With a summer-perfect view of the beach, the ambiance of a quaint Northwoods town on Lake Superior, and decades of memories pressed into the nary a changed exterior, this iconic Dairy Queen holds more than just Dilly Bars.
The Dairy Queen of Lake Nebagamon has served the area’s residents and experienced sweet tooths, youngsters, travelers, lifeguards, and campers since the early 1950s. Still standing tall and strong today (well, perhaps not tall, but legendary nonetheless!), there’s a lot of rich and wholesome history behind those frozen treat doors.
Come walk down memory lane with us as we take a closer look at this favorite spot for many. We’ll even hear from those who have their own memories and sentiments for the DQ of Lake Nebagamon.
*WARNING: The following article may enhance a craving for scrumptious frozen delights and savory grilled goodness. Proceed at your own cravings risk*
Where is the Lake Nebagamon Dairy Queen?
About a 50-minute drive from Ashland, WI, only about 30 minutes from Superior, WI, and nestled close to the sweet, peaceful waters of Lake Superior is the historic and delicious landmark of the Dairy Queen in Lake Nebagamon. Are you parched for the story behind why this DQ is iconic and holds a special place in the hearts of many On Lake Superior lovers? Get ready for the sweet delivery below!
Dairy Queen Address
6896 S Lake Ave, Lake Nebagamon, WI 54849
Summer Hours
Monday – Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
The Rich History of the Lake Nebagamon Dairy Queen
A collection of wholesome Summer stories, with this historic DQ at the center stage of those memories, could quickly fill more than one volume of a book. And what a sweet read that would be!
From the happy campers of Camp Nebagamon taking their weekly trips into town to grab their DQ cravings to Life Guards catching a refreshing snack after their scorching hot shifts, to folks who just like a classic hot chocolate sundae much like the original owner, Evelyn Kangas Johnson, the memories are endless when it comes to the Lake Nebagamon Dairy Queen. But where did it all begin?
According to an interview with the Superior Telegram and Bonnie Nepstad, who carried on the legendary establishment in 1996, this DQ was brought to life with the sweet ambitions of Evelyn and Eric Johnson. A married couple dwelling in Chicago at the time who moved to the Lake Nebagamon area in the early 50s.
Moving back to Evelyn’s hometown with the purpose of assisting her Mother, the couple, Evelyn in particular, missed the frozen goodness of Dairy Queen so much that they dreamed up their very own right there in the Northwoods.
After picking out the perfect spot, a view of Lake Superior, and close to other Lake Nebagamon favorites, the couple established Lake Nebagamon’s first DQ. Little did they know the incredible impact this place would have, and not to mention the historical significance!
Recognized by the Dairy Queen franchise itself, the Lake Nebagamon Dairy Queen may just be the oldest in Wisconsin! Well, how about that? You can stand in line to get a delicious treat of choice and know that you’re standing on historical grounds! For this reason, the stronghold hasn’t changed its exterior one bit, providing a perfect nostalgia trip during every visit.
The Johnsons were the hardworking hands behind this well-loved Ice Cream spot for many years. As mentioned before, ownership may have changed in 1996, but the love that pumps through those ice cream machines and fryers hasn’t faltered one bit.
Although the Lake Nebagamon Dairy Queen is up for sale again as of 2024, it remains in operation and is still helping to serve up smiles and memories to those who come from near and far. Perhaps it’s the nostalgia talking or the love and magic of being on Lake Superior, but without a doubt, there’s a strong future for the continued joy and memories that come out of this legendary DQ.
Memories of the Lake Nebagamon Dairy Queen from On Lake Superior Facebook Page
We have a lot of nostalgic and photo-admiring fun on our On Lake Superior Facebook Page! From time to time, a ‘Pop Quiz’ photo will be posted, and you can guess where the picture was taken. So far, one of the biggest hits has been this priceless gem of the Lake Nebagamon Dairy Queen.
Below are a few trips down memory lane that were commented on in this particular Facebook post. After you’re done reading them and catching yourself smiling, be sure to follow us on Facebook so you can tag along next time! Not only can you follow us on Facebook, give the Lake Nebagamon Dairy Queen Facebook Page a follow so you can keep up on its news, potential changes, and nostalgic pictures!
“Lake Nebagamon..❤️ many many good time spent there and the beach.. it will always be HOME..”
– Danielle H
“I actually went to Camp Nebagamon and we would visit this place once a week. Great summer memories with this place.”
– Blake R
“Oh my gosh, love that place… And the Dancehall… And I’ve been gone for over 50 years, but still remembers that Dairy Queen… Lake Nebagamon👏👏👏”
– Elly B
“Eric & Evelyn Johnson built the Dairy Queen in the 50s. We boated across the lake to get treats there.”
– Tom K
Memories and nostalgia are like the white caps that glide along the beauty of Lake Superior; somdetimes, they come in big waves, and other times, they’re slow and steady, but one thing is for certain: You can always count on seeing them. You can catch more captured moments and news about the Lake Nebagamon Dairy Queen by following their Facebook Page! This is a great way to stay in touch with how the DQ is doing, and perhaps see some photos from the present and past of this iconic frozen treats establishment.
Thank you for taking this trip down memory lane with us and learning the historical foundation of this summer-legend DQ that will remain in our sweet tooth hearts forever. Join us on our Facebook page for more nostalgia blasts and fun Lake Superior news!
