Meet the Resties of the West: 5 Pit Stops Worth Stopping for on Your Next Road Trip

Road trips are my favorite way to explore this beautiful country we call home. Whether it's a day trip, weekend adventure, or a multi-day journey, I find there is no better way to travel and experience someplace new. However, every good road trip requires several places to stop and stretch your legs, and I’m not just talking about an average gas station. No, these need to be stops that are worthy of your time.

Here at Only In Your State, we went in search of the best of roadside America. We looked for the best in the Western region of the U.S in the following categories:

• Pit Stop Bites: The must-have meals and snacks that you’ll regret driving by.
• Quirky Attractions: The unique, funky, unforgettable roadside attractions that will immediately put a smile on your face.
• Stop-Worthy Views: You know what we are talking about—those views that you can’t wait to show everyone at home.
• Uncommon Overnights: The coolest places to rest and recover before you hit the road once again.
• All Fuel Aside: The best not-your-average gas station. These destinations have something exceptional.

It’s not just us at Only In Your State who picked the best of the best. We also asked five social creators— people who are expert, full-time road-trippers—to be our judges. So, buckle up, put on your favorite playlist, and let’s go! Here are the Resties winners in the West.

Best Quirky Attraction: Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild International Sculpture Park, Lincoln, Montana

Abi and Nikki Rodriguez of @letsplayrideandseek are full-time road-trippers in their self-converted camper van. They selected the nominations for this category, and this is what they had to say about Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild.

“This park features a meandering path through an unusual sculpture garden. The sculptures were both interactive and thought-provoking for a visceral experience that will inspire you. It’s open 24 hours and free to enter. There is a restroom and picnic tables, which make it a perfect midday stop on a road trip.”

Years ago, when we were road tripping through the Northwest, we happened across this quirky attraction, and it’s lived in my mind ever since.

Best Pit Stop Bite: Tillamook Creamery, Tillamook, Oregon

Jesse and Rachael Lyons of @thetasteforadventure have lived and traveled in their RV since 2018. They’ve visited almost every state with one mission: to find the best food and beer along the way. They selected the nominations for this category, and here’s what they had to say about this delicious Oregon creamery.

“Highway 101 is one of the West Coast's most iconic road trips, and if you're exploring the Oregon Coast, Tillamook Creamery is a must-stop.

This flagship is basically Disneyland for cheese lovers.

After checking out the exhibits and assembly line, grab some free samples, then head to the dining hall. They serve epic grilled cheese, macaroni and cheese, and, of course, their famous ice cream. Don't ask how many blocks of cheddar Rachael bought at their gift shop.”

Best Uncommon Overnight: Madonna Inn, San Luis Obispo, California

Margaret and Corey Bienert of @aprettycoolhoteltour are on the search for theme hotels and unforgettable places to stay around America. Here’s what they had to say about the Madonna Inn, one of their nominations in this category.

“For anyone interested in themed stays or kitsch, over-the-top decor, Madonna Inn must be at the top of your list. This place feels otherworldly as every inch of the hotel, cafe, bar, and even outdoor spaces reminds you that you’re somewhere incredibly special.

The signature pink floral carpeting throughout the main building is a delight to see in person, and there are golden cherubs hanging from the ceiling, colorful stained glass on every window, and the rooms are all uniquely decorated in patterns, colors, and fixtures that feel straight out of a fairytale. Some of their rooms are even carved right into boulders, so you’re partially staying in a cave.

If you can’t stay the night, you can still enjoy a meal in their cafe or steakhouse, and either one is a glorious experience with endless details to enjoy. Oh, and don’t forget to try the Pink Champagne Cake.”

Best Stop-Worthy View: Big Tree Wayside, Prairie Creek State Park, Orick, California

Kately and Howard Newstate of @newstatenomads, have been traveling across the country for nearly 7 years, and they selected the nominations for this category. Here’s what they had to say about this mesmerizing natural wonder in Northern California.

“Traveling along ‘the 101’ or the Pacific Coast Highway is a bucket list road trip for many adventurers! This highway runs through California, Oregon, and Washington, but the stretch in Northern California is known as the Redwood Highway for good reason. One of our favorite stops is the Big Tree Wayside.

Just steps from the parking area, you’ll be at the base of some of the oldest and largest trees on Earth. It really is the quickest way to walk amongst these ancient giants.

The main attraction here is ‘Big Tree,’ standing at nearly 300 feet tall and estimated to be 1,500 years old. There’s also a short loop trail that takes about 15 minutes to complete, and then you can hop right back on Highway 101.”

Best All Fuel Aside: Jubitz Travel Center, Portland, Oregon

Deyana Walker of @the.skoolie.teacher has traveled thousands of miles in a self-converted school bus and van, finding all types of hidden gems along the way. She selected the nominations for this category, and this is what she had to say about this fantastic Portland stop.

“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.”

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.