When we’re on New Jersey’s long roads like the turnpike, it’s easy to work up an appetite. Even if you’re well-stocked with delicious road trip snacks, it’s tempting to make a stop and fill up at one of the state’s rest stops – but visiting one can be like playing the slots. You might hit the jackpot, or you might go bust. One place where you’re definitely going to be happy making a stop is at the Molly Pitcher Service Area, located southbound at Mile Marker 72 on the turnpike. This is the best rest stop in NJ, feeling more like a sprawling food court with some of the most beloved chains around and a store where you can pick up just about anything you need for the road ahead. It even has a distinctly New Jersey twist, with maybe the most unique vending machine we’ve ever seen!

The Molly Pitcher Service Area is definitely a sight for sore eyes after a long day on the road, with a sprawling selection of dining options.
Lee Stat/Google Local
Of course, you'll find the old-reliable snacks, like Cinnabon and Auntie Anne's - plus a Starbucks for that energy boost.
Anonymous/Google Local
The fast food is an impressive selection, with a Subway, a Chick-Fil-A, and a Panda Express.
Anonymous/Google Local

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The headliner, though, has got to be the Shake Shack - the newest addition to the rest stop. This acclaimed burger chain is spreading just about everywhere lately.
Mario Stylianou/Google Local
The kids will have fun here too - this is the kind of place with multiple vending machines around the place, some with game elements.
Nehai Ahmed/Google Local
The most unique vending machine here, though, has to be the Carlo's Bake Shop machine - dispensing slices of fresh cake from the world-famous Hoboken bakery!
Ahmed Satti/Google Local
Make sure to stop by the massive convenience store before you go - they have a huge candy selection in case you want a sugar fix for the road ahead.
Rajeswar Kanukolanu/Google Local

Have you visited the Molly Pitcher Service Area on the turnpike? What’s your pick for the best rest stop in NJ? Let us know in the comments section. You can find out about all the rest stop’s features and amenities on the official New Jersey turnpike website, and make sure to head to Hoboken to visit the original Carlo’s Bake Shop – the man who made the vending machine possible!

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Molly Pitcher Service Area, NJ Tpke, Cranbury, NJ 08512, USA