My personal road stop requirements:
1.) clean bathroom
2.) diverse selection of food & drink options (extra points for some healthier options)
3.) ease of use
4.) Friendly is a big plus. While traveling I don't like to feel like I've gotten off on an exit straight into the twilight zone.
1.) not a sparkling clean bathroom. Not a dump, but the store gave off a grimy feel.
2.) looked like plenty, but I didn't peruse the place cuz it felt grimy (see above)
3.) Approaching from eastbound I-70, not the quickest alternative. Took about 5 minutes from exit with slow cars and lights. When ya gotta use the facilities, this is unfortunate! Parking lot/gas station crowded.
4.) I got a friendly good-bye as I walked out.
Choose a rest stop more out of the city if you can! read more