Is Marker 126 The Best Travel Center In The Midwest?
If you think all highway stops are just neon lights and questionable hot dogs, think again! You will quickly see a trend: the number 126. The Midwest’s best travel center is ready to welcome you and your family.
Iowa’s Best Chinese Restaurant
Nestled right at mile marker 126 on Iowa’s Highway 20 is a travel center that feels more like a boutique getaway than a pit stop. Whether you’re traveling with grandkids or solo-tripping across the state, here is why this US Highway 20 gem is our favorite place to stretch our legs!
Where Is Marker 126?
At Mile Marker 126, you will see the building, which is home to the rest stop you must stop at. From fuel to snacks, you will find what you need.
Things To Do In Fort Dodge, Iowa
Snacks For The Road
Snacks, snacks, and more snacks line the shelves at Marker 126. From the trendy pickle snacks to chilled cookie dough and flavored cheese curds, you can grab what you need at the moment and for later in the day. Tip: Travel with a cooler or car refrigerator.
Afterall, the best travel center in the Midwest should have all the snacks you could ever want.
Clean Restrooms
It’s no secret that it can be hard to find a gas station with clean restrooms. Marker 126 offers the cleanest restrooms you will find when traveling US Highway 20. Make this a stop that includes shopping, dining, and the traditional “pit stop.” One visit and you’ll see why this is a top-tier Midwest stop; having access to such clean restrooms makes it my go-to choice every time I’m traveling US Highway 20 near Fort Dodge, Iowa.
Boutique Shopping
On my first visit a few years ago to Marker 126 I was pleasantly surprised to see the quality of fun clothing they carried.
From the traditional “Iowa” game gear – think Iowa Hawkeyes and Iowa State Cyclones, to western wear. Fun, wearable women’s clothing is waiting for you to grab it and call it yours.
Coffee And Lunch
I am not a coffee drinker, but Marker 126 has all of you coffee enthusiasts covered. As for me? I’ll grab a hot chocolate or Diet Coke, depending on my mood.
Brew 126 and Table 126 offer your caffeinated drinks and brisket and turkey sandwiches.
If pizza is calling your name, you can grab a slice from the warmer, or order a personalized pizza with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Outdoor Area At Marker 126
If you travel with your dog, plan to walk it in the on-site dog park. And of course, take a photo with the green dinosaur while letting your kids and grandkids play.
Fuel up your car before you get back on US Highway 20. Plan your travels to stop at the best travel center in the Midwest, watch your fuel gauge, and fuel up at Marker 126.
Marker 126 Is The Gateway To Fort Dodge
Iowa’s tallest mural is 15 minutes from Marker 126, a must-stop! If time allows, explore Fort Dodge and the surrounding area.
My guess is, if you don’t plan to stop in Fort Dodge, you will be planning a return visit. My advice is to book a stay at a yurt and spend 48 hours exploring the area.
Discover a Winning Burger In Fort Dodge
So, the next time you find yourself cruising down Highway 20, don’t just blink and miss it! Whether you’re in desperate need of a high-quality latte, a unique gift you won’t find anywhere else, or just a friendly Midwest welcome, Marker 126 delivers every single time. It’s more than just a place to refuel; it’s where the road trip truly begins. Pull over, stretch your legs, and see for yourself why we never drive past without stopping. Trust me, your grandkids (and your taste buds) will thank you.
SaraB
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