7 Coolest Gas Stations in the World That Are Worth Fueling Up
When you're traveling for hours, the last thing you expect to see is aesthetically beautiful gas stations because they're meant to be a place to stop somewhere, not part of your journey. Across the world, there are unique gas stations that are almost like roadside novelties that make you want to snap some pictures. From retro to modern, read some of the most eye-popping service stations that are worth fueling up for.
Hollow Mountain Gas Station - Hanksville, Utah
Yup, you guessed right, it is literally a gas station inside a mountain! This was carved out of a mountain and now it's a convenience store with gas pumps in Southern Utah. People who've visited said that you can see the mountain when you go to the restrooms.
Pro Tip: if you're going to Capitol Reef or Bullfrog Lake Powell, this is one historic gas station you must stop and see!
Pops 66 - Arcadia, Oklahoma
What would you do if you drove by a brightly-colored 66-foot soda bottle? If you are passing through Arcadia, Oklahoma, stop at Pops 66 for gas, to dine in at their restaurant, and to choose among 700 different types of soda! From their website, you get to browse POPS™ signature collection of soda, sparkling water, and other refreshing drinks.
Pro Tip: drive by at night for the best view.
Chevron Floating Station - Vancouver, Canada
As you can tell from the picture, it'd be pretty challenging to pull up your truck to fill up gas. Good thing it's only for marine use! This isn't necessarily a pretty gas station, but can you imagine the scenic views there would be in Vancouver, Canada while filling up gas for the boat?
Helios House - Los Angelos, California
This eco-friendly gas station is the first LEED-certified gas station with 90 solar panels, and worth checking out for its eccentric design. The architecture is stunning from all angles, but the best part is the sustainable materials used for this building.
If you love sustainability, then you'll love hearing these facts. The stainless steel design was constructed using salvaged materials from the former gas station, and the concrete pavement is mixed with recycled glass, reducing the amount of heat absorption. Along with that, the roof collects rainwater that helps reduces the building's need for heating and cooling, and cuts energy consumption by 16%!
Jack Colker's Union 76 Gas Station - Beverly Hills, California
If you love futuristic or geometric architecture like the previous example, you must check out this Union 76 gas station. Nestled between Little Santa Monica Boulevard and Crescent Drive, architect Gin Wong built this as part of the city's airport before changing gear to become a service station. Now, you can stop by for gas and a car wash, and it's a favorite among drivers when the fluorescent lights turn on at night!
Alzu Petroport - South Africa
What would be the last thing you'd see at a gas station? If you said rhinoceros, buffalos, and ostriches, you would be correct except there is one station that does that in South Africa! There is a gas station where locals, tourists, and truckers can not just fill up gas, but also watch behind an enclosure the exotic animals in their habitats.
It's known to be a "quick stop" everyone should not miss.
Iowa 80 Truck Stop - Walcott, Iowa
We couldn't complete the list without mentioning Iowa 80 Truck Stop as US Cargo Control is based in Iowa! Known as a trucker's Disneyland, this is the world's largest truckstop with everything you can imagine.
You're not stopping just for gas, you're welcomed with amenities like laundry facilities, a workout room, a movie theater, a barbershop, dog wash station, dentist, a full-service truck center, a 300-seat restaurant, and a large food court. They even host an annual event called Truckers Jamboree that truckers (and even us) love to attend for the concerts, cookouts, carnival games, and more!
If you want to attend this year, mark your calendar and learn more about the 2021 Walcott Truckers Jamboree.
Vintage Gas Stations You Must Check Out!
Although these gas stations aren't in service anymore, these vintage gas stations are historic attractions worth checking out:
The Teapot Dome Gas Station is located in Zillah, Washington, represents the Teapot Dome Scandal of the 1920s.
The Airplane Service Station was built by brothers Elmer and Henry Nickle to have a visually unique service station.
The Original Shell Station is located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, built in the 1920s and this design is the last one standing.
The Hat n'Boots Station is located in Seattle, Washington, and is restored and moved to the city's Oxbow Park.
Are There Other Unique Gas Stations That Should Be on the List?
Did we miss any other quirky, remarkable gas stations? Have you been to any one of these gas stations? Tell us in the comments, we'd love to know about your awesome experiences!
