Soulsby Service Station

Mount Olive, Illinois

IllinoisRoadside Attraction

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Soulsby Service Station in Mount Olive, Illinois is a historic gas station that served Route 66 travelers for decades. This site is one of the oldest and longest-running service stations on all of Route 66.

Henry Soulsby built the Shell station in 1926 and ran it, along with his family, for many years until closing up and selling the property at auction. It continued to operate as a gas station even after Route 66 was decommissioned in 1985, but it stopped pumping gas in 1991 and eventually closed in 1993. Unlike the tale of many Route 66 service stations that changed oil loyalties over the years, for its 65 years of operation, the Soulsby Service Station only pumped Shell gasoline.

Today, the property has been refurbished and brought back to life in bright yellow and red hues, authentic gas pumps, and a giant Shell sign and serves as a shining example of the house and canopy gas station design that was typical of the time.

Be sure to step inside to view a museum of artifacts including vintage gas canisters, a soda machine, and old signs.

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Vintage yellow and red Shell Gas Station - Soulsby Service Station in Mount Olive, Illinois Route 66 Roadside Attraction

Soulsby Service Station

5 based on 1 reviews

Address:

710 W 1st S St, Mt Olive, IL 62069

Hours:

7:00am-5:00pm, Daily

Cost:

Free

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Photos of the Soulsby Service Station in Mount Olive, Illinois

Vintage yellow and red Shell Gas Station - Soulsby Service Station in Mount Olive, Illinois Route 66 Roadside Attraction
Vintage yellow and red Shell Gas Station - Soulsby Service Station in Mount Olive, Illinois Route 66 Roadside Attraction
Vintage yellow and red Shell Gas Station - Soulsby Service Station in Mount Olive, Illinois Route 66 Roadside Attraction
Vintage yellow and red Shell Gas Station - Soulsby Service Station in Mount Olive, Illinois Route 66 Roadside Attraction
Vintage yellow and red Shell Gas Station - Soulsby Service Station in Mount Olive, Illinois Route 66 Roadside Attraction
Vintage yellow and red Shell Gas Station - Soulsby Service Station in Mount Olive, Illinois Route 66 Roadside Attraction
Vintage yellow and red Shell Gas Station - Soulsby Service Station in Mount Olive, Illinois Route 66 Roadside Attraction
Vintage yellow and red Shell Gas Station - Soulsby Service Station in Mount Olive, Illinois Route 66 Roadside Attraction

Know Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to the Soulsby Service Station in Mount Olive, Illinois, here are some things to know before you go.

Where is Soulsby Service Station located on Route 66?

The station is located at 710 W. First Street in Mount Olive, Illinois, right on the historic alignment of Route 66 (Old Route 66 Street). It’s easy to spot as you drive through town and makes a classic photo stop along the scenic byway.

Is there a cost or admission fee to visit?

No, there’s no admission fee to visit Soulsby Service Station. It’s an outdoor roadside attraction you can enjoy at your own pace without purchasing tickets.

What are the hours for visiting?

Posted hours are from 7:00am to 5:00pm, daily. There aren’t official “visitor center” hours posted for Soulsby Service Station, but it’s accessible anytime from outside because it’s an outdoor historic site. Many travelers stop by during daylight hours for the best views and photos. If stopping by outside the dedicated hours, be mindful and respectful of the local community.

Can you go inside the station?

The station no longer functions as a gas station, and interior access may be limited. Visitors can enjoy the restored exterior, vintage gas pumps, and interpretive signage, and, if open, explore a small museum of artifacts and memorabilia inside.

Is parking available?

Yes, there’s street parking and space nearby along the side of the building where you can safely pull over, park, and walk around to take photos and appreciate the station.

Where to Stay Near the Soulsby Service Station

Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these nearby Route 66 motels.

Carlin Villa Motel

Carlin Villa Motel offers home style charm in a country setting in Carlinville. Guests can enjoy air conditioning, free wifi, parking, and a complimentary coffee and pasty breakfast.

Country Inn Cafe & Motel

Get a good night’s rest and a hearty breakfast at the Country Inn Café & Motel. The family-friendly accommodation offers free parking and a complimentary breakfast at the on-site cafe.

Attractions Near the Soulsby Service Station on Route 66

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Is road trip planning driving you crazy?

Let the Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit be your guide.

Are you ready to hit the Mother Road but feeling overwhelmed with planning? The Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your one-stop solution! Spanning 2,448 miles of pure Americana, Route 66 is packed with quirky attractions, historic sites, and unforgettable experiences—so why settle for a generic, outdated itinerary? Our toolkit offers a customizable travel spreadsheet with over 1,300 stops, a detailed eBook, and a step-by-step video guide to help you craft your dream Route 66 road trip. Don’t miss out—start planning your perfect Route 66 adventure today!

Reviews & Ratings

5 based on 1 reviews

1 Review of Soulsby Service Station in Mount Olive, Illinois

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