Akron, Ohio has earned its reputation as a city built for burger lovers. Drive-ins glow at dusk, the scent of sizzling beef drifts through open car windows, and locals remain fiercely loyal to their favorites.
Flat-top grills have shaped the city’s flavor for generations, turning simple ingredients into something unforgettable. The friendly rivalry between Swensons and Skyway still fuels dinner debates, while longtime staples like Bob’s Hamburg carry the spirit of old Akron charm.
Each spot adds its own twist, from secret sauces to perfectly toasted buns. Here are sixteen must-visit burger stops that define why this city continues to claim the title as the true home of Ohio’s best burgers.
Swensons Drive-In Galley Boy And Neon Stalls
The glow of red neon bouncing off polished hoods feels like a postcard from another decade. Servers dart between cars with trays of burgers and shakes, a practiced rhythm that’s half diner ballet, half nostalgia trip…