Is there a more iconic fast food chain in the midwest than Dairy Queen? Known for its delicious ice cream and filling hamburgers and baskets of chicken, the casual chain has evolved a lot over the years. But at one location in Cedar Rapids, it feels like time has stood still. The 1st Avenue Dairy Queen is the oldest Dairy Queen in Iowa, opening only seven years after the chain launched in 1940. It’s still going strong seventy-five years after it debuted, and its fans say the quality is just as strong as ever. So for ice cream with a delicious side of nostalgia, this is one Dairy Queen that fans of the chain will want to make sure to visit.
When you go to a Dairy Queen around the country today, you’re likely to find a sleek modern building. The company has gone through several reboots and revamps since its 1940 debut.
Dairy Queen
But at the DQ Treat in Cedar Rapids on 1st Avenue, you’ll find a Dairy Queen that looks almost exactly like it did when it first opened - back in 1947!
Tony Webster/Flickr
The first Dairy Queen to open in Iowa and the oldest still operating, you can still see the seasonal specials on old-fashioned posters on the windows.
Claire J/Foursquare
Of course, you’re at Dairy Queen, so you can’t visit without getting dessert. The classic soft serve with your choice of dip is always a favorite.
Dairy Queen
A few of the more “royal treats” include the peanut butter parfait, the pecan mudslide, and the hot fudge brownie delight!
Google Local/Alexis Ann
The most retro dessert at Dairy Queen is probably the banana split - still made the same way it was when it was introduced back in 1951.
Dairy Queen/Facebook
Plus, you still have the famous walk-up window that Dairy Queen was once known for, creating the ultimate dose of nostalgia.
Google Local/Raquela Sgro-Gibson
So head on over to Cedar Rapids’ oldest location and indulge in a sweet treat that’ll take you back in time.
Google Local/Cameron Shaw
Have you visited the oldest Dairy Queen in Iowa? Let us know your favorite meals, treats, and sweets to get at this iconic restaurant. You can check out the chain’s menu and the location’s hours on their website. If you’re looking for another old-school treat in the Hawkeye State, consider paying a visit to this Little Italy mainstay.
Dairy Queen
Tony Webster/Flickr
Claire J/Foursquare
Google Local/Alexis Ann
Dairy Queen/Facebook
Google Local/Raquela Sgro-Gibson
Google Local/Cameron Shaw
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Dairy Queen (Treat), 3304 1st Ave NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402, USA
