Surf Ballroom & Museum

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460 N Shore Dr
Clear Lake, IA 50428
The Surf Ballroom, rebuilt in 1948, has been a center stage for musical performances by well-known performers. Based at Clear Lake, Iowa, the ballroom got its name form the desire of its original owners to set up a ballroom that would resemble an ocean beach club. The Surf Ballroom is spread over an area of 30,000 square feet, has a capacity of 2,100 people, a lounge with a capacity of 160 people and it also houses a dance floor measuring 6,300 square feet. The Surf Ballroom is available for weddings, conventions, banquets and business meetings. It also has four bars with an upscale selection of liquor and beer.

Reviews

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4.545 reviews
Photo of Jason V.
Jason V.
7/9/2025

This review is for the museum and the historical part of the place. The Surf Ballroom is best remembered as the final place that Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and Big Bopper performed just hours...

Photo of Gene H.
Gene H.
8/22/2025

Wow...so much history here! I had no idea what I was walking into here...its definitely a must do for anyone with a love for music.

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Kevin G.
8/20/2025

Every thing is amazing, the history, the nostalgia, the old school design that was left alone.

Bonnie R.
10/20/2025

Toured the (new) Surf Museum and the Ballroom. Totally worth the trip. I want to get tickets to the Winter Dance and bring my hubby (who grew up in this music era). Jada, the resident archivist...

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Eric B.
4/22/2024

Dad and I visited the Surf Ballroom & Museum as part of recent Father-Son road trip. When we arrived, ZZ Top was on the Marquee as future act, but for this midweek morning, we had to settle for...

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