Rest Areas

The History of Rest Areas

In the early 20th century, road building surged alongside the popularity of bicycles and automobiles. As better roads allowed motorists to travel longer distances, the need for places to stop became evident. These early rest areas, often located in scenic spots or where cars could pull off the road, emerged out of necessity. One memorable story comes from Michigan, where a county engineer named Allan Williams noticed families picnicking on tree stumps by the roadside. Inspired, he built the first roadside table in 1929, kickstarting the rest area movement

What Are Rest Areas?

Safety rest areas (SRAs) were modeled after roadside parks and designed as part of the Interstate Highway System. They provide essential amenities for travelers, including restrooms, drinking water, picnic grounds, and information kiosks. Each rest area is carefully developed to highlight local features like history, geology, or architecture.

The Advantages of Using Rest Areas

1. Convenience: Rest areas offer a quick and accessible break from driving. You can stretch your legs, use clean restrooms, and grab a snack without detouring too far.
2. Safety: Fatigue is a major cause of accidents. Rest areas provide a safe place to rest, reducing the risk of drowsy driving.
3. Scenic Views: Many rest areas are strategically placed to showcase natural beauty or historical landmarks. Take a moment to appreciate the surroundings!
4. Eco-Friendly: By stopping at rest areas, you avoid idling your car in parking lots or contributing to congestion at gas stations.
5. Community Connection: Rest areas often feature local information, promoting nearby attractions and businesses.

Locating a suitable rest area during a road trip is crucial for ensuring comfort and safety. The following tips will assist you in finding the ideal stopover:

1. Plan Ahead: Before hitting the road, map out your route and identify rest areas or service plazas along the way. Many highways have designated spots with restrooms, picnic areas, and safe parking. Planning ahead ensures you won’t run out of fuel, food, or energy during your journey.
2. Use Navigation Apps: Both Google Maps and Apple Maps can be your road trip companions. Google Maps offers a convenient “Search Along Route” feature, showing nearby rest stops with pictures and reviews. Apple Maps also provides options for finding rest stops while navigating to your destination.
3. Check Reviews: If you’re unsure about a rest area’s quality or safety, look up reviews online. Travelers often share their experiences, helping you choose the best spots.