An interstate rest stop is a safe place designated for travelers to unwind and recharge after a long, continuous road trip. Rest stops are perfect for stopping to stretch, enjoying a little fresh air, and replenishing the body with some nourishment. Interstate rest stops are owned by the state and are open to the public. It’s free to stop and relax at rest areas, so you don’t have to worry about fees.
Amenities an Interstate Rest Stop Provides
Many interstate rest stops provide amenities that are beneficial for travelers. Some of these amenities include;
- Vending machines
- Pet areas
- Picnic tables
- ATMs
- Playground with equipment
- Clean bathrooms
- Diaper changing facilities
- Handicap accessibility
- RV dump stations
- Adequate parking spaces for cars, trucks, semis and extended parking for vehicles with RVs.
- Recycling areas
- Drinking water
- Visitor information and maps
- Other information regarding travel, local events, and tourist attractions in the surrounding areas
Some interstate rest stops have a travel plaza built on the premises. These rest stops typically offer more amenities and are often times called a “truck stop”.
The amenities these rest areas offer are showers, laundry stations, restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, fuel stations, resting/driver lounges, workout rooms with a variety of equipment, arcades or game rooms, gift shops, Wi-Fi, and more.
Some rest stops accommodate travelers and drivers with even more amenities providing services such as massage, barber, and pet grooming.
Staying at a Rest Stop
When looking for a good night’s sleep after traveling for countless hours, it’s important to know that local governments and states have restrictions for some rest stops regarding the length of time you can stay.
Not all rest stops provide overnight parking, so be sure to check with the State Department of Transportation for the rules and restrictions at the rest stop you choose to relax at.
Rest Stop Locations
According to a policy created by the federal government, interstate rest stops are conveniently located about every half hour of driving.
To find the nearest rest stops on the interstate you choose to traveling on, search that state’s Department of Transportation website. Some DOT websites provide a map of rest stops along interstates.
Another easy way to locate where the nearest interstate rest stop is to you is by downloading a rest stop locator app or finding a website that provides a full list of rest areas in the U.S.
Author Bio
Thomas Bouve has had an intensive IT career in innovative transportation projects and now works at Rest Stops Ahead. During a 4-year tour of duty in the Navy, LCDR Bouve received critical computer training which he directly applied to various logistics programs. After his military service, Tom was appointed Chief, Research and Analysis Division within the U.S. Department of Transportation.
