2 Illinois Gas Stations Named Route 66 Must-Stops

We're approaching the time of year when many will start adventuring on the open roads including the historic Route 66. There's a new guide to that iconic drive that says there are 2 Illinois gas stations that are must-stops along the trip.

What are the best Route 66 stops across America?

If you ask Cheapism, you'll find 2 Illinois gas stations right at the top of their list. They chose the top 11 off all the places you can visit along the 2,448 mile trek. Here are their choices in the Land of Lincoln.

Soulsby’s Service - Mount Olive, Illinois

The National Park Service says that Mr. Soulsby (of course) built this station in 1926. They wanted gas stations in that era to blend into the neighborhoods they were near so as not to disrupt the hometown vibe. It even remained successful through the Great Depression as Americans were still traveling even as many struggled. This iconic gas station was restored by an effort of the Soulsby Preservation Society in 2003 and it was place on the National Register of Historic Places the following year.

Ambler’s Texaco Station - Dwight, Illinois

Ambler's Texaco Station got its name from Basil “Tubby” Ambler who managed the station from 1938 to 1966. The National Park Service says Jack Shore built the station in 1933. It benefitted from the National Park Service Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program in 2002 and has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 2001. This tiny Illinois station is now the visitor's center for the Village of Dwight.