When Chris was “between jobs” we tried to take in some of the sights around the area that we had not really seen. We ate in some new to us restaurants and tried to immerse ourselves in all things Iowa. One of our first stops was to visit The Surf Ballroom and Museum again. We have been there for various concerts but had never really been able to visit in the light of day. I would highly recommend this to anyone who happens to find themselves near Clear Lake, Iowa. It is an absolute fun way to spend a couple of hours if you want to linger awhile.
Today’s post will highlight The Surf building and some of the things you can expect to see when you visit. A follow up post next week will highlight my absolute favorite part of the place so make sure you come back.
The Surf Ballroom is a 30,000 square foot building which houses a 3, 600 square foot maple dance floor. The 1940’s style foyer and lobby remain basically unchanged and features the original coat check. Walking into The Surf is a bit like a step back in time. Come walk with me as we explore a bit more.
Capacity crowds still come to support each act that plays the historic venue.
The history is everywhere.
The pineapple “welcome” is repeated in many areas of the building.
A stroll through the halls is a must. Every surface is covered with pictures of performers who have played at The Surf and memorabilia that has been left to honor this historical place.
The original Surf, located across the street, burned in April 1947. The new building is almost fireproof –built with exterior walls of 4 inch brick bonded to 8 inch tile. The interior is finished in brick and pecky cypress wood.
Of course there is always a “story”.
Interesting things to look at EVERYWHERE! This is a signed Randy Travis guitar.
Mr. Diamond tries out one of the booths which we determined were built for 1940’s bodies and not the super sized bodies of today. The 4 and 6 person booths are original and the theme is a South Seas beach club complete with palm trees and cabana.
The impressive disco ball!
Chris comes on stage for his performance….
At the back of the ballroom we are reminded of the tragic deaths of Buddy Holly, “The Big Bopper” and Ritchie Valens on February 2, 1959. The plane crash also killed the pilot of the plane, Roger Peterson.
The ticket booth from the inside looking out.
There is so much history here and what a rush it must be for any group to be able to perform here. The Surf Ballroom and Museum operates as a non-profit 501c3 organization and I must say that there is always something going on at The Surf. A great job has been done by all to preserve and continue to allow the music to keep playing despite the fact that there have been challenges along the way.
The general public is invited to come share in the history year round. Hours: 8 am to 4 pm Monday through Friday with additional hours on Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm and Sundays from 1 pm to 4 pm from Memorial Day to Labor Day. A suggested donation of $5 is encouraged. Volunteers like Kathy who was there the day we stopped in are always available to assist.
I have posted previously on visiting the crash site and while you are in the area you might want to take a quick side trip there. You can read about that by clicking here to go to that post in a separate window. Make sure you come back next week to see my favorite part.
