Discover the 5 Best Twin Cities Drive-In Diners

Best Drive-In Diners within 1 Hour of the Twin Cities for Families

Looking for a fun and delicious way to treat your family this summer? Look no further! We’ve rounded up four of the best drive-in diners within an hour of the Twin Cities. Each one is picture-perfect for a great family night out. These hidden gems serve juicy burgers that will make your taste buds dance, offer a unique atmosphere that will transport you back in time, and promise a slice of summer fun everyone will love. These fantastic drive-in restaurants have everything from classic charm to mouth-watering menu items.

Get ready to create unforgettable memories with your kids and satisfy those summer cravings at these delightful Minnesota destinations!

Wagner’s Drive-In, Brooklyn Park

Address: 7000 West Broadway Avenue Brooklyn Park, MN 55428

At Wagner’s Drive-In in Brooklyn Park, you’ll find a veteran-owned, family-operated drive-in that has been dishing up car-serve burgers, ice cream sundaes, and other American eats for over 35 years. Started by Ed and Anneliese Wagner with the help of their children, this drive-in has grown to be one of the most beloved neighborhood joints in the West Metro. Today, Ed’s son Jim continues the tradition of creating everything from scratch, including hand-crafted hamburgers, homemade soups, coleslaw, and freshly breaded chicken or fish.

The drive-in’s inviting vibe is perfect for families, with friendly service and the nostalgic experience of ordering from an intercom. Kids will love the dedicated kids’ menu and the chance to enjoy their meals at outdoor seating. With 100% fresh 1/4 lb ground beef burgers grilled to perfection, delicious hot sandwiches, and delightful sundaes and ice cream cones, Wagner’s Drive-In promises a unique and tasty family outing. No wonder it’s one of the best drive-in restaurants near Minneapolis with kids!

The Peppermint Twist, Delano

Address: 115 Babcock Boulevard, Delano, MN, 55328

One of the best drive-in diners near the Twin Cities for families, The Peppermint Twist in Delano is a charming, family-owned drive-in that’s been delighting customers since 1982. This cash-only spot is perfect for bringing the whole family together, offering gourmet burgers, delicious shakes, and endless fun for little ones at the whimsical Teddy Bear Park.

Dining here is all about sharing good food with family and friends. Hand-prepared meals are made from the best ingredients to ensure top-notch quality and flavor. Kids will love the dedicated kids’ menu and the excitement of choosing from fresh raspberry, homemade butterscotch, precious peppermint, and other famous shake flavors. Then, check out their old-fashioned root beer floats in various soda flavors like orange crush. No matter what you order, every bite will be as delicious as the last.

While you may experience a bit of a wait during busy times due to their commitment to fresh, made-to-order food, the friendly atmosphere and mouth-watering menu make it well worth it!

The Drive-In Restaurant, Taylors Falls

Address: 572 Bench Street Taylors Falls, MN 55084

Step back in time at The Drive-In Restaurant in Taylors Falls! This iconic carhop-style diner, serving the community since 1956, offers a nostalgic experience complete with carhops in poodle skirts and a delightful old-school vibe. Families can munch on classic American fare, such as hand-packed burgers, grilled sandwiches, corn dogs, and more, all served with a smile. Families can enjoy the traditional in-car dining experience or snag one of the iconic red picnic tables.

two boys playing mini golf at adventure golf in taylors falls mn near the twin cities

Kids will be thrilled with their dedicated kids’ menu (which includes dessert!), ensuring even the pickiest eaters leave happy. Meanwhile, you can indulge in one of their famous malts or frosty mugs of homemade root beer—perfect for washing down a juicy burger. The Drive-In Restaurant is an excellent stop for family fun along the St. Croix River, with outdoor picnic table seating and a charming atmosphere. Plus, it’s just a short walk from Adventure Falls Mini Golf, downtown Taylors Falls, and Interstate State Park, making it one of the best drive-in diners near the Twin Cities for a family day trip!

Minnetonka Drive-In, Spring Park

Address: 4658 Shoreline Drive Spring Park, MN 55384

Experience a blast from the past at Minnetonka Drive-In in Spring Park. With this classic 1960s establishment, carhop servers bring burgers, crispy onion rings, frosty root beer, and more right to your car. Founded in 1961 by Gordon and Jeanette Bennyhoff along with their eight children, this beloved spot continues to be family-run, now under their son Dave, who started working there at just nine years old.

The family-friendly atmosphere invites you to relax and enjoy a meal with the best ingredients, including fresh (not frozen) hamburgers, hand-cut and breaded onion rings, and their homemade Sloppy Joe sauce and chili. Your little ones will love the dedicated kids’ menu and the excitement of outdoor seating. Finally, check out their handmade root beer, crafted with the same recipe as the 1960s A&W! Talk about a refreshing drink for a hot summer day. Minnetonka Drive-In is conveniently located on the Dakota Regional Trail, which only adds to its position on this list of the best drive-in restaurants near Minneapolis with kids!

Wells Roadside Diner, St. Louis Park

Address: 3712 Quebec Avenue South, St. Louis Park, MN 55426

At Wells Roadside Diner in St. Louis Park, you’ll discover a charming, family-owned spot that has been serving up hearty comfort food and classic diner favorites since 2024. Known for its friendly atmosphere and down-to-earth service, Wells is a true neighborhood staple where locals gather for everything from juicy burgers to tasty hot dogs and hand-battered fried chicken.

The diner’s cozy, retro feel makes it an inviting stop for families and anyone craving a taste of small-town diner life in the city. Kids will love the classic milkshakes, hot dogs, and kid-sized meals, while adults can dig into generous portions of scratch-made comfort foods. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch, a weekend meal, or a nostalgic dinner out, Wells Roadside Diner is a hidden gem that captures the spirit of a classic Minnesota diner experience.

Enjoy Making Nostalgic Summer Memories with Your Kids!

No matter which Twin Cities Drive-In Diner you choose, you’re guaranteed a memorable family outing filled with delicious food, nostalgic vibes, and summer fun. From the hand-crafted root beer at Minnetonka Drive-In to the whimsical Teddy Bear Park at The Peppermint Twist, these drive-ins offer something special for everyone. Whether you’re craving a classic American burger or looking to create new family traditions, these drive-in diners within an hour of the Twin Cities are the perfect destinations for a delightful family day out. So, pile into the car, soak up the sunshine, and indulge in juicy burgers and tasty treats at these iconic spots!

Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.