16 Minnesota Drive-In Burgers That Make Summer Drives Totally Worth It, Say Locals

Minnesota summers are best enjoyed with the windows down, the sun on your face, and a burger that hits all the right notes.

I cruised from drive-in to drive-in, tasting patties stacked high with toppings and fries fried to golden perfection.

Some spots are classic, some full of local twists, but each one offers a meal that turns an ordinary summer drive into a small celebration. Locals know the secret, and every bite explains why.

1. Wagner’s Drive-In (Brooklyn Park)

Brooklyn Park’s Wagner’s has been flipping patties since 1966, and the secret’s in the griddle. Each burger gets a perfect sear, locking in juices that drip down your chin with every bite.

Regulars order the double cheeseburger with grilled onions, a combo that never disappoints.

The retro vibe and picnic tables make it feel like you’ve time-traveled to simpler days. Cash only, so hit the ATM before you roll up.

2. Gordy’s Hi-Hat (Cloquet)

Gordy’s Hi-Hat isn’t just a burger joint; it’s a Cloquet institution with a loyal following. Their burgers are thick, hand-pattied, and cooked to order, never frozen or rushed.

Order the classic Hi-Hat burger and watch the magic happen through the kitchen window. The soft bun barely contains the juicy patty, pickles, and tangy sauce.

On summer nights, the parking lot buzzes with families, friends, and first dates bonding over baskets of fries.

3. Dairyland Drive-In (Fergus Falls)

Fergus Falls residents know that Dairyland delivers comfort in a wrapper. The burgers here are no-frills perfection: beef, bun, and all the fixings you crave.

What sets Dairyland apart is consistency. Every visit tastes exactly like your first, with that same satisfying snap from fresh lettuce and the gooey cheese pull.

Pair your burger with a thick shake, park under the shade, and let the summer breeze complete the experience.

4. Tip Top Dairy Bar (Osakis)

Osakis may be small, but Tip Top Dairy Bar punches way above its weight class. Locals line up for burgers that are generously portioned and loaded with toppings.

The bacon cheeseburger here is legendary, with crispy strips that crunch with every bite. Don’t skip the onion rings, which are hand-breaded and fried golden.

Tip Top’s friendly staff and lakeside location make it a perfect pit stop after a day on the water.

5. The Peppermint Twist (Delano)

Delano’s Peppermint Twist serves burgers with a side of old-school charm. The menu is straightforward, but execution is everything here.

Burgers arrive hot off the grill, with melted cheese cascading over the edges and a bun that’s lightly toasted.

The Twist Burger, topped with their special sauce, has fans driving from miles away. Grab a booth inside or sit outside and soak up the small-town vibe while you feast.

6. Sue’s Drive In (Pierz)

Sue’s Drive In has been a Pierz staple for decades, and the burgers haven’t changed a bit. That’s a good thing. Each patty is seasoned just right and grilled until the edges get crispy.

The cheeseburger basket comes with crinkle-cut fries that are salty, hot, and addictive.

Sue’s feels like visiting your favorite aunt’s kitchen, except she’s serving you the best burger in town. Cash is king, so come prepared.

7. The Drive In (Taylors Falls)

Taylors Falls offers scenic views and seriously good burgers at The Drive In. Nestled near the St. Croix River, this spot combines nature with nostalgia.

Burgers here are thick, juicy, and cooked with care. The hickory burger, with its smoky flavor, stands out on the menu.

After you finish, take a stroll along the river or explore the nearby trails. It’s the perfect combo of food and adventure.

8. Ginny’s Drive-In (West Concord)

West Concord’s hidden gem, Ginny’s Drive-In, serves burgers that taste like summer. The patties are hand-formed and grilled to perfection, never dry or overcooked.

Ginny’s specialty burger comes loaded with all the classics: lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a secret sauce that ties it all together.

The atmosphere is relaxed, the prices are fair, and the portions are generous. Regulars say the fries are just as good as the burgers.

9. Earl’s Drive-In (Roseau)

Up north in Roseau, Earl’s Drive-In keeps things simple and delicious. Burgers are the star here, with fresh ingredients and generous portions.

Earl’s cheeseburger is a thing of beauty: melted American cheese, crisp lettuce, and a perfectly toasted bun.

The drive-in vibe is authentic, with carhops and trays that hook onto your window. It’s a throwback experience that pairs perfectly with a root beer float and good company.

10. Minnetonka Drive In (Spring Park)

Spring Park’s Minnetonka Drive In has been a local favorite since the 1950s. The burgers are classic, no-nonsense, and always satisfying.

What makes this place special is the atmosphere. Families gather on warm evenings, kids run around with ice cream cones, and everyone leaves happy.

The cheeseburger is simple but perfect, with a juicy patty and fresh toppings. Pair it with a chocolate malt for the full retro experience.

11. Lakeview Drive Inn (Winona)

Winona’s Lakeview Drive Inn offers more than just a view. The burgers here are hearty, flavorful, and made with pride.

Locals swear by the bacon burger, which features thick-cut bacon and a perfectly seasoned patty.

The outdoor seating area provides a great spot to watch the world go by while you munch. Lakeview has been serving the community for years, and it shows in every bite.

12. Barney’s Drive-In (Waseca)

Barney’s Drive-In in Waseca is where nostalgia meets hunger. The burgers are big, bold, and built to satisfy.

Each burger is cooked on a flat-top grill, giving it that signature crispy edge.

The menu offers plenty of options, but the classic cheeseburger is the crowd favorite.

Barney’s also serves up thick shakes that complement the savory burgers perfectly. It’s a must-stop spot on any southern Minnesota road trip.

13. The Country Drive In (Winthrop)

Winthrop’s Country Drive In brings small-town charm to every order. Burgers here are made fresh daily, with ingredients sourced locally when possible.

The mushroom Swiss burger is a standout, with sautéed mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese piled high.

The friendly staff and cozy outdoor seating make you feel right at home. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows your name, and the food always hits the spot.

14. Wells Roadside (St. Louis Park)

Wells Roadside in St. Louis Park takes the drive-in concept and adds a modern twist. The burgers are creative, flavorful, and made with high-quality ingredients.

Try the signature Wells Burger, which features a custom blend of beef and inventive toppings.

The casual vibe and outdoor seating make it perfect for a laid-back meal. Wells proves that classic drive-in burgers can evolve without losing their soul.

15. A&W Drive-In (Pine City)

Pine City’s A&W Drive-In brings the classic chain experience with local flair. The burgers are juicy, the root beer is frosty, and the vibe is pure Americana.

Order the Papa Burger for a double dose of beef, cheese, and toppings. The carhop service adds a fun retro touch, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

A&W remains a beloved stop for families and travelers cruising through Pine City.

16. Val’s Rapid Serv (St. Cloud)

St. Cloud’s Val’s Rapid Serv lives up to its name with quick service and even quicker appetites. The burgers are cooked fast but never taste rushed.

Val’s classic burger is simple, satisfying, and exactly what you want after a long day.

The fries are crispy, the shakes are thick, and the prices won’t break the bank. It’s a no-frills spot that delivers big on flavor and convenience.