Inside Little America Travel Center

Beyond the Highway: An Inside Look at Little America Travel Centers

For many travelers, a stop at a roadside travel center is often a quick necessity – a fleeting moment to refuel, grab a snack, and stretch your legs. But what if a travel center offered more than just the basics? What if it was an oasis, a destination in itself? Welcome to the world of Inside Little America Travel Center, where comfort, convenience, and a touch of classic American hospitality converge to create a truly unique experience on the road.

Whether you're a family on a cross-country adventure, a professional truck driver on a long haul, or simply a local looking for quality services, Little America Travel Centers aim to redefine your expectations of a roadside stop. But what exactly makes them stand out? Let's take a comprehensive look.

What is Little America Travel Center?

Little America Travel Centers are a distinctive chain of hospitality establishments primarily located across the Western United States, including Wyoming, Utah, and Arizona. Their origins trace back to a humble gas station, motel, and cafe established in 1934 in Wyoming by Stephen Mack Covey. The name "Little America" was inspired by Admiral Richard E. Byrd's remote Antarctic base, symbolizing a haven or oasis in a vast, often desolate, landscape.

Over the decades, under the ownership of the Holding family, Little America evolved from simple roadside stops into comprehensive travel hubs. They are designed to be much more than just a place to get gas; they are full-service destinations offering a wide array of amenities to cater to every traveler's needs.

Key Amenities and Services: More Than Just a Pit Stop

When you step inside Little America Travel Center, you'll quickly discover a commitment to providing a superior experience. Their extensive range of services and facilities sets them apart.

Fueling Up: For Every Vehicle

Little America Travel Centers are renowned for their robust fueling capabilities. They offer multiple fueling islands with gasoline (regular, plus, premium, and diesel) and high-speed dispensers, catering to both passenger vehicles and large semi-trucks. For a period, one location even boasted 55 pumps, making it one of the largest filling stations in the nation. Many locations also provide RV gasoline.

Dining Options: Beyond the Typical Roadside Fare

Hungry travelers will find a diverse selection of dining experiences at Little America. From casual grills and delis to more formal restaurants and steakhouses, the focus is on comforting, made-from-scratch food. You can enjoy:

• Hot Grills & Delis: Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with options like hamburgers, rotisserie chicken, and burritos.
• Coffee Shops & Buffets: Offering all-American classics and upscale breakfast buffets.
• Steakhouses and Bars: Providing a more refined dining experience.

And don't forget their legendary 75-cent soft-serve ice cream cones – a delightful and affordable treat that has become a signature offering.

Shopping & Souvenirs: Practicalities and Keepsakes

The 24-hour convenience stores at Little America are well-stocked, offering everything from everyday necessities like personal care items and groceries to automotive and semi-truck supplies. Beyond the practical, you'll also find a curated selection of souvenirs, books, and even Sinclair Collectibles, making it easy to pick up a memento of your journey.

Lodging & Rest: Comfortable Stays on the Road

Many Little America locations feature on-site hotels or motels, providing comfortable and often luxurious accommodations. These properties offer a variety of room types, from standard guest rooms to spacious suites, some even including features like balconies or kitchenettes. The Salt Lake City location, for instance, boasts 850 luxurious guestrooms and beautifully landscaped 10-acre grounds.

Trucker Services: Catering to the Pros

Recognizing the vital role of professional drivers, Little America provides extensive services tailored to truckers. These include:

• Spacious Truck Parking: Though it can be limited due to high demand.
• Clean Shower Facilities: Praised for their cleanliness and spaciousness, some even featuring oversized tubs.
• Drivers' Lounges: Providing a dedicated space for rest and relaxation.
• Laundry Facilities: Essential for long journeys.
• Truck Repair & Maintenance: Services like tire repair, oil changes, AC repair, and even 24/7 on-call roadside assistance are available through partners like Rocky Mountain Truck Centers.

Why Choose Little America?

Why should you plan your next stop at a Little America Travel Center? It boils down to their commitment to quality and a comprehensive, thoughtful approach to traveler needs.

• Unmatched Cleanliness: Little America is particularly well-known for its exceptionally clean restrooms and shower facilities, often described as luxurious, with some even featuring chandeliers in private stalls.
• Family-Friendly Features: With diverse dining options, spacious grounds, and amenities like pools at hotel locations, Little America caters well to families on road trips.
• Convenience for All: From the 24-hour services to the variety of offerings under one roof, these centers are designed for maximum convenience, minimizing the need for multiple stops.
• A Tradition of Hospitality: The brand prides itself on providing a welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, aiming to make every guest feel at home.

Tips for Your Visit

To make the most of your stop inside Little America Travel Center:

• Plan Ahead for Parking: If you're traveling in a large vehicle, especially a semi-truck, consider arriving earlier in the day to secure a parking spot, as they can fill up quickly.
• Indulge in the Ice Cream: Don't miss out on the famous 75-cent ice cream cones – it's a classic Little America treat!
• Explore the Amenities: Take the time to discover all the services available. Need to do laundry? Get a hot meal? Or just relax in a comfortable lounge? It's all there.
• Check Specific Location Details: While the core offerings are consistent, some amenities might vary slightly by location (e.g., a golf course at the Cheyenne location).

Conclusion

Little America Travel Centers are far more than just gas stations; they are a testament to American roadside hospitality, offering a comprehensive suite of services designed to make any journey more comfortable and enjoyable. From their origins as a simple oasis in the Wyoming desert to their current status as multi-faceted travel hubs, they continue to serve as beacons of convenience and quality for road-weary travelers.

Have you experienced the unique offerings of a Little America Travel Center? Share your favorite memories or discoveries in the comments below! Or, if you're planning your next road trip, consider making a stop at one of these iconic destinations and see for yourself what makes them so special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Are all Little America Travel Center locations the same? A1: While Little America Travel Centers share a core set of amenities like fuel, convenience stores, and dining, the specific offerings and scale can vary slightly by location. For instance, some locations might have more extensive hotel facilities, golf courses, or specialized truck services than others.

Q2: Do Little America Travel Centers have EV charging stations? A2: While the search results primarily highlight gasoline and diesel fueling, with the growing trend of electric vehicles, it's advisable to check directly with the specific Little America location you plan to visit or consult current EV charging apps for the most up-to-date information on charging availability.

Q3: Can I stay overnight in my RV at a Little America Travel Center? A3: Many Little America locations, particularly those with hotels or designated travel centers, offer truck and RV parking. While some parking might be free, it's always best to verify specific policies, including any potential fees or designated RV areas, with the individual location upon arrival or by calling ahead.

Q4: Are the showers at Little America Travel Centers available to everyone, or just truckers? A4: The shower facilities at Little America Travel Centers are generally available to all travelers, not just truckers, though they are particularly praised by professional drivers for their cleanliness and amenities. There might be a fee for using the showers.