How Auburn Street Drive-ins Defined Rockford’s Retro Dining Culture

Which Rockford resident still recalls the drive along Auburn Street to order burgers and shakes at Green Shutters or grab fries at Beaky’s or Skeet? The local favorites that existed along Auburn Street functioned as vital community gathering places which established an unforgettable period of Rockford’s dining history.

The Green Shutters Drive-In: A 1940s Classic
The story starts in 1940 when Ulysses G. Turner launched The Green Shutters Drive-In at 2430 Auburn Street. The Green Shutters Drive-In gained quick popularity among locals who wanted to eat and socialize because of its unique green exterior and traditional drive-in facilities. The establishment maintained its status as a beloved neighborhood spot until it shut down operations in 1960 after operating for twenty years.

Skeet Drive-In: A Short but Memorable Run
The location of Green Shutters quickly found new tenants after its closure. The Skeet Drive-In opened its doors on Auburn Street in 1961 and introduced a fresh new experience to the area. The Skeet Drive-In established its own dedicated customer base because of its quick service and enjoyable menu offerings. The success of Skeet led to business expansion which prompted the owners to relocate to a bigger space at 3811 Auburn Street in 1965. So, does the Skeet mascot remind you of another popular fast food mascot in town?

Beaky’s Drive-In: A Neighborhood Favorite
Beaky’s Drive-In acquired the 2430 Auburn location during that same year. From the late 1960s to the 1970s Beaky’s Drive-In provided a classic drive-in dining experience. Local teens along with families and people who wanted to enjoy a nostalgic dine-in experience made Beaky’s Drive-In their preferred spot. The establishment of Beaky’s stayed integral to the community until the early 1980s when new trends and preferences resulted in its shutdown. I remember going to Beaky's with my buddy Mike and filling our faces with some of the best fried mushrooms around.

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Welchs Cheese Hut - Another Auburn Street Favorite
My Grandmother loved their pies.

From Drive-In to Fast Food
The iconic drive-in structure met its end during the early 1980s to allow a modern fast-food franchise to move in. Auburn Street witnessed the end of an era when Arby’s Roast Beef Restaurant took over the location of the community's cherished drive-ins and now,El Burrito Loco has called the location home for years. The building has disappeared but the memories of Green Shutters, Skeet and Beaky's remain alive in the hearts of longtime residents.