During the recent Walcott Truckers Jamboree held on July 12, an extraordinary event was held in the super truck showroom at the world’s largest truck stop. Passers-by were invited to have a piece of cake and celebrate a journey of six decades in making the historic Iowa 80 truckstop. The dream that founder Bill Moon and his wife Carolyn started as a small, humble way station in 1964 has grown into a success story, unlike anything the pair could have imagined in the early days.
This year, the Iowa 80 truckstop marks its 60th anniversary and stands as a testament to the unwavering determination of the Moons family. Their journey began long before the completion of Interstate 80, with Bill selecting the site at what is now Exit 284.
In the early years, there was only one bay service area, a handful of fuel service full-service pumps managed by fuel jockeys, a communal shower, and a sleeping room with multiple cots for passers-by. A car and truck wrecker service also operated 24 hours a day.
Bill handpicked the location for its potential, which he described as the perfect spot to help the business grow. However, according to the Moon family, which still runs the famous truck stop, what transformed the Iowa 80 into the world’s largest truck stop is a combination of commitment, innovation, and hard work on the part of the most incredible staff in the world, paired with the most incredible customers.
From a humble roadside cafe to a 300-seat restaurant with a massive buffet, the Iowa 80 has come a long way. The trucker’s store has evolved into a fully-fledged product catalog and internet site, serving various needs. This growth, witnessed between 2004 and 2024, has transformed Iowa 80 beyond its founder’s dream.
Today, the Iowa 80 is more than just a stop. It’s a destination in itself, serving an average of 5000 customers daily. With ample parking for 900 tractor-trailers, 250 cars, and 20 buses, it’s a haven for long-haul truckers. The sprawling hub features a dentist, chiropractor, workout room, laundry facilities, hairdresser, and food court, catering to every need of the weary traveler.
It’s not just a truck stop; it’s a one-of-a-kind experience. For those traversing Interstate 80, the Iowa 80 is a beacon of comfort and convenience. With its sprawling hub offering a dentist, chiropractor, workout room, laundry facilities, hairdresser, and food court, it’s a welcome sight for weary travelers, especially long-haul truckers running coast to coast.
