Michigan is known for its cars — after all, it is the where are all the big American car companies have historically manufactured their automobiles. So, it makes sense that the state of Michigan would offer a lot old-school drive-in restaurants. However, one drive-in restaurant manages to shine above the rest of the competition: Don’s Drive In in Traverse City, Michigan.
Don’s Drive In is a hot pink restaurant that was founded in 1958. In the decades since, the restaurant has worked hard to keep its vintage ’50s feel and still has waiters — in roller skates, no less — who will serve you in your car. Amazing, right? And we haven’t even gotten to the food. It’s pure American comfort food: We’re talking burgers, fries, chicken sandwiches, and legendary milkshakes. This charming restaurant is the ideal pit stop for road trips and Traverse City vacations alike.
It’s kind of hard to miss Don’s Drive In: The building IS bright pink, after all.
Travelinklan/TripAdvisor
Waiters in roller skates will indeed bring you your food straight to your car (seasonally, of course).
Don’s Drive In/Facebook
And the food! Expect classic America fare. Look at those fries.
Dawn C/TripAdvisor
Don’t worry, the portions are very generous.
Brandy/TripAdvisor
Of course, there is room inside to eat as well. Indoors has an old-school charm that’s impossible to deny. Look at these booths!
Amy M/TripAdvisor
There is even a ’50s-style jukebox to add to the atmosphere.
Lisa H/TripAdvisor
Basically, Don’s Drive In is one of the hidden jewels of Traverse City — or heck, all of Michigan.
Lisa H/TripAdvisor
As Don’s Drive In’s website itself states: “You haven’t been to Traverse City if you haven’t been to Don’s Drive In.” So make your visit to the city complete and enjoy some fries and shakes at Don’s Drive In.
Travelinklan/TripAdvisor
Don’s Drive In/Facebook
Dawn C/TripAdvisor
Brandy/TripAdvisor
Amy M/TripAdvisor
Lisa H/TripAdvisor
What do you think? Did you have another Michigan drive-in on your mind? We’d love to hear about it on our nomination page.
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Address: 2030 US 31 N, Traverse City, MI 49686, USA