NC's oldest Dairy Queen Has Been Serving Mouthwatering Burgers & Ice Cream For Almost 75 Years

Dairy Queen (Treat)Photo byTico Utiyama

Dairy Queen has been a staple of frosty, creamy treats for decades, and its history is rich with nostalgia.

The iconic chain began in 1940 in Joliet, Illinois, serving the now-famous soft-serve ice cream & Burgers. Remember the Dennis the Menace commercials from the 1970s, urging us all to grab a cool treat?

Photo byBeth Wallin

Today, Dairy Queen has grown to over 7500 locations worldwide, including the oldest operating Dairy Queen ice cream chain in North Carolina located on Wilkinson Boulevard in Charlotte.

Built in 1947 by franchise operator Preston Aaron, this Dairy Queen is a true piece of history. Its Art Deco design, with curved features and bright neon lights, captures the essence of mid-20th-century America.

Customers have been lining up outside for 75 years, enjoying everything from classically-curled vanilla cones to strawberry sundaes under the aluminum awning.

Photo byDQ / Orange Julius on Wilkinson

The Wilkinson Boulevard Dairy Queen is more than just a place to get ice cream—it's a symbol of a bygone era, where the past and present meet.

Whether you're a longtime Charlotte resident or just passing through, this historic spot is worth a visit. Have a favorite memory from this Dairy Queen? Share it in the comments below!