Picacho Peak Dairy Queen Travel Center Announces Permanent Closure After Forty Years of Service

Rhea-AI Summary

Bowlin Travel Centers (BWTL) announced the Picacho Peak Dairy Queen Travel Center in Picacho, AZ will close permanently on May 31, 2026 after more than 40 years of operation. Management cited an inability to reach agreeable lease terms with the Arizona State Land Department.

Bowlin said it will introduce a new food offering at the adjacent Picacho Peak Plaza in the coming weeks and thanked customers and staff for their service.

Positive

• New food offering planned at adjacent Picacho Peak Plaza, preserving on‑site food service
• Longstanding community presence of 40+ years may sustain local goodwill

Negative

• Permanent closure of Picacho Peak Dairy Queen Travel Center effective May 31, 2026
• Loss of a location could reduce Bowlin's operating footprint in Picacho, AZ

AI-generated analysis. How Rhea-AI works. Not financial advice.

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PICACHO, Ariz., May 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- After serving the Picacho, Arizona community with ice cream and treats for 40 plus years, the Picacho Peak Dairy Queen Travel Center, located at 6543 Camino Adelante in Picacho, AZ, has announced it will be closing its doors permanently, effective May 31, 2026.

"We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support and loyalty shown by our customers over the past 40 plus years," stated Valkyrie Musarra, Chief Operating Officer at Bowlin Travel Centers and of the Picacho Peak DQ Travel Center. "We want to thank the Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) for their kind considerations, however ultimately we were unable to come to mutually agreeable terms that would allow us to continue as a tenant on this parcel of ASLD property going forward. This decision was difficult, but we are proud of the community hub we created and the smiles we’ve brought to so many faces. We want to thank our loyal staff—both past and present—for their dedication and hard work in making this location a special place."

Bowlin Travel Centers will announce in the coming weeks a new food offering at the Bowlin’s Picacho Peak Plaza, located next door to the closing Picacho Peak DQ Travel Center, that will deliver a high-quality product that our customers can taste.

Closure Details:

Final Day of Operation: May 31, 2026

Final Operating Hours: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.

We encourage our loyal patrons to come in and share their favorite memories during our final days of operation.

About Picacho Peak DQ Travel Center: For 40 plus years, the Picacho Peak DQ Travel Center has served as a staple of Picacho, AZ, committed to providing quality treats and a welcoming environment for families, local sports teams, and the community. Bowlin Travel Centers, Inc. is a New Mexico based public company founded in 1912 and currently serving both New Mexico and Arizona travelers with southwestern hospitality.

For Further Information Contact:
Rudy R. Miller, Chairman and CEO
The Miller Group
Investor Relations Advisor for the Company
(602) 225-0505

FAQ

Why is Picacho Peak Dairy Queen Travel Center (BWTL) closing on May 31, 2026?

The location is closing because Bowlin could not reach mutually agreeable lease terms with the Arizona State Land Department. According to company, negotiations did not produce a tenancy agreement allowing continuation on that parcel.

What are the final hours and last day for Picacho Peak Dairy Queen Travel Center (BWTL)?

The final day of operation is May 31, 2026, with operating hours 7 a.m.–8 p.m. According to company, patrons are invited to visit during those hours to share memories and say goodbye.

Will Bowlin Travel Centers (BWTL) replace the Dairy Queen at Picacho Peak Plaza?

Yes, Bowlin plans a new food offering at the adjacent Picacho Peak Plaza in the coming weeks. According to company, the new option aims to deliver a high‑quality product for customers.

How long did Picacho Peak Dairy Queen Travel Center serve the Picacho community?

The location served the community for more than 40 years as a local travel center and social hub. According to company, it welcomed families, local teams, and travelers throughout its multi‑decade operation.

Who can investors or media contact for more information about BWTL and the closure?

Contact Rudy R. Miller, Chairman and CEO, via The Miller Group investor relations at (602) 225‑0505. According to company, that contact handles further investor and media inquiries on this matter.