Ontario Express

For the dedicated military personnel, their families, and authorized civilians at Fort Drum, New York, having convenient access to essential services right on base is paramount. The Ontario Express, located at 1485 Ontario Avenue, is a prime example of an on-post facility that goes above and beyond, serving as a highly regarded gas station and convenience store for the Fort Drum community. Unlike typical off-base establishments, the Ontario Express is specifically tailored to meet the unique needs and provide the utmost convenience for those who live and work within this vital military installation.

The Ontario Express operates under the umbrella of the Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES), whose mission is to "make life better for Soldiers and their families." This particular shoppette consistently receives high praise from its patrons, often being referred to as the "best shoppette in Fort Drum." It aims to deliver a seamless blend of necessary amenities, from fueling up vehicles to offering a wide selection of goods and even a quick bite. This article will delve into what makes the Ontario Express an indispensable part of daily life on Fort Drum, highlighting its prime location, diverse services, and key features that make it a cherished "go-to" spot for DoD ID holders.

The Ontario Express is conveniently located at 1485 Ontario Ave, Fort Drum, NY 13603, USA. This address places it strategically on Fort Drum, specifically at the intersection of Ontario Avenue and Tigris River Valley Road. This prime internal location ensures excellent accessibility for anyone authorized to be on base, including active-duty military, their families, retirees, and Department of Defense civilians. Being situated on a major internal road within Fort Drum means it's easy to find and navigate to from various barracks, housing areas, and operational sectors across the installation.

The accessibility of the Ontario Express is a significant advantage within the unique environment of a military base. Access to Fort Drum itself is restricted, meaning the shoppette exclusively serves the on-base population. This focused service ensures that those living and working on Fort Drum have a readily available option for their gas and convenience needs without the added time and effort of leaving the installation. The internal road network of Fort Drum is designed for efficient movement, allowing for straightforward access to the shoppette's fuel pumps and ample parking. Its location also became even more strategic after the Bomporto Bridge opened, providing a direct route between the main cantonment and Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield, increasing traffic to the South Post area where the Ontario Express is situated. This thoughtful positioning makes it a practical choice for quick stops during a busy duty day or for families managing daily errands within the Fort Drum community.

The Ontario Express, as an AAFES facility, offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to meet the diverse needs of the Fort Drum community.

• Gas Station Services: The facility features an eight-pump gas station, providing essential fuel for vehicles. As an AAFES gas station, it offers various grades of gasoline, typically including unleaded, mid-grade, and premium, and commonly includes diesel fuel to accommodate a wide array of personal and official vehicles on post.

• Convenience Store (Shoppette): This location functions as a full-service convenience store. It is well-stocked with a wide variety of goods, including popular snacks, a good selection of cold drinks, and alcoholic beverages (beer). Customers consistently find "all you need from a convenience store."

• Food Services: The Ontario Express is known to feature branded food options. This includes an Arby's restaurant with a drive-thru, providing a convenient option for hot meals. Additionally, customers can pick up a pizza to go from Hunt Brothers Pizza. The store also stocks healthy snack options such as sushi, fresh fruit, and salads.

• Barbershop: A unique and highly appreciated service, the Ontario Express includes a four-chair barbershop. This allows military personnel and their families to conveniently get haircuts without leaving the base, saving time and simplifying their routines.

• ATM: For easy access to cash, an ATM is available on-site.

• Basic Automotive Supplies: Standard for a gas station convenience store, a selection of basic automotive necessities like windshield washer fluid, motor oil, and air fresheners are typically available.

The Ontario Express at Fort Drum is highly praised for several key features and highlights that set it apart and make it a favorite among DoD ID holders.

• "Best Shoppette in Fort Drum": This is a direct quote from a customer review, indicating a very high level of satisfaction with the overall experience provided by the Ontario Express. This reputation is a testament to its quality and efficiency.

• Spotless Cleanliness: Customers consistently laud the facility for being "spotless clean." A clean and well-maintained environment significantly enhances the shopping and fueling experience, making it more pleasant and inviting.

• Excellent Customer Service: Reviewers specifically highlight "excellent customer service" and mention that cashiers are "great" and "get the line moving fast." This efficiency and positive interaction with staff are crucial, especially during peak times, ensuring a smooth and quick transaction for patrons.

• Well-Stocked Selection: The shoppette is described as being "well stocked" with a "good selection of drinks and snacks," including alcohol and beer. This ensures that customers can find what they need, minimizing the need to visit multiple locations.

• Convenient Integrated Services: The combination of an eight-pump gas station, a comprehensive convenience store, popular fast-food options (Arby's drive-thru, Hunt Brothers Pizza), and an on-site barbershop creates a true "one-stop-shop" experience. This integration is a significant time-saver for the busy military community.

• Focus on Healthy Options: The availability of healthy snacks like fresh fruit, sushi, and salads demonstrates a commitment to catering to diverse dietary preferences and promoting wellness among the community.

As an AAFES (Army & Air Force Exchange Service) facility, the Ontario Express participates in various promotions and special offers designed to benefit the military community. These programs are generally consistent across AAFES locations and aim to provide added value and savings. While specific, real-time local promotions can vary, common AAFES programs and deals often include:

• MILITARY STAR® Card Benefits: Cardholders frequently receive exclusive discounts, such as a per-gallon discount on fuel purchases (e.g., 5 cents off per gallon), and access to special financing offers or deferred interest options on larger purchases across all AAFES facilities. Using the MILITARY STAR® card can result in tangible savings at the pump and in the store.

• Competitive Pricing: AAFES strives to offer competitive pricing on fuel and convenience store items, aiming to provide value that is comparable to or better than off-base retailers. This ensures that military patrons receive good deals without having to leave the installation.

• Seasonal and Holiday Promotions: Throughout the year, AAFES conducts various sales campaigns and holiday-themed promotions on a wide range of merchandise and food items, which often extend to offerings found in Express stores.

• Food Service Specials: The on-site Arby's and Hunt Brothers Pizza, as well as other potential grab-and-go food items, often have their own daily, weekly, or limited-time specials, providing opportunities for savings on meals.

• Tax-Free Shopping: A significant benefit for military customers at AAFES facilities is tax-free shopping on most items, which provides direct savings on every purchase.

• "We Got Your Back" Programs: AAFES often runs initiatives that directly support service members, such as "You Made the Grade" program which rewards students for academic achievement with Exchange gift cards and coupons, some of which can be used at the Express.

To discover the most current and specific promotions available at the Ontario Express, it's highly recommended to visit the AAFES website (ShopMyExchange.com), check for signage inside the store and at the fuel pumps, or inquire with the friendly staff during your visit. These programs are specifically tailored to provide financial advantages and enhance the quality of life for service members and their families.

For any inquiries regarding services, product availability, or operational details, you can contact the Ontario Express at Fort Drum using the following information:

• Address: 1485 Ontario Ave, Fort Drum, NY 13603, USA

• Phone: (315) 221-7175

• Mobile Phone: +1 315-221-7175

These contact details provide a direct line to the Ontario Express, allowing you to get answers to your questions about specific offerings, hours of operation, or any other concerns you might have before or during your visit.

The Ontario Express at 1485 Ontario Ave is exceptionally suitable for locals—specifically, the DoD ID holders, military personnel, their families, and authorized civilians residing and working at Fort Drum, NY. Its on-base location offers unparalleled convenience and security, providing essential fuel, a wide array of food options, and other amenities without the need to exit the installation. This is a critical advantage for those with demanding schedules or when time is of the essence.

The consistent customer reviews hailing it as the "best shoppette in Fort Drum" are a testament to its high standards. The praise for its "spotless clean" environment, "excellent customer service," and well-stocked selection underscores its commitment to quality and efficiency. The integration of an eight-pump gas station, a comprehensive convenience store with a good selection of drinks and snacks (including alcohol and beer), popular fast-food options like Arby's and Hunt Brothers Pizza, and even an on-site barbershop, transforms it into a true "one-stop-shop." This multifaceted approach significantly simplifies daily errands and contributes to a higher quality of life on post. For those living and serving at Fort Drum, the Ontario Express is not just a gas station or a store; it's a fundamental and highly valued part of their supportive community infrastructure.