Hours of Operation
General Hours
The Surf Ballroom & Museum, including the Ticket Office and Gift Shop, is open year-round: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Please note: Portions of the Ballroom or Museum may be closed for private rentals or concerts. While the Box Office and Lobby typically remain accessible, some closures may be required by artists or renters. These will be announced on our Facebook page. We recommend checking our calendar or calling ahead before your visit.
Holiday Closures
We are closed in observance of the following holidays:
- New Year’s Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
Summer Hours (Memorial Day – Labor Day)
In addition to our regular weekday hours, we’re open on weekends during the summer:
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Admission
A suggested donation of $5 per person helps support the preservation of this historic venue. Staff and volunteers are available to assist and answer questions during self-guided tours.
For larger groups, guided tours are available by appointment. A minimum of 30 people is required, and we kindly ask for at least two weeks’ notice. Visit our Group Tours page for more information.
Getting Here
Map
Location
The Surf Ballroom & Museum is located in Clear Lake, Iowa, just minutes from Interstate 35 — and only two hours from Minneapolis or Des Moines.
Address
460 North Shore Drive
Clear Lake, IA 50428
Driving Directions
- From I-35, take Exit 193 or 194 and head west on U.S. Highway 18.
- At the fourth stoplight, turn left (south) onto Buddy Holly Place.
- Continue 3-4 blocks to the second stop sign, then turn right (west) onto North Shore Drive.
- The Surf Ballroom is easily visible on your right with its domed roof and marquee.
Parking
Free parking is available in the large lot on the north side of the building.