A & W Drive In

Specialties

Mark and Kathy Simpson are 2^nd generation owners of this classic drive-​in, operational since 1956. The A&W Drive-​In specializes in delicious food, ice cold rootbeer served in frosty mugs and fast, courteous service, either at their carside speakers, new 50’s dining room, or large picnic area. Sit by the fire and listen to tunes on the jukebox. Best of all a family of four can eat for under $ 20.00. Favorite menu items include our signature Papa burger, chili dogs, chili cheese fries, (fried in trans fat free oil), north Pacific cod fish sandwiches, real fruit smoothees and triple berry shakes. Don’t forget to order one of our frosty mug rootbeer floats. For the diet conscious we offer grilled or crispy chicken salads, served with bakery fresh garlic toast. A&W’s full service carhops wear poodle skirts on Friday and Saturday nights, (weather permitting). So climb in your hotrod and head to Spring Valley’s A&W Drive-​In. Cruisin’ since 1956.

History

Established in 1956.

The Spring Valley A&W Drive-​In was established in 1956 by Roger and Marge Simpson. In 1984, Mark and his wife Kathy bought the drive-​in from his parents. A third generation Simpson, (Mallory) will eventually own this one-​of-​a-​kind drive-​in. The franchised, one acre unit is comprised of 24 speakers under two large steel canopys. A large picnic area has eight tables surrounded by green grass and huge oak trees. In fact, the original name of this drive-​in was «The Oaks.» There is also a giant fiberglass «Papa burger» man statue standing in the picnic area. There is a green area in front for dog walking. In 1997 the Simpson’s started the area’s first «Cruise Nite,» which now draws around 300 classic cars, on the third Thursday of August. In 2008 they added a 50’s era dining room. complete with a fireplace, jukebox, and spinning chrome lunch counter stools. This drive-​in has been a landmark for 54 years and continues to be a «must stop» for summer travelers.

Meet the Business Owner

Mark S.

Business Owner

Mark was, as he likes to say, «born under the fryers.» A framed photo hangs in the dining room, of Mark as a seven month old baby, sitting between two stacks of car trays, contemplating his next move. He has operated the drive-​in for 41 years. His interests include cars, motorcycles, and «farming.» He loves to travel and his next trip will be a ride with his buddies out to Sturgis.

He and his father used to restore old cars and he is a proud member of the MInnesota Street Rod Association. His wife Kathy helps him in operations, specifically their yearly Cruise Nite celebration, the third Thursday in August. He has two daughters; Mia and Mallory. Mark has been at this a long time, «forever» as he says, and has met some fine folks over the years. He invites one and all to the A&W in Spring Valley.