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• Travel Guide

How To Plan Gas Stops On A Road Trip

Published: November 19, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Olympe Bayless

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Essentials & Accessories
• Travel Tips

Introduction

When it comes to embarking on a road trip, careful planning is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. One crucial aspect of road trip planning is mapping out your gas stops along the way. Determining when and where to stop for gas can save you both time and money, while also ensuring you don’t find yourself stranded on the side of the road.

In this article, we will explore the factors to consider when planning gas stops on a road trip, from mapping out your route to identifying gas stations along the way. We will also discuss the importance of conducting thorough research on the gas stations you plan to stop at, as well as determining the ideal distance between gas stops based on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Additionally, we will delve into adjusting your gas stop schedule for traffic and weather conditions, as well as planning for any emergencies that may arise.

By following these tips and strategies, you can effectively plan your gas stops and enjoy a stress-free road trip experience. So let’s dive in and discover how to efficiently plan gas stops on your upcoming adventure!

Factors to Consider

When planning gas stops on a road trip, there are several key factors to take into consideration. By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure that your gas stops are well-timed, convenient, and strategic. Here are some factors to consider:

• Distance: The distance between gas stops is an important factor to consider. You don’t want to wait until your gas tank is nearly empty before searching for a gas station. Plan ahead and calculate the distance between each stop to ensure you have enough fuel to reach the next station.
• Pit Stops: It’s important to remember that gas stops are not just for refueling. They also provide an opportunity for bathroom breaks, stretching your legs, and grabbing a quick snack. Consider incorporating these pit stops into your gas stop planning to make the most of your journey.
• Rural vs. Urban Areas: Depending on your route, you may come across stretches of road that pass through rural or remote areas. In these areas, gas stations may be few and far between. Make sure to account for these areas in your planning and ensure you have enough fuel to get through them.
• Gas Station Amenities: While fuel is the primary reason for stopping at a gas station, it’s also worth considering the amenities they offer. Some gas stations may have convenience stores, restrooms, or even car wash services. Researching the amenities available at each gas station can help you plan your pit stops more effectively.
• Operating Hours: Gas stations may have different operating hours, especially in more remote areas. It’s important to check if the gas stations along your route are open during the times you plan to pass by. This will ensure you don’t arrive at a closed gas station, leaving you without fuel options.

By considering these factors as you plan your gas stops, you can optimize your road trip experience and alleviate any potential gas-related stress along the way. Now that we’ve explored the factors to consider, let’s move on to the next step: mapping out your route.

Mapping out Your Route

Before you can effectively plan your gas stops, it’s crucial to thoroughly map out your route. Mapping out your route will not only help you identify the best gas stations along the way but also ensure that you have a clear understanding of the distances you will be traveling. Here are some tips for mapping out your route:

• Use a Reliable GPS or Navigation App: Utilize a reliable GPS or navigation app to help you map out your route. These tools will provide you with real-time traffic updates, estimated travel times, and suggestions for gas stations along your journey.
• Consider Scenic Routes: Consider taking scenic routes during your road trip. Not only will these routes offer picturesque views and interesting landmarks, but they may also have more gas station options available. Research the gas station availability along your chosen scenic routes to ensure you won’t run out of fuel.
• Plan Rest Stops: Along with mapping out your gas stops, plan for rest stops as well. These stops will not only provide you with a chance to refuel your vehicle but also stretch your legs and take a break from driving. Identify rest areas or parks along your route that offer amenities such as restrooms and picnic areas.
• Consider Alternate Routes: It’s always a good idea to have alternate routes in mind. In case of road closures, traffic congestion, or unexpected circumstances, having alternate routes will ensure that you can still reach your destination without running out of fuel. Explore different routes before your trip and familiarize yourself with gas station options along the alternate routes.

Mapping out your route in detail will not only help you plan your gas stops but also give you a sense of direction and control during your road trip. With your route mapped out, it’s time to identify the gas stations along the way. We will discuss this in the next section.

Identifying Gas Stations Along the Way

Once you have mapped out your route, the next step is to identify the gas stations that are conveniently located along your journey. This step is crucial to ensure that you have multiple options for refueling at regular intervals. Here are some strategies for identifying gas stations along the way:

• Online Maps and Apps: Utilize online maps and apps that specifically display gas stations along your route. These tools often provide information about the gas station’s location, hours of operation, and even user reviews. Popular options include Google Maps, GasBuddy, and Waze.
• Gas Station Chains: Look for gas station chains that are well-known and have a widespread presence along your route. These chains often have multiple locations, making it easier for you to find a gas station whenever you need one. Examples include Shell, Chevron, and Exxon.
• Local Recommendations: Reach out to local communities or forums for recommendations on gas stations along your route. Locals will have firsthand knowledge of the best and most reliable gas stations in the area. They may also be able to provide insights on which stations offer the best prices or amenities.
• Travel Guides and Websites: Consult travel guides and websites that provide information specifically catered to road trips. These guides often list gas stations along popular routes and may include additional details like restroom availability, food options, or nearby attractions.

By utilizing a combination of online maps, gas station chains, local recommendations, and travel guides, you can identify a variety of gas stations along your road trip route. This will ensure that you have plenty of options for refueling and minimize the risk of running low on fuel during your journey.

Now that you have identified the gas stations, it’s important to conduct further research to ensure they meet your specific requirements. We will explore this in the next section.

Gas Station Research

Once you have identified the gas stations along your road trip route, it’s important to conduct thorough research to ensure they meet your specific needs. By gathering information about each gas station, you can make informed decisions about where to stop for fuel. Here are some key aspects to consider during your gas station research:

• Price and Discounts: Check the gas prices at each station to ensure they align with your budget. Some gas station chains may offer loyalty programs or discounts, so it’s worth considering these options to save some money on fuel purchases.
• Amenities: Consider the amenities offered at each gas station. Some stations may have convenience stores, restrooms, ATMs, or even food options. Assess which amenities are important to you and prioritize gas stations that offer them.
• Cleanliness and Safety: Research the cleanliness and safety of each gas station. Online reviews or ratings can provide insights into the overall cleanliness of the station and the surrounding area. Prioritize gas stations that are well-maintained and offer a safe environment.
• Accessibility: Assess the accessibility of each gas station. Consider factors such as the ease of entrance and exit, sufficient space for maneuvering larger vehicles, and the availability of accessible fuel pumps for vehicles requiring special accommodations.
• Availability of Services: Determine if additional services are available at each gas station, such as repairing flat tires, providing air for tires, or offering car maintenance supplies. These services can be useful in case of emergencies or unexpected situations.

By conducting thorough research on each gas station, you can select the ones that best fit your requirements during your road trip. Take note of the relevant information for each station, such as location, amenities, and any special considerations. It’s also helpful to plan for contingencies in case a chosen gas station is unavailable or closed during your journey.

With the gas stations researched, the next step is to determine the ideal distance between gas stops based on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. We will explore this aspect in the next section.

Determining the Ideal Distance Between Gas Stops

One of the key factors in planning gas stops on a road trip is determining the ideal distance between each stop. This distance will depend on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and the availability of gas stations along your route. Here are some steps to help you determine the ideal distance:

• Know Your Vehicle’s Fuel Efficiency: Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, which is typically measured in miles per gallon (MPG) or kilometers per liter (KPL). This information can usually be found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or by researching your specific make and model online.
• Calculate Your Fuel Range: Once you know your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, calculate your fuel range, which is the maximum distance your vehicle can travel on a full tank of gas. Divide your vehicle’s fuel capacity by its fuel efficiency to determine the approximate number of miles or kilometers you can travel on a full tank.
• Consider Gas Station Availability: Take into account the availability of gas stations along your route. If gas stations are few and far between, you may want to plan for shorter distances between gas stops to avoid running out of fuel in remote areas.
• Factor in Driving Conditions: Consider the driving conditions you will encounter during your road trip. If you will be driving through mountainous terrain, stop-and-go traffic, or adverse weather conditions, your vehicle’s fuel efficiency may be impacted. Plan for more frequent gas stops to ensure you don’t run out of fuel.
• Err on the Side of Caution: It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to fueling up during a road trip. If in doubt, err on the side of caution and plan for more frequent gas stops. It’s better to have extra fuel than to risk running out in an inconvenient or remote location.

By taking these steps to determine the ideal distance between gas stops, you can ensure that you have enough fuel to reach the next gas station without experiencing unnecessary anxiety or inconvenience. With this information in mind, you can move on to the next section: considering fuel efficiency.

Considering Fuel Efficiency

When planning your gas stops on a road trip, it’s important to consider your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. By understanding how your vehicle’s fuel efficiency is affected by various factors, you can make informed decisions about when and where to refuel. Here are some important aspects to consider when it comes to fuel efficiency:

• Driving Habits: Your driving habits can significantly impact your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Aggressive acceleration, excessive speeding, and frequent braking can all increase fuel consumption. Adopting smooth and consistent driving habits can help improve fuel efficiency.
• Tire Pressure: Maintaining the proper tire pressure is vital for fuel efficiency. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, leading to increased fuel consumption. Regularly check your tire pressure, especially before embarking on a long road trip.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Keeping your vehicle properly maintained can contribute to better fuel efficiency. Regularly servicing your engine, replacing air filters, and performing routine maintenance checks can optimize your vehicle’s performance and fuel economy.
• Cargo and Weight: Carrying unnecessary cargo or excess weight in your vehicle can reduce fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from your vehicle before the road trip to lighten the load and improve fuel economy.
• Choosing the Right Fuel: Use the recommended fuel type for your vehicle as stated in the owner’s manual. Using a higher octane fuel than necessary does not improve fuel efficiency and can lead to unnecessary expenses.
• Avoiding Excessive Idling: Minimize idling, especially for extended periods, as it wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stationary for an extended time, such as at a rest stop or during traffic congestion, consider turning off your engine to conserve fuel.

By considering these fuel efficiency factors, you can make conscious choices that maximize your vehicle’s fuel economy. This, in turn, allows you to better plan your gas stops on your road trip, ensuring that you optimize your fuel usage and minimize unnecessary stops.

Now that you have considered fuel efficiency, let’s move on to the next section: adjusting for traffic and weather conditions.

Adjusting for Traffic and Weather Conditions

When planning gas stops on a road trip, it’s important to make adjustments based on traffic and weather conditions. These factors can significantly impact your travel time and fuel consumption. Here are some considerations for adjusting your gas stop schedule:

• Traffic Congestion: Heavy traffic can lead to increased fuel consumption and longer travel times. Monitor traffic conditions along your route and be prepared to make additional gas stops if needed. Consider using real-time traffic apps or navigation systems that provide updates on traffic flow to make informed decisions.
• Weather Conditions: Inclement weather such as rain, snow, or strong winds can impact road conditions and reduce your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Adjust your gas stop schedule to allow for slower driving speeds and increased fuel consumption in adverse weather conditions.
• Construction Zones: Construction zones often result in reduced speed limits and traffic delays. Plan for potential delays and adjust your gas stop schedule accordingly to ensure that you don’t run out of fuel while waiting in construction-related traffic.
• Rush Hour: If your road trip coincides with rush hour in urban areas, it’s important to factor in the increased traffic volume and potential delays. Schedule your gas stops to avoid peak traffic times, or plan for extra time in case of unexpected delays.
• Alternate Route Options: In the event of unexpected traffic or severe weather conditions, having alternate route options can be invaluable. Stay updated on road conditions and be prepared to adjust your gas stop schedule by accessing alternate routes that may offer smoother travel conditions.

By adjusting your gas stop schedule based on traffic and weather conditions, you can ensure that you have enough fuel to navigate through challenging situations and avoid potential fuel-related issues along your road trip. Now, let’s move on to the next section: planning for emergencies.

Planning for Emergencies

When embarking on a road trip, it’s essential to plan for potential emergencies, including situations where your access to fuel may be limited. By considering emergencies in your gas stop planning, you can ensure that you’re prepared for unexpected circumstances. Here are some tips for planning for emergencies:

• Carry Extra Fuel: Consider carrying extra fuel in appropriate containers, especially if you anticipate traveling through remote areas with limited access to gas stations. This can provide peace of mind and ensure that you have enough fuel to reach the next available gas station.
• Emergency Roadside Assistance: Research and subscribe to reliable emergency roadside assistance services. These services provide assistance in case of vehicle breakdowns, including delivering fuel if you run out in a remote area.
• Carry Essential Supplies: Have a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle that includes items such as a flashlight, spare batteries, a first aid kit, snacks, water, and a road map. These supplies can come in handy during emergency situations, including delays due to fuel shortages.
• Know Nearby Gas Stations: Stay informed about gas station locations in proximity to your route. This knowledge can be particularly useful in emergencies, allowing you to quickly locate and reach the nearest gas station in case of a fuel-related issue.
• Communicate Your Plans: Inform a trusted friend or family member about your road trip plans, including your intended route and estimated arrival times. This way, in the event of an emergency, someone will be aware of your situation and can assist you in finding a solution.

By incorporating these emergency planning considerations into your gas stop schedule, you can better prepare yourself for unforeseen circumstances. Remember, emergencies can happen even with careful planning, so it’s important to be prepared to handle them effectively.

With the gas stop planning now encompassing emergency preparedness, let’s move on to the final section: finalizing your gas stop schedule.

Finalizing Your Gas Stop Schedule

After considering all the factors, conducting research, and planning for potential emergencies, it’s time to finalize your gas stop schedule. This schedule will ensure that you have a well-planned roadmap for refueling during your road trip. Here are the steps to finalize your gas stop schedule:

• Create a Timeline: Review your mapped out route and determine the estimated travel time between each gas stop. Consider the distance between each station, anticipated driving conditions, and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.
• Factor in Pit Stops: Allow for additional time at gas stations to take restroom breaks, stretch your legs, and grab a snack. These pit stops can also be an opportunity to check your vehicle’s condition, such as tire pressure and engine fluids.
• Consider Preferred Gas Stations: Take into account the gas stations that meet your preferences, such as price, amenities, cleanliness, and safety. Prioritize these stations in your gas stop schedule to ensure a positive experience at each stop.
• Adjust for Traffic and Weather: Be flexible with your schedule to account for traffic congestion, construction zones, and adverse weather conditions. Keep an eye on real-time traffic updates and adjust your gas stop times accordingly to minimize potential delays.
• Keep Emergency Preparedness in Mind: Take into consideration the potential need for emergency fuel reserves and the availability of gas stations in remote areas. Make sure your gas stop schedule includes contingency options for emergencies.

Once you have finalized your gas stop schedule, make a copy of it for easy reference during your road trip. Share the schedule with your travel companions, if any, so that everyone is aware of the planned gas stops along the route. Having a clear and well-organized gas stop schedule will help ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

Remember, while it’s important to stick to your gas stop schedule, flexibility is key. Factors such as unexpected road closures, detours, or changes in driving conditions may require adjustments to your schedule. Stay adaptable and make necessary changes to ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip experience.

With your gas stop schedule finalized, you are now well-equipped to embark on your road trip adventure with the confidence that you have strategically planned your refueling stops. So, buckle up and enjoy the many experiences and memories that await you on the open road!

Planning gas stops on a road trip is a critical aspect of ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. By considering factors such as distance, amenities, fuel efficiency, traffic conditions, and potential emergencies, you can create a well-structured gas stop schedule that keeps you on track and prepared for any situation.

Mapping out your route and identifying gas stations along the way provide you with the necessary information to plan your pit stops strategically. Through careful research, you can gather details about each gas station’s price, amenities, cleanliness, and safety, helping you make informed decisions about where to refuel. Adjustments for traffic and weather conditions, as well as planning for emergencies, offer flexibility in case of unexpected delays or fuel shortages.

Don’t forget to account for your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and adjust the distance between gas stops accordingly. By optimizing your fuel economy through proper driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and considering the weight you carry, you can maximize your mileage and reduce the need for frequent refueling.

In the end, finalizing your gas stop schedule allows you to create a well-organized timeline, considering pit stops and preferred gas stations along the way. Keep in mind that emergencies can happen, so it’s crucial to be prepared by carrying extra fuel, subscribing to emergency roadside assistance, and having essential supplies on hand.

With a well-structured gas stop schedule in place, you can confidently embark on your road trip, knowing that you have planned your refueling stops efficiently. Stay adaptable, be prepared for unexpected circumstances, and enjoy the freedom of the open road as you create unforgettable memories along your journey. Safe travels!

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How to Find Gas Stations Along Your Route: 4 Methods

Here's how to find gas stations along your route in Google Maps, Apple Maps, Waze, and GasBuddy.

When you're on a road trip and need to refuel, you don't want to go out of your way to stop at a gas station. Of course, you also don't want to pay more than you need to.

Thankfully, it's easy to find gas prices along your route and pick the best gas station for you. Let's see how.

How to Find Gas Stations Along Your Route in Google Maps

As Google Maps is the choice navigation app of many, it's no surprise that it includes the functionality to locate gas stations while you're driving. It's a simple feature to use, too.

Related: Google Maps Tricks That'll Change How You Navigate

While you're navigating, tap the Magnifying Glass icon on the right side of the Google Maps interface. This brings up the Search along route screen. You can type a specific place into the box at the top if you're looking for a particular gas station.

Otherwise, tap the Gas stations icon. This will show bubbles for gas stations conveniently located along your route. Each one contains the station's name, how far out of the way it is, and the current price for gas. Tap one, and Google Maps will set it as your current stop (either when you tap Add stop or after a few seconds).

After you stop at the station, Google Maps will resume navigation to your original destination. If you want to remove the gas station stop you added, swipe up from the bottom and tap Remove stop .

Keep in mind that you can use this feature in Google Maps for other types of stops too, like restaurants and grocery stores.

How to Find Gas Stations Along Your Route in Apple Maps

If you use an iPhone and prefer Apple Maps, it's easy to add a stop for gas while navigating in Apple's offering, too.

Related: How to Report Accidents, Hazards, and Speed Checks in Apple Maps

With navigation running, tap the bar at the bottom of the screen to expand it, then select Add Stop . In this menu, you'll see several shortcuts for useful stops, such as Parking and Fast Food .

Tap Gas Stations , and Apple Maps will show you stations along your current route. Scroll through the list to see how long each one adds to your trip, how far away it is, when it's open, and its Yelp rating.

Tap Go to set a chosen gas station as your current stop. If you change your mind, hit the Resume Route to [Destination] at the top of the screen to remove the gas station stop.

With this function, it's easy to find gas along your route. The only major drawback is that Apple Maps doesn't show the current price of gas at each station.

How to Find Gas Stations Along Your Route in Waze

If you don't use Google Maps or Apple Maps, you probably use Waze. Unsurprisingly, the app that's all about taking your drive to the next level also supports finding gas stations along your navigation route.

To find a gas station while in active navigation with Waze, tap the bar at the bottom of the screen showing your arrival time and distance information. If needed, scroll down to find the Add a stop section, then tap the gas pump icon. You can select the magnifying glass icon if you're looking for a particular destination.

Waze will show you a list of gas stations with all their pertinent info, including how far away they are, how many minutes the stop will add to your trip, and the current price of gas. Since other users update these prices, they might be days or weeks outdated, but should give you an idea of what you'll pay.

Tap an entry to see more information about it, then choose Go . Waze lets you pick Add a stop or New drive ; choose the former since you want to continue onto your final destination.

Waze doesn't currently offer a way to remove a stop and revert to your original destination. Thus, if you change your mind about stopping for gas, you'll need to cancel navigation and restart with your original destination.

How to Find Gas Stations Along Your Route Using GasBuddy

For something a little different, you can also use a non-navigation app to find the cheapest gas stations near you. GasBuddy is one of the best apps to help you locate cheap gas , so you should keep it around to save a few cents whenever possible.

After downloading the app, you can sign up for an account, but it's not necessary to use it. Just tap Skip at the top-right to move on without an account. You'll likely have to skip past a few offers, too.

Once you're in the main GasBuddy interface, tap Find Gas at the bottom. The app will ask what fuel type you prefer, then will show prices and stations that reflect that type of gas.

To find gas along your current route, tap inside the Current Location box at the top of the screen and choose Add a destination . Enter where you're going, select a route if necessary, and GasBuddy will show gas stations along your route on the map overview.

Choose List at the top-right if the map interface is too cluttered. When you see one you like, tap a gas station and the app will prompt you to open directions to it in your navigation app of choice.

If you're just looking for the cheapest gas nearby, GasBuddy shows the closest stations, along with their current price and how long ago someone updated that price. Tap one to view what amenities the station offers, check reviews, and similar.

As you scroll down, GasBuddy will continue to show prices at stations that are slightly further from you. At the top of the page, you can change the grade of fuel you use, show prices that are cheaper when paid with cash, avoid poorly rated locations, and more.

GasBuddy is kept up-to-date mostly from its users, so feel free to add corrections if you see data that isn't right.

Find Gas Stations Along Any Route

With these apps, you can find a suitable gas station while you're driving any route. Whether you want to find the cheapest fuel or avoid going out of your way, these gas finder apps make it easy to do without stopping your current trip.

If you don't have anywhere to go, the right apps can help you decide on your next road trip, too.

Beat high gas prices while traveling during the holidays: 8 ways to save at the pump

The holidays are usually a time to gather and celebrate but two things that so many of us have to contend with during the season are: long drives to meet up with family and friends and the cost of fueling up that accompanies holiday travel .

To help you get through the holidays without making a deep dent in your pockets, use this TPG editor-curated guide to help you save at the pump every time you stop to fill up your tank.

Use Fuel Rewards on your next holiday road trip

According to AAA , the current national average for regular gasoline is $3.33 — which can add up especially if you're traveling hundreds of miles to meet up with loved ones. The prices may be even higher depending on where you live. In California, for example, the average gallon of gas is currently just over $5.

Thankfully, the last few years brought a quiet surge of gas station rewards and third-party loyalty programs designed to save you money on gas. This means there are more ways than ever to avoid paying full price. It's possible to use one or multiple programs to save big on your next Christmas road trip — and that's before factoring in any rewards you earn with your credit card .

Fuel Rewards , a third-party loyalty program specifically for Shell gas stations, has been an incredibly lucrative way to save on gas. Once you get to know the program and tailor a few shopping patterns, it's not too hard to build up enough rewards (earned in cents off per gallon) to make your next trip to the pump more affordable.

Fuel Rewards has dozens of national partners where you can use a linked credit card to shop and earn cents off per gallon on your next fill-up.

With those savings and Gold or Platinum status, your next fill-up will be at least 30 cents off per gallon. All Fuel Rewards fill-ups are capped at 20 gallons. Once you start pumping, your savings are used, whether you pump one gallon or 20.

Related: Top tips for how to save on gas

Circle K Easy Pay Debit

Another way to save at Shell is with Circle K Easy Pay Debit . This program allows you to save 30 cents per gallon for the first 100 gallons or 60 days, depending on your location, after which you'll save 10 cents per gallon.

Here's how it works: You get a physical Easy Pay card linked to your checking account. You then use that card to pay for your fill-ups, with all savings automatically deducted. Cards are PIN-protected and become locked after three failed attempts at logging in. The only downside is that you can't earn credit card rewards this way.

Related: Best credit cards for gas

Pilot Flying J myRewards Plus

Pilot and Flying J have a joint loyalty program called myRewards Plus, which lets drivers earn rewards on fill-ups and other purchases. The program runs various promotions, depending on the month.

In one promotion, you could get 5 cents off per gallon purchased when you pay for gas with the myRewards Plus app. Check the website for the current promos.

This third-party app offers restaurant and grocery store rewards, as well as savings at the pump. While you're shopping for your Thanksgiving dinner, you can also claim offers in the app to save a certain number of cents per gallon.

After you claim an offer, you have four hours to fill up at the specific station you selected using a linked credit card. Cash back earned from the fill-up will then be placed in your Upside account, which you can cash out whenever you like. I like Upside because fill-ups with savings are good for up to 50 gallons, and these savings can be used for better things during this holiday season .

Related: Hitting the road? These are the 4 best cards for fueling up

Pay with GasBuddy to save on your next trip

The Pay with GasBuddy program continues to evolve rapidly and improve. It used to award Shop Your Way points, but now it offers several levels of cash savings per fill-up. It introduced deals you can claim at specific gas stations right before you fill up and a "gas back" shopping portal in the app.

Similar to Circle K Easy Pay, payment occurs with a physical card connected to your checking account that GasBuddy mails to you. You pay with it at the pump. The amount you pump, minus any GasBuddy savings, is deducted from your checking account.

GasBuddy also offers a Pay with GasBuddy Premium option where you can save up to 40 cents per gallon after enrolling. This service costs $9.99 per month and guarantees you save at least 20 cents per gallon (up to 50 gallons per month). So, if your family primarily does holiday road trips, this service could potentially save you a fair amount of money. It also offers additional perks like roadside assistance.

Grocery store fuel points to save on holiday groceries and gas

A subscription to Walmart+ costs $12.95 per month, though those with The Platinum Card® from American Express receive a monthly fee reimbursement for the service as a perk of having the card . (Terms apply. Cardholders get reimbursed with a statement credit after they pay for Walmart+ each month with their Platinum Card. The cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Subject to auto-renewal).

You can save up to 20 cents a gallon if you fill up at Exxon-, Mobil-, Sam's Club- or Murphy-branded gas stations. Additionally, there are several other grocery chains that offer gas discounts for being a member.

Kroger is a very popular option in the South. Between holiday grocery shopping and taking advantage of 2 fuel points per dollar spent on gift cards, it's pretty easy to max out the $1-per-gallon savings the Fuel Points program allows. You can even buy third-party gift cards from the Kroger gift card-specific website. It regularly has gift cards for sale at a discount or with earnings of 4 fuel points per dollar.

Related: Save 10 cents per gallon at Mobil and Exxon with Walmart+

Using the best credit cards for gas

Credit cards are one of the best ways to save on gas. You don't need to download an app or sign up for a membership to save on gas with a credit card. We have a guide on the best credit cards for gas so that you can start saving on your next holiday road trip. Notable cards like the Citi Custom Cash® Card (see rates and fees ) can earn up to 5% cash back on gas (up to the first $500 spent in combined categories each billing cycles, then 1%).

Some of the best travel cards also offer additional gas rewards just in time for the holidays. Select American Express cards are eligible for an additional 2 Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on qualifying purchases at US Phillips 66®, 76® and Conoco® locations or through the Fuel Forward™ app. (Enrollment is limited. Offer expires 12/31/23). Additionally, cards like the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express offer a decent 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations while simultaneously providing cardholders with even more generous reward rates like 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per calendar year, then 1% thereafter).

Stack programs

You can stack two or more programs on a single fill-up to compound savings and make gas particularly cheap. Here are a few strategies:

• Fuel Rewards plus Pay with GasBuddy: The two programs operate independently, allowing you to lower the price at the pump with Fuel Rewards. You'll then have less cash than you pump deducted from your checking account when paying at a Shell station with your GasBuddy card. If you earn enough Fuel Rewards to make a fill-up basically free, GasBuddy still gives you the savings based on the pre-discounted price of the Shell gas. This means you can make a profit when filling up your tank with gas.
• Kroger plus Pay with GasBuddy: The same principle as above applies when filling up for a discount using Kroger Fuel Points and then paying with your GasBuddy card.
• Fuel Rewards plus Circle K Easy Pay: Like the two strategies discussed above, you can earn Fuel Rewards when paying with your Circle K card.
• Stacking with Amex Offers: From time to time, American Express offers promotions on gas purchases. For instance, we've seen Amex offer 400 bonus Membership Rewards points when spending $40 on gas.

Bottom line

The holidays are a busy time in general but even more so for those who have to travel to see loved ones during the season. Using gas rewards programs and offers on your credit cards can help you save money whenever you fuel up.

Most nationwide gas station chains have their own loyalty programs, which typically have limited-time savings or a sign-up bonus. Plus, several programs can be used together to compound your savings even more.

If you don't use Pay with GasBuddy, make sure to use a credit card that earns great rewards at the pump to rack up additional savings on your next fill. Remember to also check rotating categories for additional savings at the pump.

Gas stations, diners, and motels: our favorite American pit stops

At its base, road trips are about getting from Point A to Point B. But where’s the fun in that? Take time to detour onto smaller roads that lead to some of our favorite pit stops. These way stations—whether they’re one-of-a-kind eateries, restful and relaxing motor lodges, or even interesting gas stations—are spread out all over the country. They aren’t always easy to get to, but they are always worth the extra mileage.

We had to narrow down our list from literally hundreds of spots, so we came up with this criteria: They should have an interest history, a fun and funky vibe, and a couple of creature comforts. Gas stations don’t necessarily have to pump gas (we picked a few that are just beautifully restored), but diners and motels need to be the real deal. Read on for the best places to put on the breaks.

The Northeast is famous for its autumn apple-picking and leaf-peeping season, but these backroads are a pleasure no matter what time of year you set out—even winter (but always check the weather report first and consider snow tires). Our picks are sprinkled throughout New England and New York.

The must-visit gas stations

We couldn’t steer you through the Northeast without mentioning Wawa, the Pennsylvania-born convenience-store chain that locals swear serves the best sandwiched anywhere. The legendary Gobbler—basically Thanksgiving on a roll—is the hands-down favorite. More than 600 of its 850 locations also pump gas.

History buffs may prefer the H.P. Sears Service Station Museum , located in Rome, New York. This beautifully restored 1929 gas station has all the original equipment and makes a great photo op.

The classic eateries and diners

The white letters on the roof spelling out “DINER” are a beacon for foodies visiting the Catskills. Sure, the Phoenicia Diner serves traditional roadside fare, but it’s all kicked up a notch, including a Cobb salad with steelhead trout and chevre, and a vanilla milkshake perked up with a generous pour of bourbon.

At the Blue Benn Diner in Bennington, Vermont, it’s all about the locally made maple syrup, which is poured liberally over the blueberry pancakes. This place is a blast from the past, a 1940s dining car where you can still play Bobby Vinton or Johnny Cash from the jukebox in your booth.

In Manchester, New Hampshire, the impossibly long and narrow Red Arrow Diner makes the national news every four years when presidential candidates stop by for breakfast with voters.

The quintessential motels

A dog-loving destination, the Briarcliff Motel near Great Barrington, Massachusetts dedicates a wall to snapshots of its many pooch visitors, but it also provides a warm welcome to humans. Meet fellow guests by the wood stove in the lobby, toast s’mores at the firepit, or join a group hike to Monument Mountain.

Splurge on a waterfront location at the Lodge on the Cove in Kennebunkport, Maine. The octagonal main building is a showstopper, holding the lobby and an open and airy bar overlooking the pretty pool.

Woodstock, New York, wasn’t where the famous music festival took place—that was 60 miles away in another Catskills community called Bethel—but the Hotel Dylan keeps the hippie spirit alive with tie-dye fabrics, pillows embroidered with famous lyrics, and record players so you can spin some classic vinyl.

Route 66 comes to mind when you mention a road trip through the Midwest, but the Mother Road isn’t the only destination for those looking for a diverting drive. Our favorite pit spots fan out in every direction, touching corners of Minnesota, Missouri, Michigan, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin.

If you’re a fan of trailblazing architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the R.W. Lindholm Service Station in Cloquet, Minnesota is a must-see. The only one of his gas stations ever built in his lifetime, it’s still used today and has full service—a must in Midwest winters.

Jam-packed with Route 66 memorabilia, Gary’s Gay Parita near Halltown, Missouri, a replica of a gas station dating from 1930. It’s got maps, coffee, snacks—everything but gas. (But there’s a Shell station down the road.)

Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket in Willowbrook, Illinois, almost went out of business when Route 66 was rerouted in 1963. Locals banded together to save it, and today you can still enjoy the hand-breaded fried chicken, fluffy biscuits, and creamy coleslaw.

Don’t be disappointed when you pull up to Frank’s Diner , housed in a drab brick building in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Inside is a perfectly preserved dining car that was brought to this spot by a team of horses in 1926.

A grown-up version of the traditional greasy spoon, Iowa City’s Pullman Bar and Diner manages to pull off the impossible: It’s relaxed enough for meal with the family and sophisticated enough for date night. The “community hours” each afternoon showcase locally made beers and spirits.

Maybe the only motor lodge with its own radio station, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin’s Holiday Music Motel only plays songs that have been recorded on the premises. (And since it often hosts bands recording their albums, that’s hundreds.) The midcentury modern décor is a trip, especially if you book the Elvis Room.

Hands down the best lodging in the area, Michigan’s Saugatuck is the kind of roadside retreat that has Adirondack chairs huddled around the firepit and hammocks hung between the trees. There’s a curvaceous swimming pool just outside your door.

The South and the Southwest

This is a vast region, but you’re rewarded for your efforts with some of the best food in the country. We’ve listed some favorite eateries in Florida, Georgia, and Louisiana, but you really can’t go wrong anywhere.

People make a pilgrimage from all over the region to Buc-ee 's in New Braunfels, Texas. There are 60 gas pumps and a football-field-sized carwash outside, and more than 66,000 square feet of must-haves—pickled quail eggs, candied jalapeño peppers, and fajita-spiced jerky—inside what’s billed as the world’s largest convenience store. There are rumors the 40-store chain is planning an even larger location in Tennessee.

It no longer pumps gas, but the Shell Gas Station in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is one of the region’s most popular photo ops. The last of its kind, it’s shaped like a huge yellow seashell.

On historic Route 66, the Art Deco Tower Service Station in Shamrock, Texas, is an architectural masterpiece. Built in 1936, the gas station and the adjacent café have been lovingly restored as a tourist information center.

In New Orleans we love stopping by Casamento ’s, a classic storefront eatery that puts its main ingredient—oysters—front and center. They come on the half shell, in a stew, and on a platter along with shrimp, crab, and catfish.

We recommend that you stop by the silver-sided Marietta Diner after dark so that you can best appreciate its masses of candy-colored neon. (It’s not hard, since this place is open 24 hours a day.) The owner of this Georgia favorite is Greek, so opt for a Mediterranean-inspired dish like the stuff filet of flounder, filled with savory spinach and feta cheese.

The sign outside insists this place is a restaurant, but peek inside at the stools surrounding the counter and you’ll agree that Miami Beach’s Puerto Sagua is a diner through and through. Come for the authentic Cuban food: fried plantains, oxtail soup, and, of course, dark and flavorful café con leche.

Opened in 1938, the Austin Motel anticipated the country’s first wave of roadtrippers. It’s still on trend, attracting hipster travelers who love it for its ravishing rooms done up in lipstick red and lemon yellow, its freeform swimming pool, and its proximity to the nightlife on nearby Congress Street.

Not every motor lodge has been treated to a midcentury modern makeover. The 86 rooms at Santa Fe’s El Rey Court have wood-beamed ceilings, handwoven fabrics, and Southwestern vibes. There’s a sparkling swimming pool and a whitewashed bar called La Reina.

Beam yourself back to 1953 at Miami’s Vagabond Motel , which looks just as good today as the year it was opened. The main building, in beachy shades of aqua and white, wraps around a palm-shaded pool where there’s always a party.

There were so many dining and lodging destinations in California that were strong contenders but didn’t quite make the cut so that we could head up the coast to Oregon and Washington and inland to Wyoming. One of our favorite drives, the Pacific Coast Highway, is a good place to begin your exploration of this region.

If you want to see what the “gas station of the future” looks like, head to Helios House in Los Angeles. The canopy, made of 1,653 triangles of stainless steel, is topped with 90 solar panels. This is the only LEED-certified service station in the country, so you can feel good about gassing up.

A real blast from the past, the lemon-yellow Cucamonga Service Station was built in 1915. If you were traveling from San Bernardino to Los Angeles—on Route 66, of course—this is where you would have gassed up. It’s now a popular photo op and gift shop.

Trust us on this one: Bob’s Big Boy is a chain restaurant, but the oldest surviving location, in Burbank, California, is one of a kind. The owners spiffed the place up, rebuilt the cherry-red neon sign, and added a breezy outdoor patio. Thankfully they didn’t mess with the menu.

In Portland, the City State Diner gets crowds in the door with a sign reading “Bacon served all day.” Eggs Benedict is a favorite at this storefront eatery, and there are an impressive number of variations.

In Spokane, the locals have spoken. They’ve voted Frank’s Diner the area’s best breakfast for more than two decades. It was created from a 1906 observation car that was rusting away in a Seattle rail yard, and the wood-paneled interior is something to see.

Jackson, Wyoming doesn’t lack for plush places to stay, but our favorite is the Anvil Hotel . The rooms at this lovingly renovated motel have an urban-cowboy vibe, thanks to beadboard paneling, brass beds, and Woolrich blankets. The on-site trattoria, Glorietta, serves wood-fired Italian fare.

In Portland’s hip and happening Burnside neighborhood, The Jupiter transformed a down-at-the-heels motel into one of the city’s most talked-about lodgings. Each of the chic rooms is individually decorated with original artworks that sometimes fill entire walls. Outside there’s a firepit where guests gather on cool evenings.

Along California’s Central Coast, San Luis Obispo’s Madonna Inn is like a birthday cake decorated with white and pink icing. You’ll see those shades everywhere, from the umbrellas around the sparkling pool to the banquettes in the on-site steak house. And those Barbie Doll colors only continue into the candy-colored rooms.

More like this:

• The most photogenic road trip landmarks in America
• A first-timer’s guide to planning a road trip
• The quirky roadside stops that'll make your trip

21 Road Trip Gas Stations You'll Actually Want To Eat At

I f we say "gas station food," what do you think of? Maybe day-old packaged sandwiches with hard crusts and soggy bread? Hot dogs that have been spinning under hot lamps for who knows how long? Or perhaps just a big packet of Twinkies washed down with a side of Funyuns? Gas station food has had a rough ride and doesn't enjoy the best reputation in terms of taste.

But gas stations across the U.S. are trying to change that. And many are succeeding. Some people even drive out of their way to eat at a gas station. And once you've read this article, we think you will, too. From Rickie's Indian Restaurant in Vermont and King Chicken Fillin' Station in Mississippi to Gee Cee's Truck Stop in Washington D.C. and 76th Street Diner in Michigan, there are lots of gas stations you'll actually want to eat at on your next road trip.

Read more: Tips For Spending Less On Food When Traveling

The Northeast

Let's start at Jimmy's General Store near the small town of Turner in Maine. It's here that one New Yorker took to Google  to say the pizza is better than in New York. Unbelievable? Another  Google reviewer says it's "hands down" their favorite pizza. We'll let you be the judge.

Heading south into New Hampshire will take you to the best fried chicken in the state in none other than a Shell gas station. Redditors in the r/newhampshire forum united behind the chicken at the Newfields Shell station and strongly recommend taking the Boom Boom sauce to go with it. If your road trip takes you into Vermont, prepare to be wowed by Rickie's Indian Restaurant at the Citgo station in Barre. Patrons on Facebook say the food is "phenomenal," and several drive out of their way (from as far as Maine!) just to get great Indian dishes here. 

We can't leave the Northeast without mentioning Stewart's Shops ice cream. You can find the chain at gas stations and small stores across Vermont and New York state, but the outlet at the gas station in Rensselaer has incredible Google reviews. One person says they are "obsessed" with the ice cream there. Stewart's Peanut Butter Pandemonium and Mint Cookie Crumble have won awards.

The Midwest

Some people might think of the Midwest as "flyover country," but it's classic road trip country to us. The greatest road trip of all, Route 66 , begins in Chicago and snakes its way across Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma. The Great River Road begins in Minnesota and follows the Mississippi River past four other Midwestern states.

In Wisconsin, O&H Danish Bakery at Willkomm's Petro in Sturtevant takes filling up to a whole new level. The kringle, an almond-paste-filled pastry, is highly recommended, with one Google reviewer calling them "delish!" Next door in Iowa, you have to stop at  Casey's . The chain gas station has spread out across the Midwest and the South, but its headquarters are in Des Moines. Casey's is famous for pizza, especially breakfast pizza, which even actor Mila Kunis loves. 

76th Street Truck Stop Diner in Byron Center is a perennial favorite in Michigan. One TripAdvisor visitor wrote that the food was excellent, but the best part was the "hometown feel." Another reviewer wrote that they tried "just about everything" at this unlikely local favorite and picked the Hubcap (a sandwich with shaved ribeye and smoked bacon) as their number one. We can't finish a section on the Midwest without mentioning Pops 66 . While this gas station is more of a place to quench your thirst thanks to its enormous selection of unusually-named sodas , Google reviewers also speak highly of the food's quality.

Southern food is as diverse as the landscapes you pass through on a road trip in the region, from tropical Florida to the rolling hills of the Appalachians to the vast Mississippi Delta. Let's start in Mississippi, where King Chicken Fillin' Station near Tupelo rules the roost. You might have already guessed that the go-to dish here is fried chicken, which one Facebook reviewer calls "to die for."

Over in Florida, the Pearl Country Store & Barbecue comes highly recommended for their barbecue (which you may have guessed, too). One Google reviewer recommended disregarding looks at this place because the food is outstanding. The two gas stations mentioned most often in Texas are Czech Stop and Slovacek's . These restaurants are almost opposite each other in the town of West, and the thing to get in both is kolache, a sweet Czech pastry. 

Finally, up in Pence Springs, West Virginia, you can get gas station hot dogs that actually taste really good. "Best hot dogs in the world," according to one local on Facebook . Be sure to stop at the J&J Country Roads Store to check them out.

The Mountain States

We're onto the best of the West. We've split the West into the Mountain and Pacific states as it's vast. Let's begin in the mountains. Huck's Grill at the St. Regis Travel Center in Montana is a must-stop. It's known for its milkshakes, and one enthusiastic reviewer on Google says the Huckleberry shakes are the best they've ever had. Over in Idaho, Blister's BBQ  serves up Carolina-style barbecue in a gas station in Rexburg. Reviewers on TripAdvisor who enjoyed eating here rave about the place. One reviewer asked others not to judge, claiming the food is "packed with lots of flavor" and that the loaded fries were so good "I would put it up against my beloved Southern BBQ."

Now, we're off to the Southwest, where a road trip will take you through mountains, deserts, and otherworldly red-rock landscapes. In Utah, make a pit stop at Kevin's Fried Chicken at the Exxon station in Murray, south of Salt Lake City. A five-star review on TripAdvisor calls the chicken "mouth-watering." Finally, The Thumb is a top gas station pick in Scottsdale, Arizona. This quirky spot was featured on the local news for having some of the best barbecue food and incredible baked goods. 

The Pacific States

Our last stop is in the Pacific States, where road trips include a drive down the epic Highway 101 and the legendary Road to Hana in Hawaii. Let's begin at Gee Cee's Truck Stop in Toledo, Washington. Its vast menu includes breakfast items, which visitors on TripAdvisor say come in huge portions, and burgers, which also get rave reviews. In Hawaii, experience the fusion of American and Japanese culture by stopping at 7-Eleven. According to Eater , half of Hawaii's 7-Elevens are attached to gas stations, and the thing to try is Spam musubi (Spam with sticky rice).

We're going to finish our list in California, where we've chosen two gas stations you'll actually want to eat at. Blogger California Through My Lens , among others, chose Whoa Nellie Deli as the gas station with the best food on Highway 395. They order the fish tacos every time. Last but by no means least, Indian food is the way to go in Los Angeles, where  The Bombay Frankie Company has several locations in gas stations across the city. It serves Indian-style burritos, which one satisfied reviewer on Google says are "bursting with flavor." Gas station grub at its finest.

Read the original article on Explore .

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• North Carolina

Shell Shaped Gas Station

E. Sprague St, North Carolina 27102 USA

• Independent

“A Shell shaped like a shell”

This single story Shell station, in the shape of a giant scallop shell, was built by R.H. Burton and his son, Ralph, in 1930 at Sprague and Peachtree Streets in Winston-Salem. The owners of the oil company decided to attract customers through a series of shell-shaped service stations. They built at least eight in the Winston-Salem area, but the station at Sprague and Peachtree is the only one remaining. The Shell station speaks to the literalism prevalent in some advertising during the 1920s and '30s. Preservation North Carolina, an organization dedicated to the preservation of historic sites, spent one year and $50,000 to bring the landmark station back to its original condition. Workers removed layers of faded yellow paint to reveal the Shell's original yellow-orange color. The original front door was repaired and a crack fixed that had been previously sealed with nothing more than black tar. The wooden, trellised shelter that housed the car wash and allowed cars to be washed and/or serviced in the shade was reconstructed as well. The oil company donated restored gas pumps and replica lamp posts to help finish off the restoration. The landmark now serves as a satellite office for Preservation North Carolina.

Reviewed by johncase

I love the restoration and preservation of iconic items from the past. BTW, I'm calling out the reference to the area being "sketchy."

Reviewed by rose.rocca

Very interesting. Agreed very sketchy area. Passed an old Lincoln with 'Louis Voutin' spray painted on side! Shell wasn't as big we expected but still cool photo op...from the safety of your car! Ha! ;-)

Reviewed by valerie.fox.752

The legends are true, it really is a giant shell. Awesome pitstop adventure. Protip, GPS is wasn't right so head to the corner of Peachtree and Sprague and you can't miss it.

Reviewed by deannatrusty

Worth the stop! Cute little shell station

Reviewed by Billy & Anita

That's what it is a big yellow shell. We didn't really stop. Took the picture from the car and left.

Reviewed by kelly.magee.75

I ain’t there. What the shell???

Reviewed by Cin

Cute photo op. Very sketchy area.

Reviewed by anna.o.dixon

It was a cute photo-op, but somewhat off the beaten path, and the neighborhood was not..."as well maintained" as the station itself. There was nothing there but the station, so don't expect to make a comfort stop. There were no restrooms, clean, dirty, or otherwise.

Reviewed by BrittanySaturn

Very cool old gas station. If you're a fan of silly roadside attractions for a photo op, you'll like this.

Reviewed by theschragefamily

Thanks for the tip on the GPS location being off. It is indeed at Peachtree and E Sprague. Exit 195. It is a sketchy area so didn't unload all the kids for a photo... just did a quick drive by. If you follow Peachtree North to left on Waugton, there is a giant Bull on top of a building on the right before you reach 52, that is just as cool.

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In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

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