Here at Priority1, we value the work of our drivers and want them to have the best experience on the road as they carefully deliver products for our customers. Truck drivers have always been a dedicated group of essential workers and are often overlooked, but in the past few years, during the pandemic, consumers realized just how vital they are to our everyday livelihood.
In celebration of Truck Driver Appreciation Week, September 11th– 17th, we’ve taken the time to research some of the best truck stops across America and the services they offer drivers. Life on the road is not easy, especially when it lacks the comfortability of home. The truck stops listed below are much more than just a place to eat and rest. They offer extensive services to drivers unavailable while living on the road.
Iowa 80, located in Walcott, Iowa, is known as the “World’s Largest Truck Stop,” and for a good reason! Not only do they have 900 parking spots, but they offer various services, including a chiropractor, a dental office, a barber shop, a custom embroidery shop, a workout room, and a super truck showroom. These services are basic needs or appointments a driver may need but cannot fulfill when constantly traveling. They also have more expected facilities like a laundry room, showers, CAT scale, and a place to wash your truck and dog. It also features a movie theater! This is an excellent one-stop-shop for drivers who need extra services, everyday essentials, or a nice treat while on the road.
North Forty Truck Stop
North Forty Truck Stop, located in Holladay, Tennessee, is the place to go for a comfortable stay. They are known for their 24/7 dinner that can whip up a delicious hot meal at any time of day or night. They also feature a breakfast buffet from 5:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. They have the essentials such as laundry, showers, a tv room, and even offer massages.
Pilot Flying J Travel Centers
For drivers that want a more consistent place to rest without all the bells and whistles, Pilot Flying J’s are located throughout the U.S and are a favorite among drivers. They have everything a driver would need, such as a CAT-certified scale, laundry services, shower facilities, parking spots that can be reserved online, and a variety of fast-food restaurants in addition to their PJ Fresh Market Place. Flying J also offers a rewards program that could be beneficial to drivers. Drivers can earn points and credits for purchasing fuel, products, and services redeemed for food, WiFi, and showers.
Whiskey Pete’s
Whiskey Pete’s, located in Primm, Nevada, is truly one of a kind! Not only is it the last place to fill up going from California to Las Vegas, but it’s also part of an entire hotel and casino complex. There’s a driver’s lounge, laundry, and showers. If you want to extend this into a day or two trips, they have a movie theater, enormous casino, and several golf courses.
Trail’s Travel Center
Trail’s Travel Center in Albert Lea, Minnesota, is perfect for a driver who wants a more lowkey stop. It has everything a driver needs, including over 300 truck parking spots, a CAT scale, modern shower facilities, a truck wash, and many restaurants, from fast food to a full sports bar. As an extra bonus, there is also a movie theater and a chapel. Truckers can attend a service given by Truck Stop Ministries every Sunday at 10 a.m.
South of the Border
For drivers that may be traveling with family, South of the Border, located in Hamer, South Carolina, would be the perfect spot. This truck stop features an Observation Tower 200 feet high and Pedroland Park that includes rides for kids like a carousel and bumper cars, in addition to the multiple mini-golf courses, bounce houses, and a jungle gym. They also feature a Reptile Lagoon, which has the largest indoor reptile display in the U.S. They offer showers, a driver’s lounge for carriers, multiple restaurants, and an ice cream shop.
Truck drivers play an essential part in keeping our whole economy moving. Priority1 wants our drivers to have a positive experience while on the road, and we hope this information can help make a difference. From all of us at Priority1, thank you, truck drivers of America!
