Staff photo from The Drive In on Facebook. It's a poodle skirt, putt-putt paradise! Step back in time and savor the flavors of the 1950s at The Drive In Restaurant in Taylors Falls, MN!

Step Back In Time: Minnesota’s Classic 1950s Drive-In & Mini Golf Course!

It’s a poodle skirt, putt-putt paradise! Step back in time and savor the flavors of the 1950s at The Drive In Restaurant in Taylors Falls, MN! 🍔🍟 #NostalgicEats #FamilyFun #RetroRoadTrip

Taylors Falls, Minnesota – Imagine cruising down Main Street in your classic car, pulling into a drive-in, and being greeted by friendly carhops in poodle skirts. Sound like a scene from a 1950s movie? Think again! At The Drive In Restaurant in Taylors Falls, Minnesota, this blast from the past is a delicious reality. The best part? This is less than an hour away from the Twin Cities, making it a perfect summer day trip the whole family will love!

A Tasty Twist on Tradition

Since 1956, this iconic eatery has been serving up old-fashioned favorites with a side of nostalgia. Under the loving care of owners Wade and Carol Vitalis, The Drive In has become a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike, often topping “Best of” lists for its homemade root beer and juicy, hand-packed burgers.

The Vitalis family has deep roots in this retro restaurant. Wade grew up in Taylors Falls and fondly remembers sipping root beer and savoring burgers at the very same spot where his sisters worked as carhops in the 1970s. Today, Wade, Carol, and their three children pour their hearts into the family business, ensuring every guest feels like they’ve stepped back in time to a simpler era.

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Rev Up Your Appetite

The Drive In is known for its classic car nights, where collectors gather to swap stories and show off their gleaming vehicles. These events transport everyone back to the 50s and 60s, creating an atmosphere that’s hard to find these days. The Vitalis family is passionate about providing the complete old-time drive-in experience, from the cars and the carhops to the music that fills the air.

Grandparents and parents love sharing stories with their families about life before cell phones and microwaves, and The Drive In is the perfect place to create new memories while savoring a taste of the past.

A Destination for Family Fun

Nestled in the scenic St. Croix River Valley, Taylors Falls is just a short drive from the Twin Cities, making it an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy great food and outdoor adventures. With a giant rotating mug of root beer guiding the way, you can’t miss this charming small-town gem.

Mouthwatering Menu Favorites

So, what keeps people coming back to The Drive In? Some say it’s the creamy, homemade root beer served in frosty mugs. Others swear by the juicy, handmade burgers that are hard to find these days. But the Vitalis family believes it’s the whole package – the delicious food, friendly service, small-town atmosphere, and the chance to take a brief trip back in time.

If you go, be sure to try the signature Duke Burger basket with a large mug of root beer for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank. And if you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the classic crinkle fries for some crispy fried green beans.

Putt-Putt Paradise

Before or after your meal, challenge your family to a round of mini golf at The Drive In’s very own 18-hole course. With shaded greens, ponds, streams, and a waterfall, this moderately challenging course is perfect for all ages and skill levels. It’s no wonder The Drive In is a hit with families – great food and built-in entertainment make for a winning combination.

Plan Your Nostalgic Getaway

The Drive In Restaurant is open seasonally from April through October, giving you plenty of opportunities to plan a nostalgic getaway. With charming vacation rentals nearby, you can easily spend a weekend exploring the area’s attractions, including state parks, sculpture gardens, and outdoor adventures.

So, grab your family, hop in the car, and take a tasty trip down memory lane at The Drive In Restaurant in Taylors Falls. Visit them on Facebook here or check out their website here. Your taste buds and your sense of nostalgia will thank you.

🗣 Have you been to the Drive In? Have a fave area restaurant we should know about? We’d LOVE to hear from you in the comments section below. ⬇️

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