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. Pack yourself some road trip snacks and head to Iowa to see this unique fixture. 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.

Wikimedia Commons/Carl Wycoff
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.
Travel Iowa
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.
Flickr/David Wilson
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.

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Facebook / Preston's Station Historic District
Seeing how the station changes year round is part of the charm. This Iowa landmark looks different at every time of the year, but always charming. Of all the historic places in Iowa, this might be the most fun.
Facebook / Preston's Station Historic District
The station now sports an informational panel that describes its history and significance to the town. The story is heartwarming for both locals and visitors alike and it's wonderful to be able to revisit it on a regular basis.
Facebook / Preston's Station Historic District
Preston Station is now fourth generation family owned and the clan works hard to keep the history and legacy preserved. With all the work they've been putting in, Prestons remains as much of an important local meeting ground as it was in the 1920s.

You can find the George Preston Filling Station at 402 13th St., Belle Plaine, Iowa. Have you been to this charming local haunt? Let us know in the comments below. We love to hear your firsthand accounts of these unique sites and experiences.

For more retro fun in Iowa, check out these vintage diners.

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More to Explore

Historic Sites In Iowa

CC | December 13, 2023

Where are other historical sites in Iowa?

If you enjoyed learning about the Preston Station, you’ll love visiting these fascinating and unique historical sites in Iowa.

  • Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, West Branch
  • Grotto of the Redemption, West Bend
  • Sergeant Floyd Monument, Sioux City
  • Julien Dubuque Monument, Dubuque
  • Old Capitol Building, Iowa City
  • Effigy Mounds National Monument, Harpers Ferry
  • Davenport Claim House, Davenport
  • General Dodge House, Council Bluffs
  • The Bridges of Madison County
  • Abbie Gardner Cabin, Spirit Lake
  • Glenn Miller Birthplace, Clarinda
  • John Wayne Birthplace, Winterset
  • Mamie Eisenhower Birthplace, Boone
  • Laura Ingalls Wilder Home, Burr Oak
  • American Gothic House, Eldon

 

What are the most historic towns in Iowa?

There are some areas of the state that are historic in their entirety. While you’re exploring Iowa, check out these historic towns in Iowa.

  • Dubuque
  • Burlington
  • Davenport
  • Iowa City
  • Muscatine
  • Keokuk
  • Cedar Rapids
  • Des Moines
  • Bellevue
  • Keosauqua
  • Council Bluffs
  • The Amana Colonies

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402 13th St, Belle Plaine, IA 52208, USA