Rest areas offer more than just restrooms

Oct. 16, 2025

By Julien Devereux

AUSTIN — Texas has more than 80,000 miles of state-maintained roadways across the state, and Safety Rest Areas (SRA) give travelers a place to rest and relax on a road trip. But did you know they’re much more than just a convenient bathroom break?

TxDOT has 78 SRAs ,12 Travel Information Centers (TIC), and more than 500 picnic areas spaced on key travel corridors throughout Texas. The TICs are located at all state and international borders with the first one housed in the Texas Capitol.

Check out some of the many reasons you’ll want to stop at one during your next epic Texas journey. Note: Not every safety rest area has all of these features. Be sure to check our online resources to see what’s available on your trip.

Safety

There’s a reason they’re called safety rest areas, not just rest areas. First and foremost, taking a break can make your driving safer. Fatigue can lead to serious traffic crashes and was a factor in more than 4,000 crashes in 2024 with 90 people killed. It’s recommended drivers take a 15-minute break from driving every two hours to physically and mentally recharge before getting back on the road.

Storm shelter

TxDOT Safety Rest Areas increase safety in another, less obvious way, too. Newer, enclosed rest areas have storm shelters within them. If you find yourself near a TxDOT rest area when a tornado, hurricane or other storm is approaching—it could be your best and closest option for shelter.

Wi-Fi

Yes, many of our newer safety rest areas have free wireless internet, a great opportunity to check your email while taking a break from driving.

History lessons

Many safety rest areas have exhibits highlighting the history of their region. For instance, at the Ward County location on I-20 west of Odessa, the structure mimics the architecture of a nearby former military air base, resembling a hangar.

In the Hale County location on I-27 north of Lubbock, the interior has farm equipment and interactive displays in homage to the region’s rich agricultural history. The Chambers County safety rest area on I-10 east of Houston has tiled murals depicting the native landscape.

Finally, the Bell County location south of Salado has architecture inspired by the many gristmills that once stood along Salado Creek.

Play areas

Got kids? Many safety rest areas have playgrounds. Let the children play while you rest, and you might get fewer “Are we there yets?” for the rest of the trip.

More

In addition to the above, many safety rest areas include:

• Parking: Separate parking areas for passenger vehicles and commercial trucks.
• Picnic areas: Tables and shaded spots for meals or breaks.
• Pet areas: Designated pet-friendly zones.
• Information kiosks: Displays with maps, local attractions, and historical info.
• Vending machines: Snacks and drinks available at many locations.
• Lighting and surveillance: Enhanced security with cameras and lighting.
• Walking trails: Interpretive trails and scenic paths for stretching your legs.
• Law enforcement office space: Some facilities include space for patrol officers.

TxDOT’s safety rest areas have a host of features that can inform and entertain you, but their most important service is to help keep you safe as you travel throughout our great state. So next time you’re planning a Texas road trip, build in stops, both to keep you and your family safe and find out more about the Lone Star State.

For a complete list of locations with all their features, visit TxDOT.