11 Underrated Drive-Ins In Florida That Will Make You Feel Like It’s The ’50s Again
Florida isn’t just about beaches and theme parks. All across the state, old-school drive-ins are still serving up burgers, fries, and thick shakes with a side of nostalgia.
Pull up, roll down your window, and let the car hops bring your meal just like they did decades ago.
These spots have been around long enough to see families grow up, tourists return, and regulars never miss a Friday night. Florida still knows how to make a drive-in feel like the best seat in town.
1. MoonLight Drive-In, Titusville
Just minutes from Kennedy Space Center, this spot serves up classic American comfort food with a side of rocket launches. The burgers are thick and juicy, and the milkshakes come in flavors that’ll remind you of your childhood.
Car hops still bring your order right to your window. The neon sign glows against the Florida sky, and the whole place feels like a time capsule.
Families gather here on weekends, and the atmosphere buzzes with laughter and good vibes. Locals love the onion rings and the friendly service that never rushes you.
2. Burger Inn, Melbourne
This little gem has been flipping burgers since the 1950s, and not much has changed. The menu is simple, the prices are fair, and the taste is exactly what you want from a drive-in.
You can still order from your car, and the staff treats everyone like family. The cheeseburgers come with fresh lettuce and tomato, and the fries are hand-cut and crispy.
There’s something honest about a place that doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel. Grab a drink and park under the shade for the full experience.
3. Dino’s Drive-In, Winter Haven
Winter Haven’s hidden treasure sits quietly on a corner lot, serving up nostalgia with every order. The hot dogs are grilled to perfection, and the chili cheese fries could make you weep with joy.
Families have been coming here for generations, and the walls are covered with old photos and memorabilia. You can eat inside or grab a picnic table outside under the Florida sun.
The staff knows most customers by name, and that personal touch makes all the difference. Try the banana split if you have room left.
4. Mike’s Drive-In, Bartow
Bartow might not be on every tourist map, but Mike’s Drive-In is worth the detour. This place has been around since the Eisenhower era, and it shows in the best way possible.
The burgers are hefty, the shakes are thick, and the portions are generous without being wasteful. You’ll see classic cars roll through on Saturday afternoons, their owners showing off chrome and paint jobs.
The vibe is laid-back, and nobody’s in a hurry. Order the bacon cheeseburger and watch the world slow down for a bit.
5. John’s Drive-In, Fort Meade
Fort Meade is small-town Florida at its finest, and John’s Drive-In fits right in. The menu hasn’t changed much over the decades, and that’s exactly how the regulars like it.
You can get breakfast all day, which is a blessing if you’re craving eggs and hash browns at three in the afternoon. The coffee is strong, the pancakes are fluffy, and the service is quick without feeling rushed.
It’s the kind of place where strangers strike up conversations and everyone leaves smiling. Stop by on your way through Central Florida.
6. Andy’s Drive-In & Igloo, Winter Haven
The igloo-shaped building catches your eye before you even pull into the parking lot. Andy’s has been serving Winter Haven since the 1950s, and the architecture alone is worth the visit.
Inside, the menu offers everything from burgers to seafood baskets, all made fresh to order. The fried shrimp is a local favorite, and the coleslaw has just the right amount of tang.
Families pack the place on Friday nights, and the jukebox still plays oldies that make you want to tap your feet. Bring cash because they prefer it.
7. Jerry’s Drive-In, Pensacola
Pensacola has beautiful beaches, but Jerry’s Drive-In is where the locals go when they want real food. The burgers are charbroiled, and the smell alone will make your mouth water.
You can order from your car or grab a spot at one of the outdoor tables. The milkshakes come in classic flavors, and the portions are big enough to share if you’re not too hungry.
There’s no pretense here, just good food and friendly faces. The sunset views from the parking lot are a nice bonus after your meal.
8. Tally-Ho Drive In, Panama City
Panama City is known for spring break crowds, but Tally-Ho Drive In offers a quieter slice of Florida history. This place has been serving locals since the 1950s, and the recipes haven’t changed.
The fried chicken is crispy and juicy, and the mashed potatoes taste like your grandmother made them. You can eat in your car or take your food to one of the picnic benches out front.
The staff is patient and kind, even during the lunch rush. Try the homemade pie if they have any left.
9. Coney Island Drive-Inn, Brooksville
Brooksville’s Coney Island Drive-Inn has nothing to do with New York, but everything to do with good food and good times. The hot dogs are legendary, and the chili recipe is a closely guarded secret.
You can order at the window and eat at one of the covered tables outside. The atmosphere is casual, and the prices won’t break the bank.
Regulars swear by the chili cheese dog, and the ice cream cones are perfect on a hot Florida afternoon. It’s the kind of place you stumble upon and never forget.
10. Graves Drive-In, Perry
Perry sits in North Florida, and Graves Drive-In is a local institution. The building looks like it hasn’t changed since the Eisenhower administration, and that’s part of its charm.
The menu is straightforward with burgers, fries, and shakes that taste like they should. You can park under the oak trees and enjoy your meal in the shade.
The service is friendly, and the pace is slow in the best possible way. Stop here if you’re driving through and want a taste of old Florida.
11. Dairy Joy, Tampa
Tampa has grown into a big city, but Dairy Joy remains a throwback to simpler times. The soft-serve ice cream is rich and creamy, and the burgers are cooked fresh on a flat-top grill.
You order at the window and wait for your number to be called. The menu is posted on a big board, just like it was decades ago.
Kids love the twist cones, and adults love the nostalgic vibe that makes them feel young again. It’s a perfect stop after a long day at the beach or park.