Looking for a delicious excuse to plan a Traverse City getaway?
Welcome to the Traverse City Burger Brawl! A self guided foodie adventure where your mission is simple: spend a weekend exploring some of the best local burger spots Northern Michigan has to offer and crown your own champion.
Whether you're visiting for beaches, wineries, golf, fall colors, or a relaxing weekend Up North, this burger challenge is the perfect way to experience Traverse City like a local.
Book a stay, bring your appetite, and let the Burger Brawl begin.
Stop #1: The Local Legend
Start your Burger Brawl at Slabtown, a longtime Traverse City favorite known for hearty burgers, fresh cut fries, and a laid-back local atmosphere. Many visitors make it a mandatory stop every time they come to town, and locals regularly recommend it when asked where to find a great burger.
Stop #2: The Smash Burger Champion
If you're a smash burger fan, this stop belongs on your must visit list. Oakwood Proper Burgers has developed a loyal following thanks to its craft approach, Michigan sourced ingredients, hand-cut fries, and creative burger menu. Many locals and visitors consider it among the top burger destinations in the city.
Stop #3: The Hidden Gem Along West Bay
Located along M-22, Glendale has quickly become one of the area's most talked-about burger destinations. Their crispy edged smash burgers and parmesan fries have earned a devoted following among locals and travelers alike.
Stop #4: Downtown Burger Headquarters
Situated right in downtown Traverse City, Bubba's combines a fun atmosphere with a burger menu packed with customizable options. It's an easy stop during a day of shopping, brewery hopping, or exploring Front Street.
Stop #5: The Local Favorite Most Visitors Miss
For burger enthusiasts willing to venture slightly beyond downtown, Bergstrom's burgers serves handcrafted burgers with creative toppings and local personality. Their unique creations have helped them build a loyal following among Traverse City burger fans.
Stop #6: The Classic Drive-In Experience
Every Burger Brawl needs a nostalgia stop. Don's Drive-In has been serving travelers and locals for generations with burgers, fries, shakes, and old-school drive-in charm. It's a true Northern Michigan classic.
Stop #7: The Diner Pick
Sometimes the best burgers come from places that aren't trying to be trendy. J & S Hamburg delivers classic diner comfort food and satisfying burgers that locals have enjoyed for years.
Make It a Burger Brawl Weekend
The best part? Most of these burger spots are only minutes apart, making Traverse City one of the easiest foodie destinations to explore.
Spend your mornings on the beach, afternoons exploring wineries and downtown shops, and evenings working your way through the Burger Brawl.
Our vacation rentals provide the perfect home base for your adventure close to downtown, the waterfront, and every burger stop on this list.