Interstate Rest Area — Local services in Metropolis

Imagine my surprise when, upon exiting my smooth smooth ride (2008 Kia Sedona minivan), I glimpsed what clearly must be they diamond of Metropolis, Illinois— this roadside oasis that boasts a bridge, pavilion, well-maintained bathroom facility, and solid photo op.

Haunted by my past rest stop experiences, I trudged through the (unbeknownst to me at the time) pearly gates of the Fort Massac rest stop, heart filled with trepidation, bladder filled with pee. As I flung the door open, I was not greeted by any questionable smells, nor by any questionable sights. Or, for that matter, any questionable tastes. Basically, I had no questions. And that’s the only way it should be. I used the restroom, unencumbered by said questions, or by fear. I washed my hands, washing away years of rest-stop related trauma. Satisfied, clean, and inspired, my creativity was able to shine through in the photos I took with my sisters at the stunning artistic rendering of none other than Superman himself. See attached. Although my time here was brief, the memories will last a lifetime. Came for the toilets, stayed for the emotional...

Clean, easy to access parking for moving truck with car carrier. A little more road noise, than previous site.

While at this site, a trucker, CHRISTIAN aka Chris, parked next to my rig and pointed out that the car carrier mesh on the front passenger side of the vehicle had fallen off, meaning the car could fly off the carrier in-route! I called Penske to report, since the carrier was insured. Asked to order a second repair of the web mesh on the opposite side of the vehicle as the prior had been on the driver's side, SAME PROBLEM. Penske told me it would be ok to let Chris, the Trucker who had offered his experienced help to fix the problem. It was Memorial Day Weekend and lots of rental trucks were calling in with repair orders and other issues. Chris went to work and repaired the issue, assuring me to complete my 3006 mile journey from Coastal North Carolina to NW Oregon, safely. Thank you to Chris! and the provision of the roadside rest area along the journey. Best...

Welcome to the area of metropolis, home of Superman! This facility does have a life size cut out of Superman (without his head / face) for you to have your photo taken by your loved ones r vice versa, posing as Superman.

This establishment also provides a small playground and plenty of walking space for kids to run around as well as adults to stretch their legs. There are handicap accessible, covered picnic benches and tables for, people to sit and eat at or just perhaps play a family bored game.

They do also provide an area for you to walk your family pet. Assuming your family pet is not a fish. Haha.

This rest area also supplies you with information on history, culture, things to do and see in Illinois. You can even get a free map of Illinois to help you on your excursion(s)

Whenever I have stopped at this particular rest area the staff has usually been friendly courteous and on top of the cleanliness of...