Introducing the Resties: These Are the Best Rest Stops Across the U.S.

Rest stops are the unsung heroes of road trips; they're there when you need a bathroom break, a quick stretch, and to refuel. But not all rest stops are created equal. Growing up in the Northeast, my family would regularly stop at the Common Man Roadside on I-93, and I was spoiled thinking that all rest areas came with homemade food, clean restrooms, and seemingly endless snack options. Now, I appreciate these outstanding travel centers and rest stops even more as someone who road-trips frequently.

For this year's Resties, we tapped full-time road-tripper and vanlifer, Deayana Walker (@the.skoolie.teacher), to pick her favorite rest stops across the U.S. for the All Fuel Aside category. Deyana has lived on the road for the past 3 years with her pup, Honcho. Together, they’ve traveled across North America in a self-converted school bus and van, exploring hidden gems and scenic routes few others find. With thousands of miles under her wheels and firsthand experience navigating life on the road, she's here to recommend unforgettable roadside travel stops—all tested and loved by a true road warrior.

Check out her regional winners below for the best rest stops in the U.S.:

Northeast Winner: Dysart's Restaurant and Truck Stop, Hermon, Maine

Dysart’s Restaurant & Truck Stop in Hermon, Maine, is a beloved roadside stop known for its hearty, home-style New England fare and 24-7 service. Travelers rave about signature dishes like lobster stew, corned beef hash, and blueberry pancakes, along with fresh-baked pies and famous whoopie pies from the in-house bakery.

The restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients and offering genuine Maine hospitality. It’s more than just a place to eat—Dysart’s is a full-service truck stop with showers, tire service, a truck wash, and plenty of parking. Its combination of great food and top-notch amenities makes it a must-stop for truckers and road-trippers alike.

Southeast Winner: Stuckey's, Mappsville, Virginia

If you're traveling to the Delmarva Peninsula or Chesapeake Bay area, you'll want to stop at the Stuckey's in Mappsville. It's a long-standing Southeast franchise mainly known for its famous pecan log rolls. With a rapid expansion in the '60s and '70s, locations began to dwindle but are making a comeback thanks to the original owner's granddaughter.

This location is owned by a couple outside of the family, but it stays true to the Stuckey's brand. You'll find candy, Virginia smoked hams, and plenty of kitschy souvenirs. You can fill your car up on gas and fill yourself with food at the Southern Grille, serving up local "scrapple" breakfast, sandwiches, and more.

Southwest Winner: Czech Stop, West, Texas

The Czech Stop in West, Texas, is a beloved roadside destination renowned for its authentic Czech pastries and warm hospitality. Established in 1983, this family-run bakery offers a diverse selection of kolaches—fluffy pastries filled with sweet fruits, creamy cheeses, or savory combinations like sausage, jalapeño, and cheese.

The Little Czech Bakery, open daily from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., ensures freshly baked goods are available throughout the day, attracting travelers and locals alike. Beyond kolaches, the bakery also offers strudels, pies, cookies, and unique treats like honey gingerbread cookies and buttermilk pie, making it a must-stop for dessert enthusiasts. With its rich Czech heritage and commitment to quality, the Czech Stop has become a cherished landmark for those traveling along I-35.

West Winner: Jubitz Travel Center, Portland, Oregon

Jubitz Travel Center in Portland, Oregon, is a standout destination for both truckers and travelers, offering a comprehensive range of services and amenities. Spanning 27 acres, it provides 300 truck parking spaces, 24-hour fueling, and a variety of dining options, including the Cascade Grill, Ponderosa Lounge with live country music, and a deli. Guests can enjoy entertainment at the 80-seat movie theater, relax in the driver lounge, or take advantage of services like laundry, a barbershop, a dog wash, and private showers with optional jacuzzi tubs for an added fee.

The on-site Portlander Inn offers comfortable accommodations, while the facility also features a truck museum and a state welcome center. Family-owned and operated since 1952, Jubitz continues to be a top-rated travel center, providing exceptional service and amenities designed for rest, comfort, and entertainment.

Midwest Winner: Iowa 80 Truck Stop, Walcott, Iowa

The Iowa 80 Truck Stop, known as the "World's Largest Truck Stop," is a must-visit road trip destination located off I-80 in Walcott, Iowa. Open 24/-7, it offers a wide range of amenities that appeal to both truckers and travelers, including multiple restaurants (such as a full-service diner, fast food options, and a buffet), a massive convenience store, a trucking museum, showers, laundry facilities, a movie theater, a barber shop, and even a chiropractor. Its clean, family-friendly environment, ample parking, and unique attractions make it an ideal stop to rest, refuel, and explore during long road trips.

Editor's Pick: Common Man Roadside (I-93), Hooksett, New Hampshire

Growing up in the Northeast, I frequented this rest stop when road-tripping throughout New England. When traveling on I-93 (in either direction), you'll find the Common Man Roadside as a welcome rest stop when crossing the New Hampshire-Massachusetts border. The brand began as a homey restaurant and brings the same level of coziness to its rest areas offering fuel, restrooms, Wi-Fi, and a variety of food options, many made in-house. On the northbound side, make sure to try the donuts!

The Resties celebrate the best of roadside America; you can view all of the winners here. Want to nominate your favorite pit stops? Fill out the nomination form.