Well-Known Maine Truck Stop Undergoes Massive Change

During the latter part of the 20th century, Maine was dotted with truck stops.

Not surprisingly, most of these were along the I-95 corridor and many were open 24 hours a day.  To the truckers and frequent visitors, of the 1980s, some of these truck stops became iconic.  Howell's Truck Stop in Kittery and Dysart's Truck Stop in Bangor, for example.

Truckers who frequently make trips to Aroostook County or New Brunswick have another iconic truck stop on their list: Traveler's Big Stop in Houlton.

Traveler's Big Stop in Houlton, Maine

For decades, the truck stop was a first stop for those getting off the I-95 or a last stop before they hit the interstate to travel south.  The truck stop offered both diesel fuel and gasoline and had a well-stocked store, a lounge for the drivers, and a garage for those needing repairs to their rigs.

Because of its location near the Canadian border, it also frequently hosted celebrities.  Country and rock musicians on their way to do shows in Presque Isle or Fredericton, New Brunswick, would often visit the restaurant.  For example, during a tour in the late 1990s, Aerosmith had a late dinner at the restaurant.

Speaking of the restaurant, while the truck stop changed significantly over the years, it always featured a restaurant serving diner foods.  The place served burgers, enormous chicken burgers, fries, meatloaf, turkey dinners, and bottomless cups of coffee.  Until the last few years, the restaurant was open 24 hours a day.

For whatever reason, it appears the place never bounced back following the pandemic.

Sadly, the restaurant has closed permanently.

A New Beginning For the Big Stop

Even though the much-loved restaurant has closed, it does not mean that truckers and visitors cannot get a good meal at the Big Stop.

The restaurant space is now home to an IHOP.

It is the only IHOP location north of Augusta and, according to The County, it serves the full IHOP menu.  That means that you can get pancakes, waffles, chicken tenders, big burgers, and more.  The restaurant will be open daily from 6 AM to 5 PM.

Get more details about the iconic restaurant chain from their website.

While many Aroostook County natives are sad to see the old restaurant go, most are happy that the area now has an IHOP.