BENZIE COUNTY — The Cherry Bowl Drive-in has been giving families in Northern Michigan memorable movie experiences for more than 70 years. Now it has a new owner who hope to continue that legacy.
“It’s an icon. Not only is the big, beautiful screen visible from the road, it has been in this location for 71 years. It’s one of, I believe, eight remaining drive-ins in Michigan, and the nostalgia is real,” said new owner Mindi Jarman.
The Cherry Bowl Drive-In has been operating since 1953 and went up for sale earlier this year, leaving fans of the beloved drive-in wondering what the future would hold. Now they have their answer.
🎬🌟 Big news at the Cherry Bowl! 🌟🎬 You’ve seen the signs… You’ve heard the murmurs… And it’s true! We are excited to...
Posted by Cherry Bowl Drive-In on Thursday, September 26, 2024
Jarman said she knew almost instantly what she had to do when the Cherry Bowl hit the market.
“We saw the for-sale signs and at first I was like, ‘Oh no, the Cherry Bowl was for sale. That’s so scary and devastating.’ And then pretty soon after I looked at him and I said, ‘John, I think this is it,’” said Jarman. “I made a call to a friend who’s a realtor, and I said, ‘I want to buy the Cherry Bowl.’ And that was the beginning of one of the most wonderful summers of our lives,”
People across Northern Michigan have a lot of nostalgia for the drive-in, and Jarman said she that feeling here to stay.
“There are absolutely memories from all areas of the state. And out-of-state people even today have told me that they were coming here as kids and they have memories,” said Jarman. “In our world today, it’s a big deal to remain connected to something, and it’s important that we’re able to continue traditions that make us happy.”
Jarman said one of their biggest goals will be to carry on the legacy of previous owner Laura Clark.
“She is, number one, a delightful human who has created an incredible family-friendly atmosphere. But she has also maintained from the very beginning – there was a tagline on one of the original newspaper articles in the 1950s that said ‘So clean,’” said Jarman. “The grounds are immaculate, the kitchen is immaculate. The people who work here are immaculate. And so, we intend to maintain that in addition to continuing the family-friendly legacy that has stolen our hearts for so many years.”
Jarman plans to keep the beloved retro vibe the same but said visitors can expect some modern upgrades.
“We’re hoping that we can maintain it and give it a little bit of a facelift, and also involve the community more,” said Jarman.
The Cherry Bowl Drive-In is expected to open back up in the spring.