Posted in Iowa
December 06, 2018
The Most Historic Gas Station In Iowa Belongs On Your Bucket List
Iowa is full of historic attractions, but not all of them are as colorful and photogenic as this tiny historic gas station in Belle Plaine. Known as the George Preston Filling Station, the station has drawn travelers from all around for almost 100 years. Here’s what you need to know about visiting.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Although this little gas station isn’t operational today, George Preston’s Filling Station is a bright and fascinating part of Iowa history and America’s love of the open road. Originally built in 1919, George Preston, Sr. bought the station in 1923 for a mere $100. It operated all the way up until 1989.
After the death of its owner in 1993, the tiny station was preserved as a historic site by George Preston Sr.’s son, Ronald Preston. When Ronald Preston died in 2011, care of the station was passed to the Lincoln Highway Association and Belle Plaine Historical Society. Now, the exterior is open for visitation by the public.
It’s almost impossible not to pull over when you see this place. The vivid vintage advertisements and old gasoline signs are total eye candy. There’s even an old-fashioned fuel pump out front that looks like it came straight from a movie set. Though you can’t explore the interior (yet), this station is an amazing place to snap a few photos and reconnect with Iowa’s past.
You can find the George Preston Filling Station at 402 13th St., Belle Plaine, Iowa. For more retro fun in Iowa, check out these vintage diners.
