Dysart’s

This Pine Tree State favorite is perhaps the only truck stop featured on the Travel Channel and had one of their commercials parodied by Saturday Night Live. The menu is loaded with wicked Maine and Dysart’s classics, such as haddock chowder, yellow-eyed beans, hot sandwiches, and chicken pot pies with a buttery, flaky crust.