9 Donuts In America You Need To Try Now

America has turned donuts into an art form, and the proof is in every fluffy, glazed, and creatively topped bite.

From coast to coast, donut shops are pushing boundaries with wild flavors, unique textures, and recipes that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Whether you’re a classic glazed fan or someone who loves adventurous combinations, this list will guide you to the most amazing donuts worth traveling for.

1. Voodoo Doughnut – Portland, OR

Walking into Voodoo Doughnut feels like stepping into a candy-colored dream where anything goes.

You’ll find bacon maple bars that perfectly balance sweet and savory, along with cereal-topped creations that bring back childhood memories.

Portland’s iconic shop isn’t afraid to get weird, offering voodoo doll-shaped treats and donuts loaded with unexpected ingredients.

Lines wrap around the block, but trust us, every minute of waiting pays off deliciously.

22 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204

2. The Doughnut Plant – New York, NY

Mark Isreal started making donuts in his tiny apartment using his grandfather’s recipe, and now New Yorkers line up daily for his creations.

Square donuts might sound strange, but one bite explains why people rave about them.

Fresh fruit gets incorporated into glazes and fillings, making every donut burst with real flavor instead of artificial sweetness.

Crème brûlée and tres leches varieties showcase just how inventive a donut can become.

379 Grand St, New York

3. Top Pot Doughnuts – Seattle, WA

Seattle’s rainy days call for something comforting, and Top Pot delivers with old-fashioned cake donuts that taste like grandma’s kitchen.

Hand-forged techniques give each donut a unique personality, with craggy edges that catch extra glaze.

Books line the walls of many locations, creating a cozy reading nook vibe while you munch.

Pink feather boa donuts and maple bars prove that classic doesn’t mean boring.

2124 5th Ave, Seattle

4. Federal Donuts – Philadelphia, PA

Philly knows how to do comfort food, and Federal Donuts nails it by pairing fried chicken with incredible donuts.

Hot fresh donuts emerge throughout the day, so you’re almost guaranteed a warm treat that melts in your mouth.

Flavors rotate seasonally, keeping regulars coming back to see what’s new.

Strawberry lavender and cinnamon brown sugar varieties show off the creative side, while buttermilk old-fashioned keeps traditionalists happy.

21 S 12th St, Philadelphia

5. Randy’s Donuts – Inglewood, CA

That giant donut on the roof has become a Los Angeles landmark, appearing in countless movies and Instagram feeds.

But beyond the photo op, Randy’s serves up seriously delicious classic donuts that have kept locals coming back since 1953.

Buttermilk bars and raised glazed donuts represent old-school perfection without any gimmicks.

Sometimes simple really is best, especially when executed this well.

805 W Manchester Blvd

6. Blue Star Donuts – Portland, OR

Brioche dough creates a denser, richer donut that feels more like French pastry than typical American fare.

Blue Star takes its time with every batch, using a slow rise that develops incredible flavor and texture.

Blueberry bourbon basil might sound fancy, but it tastes absolutely magical when done right.

Seasonal offerings change with local ingredients, so there’s always something new worth trying on your next visit.

7000 NE Airport Way, Portland

7. Duck Donuts – Wilmington, NC

Imagine ordering a donut exactly how you want it, watching it get made right before your eyes.

Duck Donuts lets you customize everything, starting with a warm vanilla cake base and adding whatever toppings your heart desires.

Maple icing with bacon, cinnamon sugar with peanut butter drizzle, or chocolate with sprinkles become reality in minutes.

Kids absolutely love the experience, but adults get equally excited about creating perfect combinations.

6801 Parker Farm Dr, Wilmington

8. Donut Bar – San Diego, CA

San Diego sunshine calls for equally bright donuts, and Donut Bar delivers with creations that look almost too pretty to eat.

Big Poppa Tart donuts stuff pop-tart filling inside a massive donut shell, creating pure sugary heaven.

Creme brulee and birthday cake varieties push boundaries while maintaining incredible taste.

Getting there early matters because popular flavors sell out fast, proving that good things really are worth waking up for.

401 W A St, San Diego

9. Sidecar Doughnuts – Santa Monica, CA

California ingredients shine at Sidecar, where local farmers provide seasonal fruit for glazes and fillings.

Huckleberry donuts taste like summer in Montana, while butter and salt varieties prove that simple flavors can be extraordinary.

Small batches ensure every donut meets high standards, and it shows in the light, airy texture.

Saigon cinnamon crumb and brown butter varieties demonstrate serious baking skills beyond typical donut shop fare.

631 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica