7 Best Road Trip Rest Stops in America
A road trip just isn’t the same without the occasional stops for snacks, sodas, and bathroom breaks. But instead of stopping at another run-of-the-mill gas station or fast-food chain, why not scope out some rest stops with a little more character? The next time you’re riding with the family to grandma’s house or cruising home with your college buddies, pull off to check out one of these awesome American road trip rest stops listed below.
Roadside Rest Area on Highway 82
If you’re heading south of the border or just cruising along southern Arizona, you should keep an eye out for the famous Roadside Rest Area on Highway 82. This scenic rest stop is home to some of the rarest birds in the country, including the Rose-throated Becards, broad-billed hummingbirds, canyon wrens, and Bell’s vireos. Bird fanatics and those who just love nature will make the Roadside Rest Area on Highway 82 their new oasis.
Randolph C. Collier Rest Stop
RVers, listen up! If you find yourself cruising on I-5 through northern California, make sure you pull off at the Randolph C. Collier rest stop to take in all the beautiful sights this area has to offer. Sit beneath a grove of trees along the Klamath River for a picnic lunch or park your RV overnight and camp under the stars.
If you’ve ever driven through the state of Utah, then you know there’s a lot of beauty to be seen. Those passing through Bear Lake, Utah, on Route 89 should make a stop at the Bear Lake Rest Area and Overlook. This breathtaking rest stop is situated within Cache National Forest, surrounded by rolling mountains and a bright blue lake. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs and take a family picture.
Guilford Welcome Center, Interstate 91
If you’re on your way to Vermont via I-91, you must make a stop at the historical Guilford Welcome Center. This building was created in 1958 and became the first welcome center built on a federal highway. It was reconstructed in 1999 and now serves as a comfortable and quaint rest stop to kick up your feet, surf the web on the free Wi-Fi, and learn all about the great state of Vermont.
South of the Border, Interstate 95/Highway 301
South of the state border that separates South and North Carolina is a popular rest stop called South of the Border. This family-friendly roadside attraction has been welcoming travelers to the southeast for more than 50 years. Turn in for the night at the South of the Border Motor Inn, dine at one of the six restaurants, or pick up some souvenirs at the South of the Border shops.<
Tamarack Tourist Information Center, Interstate 77
The Tamarack Tourist Information Center isn’t your average road trip rest stop. As soon as you pull off I-77 on exit 45, you’ll see a crowned building reminiscent of a 1950s drive-in diner. Inside you’ll find a wide variety of West Virginia arts and crafts, live musical and theatrical performances, chef-prepared food, and much more. It’s actually more of a party stop than a rest stop.
