The Midwest's Best Burgers

Christy Crème, Council Bluffs, Iowa Since 1954 locals have flocked to this seasonal hamburger stand (not to be confused with the doughnut chain) on the old Lincoln Highway for moist, lean burgers made with ground Omaha Steaks beef ($3.45). The thin 4-ounce patties appeal to diners who don't like fist-thick burgers. Don't leave without trying the homemade soft-serve sherbet. See Midwest Living's review. (712) 322-2778; christycreme.com

City Square Steakhouse, Wooster, Ohio Bite into a Mushroom-Swiss Burger ($9.50) topped with sauteed button mushrooms, Swiss and rosemary mustard at a sophisticated steak house in a historic district 60 miles south of Cleveland. Upgrade your side to the fries tossed in truffle oil and dusted with Parmesan. See Midwest Living's review. (330) 262-2489; citysquaresteakhouse.com

Pictured: Patrons at Christy Creme in Council Bluffs, Iowa, dip their fries in milk shakes.