A Slice of Seaside History: The Birth of Airstream Row
In the picturesque coastal town of Seaside, Florida, a unique chapter in the history of Airstream trailers unfolded back in the mid-1990s. It's a story that involves vintage Airstreams, a creative solution to a business challenge, and the birth of what is now known as "Airstream Row."
The Shaved Ice Dilemma
It all began when Case Cooper, the owner of Frost Bites, a popular shaved ice shop located on the south side of 30A near the Coleman Beach Pavilion, faced an unexpected dilemma. Town Founder Robert Davis approached him one day with news that he intended to use Case's retail space for Ono Surf Shop. This unexpected turn of events meant that Case had to act swiftly, or his business would be in jeopardy.
"I'd heard Robert liked vintage Airstreams," Case recalled. "Homeowners in Seaside were allowed to have vintage Airstreams on their lots. I chose a small Airstream for the cuteness factor and then I drew up a proposal that had an old Airstream parked in front of Seaside with a long line of kids waiting to get shaved ice."
The Quest for the Perfect Airstream
Robert Davis approved the idea, but there was one significant hurdle: finding the perfect vintage Airstream. Case had set his sights on a 1955 Bubble Airstream, considering it ideal for the new Frost Bites. However, locating this specific Airstream proved to be a challenge. In a daring move, Case ended up driving all the way to Los Angeles to acquire it.
"Everybody told me I was crazy," he chuckled as he recalled the journey. "We had the Airstream customized with work stations, a sink, and cut a custom window into the side." By the year 2000, Frost Bites' new Airstream was open for business, and it quickly became a sensation.
A Hit Beyond Expectations
"We had a few naysayers," Case admitted. "There were some people who thought it was a weird idea, but I tell you what, that was one of the best things I've ever done." Food & Wine Magazine, Coastal Living, television travel shows, and numerous newspapers all took notice of this charming spot to enjoy shaved ice.
The success of Frost Bites inspired other businesses to approach Seaside with similar proposals, giving rise to what is now affectionately known as the "Land Yacht district," named after Airstream's best-selling model.
Weathering the Storm
Case fondly remembered the convenience of having the Airstream during hurricane seasons. "I didn't have to worry or board up anything. I just pulled up, hitched it to my truck, and drove off. It was great."
Today, Frost Bites still stands proudly in the same spot where Case parked it in 2000, offering all the classic flavors that visitors have come to love.
Your Airstream Adventure Begins Here
If you've ever dreamed of starting a restaurant, bar, or cafe in an Airstream, this story from Seaside's Airstream Row serves as inspiration. It's a cost-effective, flexible, and enjoyable way to launch your culinary venture with minimal startup and operational costs. Aspiring chefs, mixologists, or restaurateurs can get up and running in a matter of months, rather than years, making it a unique and exciting option to explore.
At Flagstaff Airstream Renovations, we're here to bring your Airstream dreams to life. Whether it's renovating vintage Airstreams or creating custom mobile kitchens, our expertise can help you embark on your own Airstream adventure. Reach out to us today and let's turn your culinary vision into reality.
Airstream Row in Seaside is a testament to the creative potential of Airstream trailers. Contact Flagstaff Airstream Renovations to start your own Airstream journey!
