The Top Drive In Restaurant In Every State Across America

Nothing screams classic Americana quite like pulling into a drive-in restaurant where carhops bring your food straight to your window.

These nostalgic eateries have been serving up burgers, fries, and milkshakes for generations, creating memories that stick around longer than the ketchup stains on your napkin.

Buckle up as we cruise through the best drive-in restaurant in each of the 50 states.

1. Alabama: Sneaky Pete’s Hot Dogs

Bright red signage catches your eye immediately when you roll up to this Alabama institution that has been slinging hot dogs since 1966.

The exterior practically screams retro charm with its bold lettering and classic fast-food architecture that transports you back several decades.

Locals swear by the chili dogs here, and the quick service keeps the line moving even during lunch rush.

2906 18th Street South, Homewood, AL 35209

2. Alaska: Tommy’s Burger Stop

Against the stunning backdrop of Alaskan mountains, this family-owned burger joint has been feeding hungry locals since 1977.

The building itself is modest but inviting, with a cozy parking area where you can enjoy your meal while soaking in those incredible views.

Their homemade burgers are legendary, and the portions are generous enough to fuel any outdoor adventure.

2525 Arctic Boulevard, Anchorage, AK 99503

3. Arizona: RD’s Drive-In

RD’s Drive-In in Page is a classic, family-run spot that has been feeding travelers and locals for decades with burgers, fries, shakes, and a very loyal fanbase.

The green chili cheeseburger is the signature move here, loaded with whole green chile strips and melted cheese, and regulars also talk up the chili cheese fries and thick chocolate shakes as essential orders.

143 S Lake Powell Blvd, Page, AZ 86040, USA

4. Arkansas: Feltner’s Whatta-Burger

Since 1955, this Arkansas gem has been serving up what locals call the best burger in the state from its charming roadside location.

The exterior maintains its vintage appeal with original signage that has become an iconic landmark in Russellville.

1410 North Arkansas Avenue, Russellville, AR 72801

5. California: Mel’s Drive-In

Hollywood glamour meets classic American dining at this iconic spot that gained fame from the movie American Graffiti.

The building showcases quintessential 1950s diner architecture with gleaming chrome accents and bright neon signage that lights up the San Francisco night.

Inside, the jukebox plays oldies while servers deliver thick milkshakes and juicy burgers that taste like pure nostalgia.

801 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94103

6. Colorado: Johnson’s Corner

Truckers and travelers have been making this their pit stop since 1952, drawn by the promise of hearty food and friendly service.

The sprawling exterior features ample parking for vehicles of all sizes, with the Rocky Mountains providing a majestic backdrop.

2842 Southeast Frontage Road, Johnstown, CO 80534

7. Connecticut: Doogie’s Hot Dogs

Operating from a tiny building that looks like it was plucked straight from the 1940s, this hot dog stand has serious character.

The exterior is painted in cheerful colors with a walk-up window where you place your order before finding a picnic table nearby.

3647 Berlin Turnpike, Newington, CT 06111

8. Delaware: Charcoal Pit

Founded in 1956, this Delaware favorite still sports its original retro signage that beckons hungry diners from the busy road.

The exterior maintains that classic drive-in aesthetic with covered parking spots where carhops once served meals on trays.

Today, their flame-grilled burgers and hand-cut fries keep customers coming back generation after generation, proving some recipes never need updating.

2600 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803

9. Florida: MoonLight Drive-In

MoonLight Drive-In has been serving classic burgers, hot dogs, subs, and hand-spun milkshakes since 1964, tying its space-age neon sign and carhop service to the Apollo missions just down the road at Kennedy Space Center.

Regulars swear by the Deluxe Cheeseburger with a shake on the side, all enjoyed under the retro awning while trays arrive right at your car window like it’s still the 1950s.

1515 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL 32780, USA

10. Georgia: The Varsity

Claiming the title of the world’s largest drive-in restaurant, this Atlanta landmark has been feeding hungry crowds since 1928.

The massive exterior features bold red and white signage visible from blocks away, with parking that can accommodate hundreds of vehicles.

61 North Avenue NW, Atlanta, GA 30308

11. Hawaii: Rainbow Drive-In

Aloha spirit radiates from this beloved Honolulu spot that has been serving plate lunches since 1961.

The exterior bursts with color, featuring vibrant signage that matches the tropical island vibe perfectly.

President Obama used to eat here during his Hawaii visits, and the mixed plate with loco moco remains the star of the menu for good reason.

3308 Kanaina Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815

12. Idaho: Westside Drive In

Boise locals have been flocking to this family-owned gem since 1957 for burgers that never disappoint.

Their ice cream selection is mind-boggling, with dozens of flavors available, and the onion rings are hand-battered daily for maximum crunch.

1929 West State Street, Boise, ID 83702

13. Illinois: Superdawg Drive-In

Two giant hot dog statues named Maurie and Flaurie stand atop the roof, winking at passing cars since 1948.

The exterior is pure Chicago kitsch with those towering mascots making this drive-in impossible to miss from the street.

Everything arrives in a Superdawg box, and the pure beef hot dogs topped with all the fixings represent Chicago street food at its finest.

6363 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, IL 60646

14. Indiana: Mug-n-Bun Drive-In

Since 1960, this Indianapolis treasure has maintained the authentic carhop experience that most places abandoned decades ago.

The exterior features covered parking stalls where servers still bring food directly to your car window on metal trays.

5211 West 10th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46224

15. Iowa: B-Bop’s

Retro vibes flow freely at this Iowa favorite that celebrates classic American drive-in culture with authentic 1950s styling.

Their hand-pressed burgers use fresh never-frozen beef, and the crinkle-cut fries are cooked in small batches to ensure perfect crispiness every single time.

2106 Southeast Delaware Avenue, Ankeny, IA 50021

16. Kansas: Nuway Cafe

Wichita’s oldest restaurant opened in 1930 and introduced the world to loose meat sandwiches long before they became trendy.

The exterior features charming brick construction that has weathered nearly a century of Kansas seasons with grace.

1416 West Douglas Avenue, Wichita, KS 67203

17. Kentucky: Dino’s Food Mart Drive-In

Hidden gem status applies perfectly to this Louisville spot where locals line up for breakfast all day long.

The exterior is unassuming but welcoming, with a walk-up window and outdoor seating that fills quickly on nice days.

Their biscuits are made from scratch every morning, and the gravy recipe has been perfected over decades of serving hungry Kentucky residents.

3800 Bardstown Road, Louisville, KY 40218

18. Louisiana: Bud’s Broiler

New Orleans flavor meets classic drive-in service at this local chain that started serving charbroiled burgers in 1952.

The exterior features distinctive signage and a layout designed for easy drive-through access without sacrificing that neighborhood feel.

3151 Calhoun Street, New Orleans, LA 70125

19. Maine: Flo’s Hot Dogs

Operating from a tiny red shack since 1959, this Maine institution proves that great things come in small packages.

Their steamed hot dogs with secret sauce have achieved cult status, and locals guard the recipe details like state secrets.

1359 US Route 1, Cape Neddick, ME 03902

20. Maryland: Chick & Ruth’s Delly

Annapolis tradition lives strong at this family-owned spot where the Pledge of Allegiance is recited every morning at 8:30.

The exterior storefront has become an Annapolis landmark, with bright signage welcoming both tourists and locals alike.

165 Main Street, Annapolis, MD 21401

21. Massachusetts: Kelly’s Roast Beef

Ocean breezes and roast beef sandwiches create the perfect combination at this Revere Beach institution since 1951.

Their roast beef sandwiches are piled high with tender meat, and the fried seafood is as fresh as it gets this close to the water.

410 Revere Beach Boulevard, Revere, MA 02151

22. Michigan: Redamak’s

Since 1975, this Michigan hotspot has been claiming they serve the world’s best hamburgers, and locals rarely argue the point.

The exterior features rustic charm with wood siding and a welcoming entrance that promises good times inside.

616 East Buffalo Street, New Buffalo, MI 49117

23. Minnesota: Matt’s Bar

Birthplace of the Jucy Lucy burger, this Minneapolis institution has been serving cheese-stuffed burgers since 1954.

Their signature burger oozes molten cheese when you bite into it, requiring careful navigation to avoid burning your tongue on the delicious lava inside.

3500 Cedar Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55407

24. Mississippi: Borroum’s Drug Store & Soda Fountain

Step back to 1865 at Mississippi’s oldest soda fountain, where history and milkshakes blend perfectly together.

The exterior showcases beautiful historic architecture with original details preserved through generations of family ownership.

604 Waldron Street, Corinth, MS 38834

25. Missouri: Town Topic Hamburgers

Kansas City’s oldest hamburger joint opened in 1937 and still serves sliders around the clock from its iconic location.

Their burgers are small but mighty, cooked on a flat-top griddle that has seasoned perfectly over eight decades of constant use.

2021 Broadway Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64108

26. Montana: Pork Chop John’s

Butte’s most unique dining experience centers around deep-fried pork chop sandwiches that have been served since 1932.

The exterior fits perfectly into the historic mining town aesthetic with simple but sturdy construction built to last.

8 West Mercury Street, Butte, MT 59701

27. Nebraska: Runza

Nebraska’s official comfort food comes wrapped in bread pockets at this regional chain that started in 1949.

Their signature sandwiches stuff seasoned beef, cabbage, and onions inside fresh-baked bread, creating a portable meal that satisfies like nothing else after a cold Nebraska day.

740 West Cornhusker Highway, Lincoln, NE 68521

28. Nevada: In-N-Out Burger

California’s burger empire extends into Nevada, bringing fresh never-frozen patties and secret menu options to Las Vegas since 1992.

The exterior maintains the chain’s signature red and white color scheme with palm trees adding that desert Southwest flavor.

4888 Dean Martin Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89103

29. New Hampshire: Gilley’s Diner

Portsmouth’s tiniest restaurant operates from a vintage lunch cart that has been serving comfort food since 1912.

Their breakfast sandwiches are legendary among locals, and the cramped quarters somehow add to the charm rather than detracting from the experience at all.

175 Fleet Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801

30. New Jersey: Rutt’s Hut

Deep-fried hot dogs called rippers have made this New Jersey institution famous since 1928.

The exterior maintains its vintage roadside stand appearance with weathered charm that tells stories of nearly a century in business.

417 River Road, Clifton, NJ 07014

31. New Mexico: Blake’s Lotaburger

Green chile transforms ordinary burgers into New Mexico magic at this beloved regional chain founded in 1952.

Their signature green chile cheeseburgers pack serious heat, and the fresh-roasted chiles are sourced locally throughout the growing season for maximum flavor.

10400 Menaul Boulevard NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112

32. New York: The Coney Island Boardwalk Nathan’s Famous

Since 1916, this Coney Island landmark has been serving hot dogs to beachgoers and hosting the annual Fourth of July eating contest.

The exterior boardwalk location puts you steps from the Atlantic Ocean with the amusement park providing a colorful backdrop.

1310 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11224

33. North Carolina: Cook Out

Southern hospitality meets ridiculous value at this regional favorite that serves over 40 milkshake flavors alongside their burgers.

Their tray meals include a main dish, two sides, and a drink at prices that seem frozen in time from decades past.

3514 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC 27607

34. North Dakota: Kroll’s Diner

Fargo’s favorite gathering spot since 1972 serves up German sausage alongside classic American diner fare.

The exterior showcases traditional diner architecture with large windows and welcoming entrance that invites you inside.

1033 East Main Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58501

35. Ohio: Swenson’s Drive-In

Akron locals have been enjoying carhop service at this Ohio treasure since 1934.

Their Galley Boy burger with two special sauces has achieved legendary status, and the fresh-cut onion rings are hand-breaded throughout the day for perfect texture.

658 East Tallmadge Avenue, Akron, OH 44310

36. Oklahoma: Johnnie’s Charcoal Broiler

Oklahoma City’s burger scene revolves around this spot that has been flame-grilling since 1971.

The exterior features retro signage and a layout designed for quick service without sacrificing quality or flavor.

6629 Northwest Expressway, Oklahoma City, OK 73132

37. Oregon: Burgerville

Pacific Northwest pride shines through at this regional chain that sources ingredients locally and changes the menu with the seasons.

Their Walla Walla onion rings appear only during harvest season, and the marionberry milkshakes celebrate Oregon’s famous berry crops in delicious liquid form.

1122 Northwest Couch Street, Portland, OR 97209

38. Pennsylvania: Original Hot Dog Shop

Pittsburgh college students and locals have been piling into this Oakland institution since 1960 for late-night grease therapy.

The exterior is unassuming but recognizable to anyone who has spent time near the University of Pittsburgh campus.

3901 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

39. Rhode Island: Olneyville New York System

Rhode Island’s famous hot wieners get served with meat sauce, mustard, onions, and celery salt at this Providence landmark since 1946.

Their all the way wieners represent Rhode Island culinary tradition perfectly, and the coffee milk is the official state drink for good reason.

18 Plainfield Street, Providence, RI 02909

40. South Carolina: Beacon Drive-In

Southern hospitality reaches peak levels at this Spartanburg institution that has been serving sweet tea and burgers since 1946.

The exterior features a massive building with ample parking to accommodate the crowds that flock here daily.

255 John B White Sr Boulevard, Spartanburg, SC 29306

41. South Dakota: Bob’s Drive In

Classic carhop service continues at this spot where trays hook onto your car window just like the old days.

Their loose meat sandwiches are a Midwest specialty, and the root beer floats are made with real ice cream scooped fresh for each order placed-

1506 Hawkeye Avenue SW, Le Mars, IA 51031

42. Tennessee: The Arcade Restaurant

Nashville’s oldest cafe opened in 1900 and still serves Southern comfort food in a historic downtown arcade.

The exterior entrance sits within a beautiful covered shopping arcade with vintage architectural details preserved throughout.

65 Arcade Alley, Nashville, TN 37219

43. Texas: Top Notch Hamburgers

Austin’s oldest drive-in gained fame when it appeared in the movie Dazed and Confused, but locals knew about it since 1971.

Their chicken fried steak sandwich is massive, and the onion rings are thick-cut and fried until golden brown with just the right amount of crunch.

7525 Burnet Road, Austin, TX 78757

44. Utah: Hires Big H

Salt Lake City families have been gathering at this local favorite since 1959 for burgers and famous root beer.

The exterior showcases classic drive-in architecture with the Wasatch Mountains providing a stunning backdrop to every meal.

425 South 700 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84102

45. Vermont: Al’s French Frys

Since 1946, this Vermont institution has been serving hand-cut fries cooked in beef tallow for maximum flavor.

Their gravy-smothered fries represent Vermont comfort food at its finest, and yes, they intentionally spell fries with a Y because founder Al was French-Canadian.

1251 Williston Road, South Burlington, VT 05403

46. Virginia: Doumar’s Cones & Barbecue

Claiming to be the birthplace of the ice cream cone, this Norfolk spot has served carhop-style since 1934.

The exterior maintains authentic drive-in styling with covered parking and servers who still deliver food on trays.

1919 Monticello Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23517

47. Washington: Pick-Quick Drive In

Pick-Quick Drive In is a tiny 1940s-era roadside stand on old Highway 99 where the neon sign, grassy picnic grove, and long lines of locals give it that true old-school drive-in feel.

The draw is classic burgers with crisp edges, fresh-cut fries, and thick shakes made with seasonal fruit, a combo that’s earned it shout-outs as one of Washington’s essential burger and drive-in stops.

4306 Pacific Highway East, Fife, WA 98424, USA

48. West Virginia: Frostop Drive-In

Giant root beer mug signs mark this Huntington favorite that has been serving frosty mugs since 1952.

The exterior showcases classic drive-in design with those iconic mug signs visible from blocks away.

Their root beer is served in actual frosted glass mugs, and the burgers are cooked fresh on a flat-top griddle that has been seasoned by decades of use.

2900 5th Avenue, Huntington, WV 25702