The enduring charm of the American soda fountain, a relic of a bygone era, continues to captivate patrons seeking a nostalgic escape and a taste of history. Once integral to the fabric of American pharmacies and community life, these establishments have seen a resurgence in popularity, drawing visitors with their retro aesthetics, handcrafted beverages, and the comforting echo of simpler times. From the mid-19th century, when pharmacists first concocted fizzy elixirs with medicinal claims and delightful flavors, to their role as social hubs during Prohibition, soda fountains have carved a unique niche in American culture. While the advent of bottled soft drinks in the post-World War II era led to a decline, a dedicated cadre of these establishments perseveres, often utilizing vintage equipment to serve unique house-made sodas and milkshakes. These remaining gems are more than just eateries; they are living museums, community anchors, and destinations worthy of a road trip.
A Legacy of Refreshment and Community
The genesis of the soda fountain can be traced back to the mid-1800s, a period when the intersection of pharmacy and refreshment was a common sight. Pharmacists, skilled in the art of syrup mixing and carbonation, crafted beverages that were as much lauded for their perceived health benefits as for their invigorating taste. These early establishments evolved into vibrant social centers, particularly during the Prohibition era, offering a sanctuary for patrons to gather and enjoy a beverage away from the restrictions of the time.
The post-World War II era marked a significant shift with the widespread availability of bottled and canned soft drinks, leading many traditional soda fountains to shutter their doors. However, this shift did not extinguish the allure of the authentic soda fountain experience. Instead, it fostered a preservationist movement, with certain establishments doubling down on their heritage, preserving original equipment, and continuing to produce artisanal sodas and ice cream. These enduring fountains not only offer a taste of the past but also serve as tangible links to a significant chapter of American social and culinary history.
Preserving a Piece of Americana: Notable Soda Fountains Across the U.S.
Elliston Place Soda Shop in Nashville, Tennessee
A cornerstone of Nashville’s culinary landscape since 1939, the Elliston Place Soda Shop has undergone transformations while steadfastly retaining its nostalgic essence. A significant renovation in 2021 led to its relocation to a larger venue, complete with a dedicated space for live music, an outdoor patio, and an expanded menu. Despite these modernizations, the shop’s heart remains firmly rooted in its past, evident in its ubiquitous jukeboxes, gleaming chrome accents, and a counter inviting patrons to take a seat and explore a menu featuring an array of unique syrup flavors such as hibiscus, lavender, tangerine, and pistachio.
The history of Elliston Place is intertwined with the legacy of its founder, Lynn Chandler, who is credited with popularizing the Southern tradition of "meat ‘n’ three" dishes—a budget-friendly, buffet-style meal. Chandler’s philosophy of making every customer feel like family permeated the establishment, a sentiment that continues to resonate. Though the soda fountain has changed hands, its quintessential 1950s ambiance endures, complemented by exceptional milkshakes. The staff are often eager to share the rich history of the place, adding another layer to the visitor experience. A pro tip for patrons: don’t hesitate to experiment by mixing and matching flavors to concoct personalized, extraordinary milkshakes.
- Address: 2105 Elliston Pl, Nashville, TN 37203
- Phone: (615) 327-1090
- Website: ellistonplacesodashop.com
Zaharakos Ice Cream Parlor and Museum in Columbus, Indiana
As one of America’s oldest ice cream parlors, Zaharakos, established in 1900, has been at the forefront of culinary innovation, even playing a role in the popularization of the ice cream cone. Over 125 years later, it continues to serve its celebrated house-made ice cream, crafted from a secret family recipe, alongside its iconic soda fountain offerings.
Despite changes in ownership, with the establishment passing through several generations of the founding Greek immigrant family, core elements have remained constant. The circa 1904 onyx soda fountain is still a functional centerpiece, dispensing both classic soda flavors like Coca-Cola and Dr Pepper, and more distinctive options such as cinnamon and chocolate. Zaharakos is also renowned for serving one of the nation’s best Sloppy Joes. Beyond its culinary delights, the attached museum showcases a captivating collection of syrup dispensers, vintage advertisements, mechanical music machines, and phonographs, spanning over a century. This immersive experience creates a wonderfully retro atmosphere, drawing praise for its stunning beauty and wealth of visual interest. Must-try items include their burgers and the Green River and raspberry sodas.
- Address: 329 Washington St, Columbus, IN 47201
- Phone: (812) 378-1900
- Website: zaharakos.com
Doc’s Soda Fountain in Girard, Illinois
Known also as Doc’s Just Off 66, this establishment boasts a history that stretches back to 1929 when the Deck family added a soda fountain to their already 45-year-old business. Deck’s Drug Store, like many of its contemporaries, evolved from a functional pharmacy into a beloved community gathering spot. Today, it stands as a notable destination along historic Route 66, attracting visitors from across the globe.
Although no longer owned by the Deck family, the current proprietors are committed to preserving its historical integrity. The on-site museum features original pharmaceutical equipment, and the soda fountain itself, installed during the early years of the Great Depression, remains operational. Patrons are encouraged to sample the cherry, lime, or orange phosphates – a tangy and sour soda option – and the root beer floats are also highly recommended.
- Address: 133 S 2nd St, Girard, IL 62640
- Phone: (217) 627-3491
- Website: docsjustoff66.com
Borroum’s Drug Store and Soda Fountain in Corinth, Mississippi
In the heart of Corinth, Mississippi, a town of approximately 14,300 residents, lies Borroum’s Drug & Soda Fountain, the state’s oldest continuously operating drug store. Established in 1865 by a Civil War surgeon, the establishment has been managed by seven generations of the same family, maintaining its vintage charm and serving its famed Depression-era slugburgers.
The shop retains a delightful retro aesthetic, with family artifacts from the Civil War and vintage shop equipment displayed within its Art Deco-inspired interior. Classic offerings such as cherry phosphates remain popular, and the milkshakes are consistently lauded. The experience of enjoying a treat at Borroum’s offers a palpable sense of stepping back in time.
- Address: 604 E Waldron St, Corinth, MS 38834
- Phone: (662) 286-3361
- Website: borroums.com
Leopold’s Ice Cream in Savannah, Georgia
Founded in 1919, Leopold’s Ice Cream is a Savannah institution with multiple locations, but its original downtown site remains the heart of its operation. The establishment’s signage once enticed streetcar passengers to stop for its celebrated house-made ice cream, the recipe for which is a closely guarded secret.
Leopold’s has always been a family endeavor, currently owned by Hollywood producer Stratton Leopold. The original equipment, including the soda fountain, is still in use, serving classic beverages like the Cherry Smash. Despite often lengthy queues, the staff is known for its efficient and friendly service. The ice cream, perfected over decades, is a highlight; the pistachio flavor is particularly recommended, and their Coke float is considered a must-try.
- Address: 212 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Phone: (912) 234-4442
- Website: leopoldsicecream.com
MacAlpine’s Diner & Soda Fountain in Phoenix, Arizona
Opened in 1929 and acquired by Fred MacAlpine in 1938, MacAlpine’s Diner & Soda Fountain in Phoenix offers a deeply nostalgic experience. The establishment retains its original fixtures, which once welcomed notable figures like Frank Lloyd Wright, and is even rumored to be the place where Wayne Newton was discovered.
The soda fountain features ice cream sodas with whimsical, throwback names like "I Dream of Jeannie." Patrons consistently praise both the service and the quality of the soda flavors. Despite facing closures during the COVID-19 pandemic and enduring personal tragedies, the establishment’s beloved status ensured its reopening as it approached its centennial. Visitors can still find vintage treasures within the store and should consider taking a whole pie to go.
- Address: 2303 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006
- Phone: (602) 262-5545
- Website: macalpines.com
Griffith & Feil Soda Fountain in Kenova, West Virginia
Established in 1892, Griffith & Feil Soda Fountain in Kenova maintains its original purpose of serving both the community as a pharmacy and as a purveyor of classic soda fountain delights. Owners Ric and Heidi Griffith, both licensed pharmacists, oversee the integrated pharmacy and soda fountain operations.
The soda fountain offers an extensive menu of fountain drinks with creative flavors such as banana nut bread, cookie dough, toasted marshmallow, and blue cotton candy. Patrons are encouraged to mix and match flavors for unique combinations, such as root beer with English toffee or Coke with coconut. The shop is noted for its welcoming atmosphere, making visitors feel embraced upon entry, fostering a relaxed environment for patrons to linger and enjoy their selections.
- Address: 1405 Chestnut St, Kenova, WV 25530
- Phone: (304) 453-5227
- Website: gfsodafountain.com
Payne’s Sandwich Shop and Soda Fountain in Scottsboro, Alabama
With a distinct 1950s ambiance, Payne’s Sandwich Shop and Soda Fountain boasts a history that dates back to 1869 when William Henry Payne established the business. Initially a pharmacy, Payne himself created and sold medicines, reflecting a different era of healthcare.
Today, the establishment preserves much of its historical charm, from its 1930s-era soda counter to its signature red slaw hot dogs. Malted shakes remain a popular choice, aligning with the 1950s theme. Served alongside Coke floats and banana splits by a welcoming staff, and with music setting a lively mood, the malts alone are considered a compelling reason for a visit.
- Address: 101 E Laurel St, Scottsboro, AL 35768
- Phone: (256) 574-2140
Lagomarcino’s (Multiple Locations)
Founded in 1908 by Italian immigrant Angelo Lagomarcino in Moline, Illinois, Lagomarcino’s has been a family-run establishment renowned for its ice cream and candies. Its enduring legacy was recognized in 2006 when it was named an American Classic by the James Beard Foundation.
While the 1990s-era Davenport, Iowa location also offers a nostalgic experience, the original Moline shop stands as the true heritage site. Both locations maintain a charmingly retro feel, continuing to use recipes that have sustained their popularity for over a century. Patrons can indulge in proprietary fruit-flavored sodas like the 1930s-era "Lago," alongside an extensive array of ice cream sundaes and chocolates. Every item is thoughtfully handcrafted, and the Green River soda is a recommended selection.
- Website: lagomarcinos.com
- Locations: Multiple
Fair Oaks Pharmacy & Soda Fountain in Pasadena, California
A cherished establishment on the western end of historic Route 66, Fair Oaks Pharmacy & Soda Fountain celebrated its centennial of serving ice cream and sodas in 2015. The exact date of its transition from a pharmacy to include a soda fountain remains somewhat unclear, but its status as a destination is undeniable. Employees report welcoming visitors from around the globe who make a stop at the pharmacy a highlight of their vacations.
Still functioning as both a pharmacy and a soda fountain, Fair Oaks offers cones, malts, phosphates, and floats. It is considered a Southern California icon, with fans recommending the sarsaparilla and the opportunity to purchase retro candies. It is also an ideal location to experience an egg cream.
- Address: 1526 Mission St, South Pasadena, CA 91030
- Phone: (626) 799-1414
- Website: fairoakspharmacy.net
Eddie’s Sweet Shop in Forest Hills, New York
Eddie’s Sweet Shop, a fixture in Forest Hills since its opening in 1909, offers a profound sense of intergenerational connection. Many patrons visit establishments where their parents and grandparents were once regulars, sharing in the same seating and enjoying familiar flavors. While the shop changed ownership in the 1960s, significant changes in its character ceased around that time.
The shop’s aesthetic, from its stools to its metal dishes, evokes a sense of a century past. The ice cream is still made with the same meticulous care that cemented its popularity, and the atmosphere allows visitors of all ages to feel like children in a candy store. The floats are particularly recommended, as is any item featuring the shop’s homemade whipped cream. The house-made butterscotch alone is worth a dedicated trip.
- Address: 105-29 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills, NY 11375
- Phone: (718) 520-8514
- Website: eddiessweetshop.nyc
Methodology: Curating the Quintessential Soda Fountain Experience
The selection of these particular soda fountains involved a rigorous process aimed at identifying establishments that not only offer exceptional food and drink but also embody the spirit of a bygone era. The primary criterion was historical significance, with a preference for places with at least a century of operation and a demonstrable commitment to preserving their old-school, old-timey ambiance.
Beyond longevity and atmosphere, the ideal candidates were celebrated for serving classic soda flavors and house-made ice cream, often utilizing original or period-appropriate equipment. A crucial aspect of the selection was the establishment’s dedication to its heritage, with many actively educating patrons about the history of soda fountains and their unique offerings. Ultimately, the chosen locations foster a welcoming and community-oriented environment, attributes that have cemented their popularity across generations. This approach ensures that the spotlight falls on establishments that are not merely eateries but vibrant historical and cultural touchstones.
