This Iconic Colorado Drive-In Serves Burgers The Same Way It Has For Decades

I pulled off Highway 6 in Glenwood Springs on a sunny afternoon, drawn by the buzz of a packed parking lot at Vicco’s Charcoalburger Drive-In. From the outside, it looked like a roadside relic, but the crowd told a different story.

What I found inside was a place that has served charcoal-grilled burgers the same honest way since 1963, and after one bite, I understood why people keep coming back decade after decade.

Charcoal Grilled Perfection That Puts Fast Food To Shame

Walking up to the order window, I caught the unmistakable scent of meat sizzling over real charcoal flames, and my stomach started doing backflips. Vicco’s doesn’t mess around with shortcuts or frozen patties. Every burger gets kissed by charcoal heat, creating that smoky crust and juicy center that makes your taste buds throw a party.

I ordered a double beef burger, and when it arrived, the cheese was perfectly melted, the bun was toasted just right, and the whole thing was messy in the best possible way. One bite confirmed what the reviews promised: this is the real deal, cooked exactly how burgers should be.

A Menu That Goes Way Beyond Beef

Sure, the beef burgers steal the spotlight, but Vicco’s menu reads like a wildlife safari with options you won’t find at your typical burger joint. Elk, bison, turkey, and even vegetarian patties give everyone a chance to find their perfect match. Guests rave about the elk burger, calling it a must-try that delivers bold flavor without feeling too gamey.

My first visit had me sticking with beef, but next time I’m going full Colorado and trying that bison burger everyone keeps talking about. The variety means you could visit a dozen times and still discover something new, which keeps the experience fresh and exciting every single visit.

Onion Rings That Deserve Their Own Fan Club

Let me tell you about these onion rings, because they’re not just a side dish, they’re a commitment. Big, crunchy, and golden brown, each ring could double as a bracelet if you were feeling adventurous. The breading stays crispy all the way through, and the onion inside is sweet and tender, creating that perfect contrast of textures.

I ordered a large to share, but honestly, I could have finished the whole basket myself. Multiple people mention these rings specifically, with people calling them some of the best they’ve ever had. When a side dish gets that much love, you know it’s doing something right and worth every calorie.

Chili Fries That Bring The Heat And The Heart

Colorado knows its green chili, and Vicco’s doesn’t disappoint when it comes to loading up a pile of fries with the good stuff. Regulars have a genius hack: order half green chili and half red chili so you get the best of both worlds on one plate. The fries stay crispy underneath all that topping, which is no small feat.

One couple told me they order these chili fries every single visit, and after hearing them describe the perfect spice level and hearty portions, I added it to my must-try list. The staff happily accommodates custom requests, making sure your fries arrive exactly how you want them, loaded with flavor and warmth.

Location That Makes Every Road Trip Better

Vicco’s sits right off Highway 6 on the frontage road, making it an easy pit stop whether you’re heading to Aspen or exploring the Roaring Fork Valley. The mountain views provide a stunning backdrop while you munch on your burger at one of the outdoor picnic tables. It’s the kind of spot that feels both convenient and special at the same time.

Inside, there’s a heated covered patio for when the weather turns chilly, so you can enjoy your meal comfortably year-round. The location has that classic roadside charm, and the constant stream of cars pulling in proves that locals and travelers alike know this place is worth the stop, no GPS required.

Service That Feels Like Family, Not Fast Food

From the moment I stepped up to the order window, the staff greeted me with genuine smiles and patience, even with a line stretching behind me. They answered my questions, offered suggestions, and made sure I knew about their specialty burgers. The owner’s wholesome approach is evident in the team, creating a warmth that runs through the entire crew.

When someone forgets part of their order, the team quickly fixes it without attitude or hassle. This isn’t robotic service, it’s the kind of hospitality that makes you feel welcome and valued. That personal touch transforms a simple burger run into an experience you’ll remember and want to repeat soon.

A Time Capsule Of Glenwood Springs History Since 1963

Vicco’s opened its doors in 1963, and somehow it has kept the same recipes, the same cooking methods, and the same commitment to quality for over six decades. Walking around the property, you’ll spot antique decorations that tell the story of this little piece of Glenwood history. It’s not a theme, it’s the real thing, preserved with pride.

Guests love seeing those vintage touches, and the whole place feels like stepping back to a simpler time when burgers were made right and people took their time to enjoy good food. That authenticity is rare these days, and it’s exactly why Vicco’s remains a beloved landmark in the community and beyond.

Milkshakes Worth Planning Your Next Visit Around

I’ll admit, I was so focused on the burger that I completely forgot to order a milkshake on my first visit, and I’ve been kicking myself ever since. Nearly every review mentions the shakes, with people promising to come back specifically to try one. They’re thick, creamy, and the perfect sweet finish to all that savory charcoal-grilled goodness.

Next time I roll through Glenwood Springs, that shake is happening, no excuses. Whether you go classic vanilla or try something more adventurous, the milkshakes at Vicco’s have earned a reputation that matches the burgers. It’s the kind of treat that turns a good meal into a great memory you’ll crave long after.