Some places refuse to let the good times fade—and Idaho’s drive-ins are proof. Forget gourmet buns and truffle fries. Here, burgers still come wrapped in wax paper, fries hit the tray sizzling, and the shakes are thick enough to bend a spoon. It’s nostalgia you can taste, served with a side of chrome and sunshine.
These drive-ins are time capsules on wheels, where carhops smile, engines hum, and the air smells like grilled perfection. Every bite feels like the 1950s never left. So roll down your window, grab a straw, and get ready—these eight Idaho drive-ins are keeping the golden age of burgers alive.
Scotty’s Drive In – Idaho Falls, ID
Imagine pulling up to Scotty’s Drive In, a beloved staple in Idaho Falls since 1958, renowned for its old-school charm. Here, burgers are crafted from locally sourced, extra-lean ground chuck, offering an authentic taste that harkens back to simpler times. Wrapped in wax paper, each burger is a nostalgic nod to the past.
Beyond burgers, Scotty’s delights with nearly 35 milkshake flavors and a unique drink known as Ironport. Saturdays are perfect for this culinary adventure, with the drive-in open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. A visit here is a journey into the heart of American drive-in culture.
Big Bun Drive In – Boise, ID
Since 1961, Big Bun Drive In has been a cornerstone in Boise, serving up hand-pressed burgers that are a local legend. The Big Bun Special, with its double meat and extra pickles, wrapped in wax paper, is a fan favorite.
Car enthusiasts flock here on Friday nights during summer, turning the drive-in into a lively hub of activity. With locations on both Overland and Glenwood, Big Bun is more than just a place to eat; it’s a community gathering point where nostalgia and camaraderie are as rich as the flavors.
Westside Drive In – Boise, ID
Westside Drive In, a Boise icon, invites you to savor its renowned finger steaks and burgers, both delicacies wrapped in wax paper. The retro vibe is unmistakable, enhanced by the quirky “Ice Cream Potato,” a dessert that perfectly mimics a baked potato.
This drive-in is more than a meal; it’s a slice of history preserved in its neon lights and nostalgic atmosphere. Every visit promises a journey into the past, with flavors and experiences that never grow old. It’s a place where community and tradition meet.
Zip’s Drive-In – Coeur d’Alene, ID
A fixture in Coeur d’Alene, Zip’s Drive-In is loved for its burgers, each one carefully wrapped in wax paper. The menu extends beyond burgers to include fish and chicken sandwiches, all complemented by their signature tartar sauce. With a presence across Idaho, Zip’s has become synonymous with quick, delicious service.
For decades, locals have flocked here, drawn by the promise of familiar flavors and the comforting consistency of a well-loved regional chain. It’s where new memories are made, and old ones revisited.
Ross Park Drive Inn – Pocatello, ID
In Pocatello, Ross Park Drive Inn stands out with its vibrant menu and welcoming atmosphere. Famous for wrapping its burgers in wax paper, this spot also surprises with offerings like Taco Spaghetti and the Big Boy Burger.
The drive-in is a beloved local hangout, radiating a nostalgic vibe that keeps both locals and visitors coming back. It’s a place where culinary creativity meets classic dining, offering not just a meal, but a unique experience. Discovering this drive-in is like finding a new favorite book.
Burger Stop – Twin Falls, ID
Burger Stop in Twin Falls delivers an authentic drive-in experience, with each burger ceremoniously wrapped in wax paper. This cherished spot offers a menu bursting with variety, from hearty burgers to satisfying sides.
Locals frequent Burger Stop for its reliable flavors and comforting nostalgia. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, inviting diners to relish both their meals and the community around them. The drive-in is a testament to Twin Falls’ love for tradition and good food, a gathering spot for friends and families alike.
Shake Out – Twin Falls, ID
Nestled in Twin Falls, Shake Out is a family-run gem that serves burgers wrapped in wax paper, celebrating drive-in tradition. With fresh ingredients and a menu full of variety, this spot captures the essence of small-town charm. Its inviting atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals who return time and again for both the food and the friendly service.
Shake Out is more than a place to eat; it’s a community hub where stories are shared, and memories are made over a delicious meal. It’s a slice of Americana cherished by all who visit.
Tastee Treet – Pocatello, ID
Tastee Treet in Pocatello offers a delightful drive-in experience, with burgers and ice cream treats wrapped lovingly in wax paper. This charming spot has been a beloved local fixture for years, providing a retro atmosphere filled with nostalgia.
Visitors are drawn to its classic American fare, where each meal is a trip down memory lane. It’s a place where the joys of simplicity and good company are celebrated, creating a warm, welcoming environment for all who stop by. Tastee Treet is a cherished piece of Pocatello’s culinary landscape.