Road trip rest areas that you will enjoy

Stef Zisovska

Travelers always talk about favorite beaches, forests, mountains, and lakes, but what about their favorite stop points? Rest areas are a very significant part of any road trip and all of you that like traveling know that. People use many different rest areas depending on the location, facilities, wildlife, and picnic possibilities.

Road-trippers have their favorite rest stops where they can relax, buy food, visit the toilet, have a walk with their pets or just admire the surroundings and enjoy the wilderness of the area. Here’s a list of some of the most amazing rest stops along different routes in the United States.

Best view rest area

Bear Lake, which straddles the states of Idaho and Utah, seen from a distance. Visible is the unique aquamarine color of its waters which is due to minerals – Author: kla4067 – CC BY 2.0
Bear Lake, which straddles the states of Idaho and Utah, seen from a distance. Visible is the unique aquamarine color of its waters which is due to minerals – Author: kla4067 – CC BY 2.0

On Route 89 in Utah, there is a rest area with a stunning view of Bear Lake. The area is in Cache National Forest in northeastern Utah. It’s a perfect viewpoint if you like observing nature. Bear Lake and the mountain surroundings are stunning and you’ll likely want to spend some time here.

A map of Bear Lake Valley is posted on an open air stone and timber shelter. It can be very helpful for planning the next step of your trip, so take your time and study it well.

Best wildlife rest area

Rose-throated Becard – Author: Jerry Oldenettel – CC BY-SA 2.0
Rose-throated Becard – Author: Jerry Oldenettel – CC BY-SA 2.0

On State Highway 82 in Arizona, just a few miles southwest of Patagonia, there is a rest stop where many bird lovers come to see the rare bird species nesting here. Among the birds that can be seen here are rose-throated becard and broad-billed hummingbirds. For a better chance to spot these lovely birds, cross the highway and walk along the fence. Of course, you need to be very careful.

The most pet-friendly rest area

On Interstate 91 in southern Vermont, you can find the Guilford Welcome Center which was built in 1958. The Center has massive windows facing beautiful hills and extended pet-friendly grounds which makes it a pet owners favorite rest area. It is highly appreciated by travelers who enjoy taking their furry friends on a road trip.

Best rest area for families

At the exit 45 of West Virginia Turnpike, you and your family can enjoy Tamarack Tourist Information Center, in Beckley. There is a drive-in diner that lots of travelers like because of the variety of activities offered. For example, there are local musicians and acting groups performing here, plus arts and crafts from West Virginia artists, a movie theater with 178 seats, and of course, great food prepared by the famous chefs of the Greenbrier resort.

Best rest area for RV

The Randolph C. Collier rest area on Interstate 5 in northern California is a favorite stop point for RV owners. Primarily because it’s situated along the Klamath River between a grove of trees. Second because there is a special parking area for RVs which allows the travelers to have a picnic or even spend the night there.

Stop by the beach
Stop by the beach

Next time you’re going on a road trip, look around the places where you take a break. There might be something interesting to see and learn about the region’s history and culture. Rest areas can be very friendly and you’ll be surprised by all the things you can find there. Don’t miss good things in life just because they are not famous. Enjoy and safe travels!

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stef-zisovska

stef-zisovska is one of the authors writing for Outdoor Revival