ampm, Mason

Though commonplace today, the concept of getting something to eat or drink while fueling up at a gas station was an odd idea 34 years ago. The first ampm, originally an add-on to Arco gas stations, opened in Southern California in 1978, and since then, the hybrid gas station-snack emporium has spread to more than 1,000 locations in nine states. From hot food prepared onsite to 24 flavors of soda and windshield-wiper fluid, ampm refuels people and cars alike with tasty snacks. Some locations also maintain car washes to send rides off with a dazzling shine.