As a long-haul trucker, I’ve learned that not all pit stops are created equal. Some truck stops feel like a second home on the road – offering hot showers, hearty meals, and a safe place to park when you’re dog-tired – while others are just a quick fuel-and-go. Over the years I’ve kept a mental list of standout spots. Below, I’m sharing my top 10 truck stops across North America that every driver should know. This list mixes classic, well-known stops with newer high-tech travel centers, all based on driver ratings and reviews and my own experiences. Whether you’re chasing the best burger, a clean shower, or a tech-friendly rest spot, I’ve got you covered.
(Each stop is evaluated on Amenities, Food Quality, Parking, Cleanliness, and Overall Experience – the things that matter most to us drivers.)
1. Iowa 80 Truck Stop – Walcott, Iowa (I-80 Exit 284)
I pulled into Iowa 80 on a cold Midwest night, and it felt like a trucker’s Disneyland. Known as the “World’s Largest Truckstop,” this place is enormous – I wandered a huge showroom selling chrome parts and gadgets, caught a movie in their theater, and even visited the trucking museum next door. With 900 parking spots available, I never worry about finding space, even when I arrive at 2 AM. The staff is friendly despite the constant crowd, and I’ve had some great conversations with fellow drivers here while browsing the 24/7 gift shop. One snowstorm kept me stranded at Iowa 80 for a day, and honestly? I didn’t mind at all – one driver joked it’s the best place in the world to get snowed in because there’s so much to see and do. After a hot shower and a hot meal, I always leave Iowa 80 refreshed and ready to roll again.
- Amenities: This mega-stop truly has everything a trucker might need – a **24-hour full-service truck maintenance garage, truck wash, a barber shop, a dentist and chiropractor, a movie theater, laundry facilities, and even a trucking museum. There are 20 private showers (clean and spacious) and a chrome accessories shop that’s the size of a small Walmart. If you need it, chances are Iowa 80 has it.
- Food Quality: Excellent variety – take your pick from eight restaurants and food stations. There’s a full-service diner (the Iowa 80 Kitchen) with homestyle cooking, fast-food options like Wendy’s and Taco Bell, plus a food court. I love grabbing a late-night slice of pizza or hitting the salad bar. Don’t forget to try the homemade fudge from the gift shop bakery – a sugar boost for the road.
- Parking Availability: Massive. With 900 truck parking spaces, I’ve never had to circle more than once to find a spot. Even during the annual Walcott Truckers Jamboree (a huge trucker event Iowa 80 hosts), they manage parking well. There’s also a CAT scale on site.
- Cleanliness: Impressive given the volume of traffic. The staff work round-the-clock to keep restrooms and showers spotless, though weekends can be busy. I’ve always found the shower tiles scrubbed and trash emptied. The dining areas and parking lot are generally well-kept; they even have trash cans at many parking spots.
- Overall Driver Experience: Top-notch. Iowa 80 isn’t just a stop, it’s an experience. Between the friendly folks at the counter (who often greet you with a smile and free coffee refills) and the sheer amount of services, you feel valued as a customer. It’s a classic stop that lives up to its legend – I make it a point to route through Walcott whenever possible.
2. Kenly 95 Petro – Kenly, North Carolina (I-95 Exit 106)
I remember seeing the big lighthouse-style tower of Kenly 95 Petro from miles away on I-95 – a welcome beacon after a long haul up the East Coast. Kenly 95 is famed as the largest truck stop on the East Coast, and it shows. Walking in, you’re greeted by a spacious interior with a trucker’s store and even a truck showroom with vintage rigs on display (owned by the Iowa 80 group, the same folks behind Walcott). On one trip, I treated myself to a sit-down steak dinner at the Iron Skillet restaurant here, and it rivaled any roadside diner meal I’ve had. I’ve also spent a few lazy afternoons in their driver’s lounge, watching TV and unwinding. This place combines old-school charm with modern convenience – it’s a must-stop whenever I run the East Coast corridor.
- Amenities: Kenly 95 has an impressive lineup: a truck service center for minor repairs, a chrome shop, a barber shop, and even a small movie theater and a gym on site. There are 15 clean showers and laundry facilities for drivers needing to freshen up. The travel store sells everything from electronics to apparel. It’s open 24/7, so no matter when you roll in, all services are available. They also host an annual East Coast Truckers Jamboree event with live music and truck shows – a fun time if you’re in the area in May.
- Food Quality: Excellent. The Iron Skillet is the star – a full-service restaurant with a buffet that seats 100 people. I highly recommend their breakfast buffet (nothing beats eggs and country ham after a long night). In addition, the food court covers all the bases: Wendy’s, Subway, Pizza Hut/Taco Bell combo, Dairy Queen, and even a Caribou Coffee for us caffeine addicts. You can get a quick burger or sit down for a hearty meal – your choice.
- Parking Availability: 350 truck parking spots means parking is generally available unless it’s super peak hours. I’ve had luck finding a spot even late at night. The lot is well-designed with wide lanes, making it easy to maneuver. They also have designated areas for RVs and a separate fuel island for trucks to keep things flowing.
- Cleanliness: High marks here. The facilities at Kenly are well-maintained – I’ve found the showers and restrooms very clean each visit. The dining area in Iron Skillet is tidy, and the buffet is kept clean and appetizing. Even the parking lot is relatively free of debris, and trash cans are conveniently placed.
- Overall Driver Experience: Kenly 95 Petro is driver-approved in every sense. Staff members are used to serving truckers and are generally friendly and efficient. I once had an issue with my CB radio, and a staffer in the shop went above and beyond to help me find the right part. It’s the kind of place where you feel appreciated as a customer. Between the Southern hospitality and the sheer amount of services, Kenly 95 makes life on the road a little easier (and a lot more comfortable).
3. Jubitz Travel Center – Portland, Oregon (I-5 Exit 307)
If you’re ever up in the Pacific Northwest, Jubitz Travel Center is a legendary stop that lives up to its reputation. The first time I rolled into Jubitz off I-5, I was struck by how modern and polished it felt – almost like a small village for truckers. I parked my rig (plenty of space even during peak hours) and treated myself to a night at the connected Portlander Inn hotel for some well-earned rest. In the morning, I grabbed breakfast at the Cascade Grill (their chicken fried steak is a thing of beauty) and later checked out the Ponderosa Lounge, which often has live music and a bit of a honky-tonk vibe on weekends. Jubitz is also incredibly tech-friendly – I’ve used their free WiFi to video chat with family back home. It’s the kind of high-quality stop that reminds you trucking can have a few perks along the way.
- Amenities: Jubitz is known for its full-service amenities. There’s a truck service center on site, a scale, a dog wash for our furry co-pilots, and even a movie theater. The driver’s lounge is comfy with big sofas and a TV – perfect for unwinding. They offer 250 free truck parking spots plus 18 reserved spots for a small fee, so parking is rarely an issue. Showers (with provided towels) and laundry facilities are available 24/7. Adjacent to the main building is the Jubitz Marketplace, which has a convenience store, a barbershop, postal services, and even a small cinema. Basically, Jubitz has all the bases covered for a long-hauler.
- Food Quality: Top-tier. The Cascade Grill restaurant serves hearty American fare 24/7 – I’ve had steaks, breakfast platters, and everything in between, and it’s always delicious. There’s also the Jake Brake Deli for quick bites and a mocha stand for gourmet coffee on the go. One unique feature is the Ponderosa Lounge & Grill, which is a full bar and grill with Oregon’s best country music nights – great BBQ and burgers there. Plus, fast-food options and a convenience store for snacks. You won’t go hungry at Jubitz, that’s for sure.
- Parking Availability: Very good. With over 268 truck parking spots in total, I’ve never struggled to park. The lot is well-lit and secure, and they even have some covered parking areas. Jubitz also uses a system to report real-time parking availability (through apps like Trucker Path), so you can check space before arriving. Reserved parking is an option if you know you’ll arrive late and want guaranteed space.
- Cleanliness: Immaculate. This is one of the cleanest truck stops I’ve been to. Restrooms and showers are hotel-quality clean, and the dining areas are tidy. The whole facility feels well-maintained – floors shiny, trash emptied frequently. They take pride in their appearance, and it shows.
- Overall Driver Experience: Simply excellent. Jubitz combines the friendliness of a family-run operation with the professionalism of a high-end travel plaza. Employees are courteous and seem to genuinely enjoy helping drivers. I once needed an odd fax service (long story, paperwork for a cross-border load) and the front desk at the business center helped me out without a fuss. Little things like that stick with you. The vibe here is relaxed and driver-centric – it’s easy to see why some call Jubitz the world’s classiest truck stop.
4. Little America – Little America, Wyoming (I-80 Exit 68)
Cruising across Wyoming’s wide-open spaces, Little America is a legendary oasis that I always look forward to. This place has been serving truckers and travelers since the 1950s, and it has a charm that’s hard to describe – part hotel, part truck stop, part old-school roadside attraction. I often fuel up here and then park under the big Wyoming sky to stretch my legs. The Fuel Center has a grab-and-go hot deli (their hot dogs are unexpectedly good), but I usually wander into the Little America Hotel lobby for a bit – there’s a gift shop with Western souvenirs and the best $0.75 ice cream cones in America (a long-standing Little America tradition). After a long drive on I-80, a quick ice cream and stroll by the grassy areas here does wonders. The showers even include bathtubs in some stalls – talk about soaking your cares away! Little America is a classic stop that blends nostalgia with top-notch facilities, and it’s a highlight of any trip through Wyoming.
- Amenities: Little America’s Travel Center offers all essential services. There’s a Fuel Center Hot Grill & Deli for hot food, a well-stocked convenience store, and a driver’s lounge to relax. The site doubles as a hotel resort, so you have access to the Little America Hotel amenities (lounge areas, etc.). Showers are available and even have bathtubs in certain private rooms – a rare luxury on the road! Laundry facilities and a U.S. Post Office on site mean you can take care of personal chores. Uniquely, they have a Rocky Mountain Truck Center garage, providing truck repair services if your rig needs attention.
- Food Quality: Solid options. The Fuel Center’s grill serves classic truck-stop fare – burgers, fries, chicken tenders – and it’s tasty for a quick bite. Over at the hotel side, there’s a Little America Restaurant that’s open to all (truckers included) where you can sit down for a buffet or menu of comfort food; their breakfast is especially good. And of course, don’t miss the famous ice cream cones for dessert or a treat – it’s a tradition for many travelers to grab one. The combination of quick-serve and sit-down options means you can choose your dining style.
- Parking Availability: Ample. Little America was literally built as a traveler’s haven, so there’s a huge parking area for trucks – I’ve never seen it completely full. It’s designed to accommodate both truckers and RVs easily. The lot is expansive, and you can usually find a spot far enough from idling reefers if you’re looking for quiet.
- Cleanliness: Very high standards. Because it’s part of a hotel property, the cleanliness carries over – restrooms are very clean (marble sinks and all), and the showers are well-maintained. The outdoor areas are nicely kept too; in summer the lawns are green and trimmed. Even the fuel islands are free of the usual spills and trash. They take pride in keeping this place spic-and-span.
- Overall Driver Experience: Little America offers a welcoming, almost homelike experience. The staff are courteous (many have been there for years) and treat truckers with respect. I always feel safe and comfortable spending the night here – it’s well-lit and patrolled by security. There’s a calm atmosphere that’s a nice break from the hectic pace of the highway. Between the gorgeous high plains setting and the quality service, Little America is a stop that reminds you why you love the open road.
5. South of the Border – Hamer, South Carolina (I-95 Exit 1)
South of the Border is a truck stop unlike any other, doubling as a kitschy roadside attraction that has been a landmark on I-95 for over 70 years. As I approach the North Carolina/South Carolina border, the barrage of neon billboards (“You never sausage a place!”) is a sure sign I’m getting close. The first time I stopped here, I’ll admit I was as interested in the giant sombrero tower and goofy tourist traps as I was in the truck stop itself. I parked my rig in their dedicated truck lot behind all the attractions and took a quick walk to stretch my legs – ended up snapping a selfie with the 97-foot tall sombrero observation tower! Despite the carnival atmosphere (there’s a mini amusement park, souvenir shops, and even a reptile lagoon), South of the Border caters to truckers pretty well. I’ve spent a night here and found it decently quiet in the truck parking area after the tourists clear out. It’s not your typical truck stop vibe – it’s part nostalgia, part necessity – but it’s one every driver should experience at least once.
- Amenities: This place has tons of amenities, many geared toward tourists but useful for truckers too. There’s a motel on site, if you want a break from the sleeper berth. They have multiple gas and diesel stations, and a separate truckers’ fueling area. Amenities include showers, restrooms, and a laundry area for drivers. Uniquely, South of the Border features its own amusement park (Pedroland), mini-golf, arcade, and even an indoor Reptile Lagoon zoo. While those are more for fun, practical services like a truck wash and minor repair shop are also available nearby. It’s well-lit at night with that neon glow, which adds to safety.
- Food Quality: Several options here as well. There are a few restaurants: Pedro’s Grill serves Mexican-American dishes (not amazing, but decent), and The Sombrero Room is a sit-down restaurant for classic diner meals. Plus, you’ll find fast food stands, ice cream shops, and snack bars sprinkled around – you can grab a hot dog, burger, or taco while you wander. It’s not gourmet cuisine, but you won’t go hungry. If you have a sweet tooth, try some churros or fudge from the gift shops.
- Parking Availability: Pretty good. There’s a separate large parking lot for trucks behind the main attraction area, with ample space for overnight parking. I’ve always found a spot, even during tourist season. The lot is fairly flat and has easy in/out access to the I-95 ramp. Just watch out for sightseers when you’re pulling through the car areas.
- Cleanliness: Decent, though it can vary. Given the high traffic of tourists, bathrooms can get messy during peak hours, but late at night the staff clean everything thoroughly. The showers I used were basic but clean. The grounds are a bit dated and some areas could use a refresh, but overall it’s maintained well enough. It’s not spotless like some newer travel centers, but acceptable for an overnight stop.
- Overall Driver Experience: Unique and memorable. South of the Border is part truck stop, part roadside circus. As a driver, the experience goes beyond just fueling and showering – it’s a chance to break the monotony of the drive and maybe buy a goofy souvenir or two. The staff are used to a mixed crowd (families, truckers, travelers from all over) and they’re generally friendly if a bit overwhelmed on busy days. Security patrols keep the truck lot safe. It may not be the fanciest stop on this list, but it’s certainly one of the most famous. I make it a point to stop here if I need a break on I-95, if only to say I did – and to see that neon sombrero light up the night sky one more time.
6. Dysart’s Truck Stop & Restaurant – Hermon, Maine (I-95 Exit 180)
Every New England trucker knows Dysart’s – it’s a true classic when you’re hauling through the Northeast. I timed one of my runs to arrive here around dinnertime, and I’m glad I did. Walking into Dysart’s is like walking into your grandma’s kitchen: the smell of freshly baked pies and home-cooked meals hits you immediately. This family-owned truck stop has been open 24/7 since 1967, and they’ve perfected the art of feeding hungry drivers. I sat down in their restaurant and devoured a plate of pot roast with blueberry pie for dessert (Maine blueberries – you can’t beat ’em). The place is filled with locals, truckers, and even tourists who’ve heard of its fame. After dinner, I took advantage of their services to top off my DEF and even got a minor tire repair done at their service center. Dysart’s has a warm, inviting vibe that makes you feel right at home in the chilly Maine air.
- Amenities: Despite its old-school charm, Dysart’s is fully equipped. There’s a full-service truck and tire repair center on site for anything from flats to engine trouble. They have multiple fuel lanes, a CAT scale, and plenty of parking. Inside, you’ll find a convenience store, showers, and a driver’s lounge area. Uniquely, they also have a bakery – the smells alone will lift your spirits – and a gift shop area. Need to do laundry? They’ve got washers/dryers available. It’s basically everything you need packaged in a cozy atmosphere.
- Food Quality: Excellent, down-home cooking. Dysart’s Restaurant is famous regionally – they serve hearty New England fare 24/7. I recommend the chicken pot pie and their clam chowder when it’s on special. Breakfast here is also fantastic (try the lumberjack omelet if you’re really hungry). They’ve got two restaurant areas plus a take-out deli, and even an in-house bakery turning out fresh breads and pies daily. This isn’t generic fast food – it’s the kind of homemade quality that reminds you of a home-cooked meal.
- Parking Availability: Very good. Dysart’s has a large dirt/gravel lot with ample truck parking (can accommodate hundreds of trucks). It’s free to park overnight. The lot can get a bit muddy in spring, but there’s space for everyone. I’ve never seen it full; worst case, you might park along the edges if it’s really busy. It’s well-lit and easy to navigate.
- Cleanliness: High marks here. For a high-traffic stop, the bathrooms and showers are kept clean. The restaurant is clean and has that classic diner look with polished counters and vinyl booths. I noticed staff tidying up regularly. Even the shop and lounge area are organized and clean. They take pride in their reputation, and it shows in the upkeep.
- Overall Driver Experience: Welcoming and comforting. There’s something about Dysart’s that just wraps you in a warm hug – maybe it’s the friendly waitresses calling you “hon,” or the sight of homemade pies in the display case at 3 AM. The staff here treat truckers like family (many of them have been serving drivers for decades). I’ve swapped stories with fellow truckers at the counter and felt a sense of community. It’s the kind of place you plan your trip around if you’re anywhere in Maine. Don’t be surprised if you leave with a full belly and a smile on your face.
7. Big Apple Travel Center – Joplin, Missouri (I-44 Exit 4)
Joplin, MO, is a popular crossroads for truckers, and the Big Apple Travel Center has quickly become one of my favorite newer stops. It’s not as enormous as Iowa 80 or Kenly, but it makes up for size with quality and character. The first thing that caught my attention was the on-site food options – specifically an Indian cuisine take-out called Rasoí. How many truck stops can boast tasty chicken curry and naan? I was a bit skeptical until I tried it, and wow, it was a delicious change from the usual burgers and pizza (though they have those too). The facility is modern and extremely clean – you can tell it’s relatively new. While fueling up here, I noticed they provide free Wi-Fi and plenty of charging outlets in the lounge, a blessing when you need to catch up on emails or Netflix. There’s even a small dog park out back – my pup got to stretch her legs too. Big Apple is conveniently just off I-44, and it’s a perfect example of a high-tech, driver-focused stop that still has a personal touch.
- Amenities: Big Apple may not be huge, but it’s well-equipped. Inside you’ll find a convenience store that’s more like a mini-market – lots of snacks, groceries, and truck supplies. They offer showers that are modern and spotless, plus a nice driver’s lounge area with TVs. There’s a dog park fenced area for pets to get a break, which is thoughtful. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the facility (and it’s pretty fast!). They have all the basics too: ATM, laundry machines, and a truck wash on site. For fueling, there are plenty of diesel lanes with high-speed pumps, so fueling is quick.
- Food Quality: Outstanding and diverse for a mid-size stop. Along with typical grab-and-go snacks and a hot deli, Big Apple’s jewel is that Indian take-out café, Rasoí. It serves authentic Indian dishes – a rare find on the road – and they are genuinely good (a lot of local truckers rave about the curry). If that’s not your thing, they also have a burger grill and pizzeria, and a frozen yogurt bar for dessert. The combination of classic American road food and international cuisine means there’s something for every craving. I give them extra points for creativity here!
- Parking Availability: Fairly good. Big Apple has a decent-sized lot with plenty of truck parking spots (not sure the exact count, but I’ve always found one). It can fill up by late night because it’s popular, but there’s overflow parking along the access road if needed. The lot is well-lit and has security cameras, which is reassuring. Getting in and out is easy – it’s right at the exit with a wide entry.
- Cleanliness: Excellent. This is one of the cleanest facilities I’ve been in – everything feels new and well-kept. The bathrooms are sparkling, showers are cleaned after each use (you can usually tell by the fresh smell and paper band sealing the door). The dining area and store shelves are organized and clean. They clearly prioritize hygiene and upkeep.
- Overall Driver Experience: Highly satisfying. Big Apple Travel Center strikes a great balance between the big chain truck stops and independent charm. The staff are friendly and seem to genuinely care – I had the cashier ask me how my meal was when I tried the Indian food, showing they take pride in it. The place has a calm, driver-friendly atmosphere. It’s also very tech-friendly – plenty of USB outlets, good cell reception, and that free Wi-Fi. When I’m running through Missouri on I-44, I now plan a stop here if possible. It’s refreshing to see a truck stop think outside the box and succeed.
8. Big Horn Travel Center – Rhome, Texas (US-287 & TX-114, near I-35W)
Deep in the heart of Texas, the Big Horn Travel Center is a newer 24-hour truck stop that has quickly earned a reputation for excellence. I discovered Big Horn on a run through the Dallas/Fort Worth area when I needed to scale my load. Not only did they have a CAT scale, but I was greeted by something pretty unique inside – a small wildlife exhibit! (Yes, they have displays with taxidermy wildlife, giving the place a quirky Texas flair.) The travel center is spacious and modern, with a large food court and shiny clean floors. On one visit, I had a “check engine” light on; to my relief, Big Horn has on-site mechanics. An ASE-certified tech was available and got me patched up quickly so I could stay on schedule. I grabbed a bite at their BBQ counter while I waited and was impressed with the flavor. Big Horn feels like the new generation of truck stops – high-tech, super clean, and focused on driver comfort.
- Amenities: Big Horn is fully loaded. They have multiple diesel fuel lanes to get trucks in and out fast. Inside, there are clean showers, laundry facilities, and a driver’s lounge. The aforementioned wildlife exhibit in the lobby is a fun touch – kind of like a mini museum of Texas fauna. A big plus: a truck service center with certified technicians – this isn’t common at every stop. They can handle maintenance and repairs, giving peace of mind if your rig needs attention. You’ll also find a CAT scale, Wi-Fi, and all the usual conveniences (ATM, lounge, etc.). It’s open 24/7, and staff are always on duty.
- Food Quality: Great variety in a food-court style setup. You can choose from several eateries: there’s a Texas BBQ stall (my favorite – brisket was delicious), a pizza place, and a sandwich/sub shop. Plus the convenience store has a wide selection of grab-and-go items and fresh coffee. Rumor has it they’re adding a Mexican fast-food counter as well. All in all, you can get a hearty meal or a quick snack easily. Quality is above average – the BBQ was genuinely good, and the pizza I tried on a different visit was solid.
- Parking Availability: Good and designed for truckers. There’s a large parking lot with plenty of spaces, and when it overflows, drivers often create neat rows on the side – there’s a lot of open space around. I’ve always found parking, even when arriving late. Because it’s a bit off the interstate (on US 287, a major truck route), it doesn’t jam up as much as some on-interstate stops. Lighting is excellent for security.
- Cleanliness: Top-notch. Everything at Big Horn still feels new, and they keep it extremely clean. Showers are pristine – I noticed the cleaning crew making rounds frequently. The fuel island area was clean with no trash overflowing. Inside, tables are wiped and floors gleam. They clearly take pride in maintenance and it shows.
- Overall Driver Experience: Excellent and comfortable. Big Horn Travel Center has that Texan hospitality vibe – staff greet you warmly and are quick to assist if you need anything. On my first visit, a manager asked me how I liked the place and even gave me a coupon for a free drink, which was a nice touch. The facility feels safe, modern, and welcoming. It’s the kind of place that might just become a regular stop for drivers running through north Texas. Keep an eye out for the Big Horn sign – you won’t be disappointed when you pull in.
9. Kwik Star #1071 – Davenport, Iowa (I-80 Exit 295)
You might be thinking, “How does a gas station make it onto a top 10 truck stops list?” – I thought the same until I visited Kwik Star #1071 in Davenport. This Kwik Star (part of the Kwik Trip chain) was actually rated the #1 truck stop in America by drivers in a recent Trucker Path ranking, so I had to see what the fuss was about. The location is smaller than the giant travel plazas, but it’s incredibly efficient and driver-friendly. As I walked in, a staff member greeted me with a big smile and a “Welcome in, driver!” – not something you hear at every fuel stop. The store was bright, clean, and had a surprising variety of hot foods and fresh groceries. I grabbed a cup of their fresh-brewed coffee (which is excellent, by the way) and one of their famous fresh-made glazed donuts. After fueling and taking a quick break, I understood why drivers love this place: it’s the perfect blend of quick service, quality offerings, and a personal touch. Sometimes, great things come in small packages – and Kwik Star is proof.
- Amenities: Being a smaller chain truck stop, it doesn’t have a tire shop or big rig repair, but it covers the essentials really well. There’s diesel fuel with high-speed pumps, a DEF pump, and a small truck parking lot (it fills up fast, with maybe 20-30 spots available). Inside, they offer showers that are modern and clean (you can reserve one via their app). There’s free Wi-Fi, an ATM, and a Trucker Lounge corner with a couple of chairs and tables. It’s part of a larger Kwik Trip complex, so there’s also a car fueling side and a convenience store section with groceries (milk, bread, etc., which Kwik Trip is known for). For a stop of this size, they manage to pack in a lot of utility.
- Food Quality: Excellent for a chain stop. Kwik Star/Kwik Trip is famous among Midwest drivers for their fresh food – think hot soups, take-home meals, and a grab-and-go hot case with things like fried chicken, pizza slices, and cheese curds. The bakery items are made fresh daily; I’m a fan of their donuts and muffins. This Davenport location has a small seating area if you want to eat inside. You won’t find a sit-down restaurant, but the quality of the quick food is honestly better than many fast-food joints. Plus, they have healthy options like fruit, salads, and cut veggies for the road.
- Parking Availability: Limited but manageable. There are dedicated truck parking spots on-site, but only a few dozen. This isn’t a place for an overnight camp if it’s full – it’s more of a fuel-and-go or short break stop. However, I’ve noticed trucks also park along the side street or at a nearby lot when the main spots are taken. Because it’s so highly rated, many local drivers try to hit it during off-peak hours to ensure they get a spot. If you plan to stop, try mid-morning or early afternoon rather than late at night.
- Cleanliness: Immaculate. This is one big reason drivers rave about Kwik Star – the restrooms and showers are as clean as a hotel, and the store itself is spotless. They have a culture of cleanliness (and I often see staff actively sweeping or cleaning soda fountains, etc.). Outside, the trash cans are never overflowing and the lot is free of debris. It’s clear the team here takes pride in keeping the place clean.
- Overall Driver Experience: Outstanding for its size. The key here is customer service – they genuinely treat drivers “like you’d treat family,” as the company motto implies. One driver told me the staff sometimes hand out free bananas or coffee to truckers in the morning as a thank you. I believe it – I felt very welcomed in my visits. The speed of service is great too; you’re in and out efficiently. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of a giant truck stop, it nails the fundamentals in a way that clearly resonates with professional drivers. If you’re near Davenport and see the Kwik Star sign, give it a try – it might become your new favorite quick-stop, too.
10. 10-Acre Truck Stop – Belleville, Ontario, Canada (Hwy 401 Exit 538)
On a run up to Toronto last year, I decided to check out one of Canada’s most famous truck stops: the 10-Acre Truck Stop in Belleville, Ontario. This place has been around since 1977 and is often hailed as one of the largest and best truck stops in Canada
Pulling in off Highway 401, I immediately noticed the expansive parking lot – plenty of room for my rig and then some. After days of American coffee, I bee-lined for the on-site Tim Hortons (Canadians love their Timmies, and I’ve grown fond of it too). The 10-Acre Truck Stop has a bit of a retro vibe but has clearly kept up with the times. Inside, there’s a full-service restaurant and a convenience store stocked with both Canadian snacks and trucking essentials. I struck up a conversation with a couple of Canadian truckers over poutine and learned a few tips about the different regulations up north. The atmosphere was friendly and laid-back. For any driver crossing the border or running the trans-Canada routes, 10-Acre is a must-know stop – it showcases the best of Canadian hospitality for truckers.
- Amenities: 10-Acre lives up to its name with a huge parking area (free parking) that can accommodate a lot of trucks (I didn’t count, but it’s easily a few hundred spots). It offers eight diesel refueling lanes – so fueling is quick Impressively, they have added EV charging stations as well, looking towards the future Amenities include showers, laundry facilities, a driver’s lounge, a truck wash, and even a chrome and truck accessories shop. There’s also a tire and repair shop on site, so you can get maintenance done. Inside you’ll find an ATM, Wi-Fi, and a small lounge area with TVs. Basically, it’s a full-service stop – I was even told they plan to expand services further under the new ownership.
- Parking Availability: Excellent. As one of the largest truck stops in Canada, parking is usually plentiful. Even later in the evening, I saw open spots. The lot is well-lit and felt secure. They briefly tried a paid parking experiment years back (as I heard from a local driver), but they reverted to free parking after backlash – so now it’s free and open, which drivers certainly appreciate. If you’re running with doubles or an oversized load, there’s space to accommodate that too.
- Cleanliness: Good. The facilities were clean, though perhaps a notch below the newest U.S. stops simply due to age. Restrooms were tidy and stocked. The shower I used was clean and had strong hot water (much needed in Canadian winters). The dining area of the restaurant was clean, with staff promptly clearing tables. The fuel islands were a bit older but maintained. Overall, they do a fine job keeping a high-traffic place in order.
- Overall Driver Experience: Friendly and convenient. I felt very welcomed here – the staff and even fellow drivers were talkative and polite (must be that Canadian friendliness). The stop has a laid-back vibe, and you can tell it’s a staple in the trucking community up there. I got some helpful route advice from a driver heading to Montreal and felt a camaraderie. Also, it was kind of nice to experience the subtle differences – using Canadian currency (they accept USD too), French on some signs, etc. If you’re a U.S. driver running cross-border, 10-Acre is a great introduction to Canadian truck stops. And if you’re a Canadian driver, you probably already know this spot well. In short, 10-Acre Truck Stop shows that North America’s best truck stops aren’t confined to the USA – our neighbors have some great ones too!
Conclusion: Every trucker has their favorite stops, and these are mine – the Top 10 truck stops in North America that offer the best mix of amenities, good food, ample parking, cleanliness, and that special something that makes you feel at home on the road. From the classic giants like Iowa 80 and Little America to the newer high-tech spots like Big Horn and Kwik Star, each of these stops brings something unique to the table. They’re not just places to fuel up; they’re places to recharge your own batteries, grab a shower, enjoy a meal, and maybe share a story with a fellow driver.
Before your next long haul, consider mapping your route through one or two of these top-rated truck stops. Trust me, a good stop can turn a hard day of driving into a much more pleasant experience. And who knows – maybe I’ll see you out there at the fuel pump or in the diner, and we can swap stories over a cup of coffee. Stay safe, keep the rubber side down, and happy truckin’!
(Did I miss your personal favorite truck stop? Every driver has their own top 10. Let me know which stop you think deserves a shout-out!)
