Truck Stops, Pit Stops, and other Over-The-Road Sanctuaries
May 21, 2014
Buc-cee’s is a gas station chain known for its enormous parking lots, endless gas pumps, huge, sparkling-clean bathrooms, and shopping mall-like selection hot food, snacks, groceries, clothes, souvenirs, camping gear, BBQ supplies, and even toys. It’s the type of place where you can happily waste hours shopping, as well as a quick in-and-out for drivers in a hurry (the incredible number of gas pumps, toilets, and employees means you never have to wait in line).
Iowa 80 Truck Stop
I-80, Exit 284
Walcott, IA
Famously known as the largest truck stop in America, this place has parking for up to 800 rigs, and features a dentist office, dog wash, barbershop, customized truck accessories and even a truck museum.
I-80, Exit 21
Sparks, NV
A trucker casino in the casino-state, the Alamo Plaza features 20 acres of parking, 260 slot machines, blackjack tables and keno.
Derrick Plaza Truck Stop
I-85, Exit 71
Salisbury, NC
A truck stop that saves you gas! The Derrick Plaza features electricity stations so drivers can power their rigs and run heat, AC and appliances without wasting a drop of gas. They also have a great 24-hour restaurant, 24-hour chapel and a barbershop.
Jubitz Travel Plaza
I-5, Exit 307
Portland, OR
The Jubitz Travel Plaza is a sweet salvation when truckers are starved for a night out. This stop features live music, a dance club, an arcade, cinema, fine dining and upscale hotel suites
Highland Petro Stop
I-94 and Highway 20, Exit 333
Racine, WI
Stop here for some over-the-road pampering. Highland Petro Stop features walk-in chiropractic services and a hair salon.
Lodi Travel Center
I-71 and I-76 at Route 224, Exit 209
Seville, OH
The Lodi Travel Center brings a little modern class to life on the road with marble showers, a Starbucks and an internet lounge.
Little America
I-40, Exit 198
Flagstaff, AZ
A grand trucker-resort of sorts, with the convenience of a lounge, showers, laundry and truck service station as well as tempting extras such as western wear, boots, and Native American art and jewelry. There are also luxury hotel accommodations for those who feel like indulging.
Florida 595 Truck Stop
Intersection of I-595, 441, and the Florida Turnpike
Davie, FL
Stop here for the Tiki bar, spa, game room and chrome shop. Or, cure what ails your at the medical and dental clinic.
I-80, Exit 312
Grand Island, NE
Find all the conveniences of home at this travel center, with banking and mailing services, large showers, laundry facilities and a game room.
Clearwater Travel Plaza
Hwy 24, off I-94, exit 178
Clearwater, MN
Not your average truck stop – the Clearwater Travel Plaza serves up gourmet sandwiches and burgers on fresh-baked bread, and features a gift shop and book store.
Spring Eating Tips
March 24, 2014
It’s springtime, and that means fruit and vegetable stands will begin to pop up on the sides of our nation’s highways. As a trucker, this is your best chance at finding healthy, convenient food while making the long haul. Freshness may be a foreign taste after a long winter of eating at truck stops, though. So, here are a few ideas to help you wean off the typical (and typically unhealthy) breakfast menu:
Breakfast tacos: Turn a typical breakfast taco into a super-food taco by adding all the nutrient-rich goodness of fresh avocado, tomatoes, peppers, onions and garlic.
Bagels: There’s nothing better than a bagel with cream cheese, that is, until you try it dressed up with farm fresh herbs, sliced cucumbers and those sweet little just-picked tomato varieties.
Smoothies: Invest in a minifridge and a blender to make smoothies with all your favorite fruits. Simply combine ice, juice, yogurt and the fruit(s) of your choice.