Driving an 18-wheeler through the flat plains of most areas of the Midwest can get mind-numbingly boring. On runs like those, a trucker’s mind can easily turn to finding a good truck stop to rest, relax and fill up the belly.
With that in mind, which are the top truck stops to visit in the Midwestern states? Everyone seems to have a favorite — or two. So, armed with a great deal of subjectivity, below are some of the top contenders for the Best Midwestern Truck Stop title.
The Greater Chicago I-55 Truck Plaza
This independent family owned and operated trucking plaza has been a mainstay in the area since 1968. They are one of the dwindling number of independent truck stops still in operation. The truck plaza is located in Bolingbrook, at the intersection of Interstate 55 and Rt. 53, via Exit 267.
It’s just 25 miles from the Windy City, yet in another world entirely. The truck plaza is a throwback to far simpler times, yet still manages to modernize its facilities, remain relevant and meet truckers’ needs.
One of their finest amenities is the gym and fitness center that’s available for truckers’ use 24/7 at no charge. Drivers can go upstairs to work off the tasty meal they enjoyed at the truck plaza’s restaurant. Right next to the gym is a trucker chapel for those who want to bend a knee in prayer.
Sapp Bros Travel Center in Peru, Illinois
Take Interstate 80 to Exit 73 to use some of the cleanest restrooms in America. They somehow manage to keep them tidy and fully stocked at all times. The travel center also offers oil changes for the big rigs. Truckers can use that downtime to wash a load of laundry or make use of one of the dozen private showers.
While there is no mom-and-pop restaurant there, they have three fast food options available.
Iowa 80 Kitchen in Walcott
Known as “the world’s largest truck stop, Iowa 80 Kitchen is in the midst of a $10 million renovation and further expansion. Due to COVID-19, the buffet is not presently open, but the Iowa 80 Kitchen is still serving truckers’ favorite entrees and sides.
The truckstop is also home to a trucking museum and a country music jamboree. Best of all, there is no charge to visit or attend either.
Unlike at smaller truck stops, you never have to jockey for space to park your rig. With 900 parking spaces available, you can always find a spot.
Do you have a favorite Midwestern truck stop to add to our list? Name it and describe why it rates in the comments.
Source: msn.com
I 80 Truck Plaza is the best and has been for many years even before it got as big as it is
Also the Oak Grove 70 east of K.C., also part of the Iowa 80 family of truck stops.
Bosselman Travel Center in Grand Island, NE.
Used to stop at Wings America in Avoca, IA until their American Pie Cafe closed.
Not as good since they closed restaurant.
I think most drivers would prefer free parking more than a free gym at the greater chicago I55 truck plaza.