There's something unique about an old-school small-town drive-in restaurant. It feels like you've left the modern world behind and stepped back into the world of soda fountains, sock hops, and discos. No matter what you eat there, be it a hot dog or hamburger, it feels special - so imagine how much more special it'll feel when the menu has some surprises, as well. To find a truly one-of-a-kind, old-school drive-thru in Iowa, head to the small northern Iowa town of Lake City. That's where you'll find the Lake City Drive-In, in a small town of just over 1,700 people and far away from any of Iowa's major cities. This unique roadside restaurant is sort of the heart of its town's dining scene - and we're not surprised, because it puts a level of effort into its food that's rare to see in this day and age. Come with us and discover why it's worth making the trip all the way up to Lake City to dine here!

The Lake City Drive-In is going strong after all these years, welcoming weary travelers from the open road.

Many people take their food to go, but this isn't a routine fast food place - it's a full diner with an extensive menu.

That means it's an excellent place for a hearty meal. We recommend the hot beef sandwich!

But there are many old-school country specialties on the menu as well, like scalloped potatoes with ham.

You can even get a full chicken-fried steak as a regular special! That might be a little hard to eat in the car - but we're excited to try!

The restaurant also has some delicious desserts, including towering soft serve cones.

Keep an eye out for seasonal specials - there's always something new on offer at the Lake City Drive-In.

Have you dined at the Lake City Drive-In? Let us know what you tried at this old-school drive-thru in Iowa, and whether you had it in the restaurant or your car! As befits an old-school place, the eatery keeps a low profile online, but you can visit the Lake City Drive-In Facebook page to see the special of the day. It might be quite the drive to get to Lake City, so make sure your car is filled with all the essential road trip supplies. And while you're in the area, it's only about about a half-hour drive to Sac City, one of Iowa's most offbeat towns.