MN’s Top Independent Gas Station Can Be Found In Clearwater

Not all gas stations are created equally. Some are known more for having great car washes, while others are more friendly towards semi-trucks, and still others are more recognized for the food/drink they offer. Some gas stations are large chains/corporations, but there are still plenty of independent stations around, offering drivers a choice of where they fill up. Minnesota's top three independent gas stations are all located North of the Twin Cities, with Clearwater being home to the top one.

Survey Says...

A recent survey done by American River Wellness asked more than 3,000 semi-truck drivers about the best independent gas stations in the USA. The top-10 independent stations that were named came from across the country. The top station in the entire US was in Gainesville, Texas. That station, Rumpy’s Bakery & Deli, "has earned a reputation as one of the best gas stations in Texas, thanks to its scratch-made fried pies, fresh breads, and deli favorites."

That description of Rumpy's as an independent gas station that serves up pies, fresh bread, and has some great food sounds awfully familiar to a certain independent station in Clearwater, doesn't it?

Top Independent Gas Station In Minnesota

According to that same survey of truck drivers, which named Rumpy's in Gainesville, Texas, as the number one independent gas station in the US, Minnesota's top independent gas station was...the Clearwater Travel Plaza!

Here's what the survey respondents said about the Clearwater Travel Plaza:

Clearwater Travel Plaza "has earned fame for its food as much as its fuel. Alongside full-service pumps, it houses a bakery turning out caramel rolls, a restaurant serving classic comfort meals, and even a cocktail lounge. Family-run for more than four decades, it’s both a trusted fueling point and a celebrated food destination, proving that Minnesota’s independent stations can be destinations in themselves."

The travel plaza came in at number 49 on the overall list of US independent gas stations.

Two Other MN Stations Made The List

Coming in at number 72 on the list was Park Rapids' Simonson Station Stores. The main takeaway from the survey said, "The Park Rapids location keeps the tradition alive with Shell fuel pumps out front and a deli inside serving wraps, sandwiches, and coffee for drivers on Highway 34."

Coming in at number 103 on the list was the Truckers Inn in Sauk Centre. The survey highlighted that "its mix of gas pumps, comfort food, and a reputation as a trucker hub, Truckers Inn has become one of Minnesota’s most enduring independent road stops, where small-town service meets big-road practicality."

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