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Despite their grime, I love American gas stations. A popular gathering place, they are an everyday window into the soul of a country that has an estimated 5-10 times the number of road miles per capita than any other nation. Here are five surprising facts about these real-world internet portals.

1. There are over 145,000 gas stations in the U.S. Despite the rise of electric vehicles, gas stations remain a vital part of American infrastructure. As of recent data, the U.S. has around 145,000 gas stations, many of which are independently owned rather than part of big oil companies.
2. Gas stations make most of their profit from the store—not fuel. Gas stations make only pennies per gallon of gasoline sold. The real profit comes from selling snacks, drinks, cigarettes, and lottery tickets inside the convenience store. In fact, over 70% of profits come from in-store purchases.
3. The first drive-in gas station opened in 1913. The first purpose-built drive-in gas station opened in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1913. Before that, gasoline was sold at general stores, blacksmith shops, or even drugstores—often by the can.
4. There are still full-service gas stations in some states. While nearly all stations in the U.S. are self-serve, New Jersey and Oregon have laws (with some exceptions) that prohibit or restrict self-service pumping. In New Jersey, for example, it’s still illegal to pump your own gas.
5. Some gas stations are cultural icons. Certain gas stations have become roadside attractions themselves. For example, the Helios House in Los Angeles is a futuristic, eco-friendly gas station made from recycled materials. The Cadillac Ranch in Texas is also an art installation. And several Route 66 gas stations are nostalgic stops for American road trippers.

PS—Maverik, which has become a top 3 rated gas station chain in America, got it start in Utah and is my favorite gas station for being clean, spacious, and cheap. 7/11 is a nostalgic second, followed by Circle K. And I’d take a filthy gas station bathroom over no bathroom any day.