Who doesn't love a good burger? Luckily, Minnesota has hundreds of places to score a truly amazing burger. Whether you like the cheese on the inside, crazy toppings, or even a veggie burger, you'll find it for sure in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. While many love to concentrate their dining experiences in the Twin Cities, we thought it was time to show other parts of the state some love. This burger trail highlights some of the best burgers in northern Minnesota. Check it out:
The route covers 250 miles of northern Minnesota - perfect for a weekend up north. Get the full route with driving instructions here.
1. Gordy's Hi-Hat - Cloquet
Our first stop is at a place often credited with having one of the best burgers in the state. Gordy's Hi-Hat is a local favorite that hasn't change much down since it opened in 1960. But that's what makes it so great. The nostalgia of visiting one of the few remaining drive-in restaurants, coupled with the mouthwatering burgers? It just doesn't get much better. Address: 415 Sunnyside Drive, Cloquet.
2. Boathouse Brewpub & Restaurant & Brewpub - Ely
After Gordy's, you want to take a sharp turn towards the north. It'll be a long drive through the north country woods, but don't let that get you down. For one thing, you'll be passing through some of Minnesota's best scenery. And for another, you'll have an amazing burger waiting for you at the Boathouse Brewpub & Restaurant. This place serves up a few different burgers, all juicy and delicious classics that are sure to hit the spot. Address: 47 East Sheridan Street, Ely.
3. Insula Restaurant - Ely
Did we say you had one burger waiting for you in Ely? Because we really meant two. The Boathouse burger is fantastic, but you'll want to save room for round two at the Insula Restaurant. Insula prides itself on providing a locally sourced menu for the diners of Ely. They have a burger for any palate - even a vegetarian option - each served with house-made chips
4. Rustic Inn Cafe and Gifts - Two Harbors
If we were you, we'd spend a few days in Ely. Why not soak up the unspoiled beauty of the Boundary Waters before heading south? But when you're ready for another great burger, you'll want to head south to Two Harbors. This little town along the North Shore has surprisingly many dining options. One local favorite? Rustic Inn Cafe. Set in a beautiful location overlooking Lake Superior, it's a great place for a bite. Order a huge burger loaded with toppings, then polish it all off with a slice of their famous pie. Address: 2773 Highway 61, Two Harbors.
5. Fitger's Brewhouse Brewery and Grille - Duluth
What better way to enjoy your burger than with a local beer? Stop at Fitger's for something truly special. They have ten signature burgers, topped with everything from jalapeño to cheese curds and gravy. And if you're vegetarian, Fitger's has you covered. Their wild rice burger is out of this world. Address: 600 E Superior Street, Duluth.
6. Canal Park Brewing Company - Duluth
Last but not least on this burger trail is another Duluth brewery. Canal Park Brewing Company has a relaxed atmosphere, a large and diverse menu and, of course, great beer. While you drink, try any one of their classic burgers, like the Juicy Lucy or the turkey burger. Once you finish, you're going to want to do the burger trail all over again. Address: 300 Canal Park Drive, Duluth.
What do you think? Would you travel this burger trail? If you're looking for other great burgers in Minnesota (including the Twin Cities), check out this list of 20 awesome burger joints in Minnesota.
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