Preston encompasses rural living in Cache Valley
Though Preston’s claim to fame is the filming location for 2004’s “Napoleon Dynamite,” it first appeared on the map in 1868 as a small farming community in Cache Valley. While the Franklin County seat has grown with the addition of new developments, its annual events, downtown district and surrounding mountain ranges continue to play a key role in the community’s culture. “No matter where you live in Preston, you’re going to see mountains,” says Amber Almond, a native Realtor with Cornerstone Real Estate Professionals.
From a community park to water recreation and a public golf course
Preston City Park is centrally located and has athletic courts and fields, a playground, a skate park, and a splash pad. The historic Oneida State Academy Community & Historical Center sits near the park. It is currently under renovation, with plans to become an event space. Folks can also practice swings across Preston Golf & Country Club's 18-hole public course. However, Almond notes that most spend time outdoors in the wilderness. Bear River offers paddling and tubing opportunities, and reservoirs to the northeast are hotspots for fishing. “Our favorite place to fly fish is Oneida Narrows Reservoir,” Almond says. Hiking trails
The community's residential landscape spans over two centuries
Evergreen trees like ponderosa pines and Douglas firs accompany Preston’s wide residential streets. Homes in and around the community’s center sit on quarter-acre lots, alongside properties within newly built subdivisions that dot the area. Farther out, the landscape transitions to a more bucolic setting, where crop fields replace trees and plot sizes can reach over 15 acres. Build dates stretch from the early 18th century through today, and architectural styles vary greatly, from saltbox and ranch styles to New Traditional homes with contemporary features. These properties typically sell between $250,000 and $600,000. However, larger homes with more acreage can surpass $700,000 and reach $1.2 million.
Grocers, restaurants and boutiques are available along State Street
Along State Street, locals can pick up groceries from Stokes Market and shop retail at Bomgaars and Family Dollar. The corridor runs through downtown, where independently owned boutiques sit within brick-clad storefronts. For more robust options, most head south to the big-box stores in Logan. Downtown is also home to several restaurants, including Mis Amores Mexican Restaurant. Almond notes Tattles Bar & Grill on West Oneida as another local favorite. “It’s the only place to grab a drink besides Owl Club downtown,” she says. Preston Farmers Market hosts local vendors selling fresh produce and goods at Preston City Park on selected Wednesdays through summer and early fall.
The halls of Preston High School appear throughout "Napoleon Dynamite"
Pioneer Elementary School enrolls prekindergarten through second grade and earns a B on Niche. Oakwood Elementary teaches third through fifth grade and receives a B-minus. Preston Junior High School also has a B-minus, and Preston High School scores a C-plus. Preston High School’s campus appears throughout the hit film “Napoleon Dynamite,” directed by former student Jared Hess. Franklin County High School has a 2 on GreatSchools and offers a specialized curriculum for students with specific needs.
Residents old and new come together for That Famous Preston Night Rodeo
Crowds gather at Franklin County Fairgrounds for the annual That Famous Preston Night Rodeo in late July and early August. Alongside roughstock and timed rodeo competitions, the event includes various activities for all ages. “They do a carnival at the same time and three nights of parades,” Almond says. “That’s when people who have moved away come back in town to hang out.” Other staple events include Franklin County Fair, held a few weeks later, and Festival of Lights, which rings in the holiday season.
Getting around Preston and commuting to Logan
State routes 34 and 36 and US Route 91 cut through the community and serve as the area's main throughways. Those commuting south to Logan can reach the city via a 27-mile trip on State Route 91. Franklin Medical Center is closer to home, just east of downtown on 1st Street.
Written By
Matthew Simmons
