America’s Most Classic Hamburgers, Ranked State by State

You’ll travel state to state without leaving your seat, sampling the classic burgers that shaped local tastes and quick-stop legends. You’ll learn which timeless burger represents each state and why it still earns a place on menus and in memories.

Expect short stoplights on flavor—historic icons, regional twists, and cult favorites that range from diner originals to nationwide chains. Use this guide to plan a tasty road trip or simply settle the friendly argument over which burger deserves the crown.

Juicy Lucy from Minneapolis, MN

You bite into a Juicy Lucy and hot cheese explodes from the middle, soaking the patty and your fingers.
Origin debates swirl between Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club, both Minneapolis originals you can still visit.

Order plain or try creative riffs across the Twin Cities.
Either way, expect a messy, cheesy experience that helped put Minnesota on the burger map.

In-N-Out Double-Double from California

You’ll spot the Double-Double on nearly every California order board.
Two fresh beef patties, two slices of American cheese, crisp lettuce, tomato, and their special sauce make it simple and familiar.

You can ask for grilled onions or go Animal Style to add mustard-cooked patties and extra sauce.
Locals praise its consistency and value, which explains why the Double-Double feels like a California rite of passage.

Learn more about the menu and items at In-N-Out on their official menu page.

Classic Big Mac from McDonald’s, Illinois

You know the Big Mac: two beef patties, special sauce, and that middle bun that makes it iconic. Grab one at your local McDonald’s for a quick, familiar bite that rarely disappoints.

If you want history, the Big Mac has roots in the late 1960s and became McDonald’s flagship sandwich. Its balance of tangy sauce and simple toppings keeps it a go-to when you want something classic.

Cheeseburger from Louis’ Lunch, Connecticut

You step into a tiny brick shop that’s been flipping burgers since 1895.
Louis’ Lunch serves its patties on toast and melts cheese on request, sticking to the original method with vertical cast-iron broilers.

You won’t find ketchup or a bun here; tradition drives the experience.
If you want history with your meal, this is where Connecticut claims the hamburger began — and you taste that legacy in a simple, no-frills cheeseburger.

Learn more about Louis’ Lunch and its tradition at the official Louis’ Lunch site (https://louislunch.com/).

ShackBurger from Shake Shack, New York

You’ll recognize the ShackBurger by its soft potato roll, melty American cheese, and that tangy ShackSauce that brightens every bite.
The 100% Angus beef patty keeps things simple and juicy, so toppings don’t overpower the core flavor.

Order it in New York to taste the version that started the chain’s buzz, often praised in roundups like this ranking of Shake Shack burgers.
Pair it with crinkle fries and a concrete for a classic, casual combo.

ButterBurger from Culver’s, Wisconsin

You’ll recognize this Midwestern classic by the butter-slathered bun and a freshly seared patty.
Culver’s uses fresh, never-frozen beef and a bit of butter that comes from Wisconsin dairies to keep the sandwich rich without overpowering the beef.

Order it plain or with cheese and bacon; it’s built to be familiar and satisfying.
Learn more about Culver’s ButterBurger and its history on the restaurant’s official ButterBurgers menu page.

Bison Burger from Wyoming

You’ll find Wyoming’s bison burger leaner than beef and naturally savory, a good fit if you want bold flavor without heavy grease. Try one in Jackson or Cheyenne to taste regional seasoning and grill marks that matter.

Many local spots build theirs with simple toppings so the meat stays front and center. For recommendations and popular joints around the state, see this roundup of Wyoming bison burger joints.

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken Burger from Tennessee

You’ll find a twist on Southern comfort at Gus’s: spicy, hand-battered chicken tucked into a soft bun.
The burger swaps breaded thigh for classic fixings—pickles, slaw, and a tangy sauce—to balance heat and crunch.

If you’re in Tennessee, many locals swear by the spicy bite and simple preparation.
Learn more about Gus’s history and menu at their official site (Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken).

Burger from Au Cheval, Illinois

You’ll find Au Cheval’s cheeseburger famous for a simple, focused stack: double patties, melty cheese, and optional bacon and fried egg.
Expect a rich, savory bite—think beef-forward flavor and a soft, slightly toasted bun that holds up.

Lines can be long, so plan accordingly if you want that quintessential Chicago burger experience.
Read a review of its reputation and accolades at Business Insider.

Bacon Cheeseburger from Five Guys, Virginia

You’ll get a no-frills bacon cheeseburger loaded with crispy bacon and gooey American cheese.
The patty cooks to order, so you can ask for your preferred doneness and watch it go on the grill.

Toppings are customizable; pick grilled onions, jalapeños, or extra pickles to suit your taste.
Five Guys pairs the burger with hand-cut fries for a straightforward, satisfying combo.

Try it if you like big, straightforward flavors and control over how your burger turns out.

 

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