Though the building facade and drug store sign have changed over the years, the tenets of a great drug store are still in tact. An underwhelming atmosphere is made up for by a long tradition of great drinks and ice cream snacks, plus some of the friendliest service you’ll ever find at a soda fountain.
Beyond the traditional pops, sodas and sundaes, you’ll want to try their special salad sandwiches. Choose between homemade ham or chicken salad, served with a slice of lettuce on plain or toasted bread. Add a drink, and your lunch will run just over $5.
The small community of Sidney, Iowa, is home to the state’s oldest pharmacy. Located on the west side of the square, Penn Drug Co. has been in business for nearly 150 years.
Enter the front door and you’ll find perfumes and lotions behind glass on antique shelving lining the north wall. If you’re not stopping to fill a prescription, you can peruse the selection of Russell Stover chocolates, pick out a greeting card, or grab a seat at the old-fashioned soda fountain.
The entire soda fountain is charming, with surprisingly comfortable stools and a classy black marble counter. For under a dollar, you can enjoy one of their featured flavors of ice cream, while pops and phosphates are even cheaper.
