CEDAR FALLS, Iowa — For years, one of the most historic buildings in Cedar Falls stood silent on the corner of Main and 5th Street. No lights. No customers. No signs of life.
That changed on Saturday, August 8th.
Frankie’s Ice Cream Parlor officially opened its doors inside the old train depot at 422 Main Street — breathing new life into a building that has been part of this community since the 1870s.
A Building With a Story Worth Knowing
The depot was originally built to serve the Burlington, Cedar Rapids and Northern Railroad. It stood as a working station until the late 1960s, when the railroad shut down.
Over the decades, the building became a beloved upscale restaurant, then a bank — and finally, nothing at all. The last tenant closed in 2015, leaving the structure empty for nearly ten years.
The building is part of the Cedar Falls Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Giving it a new purpose matters to more than just ice cream lovers.
More Than Just Ice Cream
Do not let the name fool you. Frankie’s is built to be a full destination.
The menu covers cold treats like sundaes, milkshakes, floats, frozen yogurt, and dole whip. But it also includes waffles, avocado toast, burgers, hot dogs, soft pretzels, mini donuts, paninis, and pizza flights.
The coffee menu is equally serious — hot and iced coffee, cold brew, matcha, lotus refreshers, and dirty sodas.
Owner Darron Olson and his family also run The Nook and Reader’s Cup. The new spot is named after their family dog, Frankie.
Hours and What’s Coming
Frankie’s is open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. A drive-thru is in the works and expected to open later this month.
Have you visited Frankie’s yet? What did you try? Share your experience in the comments — Cedar Falls wants to know.