Why Most People Have Never Heard of This Lake

Nobody expects to come across a 16,000-acre lake in the middle of the Texas Panhandle, so Lake Meredith is a pleasant surprise for most driving through the area. And the fact that it’s tucked away in this remote side of Texas, 40 miles outside Amarillo, means it’s far away from major cities like Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas. That said, locals will end up on double-decker party boats or riding jet skis at popular lakes in Texas. 

The lake is part of the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, managed by the Park Service, so many who visit come to get their passport stamps. And for others, it’s a stopover while road-tripping through the region, since you can camp here for free. Those who never make it to this underrated lake in Texas will be missing out on clear blue waters winding around striking red canyon walls and a mostly undeveloped shoreline. It feels wild and free, where the bird songs may be the only sounds you’ll hear.   

Things to Do at Lake Meredith

You don’t have to go to Lake Travis to boat on a pretty oasis. Instead, you can launch a pontoon boat and drift out on Lake Meredith, one of the clearest lakes in Texas. There are multiple boat ramps where you can launch your boat, canoe, or kayak. Don’t have a watercraft? That’s no problem. Rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard from the vendors at the Sanford Yake boat ramp inside the park. Spend the day in the calm waters, discovering hidden coves while taking in the rocky terrain inside the park. And when you’re ready, find a spot to cast your line for walleye, largemouth bass, crappie, or catfish.

If you visit in the warmer months, take a dip in the water or catch some rays in the designated swim spot. Then hike the Fritch Fortress Harbor Bay Trail that leads you across prairies, through canyons, and up to the mesa, and sit quietly at sunset and watch the sky change colors over the lake. You can also bike, rock climb, spot wildlife, or take a scenic drive around the lake for a different perspective.  

As one of our picks for one of the best campgrounds in Texas, you can bring your RV and reserve one of the 10 spots at the Sanford-Yake Campground with water and electric. Or opt for one of the free first-come, first-served spots. Because the lake is so remote, on a clear night, you could be gazing at the Milky Way from your campsite. With all that there is to do, paired with its striking landscape, I find it surprising that this lake flies so far under the radar.

What to Know Before You Go

Before you visit this or any of the best lakes in Texas, always check the water levels because they can easily change for one reason or another. Also, keep in mind that the lake is in a secluded area, so bring everything you need if you plan to stay the night. In addition to free camping, there is no admission fee to access the facilities in the park. You really can’t beat this budget-friendly destination in Texas. The best time to visit? Spring and fall, when the weather is nice enough to spend more time outdoors, and the lake levels are higher from rainfall. 

Lake Meredith is ideal for anyone searching for a spot where they don’t have to compete for access to the shoreline or listen to too much human chatter. It’s just you, the open waters, the land, and the sky. Come to this lake when you want to slow down and let the elements guide your day. Be sure to visit the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area website for a full list of things to do. And when you’re ready to go beyond Texas, plan a trip to one of these beautiful lakes in America that feel like the ocean.

Why Is It Called “Belly of the Dragon?”

Although this strangely named hiking trail looks like an ancient lava tube, the Belly of the Dragon is actually man-made. It was originally built as a drainage culvert beneath U.S. Highway 89, designed to channel runoff. Over time, flowing water sculpted the tunnel’s sandstone interior into a series of ridges that resemble the belly of a mythical creature. As sunlight filters through the openings, the walls glow in shades of orange and gold, creating an ethereal ambiance that inspired the trail’s name.

What the Hike Is Actually Like

The Belly of the Dragon is less of a hike and more of a short stroll through one of southern Utah’s most unusual landmarks. The out-and-back route is about half a mile round-trip, depending on how far you continue into the wash beyond the tunnel, with only about 10 to 20 feet of elevation gain.

The trail is considered an easy, family-friendly hike, but it isn’t entirely without challenges. Reaching the entrance requires climbing down a short rock ledge, and the ground is uneven with loose rocks. After the tunnel, the path follows a desert wash surrounded by colorful Navajo sandstone cliffs before eventually reaching a rock wall that serves as the turnaround point.

What to Know Before You Go

One of the best things about visiting the Belly of the Dragon is how easy it is to access. A small roadside parking area sits just off U.S. Highway 89 near the tunnel entrance, allowing visitors to reach the trail within a minute or two of leaving their vehicle. Parking is free, and no permit or entrance fee is required, making it an easy stop while exploring the Kanab area or going hiking in Utah at Zion or Bryce Canyon National Park.

Facilities are extremely limited. There are no restrooms, drinking water, trash cans, or visitor services at the trailhead, so it’s a good idea to use the restroom before arriving and carry plenty of water, especially in the summer. Spring and fall are typically the most comfortable seasons, while summer afternoons can be extremely hot. (Waterfalls in Utah might be a better option in the summer.) Dogs are welcome as long as they’re leashed.

Although the hike is short, safety should still be a priority. The tunnel was built to carry water during heavy rain, so monitor weather conditions carefully as flash flooding can occur with little warning. Wear shoes with good traction, watch your footing on the uneven terrain, and be mindful of desert wildlife, including rattlesnakes.

Is Belly of the Dragon Worth Hiking?

If you’re looking for a long, challenging hike with sweeping views, the Belly of the Dragon probably isn’t the right choice. The walk is short, and the main attraction is the tunnel itself rather than the trail beyond it. However, if you enjoy hidden hiking trails in Utah, unique geological features, unusual photo opportunities, or quirky roadside stops, it’s well worth the trip. (And, of course, it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves strange hiking trail names.)

The trail is great for families, casual hikers, and anyone traveling through southern Utah who wants to stretch their legs without committing to a strenuous hike. The dramatic sandstone tunnel feels otherworldly, and the changing light filtering through the ribbed walls creates epic photo opportunities.

The Belly of the Dragon proves that the best hikes in Utah don’t have to take all day to be memorable. This unique destination, with one of the most unusual hiking trail names you’ll ever see, offers an experience unlike any other, and if you’re already exploring the Kanab area or the Mighty Five, it’s a quick detour worth adding to your itinerary.

For anyone looking to spend some time casting a reel, this tiny home Airbnb offers the perfect home base, but with a surprise: a custom-built 3,000-square-foot miniature golf course. Fishing, seclusion, and miniature golf, all in one incredible New York rental — what more could you ask for?

Stay Just Minutes From One Of America’s Best Fishing Rivers

Located in Altmar, this tiny house Airbnb sits about five minutes from the Salmon River, giving anglers quick access to some of New York’s most exciting fishing waters. The river is famous for its annual Chinook and Coho salmon runs, while steelhead and trout attract visitors throughout much of the year.

A Cabin With A One-Of-A-Kind Backyard

After spending the day on the river, guests can trade fishing rods for putters. The Airbnb property’s custom 3,000-square-foot miniature golf course is unlike anything you’ll typically find at a vacation rental in New York. You don’t need to be a professional golfer (or mini-golfer) to enjoy this course. Plus, if you want to swing the putter at night, the course is illuminated for evening games, too.

The outdoor amenities for this Airbnb include a fire pit that is the ideal spot for winding down at the end of the day, complete with Adirondack chairs, and a covered front porch with a BBQ grill to cook your catch of the day.

Inside, the adults-only cabin is designed for a comfortable stay, maximizing the space in a modern way. Guests can expect a full gourmet kitchen, perfect for preparing breakfast and lunch; high-speed Wi-Fi; a dedicated workspace; a smart TV; and board games, just in case you need some extra entertainment if the weather takes a turn. Self-check-in with a smart lock also makes arrivals simple and flexible.

More Than A Fishing Getaway

Although fishing is the area’s biggest draw, there’s plenty to do throughout all four seasons. Nearby hiking trails and ATV routes are perfect for spring and autumn months, while snowmobiling opportunities can complete any winter season. Scenic spots like Salmon River Falls make the region an appealing destination. Picture clear water and an impressive 3,000-foot-high gorge waterfall. This is easily an outdoor adventurer’s paradise without trying too hard.

For travelers looking to experience one of New York’s most celebrated outdoor areas, this unique Airbnb offers more than a place to rest your head. Between its proximity to the Salmon River and its one-of-a-kind custom-made miniature golf course, you can spend a few days enjoying the surrounding natural wilderness, watching the stars at night, and waking up rested.

Want to keep the New York outdoor adventures going? Head to the Catskills region for swimming, hiking, sightseeing, and so much more.

That discovery was made two years ago, and since surprising him on his birthday with a day trip to explore the White Oak Canyon-Cedar Run Loop, we’ve been back numerous times, in every season of the year. All this to say, if you’re looking for a hidden swimming hole in Virginia with a waterfall to boot, the Cedar Run Watering Hole is ready and waiting. Keep reading to learn more about the must-visit swimming spot.

Why Locals Love This Hidden Swimming Hole

The White Oak Canyon-Cedar Run Loop is beloved for its variety of waterfalls and swimming holes. When you arrive at the trailhead, you’ll walk into the forest, cross a metal bridge, and choose your own adventure. If you fork left, you’ll encounter four distinct waterfalls and several swimming holes along the Cedar Run Trail; if you veer right, you’ll wander across six falls and a handful of swimming holes. Which is to say, you can’t go wrong either way. 

That said, if your primary goal is to enjoy a more hidden swimming hole, the Cedar Run Trail is the way to go, as the Cedar Run Watering Hole is secluded within the trees and requires a more strenuous ascent to reach. While the White Oak Canyon Lower Falls and shallow swimming hole are located on a beginner-friendly hike with around 400 feet of elevation gain, the Cedar Run Trail is widely considered to be intermediate to difficult, with a rocky 1,500-foot elevation gain. 

Of all the swimming holes in Virginia, Cedar Run Watering Hole feels particularly special due to its tree-shrouded location, 34-foot waterfall, and small pool that, at roughly 11 feet deep, is suitable for dips and jumps alike (always be sure to check the depth before plunging from one of the cliffs, though). If it weren’t for being clearly marked on the map, it’d be easy to miss, as, like my fiancé, not many people equate the state with natural water wonders. 

What Makes the Water at Cedar Run Falls So Clear

Another characteristic of Cedar Run Falls that many visitors don’t expect is the water’s quality. While the shaded location of the swimming hole can make it more difficult to see through the water at certain times of day, when the sun is shining brightly through the canopy, the stones along the Cedar Run Stream bed are clear as day. And since the stream is largely fed by mountain runoff, snowmelt, and rainfall, it’s about as clean as it gets (until it reaches Fauquier and Prince William counties, where it becomes more impaired due to agricultural runoff). 

What to Expect During Your Visit

Cedar Run Watering Hole (and White Oak Canyon as a whole) is one of the best hidden gems in Virginia. It’s secluded, spacious enough for a swim while still being small, and features a rocky cove with plenty of space to sit and enjoy a picnic. Plus, dogs are allowed.

Some things to know before you go:

• Admission to the White Oak Canyon-Cedar Run Loop is $15 per person or $30 per vehicle. Admission provides access for a full week from the date of purchase. 
• Onsite parking fills up extremely fast, but there are numerous private overflow lots within walking distance that have spaces for $10. 
• The trailhead has a few porta-poties for visitors’ use. 
• Hiking out and back to Cedar Run Swimming Hole is about 3.4 miles; the full Cedar Run Falls Trail, however, is 6.1 miles. If you go beyond the swimming hole, you’ll find the natural waterslide, another standout in the park. 
• The full Cedar Run-Whiteoak Circuit is around 8.1 miles. 
• Mountain water runs colder. Prepare to feel refreshingly chilled, if not all-out cold. 
• The trailhead remains open year-round, but becomes notably more difficult when snow and ice are present. 

As someone who has visited White Oak Canyon and Cedar Run Falls in spring, summer, fall, and winter, I can attest to just how stunning it is year-round. Personally, I find summer the best time for a swim, but that didn’t stop us from polar plunging during our New Year’s weekend getaway in 2025 or from taking a dip this past October. My best advice? Enjoy Shenandoah National Park’s best-kept secret, then cap off the day with a trip to The Apple House or Bald Top Brewing (both about an hour away) for mouth-watering apple cider donuts and wood-fired ‘za, respectively.

The next time you’re looking for a destination that packs in adventure, scenery, and relaxation (without the crowds), you’ll be grateful you opted for these lovely U.S. lakes that feel like a coastal getaway.

1. Lake Michigan — Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana

Lake Michigan is so unbelievably stunning, with its dramatic dunes and rolling waves, that it belongs in a league of its own. It covers over 22,000 square miles, creating its own coastal experience despite being nowhere near the Atlantic or Pacific. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to access Lake Michigan, with some of the most popular swimming beaches including Oval Beach in Saugatuck and Holland State Park Beach. Those looking for sweeping, dramatic views can head to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, famous for its towering bluffs and dense forests. For an absolutely delightful home base, consider Ludington, Michigan, famous for its deep-water marinas, lighthouse views, and world-class sunsets.

2. Lake Tahoe — Nevada, California

There’s no mistaking Lake Tahoe for the beach; this natural wonder shared by Nevada and California is something else entirely. The crystal-clear water and snow-capped mountains in the distance give visitors so much scenery to admire that the effect is almost overwhelming. On warm, summer days, vacationers can be seen swimming and paddleboarding on the lake’s glassy surface. Plus, this stunning U.S. lake offers something most beach towns don’t: epic hikes. One of the most popular trails is Cascade Falls Trail, a 1.4-mile out-and-back on the lake’s western shore that leads to a stunning waterfall. After your hike, you can opt for a night or two in South Lake Tahoe, California, famous for its bustling nightlife and vibrant restaurants.

3. Flathead Lake — Montana

Mountain views? Check. Crystal-clear water? Check. Miles of shorelines dotted with picture-perfect towns and meandering trails? Check, check, check. Flathead Lake is stunning to look at, but it’s even more magical as the setting for your next great outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer swimming, camping, or hiking, you’ll find so much to do on or near the water. Plus, there are six Montana State Parks on the lake, each providing access to that strikingly beautiful water. Spend a few days exploring Bigfork, affectionately called the Village by the Bay, where you can visit art galleries or enjoy a top-notch meal from the Eatery at Bigfork.

4. Lake Coeur d’Alene — Idaho

Loads of people flock to Lake Coeur d’Alene in the summertime for its stunning beaches, waterfront restaurants, and all kinds of boating and paddling adventures. But if you’d like to avoid the majority of the crowds, why not plan a fall trip? You can take a sunset dinner cruise for a bucket-list-worthy outing, complete with views of the water and golden hues as the leaves change color around the lakeshore. Back on land, head to Coeur d’Alene Cellars for a popular local winery with a fantastic wine list.

5. Lake George — New York

Lake George is one of the region’s most naturally beautiful lakes, surrounded by old-growth forests and the Adirondack Mountains. Sometimes called “The Original Vacation,” this lake has been the backdrop to generations of memory-making. It’s perfect for families, offering everything from arcades and amusement parks to zip-lining and, of course, tons of waterfront fun. The town, also called Lake George, might feel a bit touristy at first, but that’s part of the charm, too. If you’d prefer to venture outside the village, take a dip at Rogers Memorial Park Beach, then pedal through the Adirondack forests with Revolution Rail Co. in North Creek.

6. Lake Winnipesaukee — New Hampshire

Lake Winnipesaukee may be smaller than others on this list, but it’s big by New Hampshire standards. Its crystal-clear, spring-fed water makes for excellent—albeit brisk!—swimming. Lake Winni, as it’s affectionately called by locals, is surrounded by quaint New England towns, giving the whole area a coastal feel, despite its geography. Whether you’re fishing, wandering one of the lake’s many nature preserves, or enjoying a smash burger from Off The Rails at Winnipesaukee Marketplace, you’ll be enchanted by all that the lake has to offer.

7. Lake Ouachita — Arkansas

Scuba diving in Arkansas? You bet! Just head to Lake Ouachita, which is technically a reservoir but offers 40,000 acres of clean, clear water to swim through. With quiet coves, tiny lake islands, and forested shorelines, this lake is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Start your visit with a trip to the historic Three Sisters Springs, which is a free-flowing natural spring that has drawn visitors for decades for its healing properties. A visit to the lake means access to swimming, fishing, boating, and yes, scuba diving. It’s also a great spot for camping, with 93 sites available, some right on the water.

8. Lake Jocassee — South Carolina

Known for its strikingly clear water and undeveloped shorelines, Lake Jocassee is one of the most picturesque destinations in the South. The lake’s refreshing water is the ultimate way to beat the summer heat, though it’s popular year-round. The best, and really, the only way to access the lake is through Devils Fork State Park, which requires a small daily admission fee. Also, there aren’t many touristy spots along the lake, which is a key reason it feels so pristine and secluded. One of the coolest things to do here is to venture to towering waterfalls along the lake that are only accessible by boat. You can do this by signing up for a tour with Jocassee Lake Tours.

9. Bear Lake — Utah, Idaho

Nicknamed the Caribbean of the Rockies, Bear Lake is a magnificent freshwater lake near the Idaho and Utah border. The water gets its striking turquoise color from the tiny limestone particles that reflect sunlight. One of the best reasons to visit Bear Lake, aside from its otherworldly beauty, is all the adventure it promises. Sandy beaches are perfect for lounging and sunbathing, the cool water is ideal for a refreshing swim, and the boating and paddling options are endless. But one of the single best things to do at Bear Lake is wonderfully unexpected: fresh raspberries. The raspberry harvest typically takes place in late July, and the whole region celebrates the growth of these incredibly sweet fruits. The microclimate of the lake is the reason the berries are so plentiful, and many would argue that no summer is complete without them. Pro tip: Head to La Beau’s Drive-In in Garden City for an unbelievable fresh raspberry milkshake.

10. Lake Champlain — Vermont and New York

With a surface area covering over 500 square miles, Lake Champlain feels more like an inland sea than a lake. In fact, for a brief moment in history, the lake was called “The Sixth Great Lake” before that status was revoked 18 days later. It’s much smaller than the traditional Great Lakes, but every bit as appealing. It feels very much like the coast, with sailboats dotting the horizon, beachy shorelines perfect for lounging on, and charming villages surrounding the water. One of the most popular access points is North Beach in Burlington. If you’re looking for a little adventure, rent a paddleboard from Paddlesurf Champlain and glide out on the lake’s surface for some spectacular scenery. Then, fuel up with a lobster roll from Pioneer Lakeshore Café.

11. Lake Superior — Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan

The largest of the Great Lakes, Superior is so vast that anyone standing on its shoreline will feel like they’re on the edge of the world. A windy day can bring huge, crashing waves, a phenomenon that inspires comparison to the Atlantic. In other words, it really holds its own as a U.S. lake that feels like a coastal getaway. If you prefer warm, gentle water, this probably isn’t the swimming hole for you. But there are plenty of other activities to take its place, such as sea kayaking, hiking a portion of the rugged Superior Hiking Trail, or even exploring underwater shipwrecks. Of course, what you experience on Lake Superior will certainly depend on where you are. One town that’s celebrated for its coastal charm is Bayfield, Wisconsin. Here, you can take a ferry to Madeline Island, enjoy fresh-caught whitefish, or simply stroll the charming downtown. If you plan your visit in the fall, take the “Fruit Loop” for apple picking and fruit sampling along the way.

These gorgeous U.S. lakes prove you don’t need to travel to the coast to experience a world-class vacation. Lakes provide the perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and in some cases, resort-like amenities. So pack up your swimming gear, hiking boots, and even resort wear as you plan an unforgettable few days on the lake. Looking for more water-filled adventures? Check out the 25 best waterfall hikes in the U.S.

Nevada, Missouri, sits in Vernon County about 90 minutes south of Kansas City. The White Grill has been part of the town for more than eight decades, slinging burgers that the locals love.

Counter stools, a short-order cook at an open grill visible to anyone in the dining room, fresh burgers cooked to order, and housemade Suzie Q’s, the restaurant’s signature curly-cut fry, have built their own reputation entirely separate from the burger.

Nevada locals eat here on weekdays. Visitors who find it while passing through tend to stop again on the way back. It made the best burger spots in every state.

More than 80 years in business means White Grill has operated through economic downturns and trend shifts that closed most of its contemporaries. A community that treats a restaurant as an institution rather than just a place to eat is the most durable foundation a restaurant can have.

What to Order

The White Grill cheeseburger is the reason to come: fresh, hand-formed beef cooked on the grill visible from the counter. Daily specials rotate through a variety of options that keep regulars engaged.

Suzie Q’s curly-cut fries, made from fresh potatoes, are the essential side. Their reputation precedes them. Reviewers who’ve never been mention the fries before they arrive.

Breakfast is available through mid-morning with The Mess as the signature item. The counter seats and spinning stools create an atmosphere that feels genuinely mid-century rather than nostalgically recreated. For more on the local food scene, see Missouri’s best old-school diners.

Eight Decades of the Same Formula

White Grill has been in business for more than 80 years. It’s operated through the economic cycles and trend shifts that closed most of its contemporaries, sustained by a community that treats it as an institution.

Nevada locals eat here on workdays. Visitors who discover it while passing through on US-71 find themselves planning a return trip on the way home.

The Suzie Q fry requires fresh potatoes cut in a specific curly-cut style each morning. Most diners who arrive for the burger leave mentioning the fries in the same breath.

Nevada, Missouri is small enough that White Grill does not advertise. Everyone in town already knows about it, and travelers who stop once tell people back home.

The counter stools and spinning seats at White Grill are original fixtures, not purchases from a restaurant supply catalog. The room looks the way it looks because it has always looked this way.

Travelers on US-71 between Kansas City and the Arkansas border pass through Nevada. The exit takes two minutes. The reason to take it takes about as long to explain. For more of the state’s dining history, see southwest Missouri restaurants worth a detour.

Plan Your Visit

White Grill is in Nevada, Missouri. Call (417) 667-9388 for hours and orders. Nevada is near US-71, an easy detour for travelers between Kansas City and the Arkansas border. While you’re planning the trip, check out Missouri restaurants open for more than 50 years.

The Stamps family bought a grocery store and meat market on Dalton Street in Jackson in 1970. They ran it as a grocery for a decade.

Then one Sunday afternoon, patriarch Algernon Stamps Sr. wanted a hamburger, walked to the store, and made one himself. The rest, as the restaurant’s own website puts it, is history.

More than 40 years of burgers later, Stamps Super Burgers has received a National Trust for Historic Preservation grant, been recognized as Mississippi’s best multiple times, and earned a spot on It made a state-by-state guide to America’s best burgers.

In 2023, Stamps was the only Mississippi restaurant to receive a Backing Historic Small Restaurants grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation and American Express. That recognition reflects both the food and the restaurant’s role in the Washington Addition neighborhood over more than four decades.

What to Order

The Stamps Super Burger is an 11-ounce hand-pattied patty, seasoned and formed fresh each morning from the original recipe, served with mayo, ketchup, lettuce, tomato, pickles, mustard, and onion. The Double Super Burger is 22 ounces for serious appetites.

A pound of hand-cut lemon-peppered fries, large enough for two, is the essential side. The restaurant’s chili goes on fries and hot dogs.

Turkey burger and Bello Burger are available for non-beef eaters. The kitchen sells out early on busy days. Arriving before noon ensures the full menu is available. For more on the food scene nearby, see the story behind the best burger in Mississippi.

Three Generations, One Neighborhood

The year 1970 is significant. It was the year of the Gibbs-Green shooting at Jackson State University, two blocks from the store. The previous owner sold amid the community tensions that followed. The Stamps family took root and stayed.

Phil Stamps Jr. now runs the restaurant as third-generation ownership. His stated mission is to serve ‘every letter, creed, color, and everything in between.’ The restaurant has been fulfilling that mission from the same address for more than four decades.

Phil Stamps Jr. has stated his mission clearly: serve everyone, from every background, who comes through the door. That stated openness has characterized the restaurant across more than 40 years of neighborhood change.

The American Express partnership behind the National Trust grant reflects a national recognition of what Stamps Super Burgers represents beyond just its food. For more of the state’s dining history, see the best restaurants in Jackson.

Stepping into Stamps Super Burgers feels like taking a welcoming step back in time. The walls tell a story of profound dedication, adorned with decades of neighborhood memories and prestigious national awards. It is a vibrant community staple where locals and hungry travelers alike stand side by side, united by the irresistible aroma of seasoned lemon-pepper fries.

Plan Your Visit

Stamps Super Burgers is at 1801 Dalton Street in Jackson. Hours run Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed Sunday.

Cash and cards are accepted. Arrive early; the kitchen sells out on busy days. While you’re planning the trip, check out Mississippi’s most historic restaurants.

The Jucy Lucy is Minnesota’s most singular contribution to American burger culture. Blue Door Pub didn’t invent it, but when Jeremy Woerner and Pat McDonough opened their first St. Paul location in September 2008, they made an entire restaurant around the burger, celebrating it.

Their version, the Blucy, stuffs bleu cheese and garlic inside the patty, creating a molten core that comes with a genuine scalding risk and a genuine reward. The restaurant has been featured on Food Paradise, Man v. Food, and Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

For a state that takes the Jucy Lucy seriously, that’s a real distinction to earn. It made Only In Your State’s national burger rankings.

There’s even a Blue Door location at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, which says something about how thoroughly the Blucy has become part of Minnesota’s food identity.

What to Order

The Classic Blucy is the baseline: a patty stuffed with white American cheese, served simply. The Bacon Blucy adds smoked bacon. The Mount Blucuvious brings ghost-pepper cheese and fried avocados for those who need the heat.

A rotating Burger of the Month, submitted by fans and vetted by the kitchen, ensures there’s always something new to try. Hella Totchos (tater tots loaded with chili, cheese, and toppings), cheese curds, and tempura green beans are the essential sides.

All burgers use prime chuck from Central Minnesota farms. The heat warning on the stuffed burgers is genuine: let it rest for a minute before the first bite. For more on the nearby food scene, see the best Jucy Lucy in Minnesota.

From a St. Paul Corner Spot to a Minnesota Brand

Blue Door opened in a St. Paul neighborhood space that had previously housed a Puerto Rican restaurant called Puerta Azul. The owners translated the name and kept the tribute.

The original St. Paul location closed during COVID, but multiple Minneapolis locations carry on. The airport location means the Blucy is often the last thing Minnesota visitors eat before flying home, which is a strong final impression.

The airport location at Minneapolis-St. Paul International has introduced the Blucy to travelers with no prior exposure to Minnesota’s burger culture. It is often the last meal visitors eat before flying home.

Blue Door’s commitment to prime chuck from Central Minnesota farms has been consistent since opening. The local sourcing is not a marketing claim. It shows up in the flavor. For more of the state’s dining history, see Twin Cities restaurants worth a food trip.

Plan Your Visit

Blue Door Pub Longfellow is at 3448 42nd Avenue South in Minneapolis. The Como Avenue location is at 1514 SE Como Avenue. Hours vary by location, so make sure to visit the website for up-to-date information.

Enjoy family-friendly dining during early service, then a switch to a full-bar atmosphere in the evening. While you’re planning the trip, check out iconic Minnesota foods and where to find them.

You park facing the water. A carhop walks out to take your order. A Great Lakes freighter sounds its horn from the St. Mary’s River. That’s Clyde’s Drive-In in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.

Clyde VanDusen started the drive-in in 1949 at age 19, next to the Sugar Island ferry landing. The current building dates to 1961 and is a rare surviving example of googie burger-stand architecture.

His nine children own and operate it today. ‘The nine sons and daughters of Clyde VanDusen aren’t just owners, but proudly have over a century of experience,’ the family wrote on Facebook in 2022. That continuity of ownership, spanning seven decades, is what keeps Clyde’s feeling like a genuine institution rather than a tourist attraction.

The full national 50 Best Burgers list is worth reading alongside it. It made the most-loved burger joint in every U.S. state.

What to Order

The Big C Burger, named for Clyde himself, is the signature: fresh beef, made the same way since 1949. The sloppy joe and pizza burger are the other classics that regulars rotate through across the season.

Real ice cream milkshakes are made to order. The bison burger, added in more recent years, provides an alternative protein option. The whitefish basket and fried smoked fish reflect the Upper Peninsula’s proximity to Lake Superior and are outstanding when the fish is fresh.

The Big C Challenge Wall of Fame is there for those inclined to attempt the oversized version. It’s a separate experience from the regular menu and worth knowing about if you’re visiting with a competitive group. For more on the food scene nearby, see restaurants in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

75 Years of Family Ownership on the River

The seasonal operation closes for winter and reopens each spring to a community that treats the opening like a genuine celebration. That seasonality is part of what makes Clyde’s feel special.

The carhop service, the freighters, and the fresh beef are unchanged across seven decades of operation. The building has been maintained but not modernized. What you see at Clyde’s is what it has always been.

The VanDusen family has operated Clyde’s for three generations. Each successive generation has maintained the carhop nostalgia, the fresh beef, and the seasonal rhythm that defines the experience.

The bison burger, added more recently, reflects a willingness to update the menu without disrupting the original format. It is the only significant protein addition in 75 years. For more of the state’s dining history, see classic Michigan drive-ins still going strong.

Plan Your Visit

Clyde’s Drive-In is at 1425 Riverside Drive in Sault Ste. Marie. Seasonal: spring through fall. Check Facebook for exact opening and closing dates each year.

Hours run daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the summer months, but then switch to limited hours in spring and fall. Rotary Park is directly next door in case you want to plan an outing with a meal at the end. While you’re planning the trip, check out where to eat in Sault Ste. Marie.

Newburyport is one of New England’s most charming historic port cities, and The Cormorant at 228 Merrimac Street has quietly become one of its most distinctive dining spots.

The menu is focused: grass-fed smash burgers, fried chicken, pork schnitzel sandwiches, a salmon burger, and a natural wine list that rotates regularly. Everything is made with scratch preparation and a commitment to local sourcing.

Newburyport locals have made it a regular stop for lunch and early dinner, and the dining room fills on weekends with a crowd that drives specifically for the food. It made Only In Your State’s burger guide for all 50 states.

The Cormorant is owned by Kristen and Katie, who describe their main point of disagreement as whether sandwiches are subs or hoagies. Both know their way around either. The restaurant reflects their commitment to quality ingredients and consistent execution.

What to Order

The classic smash burger: one grass-fed patty, special sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion, and house-made pickles. Add cheese for a dollar.

The Double Down uses two smashed patties with raw onion grilled directly into the beef, finished with American cheese and pickles on a grilled bun. It’s the regular order for anyone who’s been more than once. The raw onion cooking into the patty during the smash creates a flavor that’s different from any other preparation.

All buns are toasted; all patties are fresh. Half-size options are available for a lighter lunch. The natural wine list and rotating local draft beers make lingering feel entirely justified.

The half-size smash burger, available for a lighter lunch, uses the same fresh ingredients as the full version. It is the right order if you want to sample both the burger and the milkshake without overextending.

The natural wine list at The Cormorant is worth asking about. The staff knows the selections and can pair based on what you are ordering. For more on the food scene nearby, see the best restaurants in Newburyport.

A Focused Merrimac Street Operation

The restaurant has built its following through consistency, a willingness to experiment with specials, and a genuine commitment to scratch preparation across every item on the menu.

Rotating specials keep regulars engaged and give the kitchen creative room. The KC Bacon BBQ Burger and a salmon burger with kimchi mayo are recurring favorites that earn their own loyal followings. For more of the state’s dining history, see North Shore restaurants worth a day trip.

A Local Gathering Place

The welcoming atmosphere encourages guests to linger long after their meal. Whether you are stopping in for a quick weekday lunch or catching up with friends over the weekend, the exceptional hospitality and carefully curated flavor profiles guarantee an unforgettable North Shore dining experience.

Plan Your Visit

The Cormorant is at 228 Merrimac Street in Newburyport. Hours run Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Call (978) 961-7421. Street parking available in the Merrimac Street area. While you’re planning the trip, check out hidden gem restaurants in Massachusetts.