Refueling

Few places in America seamlessly combine our needs and desires like the all-in-one gas station. Our cars require essentials like fuel, air, or wiper fluid, while we often crave snacks such as Hot Cheetos, sour Skittles, nachos, or coffee (a blend of want and need), or perhaps a diner-style breakfast or tacos to go. (And yes, that bathroom is definitely a necessity.) Amid the bright pump lines, shiny aisles, and attached dining areas of the quintessential American gas station, both we and our vehicles can truly satisfy all our cravings.

The practical charm of fuel stations is nothing new, but chances are you and your appetite (and upholstery) have encountered it more frequently over the past year. With air travel down due to COVID-19, car trips became the top choice for 97 percent of Americans last summer, and nearly 70 percent of travelers are still opting for road trips this year. This leads to many more opportunities to explore the Chevrons, Texacos, Shells, Mobils, and BPs, discovering how the mini-marts and their surprisingly ambitious Mytouries keep us fueled—both literally and metaphorically.

Gas station food offers a fascinating glimpse into local culture and community, showcasing regional flavors (Salmon jerky in the Pacific Northwest! Boiled peanuts in the South! Wawa!). Historically, gas stations have served as an entrepreneurial starting point for immigrants in America, where you can find amazing dishes like sharska saag, tamales, lamb kabobs, and dak bulgogi sold alongside lotto tickets and energy drinks nationwide. The parking lots also host their own vibrant scene, featuring taco trucks and food carts catering to the steady flow of customers on the go.

As many of us prepare to hit the road for a well-deserved, adventure-filled summer (hopefully vaccinated), let’s take a moment to appreciate the culinary treasures of the often-overlooked yet incredibly reliable American gas station, ready to satisfy our needs and desires wherever we find ourselves—offering everything we want and more.

The Land of Gas Station Treats

From Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets to 7-Eleven Spam musubi, these are some of the must-try snacks that are worth exiting the highway for.

The Touchscreen Ritual of Wawa

The Wawa phenomenon transcends typical regional chains. For me, its true greatness lies in how it embodies the finest offerings of Philadelphia.

A Secure Spot to Refuel

Before Black travelers had the freedom to journey throughout the American South, Black-owned gas stations provided food and rest as safe havens.

Tea Rooms: The First Truck Stops

During the first half of the 20th century, roadside tea rooms were the go-to for hungry travelers, creating social hubs for America’s trailblazing female drivers between major cities.

The Teenage Scene at Cumberland Farms

As a teenager, nothing was cooler than sipping coffee nonchalantly. In Massachusetts, that meant enjoying iced coffee from the state’s beloved gas station chain.

Welcome to America’s Chip Hub

Nestled in central lower Pennsylvania, Breezewood’s gas stations boast an impressive selection of the finest potato chips in the nation.

Sometimes, the Best Wine Store is a Gas Station

In numerous cities, the local gas station is where you can find bottles from small-scale producers.

Guilty Pleasures, Absolute Joy

I've discovered the secret to road trip happiness: a perfect mix of Gardettos and Sour Punch Straws.

The American Dream Inside a Sunoco

Countless restaurants at gas stations and truck stops are operated by immigrants offering the comfort foods they long for from their homeland.

Ranking All the Jerky

From Urban Cowboy to Slant Shack, which jerky brand comes out on top: mushroom or beef?

Musubi Served with a Side of Gasoline

The excellence of Hawai’i’s gas station cuisine is largely due to its deep connections with Japan, where convenience store snacks are a refined craft.

Taco Traffic and Gorditas on Austin’s Taco Mile

The finest Mexican and Central American street food in Austin can be discovered along Rundberg’s Taco Mile. So, why isn’t it more widely known?

Yosemite’s Beautiful, But Have You Checked Out the Gas Station?

At a gas station en route to California’s most renowned national park, Whoa Nellie Deli serves food that’s far more adventurous than expected, complemented by stunning views.

The Pink Cookie Competition in Southwestern Utah

Chains like Dutchman’s and Swig offer these pastel, sprinkle-covered cookies. The real question is: Who was the original baker?

A Sanctuary of Beer and Diesel

Panamint Springs Resort is the sole provider of fuel, accommodations, and food in the expansive 65-mile Panamint Valley. So, who frequents this spot?

Editorial lead:Lesley SuterCreative Director:Brittany Holloway-BrownContributors:Martha Cheng, Krista Diamond, Patty Diez, Terrence Doyle, Farley Elliott, Missy Frederick, Amethyst Ganaway, Trisha Gopal, Gabe Guarente, Trey Gutierrez, Brenna Houck, Clair Lorell, Nicholas Mancall-Bitel, Meghan McCarron, Amy McCarthy, Erin Perkins, Ashok Selvam, Susan Stapleton, Kayla Stewart, Joy Summers, Ryan Sutton, Carlye Wisel, Jenny G. ZhangIllustrators:Naya-Cheyenne, Darya ShnykinaPhotographers:Sam Angel, Natalie Behring, Shelby Holte, Michelle Mishina, Louiie Victa, Rosa María ZamarrónEditors:Nicole Adlman, Matt Buchanan, Monica Burton, Hillary Dixler Canavan, Nadia Chaudhury, Madeleine Davies, Erin DeJesus, Brenna Houck, Rebecca Flint Marx, Jesse SparksCopy Editor:Kim EgglestonFact Checkers:Kelsey Lannin, Andrea López-Cruzado, Hanna MerzbachEngagement Editor:Esra ErolProject Manager:Ellie KrupnickSpecial Thanks to:Terri Ciccone, James Park, Graham MacAree, Milly McGuinness, Amanda Kludt