Travelers along Interstate 65 and Indiana 10 now have a premier stop to refresh and refuel: the Compass Travel Center. This newly opened facility in DeMotte, Indiana, is more than just a gas station; it’s a comprehensive travel destination designed to cater to a wide range of needs. Inside, you’ll find everything from a familiar Dunkin’ Donuts to an elegant American-European grill, a comfortable travelers lounge, and even a showroom dedicated to semi-trucks. Compass Travel Center is setting a new standard for highway travel stops.
Recently opened with a soft launch, Compass Travel Center is already welcoming customers and offering a glimpse into the future of travel stops. The center boasts multiple rows of advanced, touch-screen fuel pumps, equipped with the latest payment technology for a smooth and efficient fueling experience. The thoughtful design includes generous spacing between pumps, easily accommodating numerous vehicles at once and ensuring hassle-free navigation in and out, minimizing wait times and traffic congestion. The building itself is striking, featuring a soaring facade with expansive windows that flood the interior with natural light. Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by high ceilings and an open layout, creating a spacious and inviting atmosphere. Well-stocked coolers and shelves present a diverse selection of items, including premium and unique products like Kefir and German chocolate, catering to discerning tastes. Towards the rear of the travel center, an unexpected feature awaits: a dedicated showroom for semi-trucks. This reflects the owner’s deep roots in the trucking industry, as explained by the Roadhouse Grill general manager, Jamie. The Compass Travel Center is a natural extension of the owner’s existing businesses in trucking sales and leasing, creating a full-service hub for the industry. The “Compass” name itself is a signature for the owner, linking this venture to his other successful businesses, emphasizing a consistent brand of quality and service.
Dunkin Donuts Interior at Compass Travel Center
For those seeking a caffeine fix or a sweet treat, the Compass Travel Center houses a full-service Dunkin’ Donuts. Complete with a convenient drive-through on the west side of the building, this Dunkin’ location offers a bright and extensive menu. Customers are greeted by a tempting display case filled with donuts and the energetic buzz of baristas crafting coffee beverages. While a small seating area is available near the counter, more ample seating, including options for larger groups, is situated further inside the travel center, providing a comfortable space to relax and enjoy Dunkin’ favorites. The vibrant orange chairs near the counter and the prominent “Indiana runs on Dunkin’” sign reinforce the brand’s familiar and welcoming presence. Jamie, the Roadhouse Grill’s general manager, highlighted the strategic decision to include Dunkin’ Donuts, noting its popularity in the Chicago area, where both she and the owner have roots. Bringing Dunkin’ to DeMotte was seen as a perfect way to cater to local tastes and provide a familiar comfort for travelers.
The Roadhouse Grill is the upscale dining experience within the Compass Travel Center, offering a sit-down restaurant with hostess service. Currently operating with a curated menu, Roadhouse Grill is set to expand its offerings as the kitchen team refines its operations. General Manager Jamie explained the decision to launch with a focused menu was deliberate, aiming to provide a high-quality experience without overwhelming customers initially. The restaurant’s atmosphere is designed to be both comfortable and inviting, with decor reminiscent of a classic American grill. The menu features comforting and satisfying options, including burgers and a variety of sandwiches, appealing to families, travelers, and truckers alike. A bar area, partially separated by a wall and greenery, offers a glimpse into the kitchen and currently serves beer and wine, with plans to include spirits in the future. The name “Roadhouse Grill” itself is a nod to its location within a travel center, a welcoming roadside stop for those on a journey.
Jamie emphasized the owner’s commitment to creating jobs in the DeMotte area and contributing to the local economy. With additional land adjacent to the Compass Travel Center, future development is already planned, indicating long-term investment and growth. The owner’s vision extends beyond this location, with aspirations to open more Compass Travel Centers in the future, expanding the reach of this innovative travel stop concept. Compass Travel Center is actively hiring, offering employment opportunities in the community. Job seekers can find application information and even real-time fuel prices on their website at http://www.compasstravelcenter.com/. The grand opening of the Compass Travel Center is anticipated later in January, marking the official launch of this exciting new destination.
Details for this report were provided by Jamie, General Manager of the Roadhouse Grill.
