Surf Ballroom & Museum - Clear Lake, Iowa

Surf Ballroom & Museum: A Hidden Gem in Clear Lake, Iowa

Located at 460 N Shore Dr, Clear Lake, IA 50428, the Surf Ballroom & Museum is a unique and fascinating destination for those seeking to explore the rich history of music and entertainment. This special venue has been a part of the local community for decades, hosting countless live performances and events that have left a lasting impression on many.

Specialties and Services Offered

• Live music venue: The Surf Ballroom has hosted numerous legendary musicians and bands throughout the years, including Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper, and Ritchie Valens, whose tragic plane crash near Clear Lake is commemorated annually.
• Banquet hall: The venue also offers a beautifully designed banquet hall that can accommodate various events, from weddings to corporate gatherings, making it a perfect space for any celebration.
• Museum: The Surf Ballroom & Museum showcases an extensive collection of memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts related to its storied past, providing visitors with an immersive experience and a deeper understanding of the venue's significance in the world of music.
• Wedding venue: Couples seeking a unique and charming setting for their special day will find the Surf Ballroom & Museum to be an idyllic choice, with its stunning architecture and rich history creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

Other Points of Interest

Opinions and Reviews

The Surf Ballroom & Museum has garnered a impressive reputation among its visitors, with a 4.8/5 average rating based on 1692 reviews on Google My Business. Many guests praise the venue's commitment to maintaining its history while continually evolving to meet the needs of contemporary events and performances.

"What a cool place. We were in the area checking out the Buddy Holly memorial a few years back and got tickets to that night show which was a Beatles Tribute Band. Fantastic. What a great time," shares one satisfied visitor.

Final Recommendation

If you're seeking a one-of-a-kind experience that combines the charm of a historic music venue with the allure of a museum, the Surf Ballroom & Museum in Clear Lake, Iowa, is a must-visit destination. With its diverse offerings, commitment to accessibility, and outstanding reputation, it's no wonder that countless visitors return to this beloved landmark year after year.

To learn more or to plan your visit, be sure to check out their website at surfballroom.com or contact them directly at 6413576151.

👍 Reviews of Surf Ballroom & Museum

D &. P.

5/5

What a cool place. We were in the area checking out the Buddy Holly memorial a few years back and got tickets to that nite show which was a Beatles Tribute Band. Fantastic . What a great time.

Brent D.

5/5

Saw Stephen Pearcy, one of the founders of the band RATT at the Surf. The venue is incredible, like a museum ( B.B. Kings guitar, and multiple others on display.) The sound in there is perfect, definitely a great listening experience. Tickets were cheap,$35, and the 4 of us got a booth right in the center of the stage, back about 30 yards, for an extra $25. We were able to leave our seats and walk up to within 6 yards awY from the performance. Incredible place! Had a great time! AND, parking was not a problem!

Rhonda V. D.

5/5

I’ve been wanting to go there for years. My sister& brother in law were in Iowa visiting so I asked them if they wanted to take a road trip. It’s amazing! So glad I checked that off my bucket list.

Char T. K.

5/5

My sister wanted to see the Surf Ballroom. So we took a trip to Clear Lake, Iowa. What an Iowa treasure. We were lucky to be there on Tuesdays because the lovely Tuesday volunteer gave us an amazing tour and told us the history of the Surf. Recognized by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as an important rock and roll landmark, a photo collection of photos of performers line a hall, guitars with performers signatures sit a top of the counter. I'm so glad we visited this important historic icon.

Justa D.

5/5

I have wanted to come here since I was a kid, but its never worked out for me logistically. Today, I was simply at the right place at the right time. As a musician, for me, this is one of the "Mecca's" of music history, and a major one at that. I can't really add to the great reviews of so many others here. It's very overwhelming in so many ways. You can feel the history when you walk in. I can't describe it, but when you even approach this building, you'll get it. I can say this, however: Once you walk in and have spent just a mere five minutes in here, it's like you've jumped into the deep end of a musical history pool. Sitting in the booths, you'll feel like it's 1960. Or, look at and stand on the stage, you'll see what those in history's s past generations have seen. I've been on many stages in my life. But, getting the opportunity to stand here, simply as another visitor, and feel the past. Honestly it beats anything else I've ever done on a stage. Thanks to the staff who keep this place looking sharp. My wife, and I, had a blast.

Tawney W.

5/5

Loved it. You step back in time the minute you walk in. This amazing time capsule is setting here waiting for you. Take advantage of it. There is construction in the area ATM. You have to maneuver a little to get there.
You can walk around and step back to the 40's - 50's. There is memorabilia all over the walls of previous musicians who have played the Ballroom. The staff is friendly and will answer questions.
There is a small gift shop.
Be sure to make a donation to keep the memories alive.
I am so glad we got to stop and pay homage to the boys who didn't make it home from the Winter Dance Party. Thanks for the magic.

Fayth N.

1/5

Went to a concert here the other week:
-I loved that they had a coat check and it was only $1/coat!
-BEWARE: this venue is FREEZING COLD in the winter time. They definitely did not have any heating going and had a constant stream of cold air blowing on us so make sure to DRESS WARM! All the workers had winter jackets on further proving how cold it is there!😰 everyone was visibly shivering the whole concert 🙁
-Lastly the sound system was subpar. Could barely hear them clearly, the sound wasn’t loud enough and they only had 2 sets of speakers on each side, so since we were in the middle up front the sound was AWFUL. I would definitely recommend standing closer to one of the sides close to the speakers.

Ashley B.

5/5

Saw Reverand Horton Heat there this last Friday. I didn't get to see the whole building, but the history and all the photos just wow. The acoustics are phenomenal, and all the little details add to the charm. I am very pleased to have seen a show at the Surf