Worth the Road Trip!

Retailers along key travel routes are building unique experiences to make their stores a memorable piece of customers’ journeys.

Retailers along major travel routes are finding ways to transform routine pit stops into memorable experiences for road-trippers. From unique branding to specialty foodservice, these locations are showing that the right mix of products, atmosphere, and service can make a roadside store a destination.

Wall Drug:

From free ice water to iconic attractions, Wall Drug in South Dakota began in 1936 with a simple idea: offer free ice water to passing travelers. That small gesture drew crowds and transformed the once-struggling store into a roadside landmark. Today, Wall Drug spans 76,000 square feet, offering everything from souvenirs and art, to a restaurant and Western-themed attractions. The key: unique experiences, strong branding, and great customer service.

Wally’s:

Nostalgia meets roadside fun. Wally’s, a growing travel center brand, leans heavily on nostalgia. With 30,000-square-foot locations featuring retro-inspired design, quirky displays (like a vintage Winnebago turned retail space), and branded souvenirs, Wally’s markets itself as the “Home of the Great American Road Trip.” Food, fun, and family-friendly restrooms keep travelers coming back.

Tioga Gas Mart & Whoa Nellie Deli:

Located near Yosemite National Park, Tioga Gas Mart thrives on tourist traffic. Its restaurant, Whoa Nellie Deli, is a major draw with a menu ranging from fish tacos to elk chops. Branded souvenirs and locally crafted products help keep the store top-of-mind, even when seasonal closures make planning crucial.

Jones Petroleum & Synergy Co-op:

Jones Petroleum’s JP Travel Centers in Georgia, and Synergy Co-op in Wisconsin, highlight how amenities and presentation drive repeat visits. Spacious, meticulously clean restrooms, pet-friendly features, and locally inspired products encourage travelers to stop and linger. Seasonal promotions and community tie-ins, like supporting local festivals, keep stores relevant year-round.

The Keys to Road-Trip Retail:

• Offer essentials or irresistible perks (like free water, doughnuts, or clean restrooms).

• Build a theme and sell souvenirs tied to nostalgia or local culture.

• Tell your story—give travelers a reason to remember your stop.

• Market consistently with signage, radio, or digital promotions.

• Stock up early for seasonal rushes and stay flexible with supply.

• Maintain excellent facilities and service to drive loyalty.

These retailers prove that a roadside store can be much more than a quick stop—it can be a highlight of the journey.

Original article published by NACS Magazine, May 2025.