Top 10 Truck Stops: MigWay's Guide to the Best Pit Stops in the US
Truck stops have become full-on destinations with multiplexes, churches, movie theaters, and even casinos! With these amenities available for drivers, there is no reason to be without home comforts anymore when out on the road. If you're a trucker, then you know that the best truck stops are the ones that offer everything you need and something extra. From diesel fuel to showers and laundry facilities, a great truck stop can make all the difference when you're out on the road. First, let's start by going over what makes a good truck stop and how you can find them. Afterward, we compiled a list of the top 10 truck stops in America. Check it out and see for yourself why these stops are some of the best in the business!
The amenities that make a truck stop great
Truck drivers are the backbone of the American economy, hauling goods across the country to keep our businesses running. But truck driving is a demanding job, and long hours on the road can take a toll. That's why it's essential for truck stops to offer amenities that make life on the road a little easier for drivers. A great truck stop will have plenty of parking spaces for big rigs. It will also have a variety of food options, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants, so drivers can eat a hot meal no matter what time of day it is. In addition, truck stops should offer showers and laundry facilities, so drivers can stay clean and refreshed during their long journeys.
Why truckers love truck stops (and you will too)
Truck driving can be a lonely job. Long hours on the open road can make even the most seasoned driver feel isolated and disconnected from the world. That's one of the reasons that truckers love truck stops. These welcomed oases offer a chance to take a break from the monotony of the road, relax, and socialize with other drivers. Truck stops are also a great source of information. Need to know where the nearest weigh station is? Just ask a fellow trucker. Looking for a good place to eat or sleep? There's sure to be someone who can give you a recommendation. And if you're in need of supplies or repairs, truck stops are expected to have everything you need while you're out on the road. So the next time you see a truck stop, don't just think of it as a place to get fuel. Instead, think of it as a home away from home for truckers all across America!
If you've been on a long trip, you know how important it is to have a good place to stop for a break. Truck stops offer everything a weary traveler needs: food, fuel, restrooms, and showers. Most truck stops also have a wide variety of trucker-friendly amenities, such as laundry facilities, TV lounges, and game rooms. And because they're located off major highways, they're easy to get to. Now that we've talked about what makes a truck stop great, let's get into what to look for when searching for a truck stop.
What to look for when choosing a truck stop
Trucker drivers have a lot to think about when choosing a truck stop. They need to find a place with safe parking, easy access to the highway, and amenities that make their life on the road more comfortable. But with so many truck stops out there, how can drivers know which one is right for them?
Here are a few things to look for when choosing a truck stop:
- 24-hour access: You'll want to make sure the truck stop has plenty of parking. After all, you don't want to have to hunt for a spot when you're tired and ready to call it a night.
- Showers: A hot shower can be a lifesaver after a long day on the road. Most truck stops now offer showers for their guests.
- Laundry facilities: Truckers can't always take the time to wash their clothes on the road, so it's helpful to find a truck stop with laundry facilities.
- TV lounge: A TV lounge is a great place to relax and catch up on your favorite show or meet new acquaintances.
So the next time you're looking for a truck stop, keep these things in mind. With so many options out there, you're sure to find one perfect for you. And who knows? You might even find your new favorite pit stop!
How many truck stops are there in the United States?
There are over 40,000 truck stops in North America, and thankfully there are now apps that help drivers find the best ones. These stops can be anything from mega-chain franchises to mom-and-pop shops. The National Association of Truck Stop Operators (NATSO) defines a truck stop as a location with at least 15 parking spaces, a shower, and diesel available for purchase.
How to find the best truck stop for your needs
Trucker drivers have a lot to consider when choosing a truck stop. They need to find a truck stop with everything they need, including food, showers, and a safe place to park. With so many options, it can be tough to know where to start.
Here are a few tips for finding the best truck stop for your needs:
- Check out online reviews: There are many websites and forums where trucker drivers share their experiences at different truck stops. This is a great way to get an idea of what other drivers think of a particular truck stop before you go there.
- Ask other drivers: If you know other trucker drivers, ask them for recommendations. They're likely to know which truck stops are the best in terms of facilities, services, and overall quality. Also, don't hesitate to ask around when you're already out on the road. Chances are, someone in the area will be able to point you in the right direction. If you're delivering to the same location frequently, it will help to know which truck stop is a favorite among drivers in the area.
- Trucker Path is one app that helps drivers find and rate truck stops in the US. With this app, drivers can see which truck stops are the highest-rated and learn all they need to know about a stop before making the drive over. This information can be crucial for drivers looking for a safe and comfortable place to rest, causing trucking apps like Trucker Path to become increasingly popular among truck drivers today.
- Check out the amenities: When you're looking at truck stops, don't forget to check what amenities they offer. This is especially important if you have specific needs, like needing a place to shower or do your laundry.
By following these tips, you'll find the best truck stop for your needs. And who knows? You might even find your new favorite pit stop or an undiscovered gem!
Tips for staying safe at truck stops
Safety is always paramount when you're a truck driver - on and off the road. So make sure to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your property. As a truck driver, you know that certain risks come with the job. From long hours behind the wheel to dealing with aggressive drivers, you have to be on your game at all times. In the past, truck stops had a bad reputation of being unsafe, but today have evolved into clean and family-friendly stops for travelers on the road. While you should expect to be safe in public during the daytime, staying informed of standard truck stop safety practices can only benefit you. Here are some tips for staying safe at truck stops:
- Avoid stopping at isolated truck stops. If possible, stick to well-lit and busy areas.
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Keep an eye out for suspicious people or activity.
- Keep your doors locked and your windows up while you're parked.
- Don't leave valuables in plain sight. When you leave your truck, hide any items that might be tempting to thieves.
- Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
By following these tips, you can stay safe while on the road. While trucking can be a dangerous job, if you're prepared and take the necessary precautions, you can minimize the risks and prevent unsafe situations when visiting truck stops.
Here are the 10 best truck stops in America
Truck drivers are the unsung heroes of the American economy. They keep our supply chains moving, transporting goods across the country day and night. But it's not an easy life on the open road. Long hours behind the wheel can lead to fatigue and boredom, and finding a good place to stop for a break is essential. That's why we've compiled a list of our Top 10 Truck Stops in America. From coast to coast, these truck stops offer everything a weary driver needs to relax and recharge. Whether you're looking for a hot meal, a clean shower, or just a friendly face, you'll find it at one of these stops. So next time you're out on the open road, be sure to pull into one of these top-notch truck stops. You won't be disappointed.
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Iowa 80 in Walcott, IA
"World's Largest Truck Stop" serving over 5,000 customers a day! Includes a movie theater, truck showroom, dentist's office, library, and much more! A must-see for truckers driving by! -
Jubitz Travel Center in Portland, OR
The "World's Classiest Truck Stop" offers drivers jacuzzis, a movie theater, a barbershop, and free dancing lessons for drivers! -
South of the Border in Hamer, SC
A destination for truckers and families. This destination has the 200-foot Sombrero Observation Tower, Pedroland Park with rides for kids, and Reptile Lagoon. This indoor reptile display boasts of being the largest in the States. -
Little America in Little America, Wyoming
For over 60 years, Little America has been "Wyoming's Oasis" for truck drivers, offering drivers a hotel experience that ranked on "TripAdvisor's 2020 Traveler's Choice Award!" -
Mach 1 #12 in Frankfort, IL
Rated #1 by drivers on CDL Life, the truck stop in Frankfort, IL, is a favorite among drivers due to their willingness to listen to driver's feedback. -
Big Apple Travel Center in Joplin, MO
CDL Life's voted the most popular truck stop by drivers in 2020. They also serve authentic Indian cuisine. Cleanliness, excellent service, and quality cuisine are at the top of the list of priorities at the Big Apple. -
Noble's Restaurant and Truck Stop in Corinth, KY
This "Old School Truck Stop" ranked #1 for independent truck stops thanks to its small-town feel, homestyle country cooking, and excellent food and gas prices. -
Whisky Pete's in Primm, NV
Offers drivers an entire hotel and casino complex, a movie theater, an arena for live shows, and multiple gold courses! -
Tennessean Truck Stop in Connersville, TN
Family-owned since 1974, this truck stop is a driver and a local favorite! This truck stop treats drivers to a memorable impression of southern hospitality. -
Love's Travel Stop #763 in Hampshire, IL
With over 540 locations in 41 states, Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores is the country's leading travel stop network! Ranked as a top Love's truck stop, drivers can expect the best service, smiling faces, and a great experience from pulling in to heading out!
These top 10 truck stops in the US are MigWay's compilation of truck stops that are worth seeing if you are nearby or those rated with exceptional reviews, whether from driver's input or through reputable publications such as CDL Life. When on the road, take your break at one of these top truck stops for the best experience and live to tell the tale!
Visit the Top 10 Truck Stops in the US!
Now that you know where to find the best truck stops, make sure to take advantage of them! A good stop can help you refuel physically and mentally, making you better prepared for the challenges ahead. So next time you're on the road, be sure to check out one of these great truck stops. You won't regret it!
Thank you for reading MigWay's guide to the Top Truck Stops in America. We hope you find it helpful and that it makes your next trip a bit more enjoyable. Safe travels!
Are you a professional driver with over 2 years of recent driving experience and looking for a company that feels like home? MigWay is a driver-focused trucking company quickly becoming a favorite among drivers in the US. If you're interested in learning more about if MigWay would be a good fit for you as a driver, don't hesitate to reach out to us so we can answer your questions and help you get fast-tracked to running with us!