Ready to take a delicious journey back in time? Whether you’re in the mood to reminisce about your younger years or you’re simply craving a dose of old-fashioned fun, there’s nothing better than enjoying dinner at a drive-in restaurant. These seven spots within driving distance of Detroit offer visitors the chance to visit a bygone era while satisfying all sorts of cravings. Get ready for an adventure.
1. Kluck’s Drive-In (401 E Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti)
It’s easy to understand why this spot has been a fixture in Ypsilanti for more than half a century. Kluck’s, which sits just 40 minutes from downtown Detroit by car, is a cash-only eatery where vintage charms abound. With its decidedly no-frills vibe, mouthwatering chili dogs, half-pound cheeseburgers, and sudsy root beer floats, this drive-in will keep you smiling.
Bask in old-fashioned delights when you stop for a meal at Rudy’s, which is known for cooking up its very own coney sauce and brewing fresh root beer. In addition to drive-in classics like burgers and coneys, this welcoming locale serves a variety of sandwiches, tasty shrimp baskets, and an assortment of sides. Its red neon sign makes it tough to miss, and you’ll be glad you stopped by.
Make your way to nearby Livonia for a dash of vintage fun at Daly Drive-In, which has satisfied hungry customers since 1959. For many visitors, journeying to this restaurant is a beloved family tradition, and you’ll be a new regular after your first meal. Favorite menu items include beloved Dalyburgers (complete with a special sauce), loose burgers with coney toppings, patty melts, and delicious banana splits.
4. Eddie’s Drive-In (36111 Jefferson Ave, Harrison Twp)
The timeless atmosphere at Eddie’s will make you smile as soon as you pull in and prepare to order. With its brightly painted sign, orange-hued drive-in area, and friendly service, there’s a sense of wholesome fun here that’s tough not to love. Of course, the fare at Eddie’s is equally wonderful, and we recommend digging into a footlong coney paired with a refreshing Boston Cooler.
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5. Bill’s Drive-In (1292 E Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti)
Head back to Ypsilanti for another charming experience at Bill’s Drive-In, which is known for its mouthwatering root beer. Decades of Metro Detroiters have pulled up to the small yellow building and indulged in everything from chili cheese dogs to flavorful floats and everything in between. If you’re searching for a straightforward eatery that knows what it does best, Bill’s is sure to impress.
6. Monroe’s Original Hot Dog (1111 W Front St, Monroe)
Its name makes it obvious: Monroe’s is the place to be when you’re craving a hot dog with all your favorite toppings. This bright orange eatery draws in locals and out-of-towners alike with a timeless atmosphere, stalwart menu items, and no-frills dining experience for all ages. Enjoy homemade ketchup, perfectly prepared hot dogs, and a side of chilly root beer. Does it get much better than this?
7. Hi-Lite American Restaurant (1005 E Michigan Ave, Marshall)
You’ll be served by a car-hop when you stop at Hi-Lite, a fun eatery that’s well worth the 90-minute jaunt from Detroit. Whether you’re in the mood for a sloppy joe, a hearty helping of onion rings, a classic hamburger, or even a wet burrito, there’s something on the menu to keep your taste buds tingling. With a kids’ menu to round it all out, Hi-LIte is a perfect dinner destination for every member of the family.
Have you enjoyed lunch or dinner at one of these awesome eateries near the Motor City? Are there any other old-fashioned drive-in restaurants in or around Detroit that we should have included on our list? We know our selection only highlights some of the area’s best, so please let us know what we’re missing by leaving a Facebook comment or filling out our official nomination form here.
