Picture this: a road trip across America, fueled by the sweet, sugary delight of donuts. Each stop is a new adventure, with unique flavors and charming bakeries that tell a story of their own.
Whether you’re a donut enthusiast or just someone with a sweet tooth, these 25 donut havens are a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of what America’s bakeries have to offer.
Join me on this delicious journey, and let’s explore some of the most iconic and mouth-watering donut destinations across the country.
1. Voodoo Doughnut, Portland, OR
In the heart of Portland, Voodoo Doughnut is as iconic as the city itself. Known for its eclectic and artistic vibe, this spot offers a wide array of wild and wonderful donut creations. Imagine biting into a maple bacon donut, where the smoky bacon complements the sweet maple glaze perfectly.
Each donut is a canvas of creativity, reflecting the quirky spirit of Portland. The shop’s interior is as unique as their donuts, filled with vibrant colors and punk rock memorabilia.
2. The Donut Hole, La Puente, CA
The Donut Hole in La Puente is more than just a bakery; it’s a piece of classic Americana. Drive straight through a giant donut to pick up your treats. The novelty of the experience is matched only by the quality of their offerings.
The donuts here are fluffy and fresh, with a wide variety of classic and innovative flavors. It’s a whimsical, must-see stop for any donut lover traveling through California.
3. Federal Donuts, Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia’s Federal Donuts offers a unique twist: not only do they serve incredible donuts, but they also specialize in fried chicken. This cozy shop blends modern minimalism with a hipster vibe, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
It’s no wonder locals and tourists alike flock here. The blend of flavors and the cool ambiance make it a standout destination in the City of Brotherly Love.
4. The Doughnut Vault, Chicago, IL
Tucked away in Chicago, The Doughnut Vault is a charming, vintage-style shop that has garnered a cult following. With its quaint exterior and limited edition donuts, it’s a gem worth discovering.
The shop offers a selection of classic and gourmet donuts, each crafted with love and precision. Once you step inside, the aroma of freshly baked goods envelops you like a warm hug.
5. Glam Doll Donuts, Minneapolis, MN
Glam Doll Donuts in Minneapolis takes you on a journey back to the 50s with its retro-inspired decor. Step inside and you’re greeted by funky colors, pin-up artwork, and an atmosphere that’s as playful as their donut flavors.
From sriracha-peanut butter to bourbon-infused maple donuts, their menu is a playground for adventurous palates. Each donut is a masterpiece of creativity and flavor.
6. Top Pot Doughnuts, Seattle, WA
Seattle’s Top Pot Doughnuts is a haven for those who appreciate both style and substance. With a mid-century modern design, the shop boasts an elegant, spacious interior.
The real stars, however, are the hand-forged donuts. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, each bite is a testament to quality and tradition.
7. The Holy Donut, Portland, ME
In Portland, Maine, The Holy Donut stands out with its cozy, rustic charm. What truly sets them apart is their use of potato flour, giving their donuts a uniquely soft texture.
The wooden interiors and warm atmosphere make it a delightful spot to enjoy these heavenly treats. Each donut is crafted with care, featuring flavors like maple-glazed bacon and chocolate sea salt.
8. District Donuts Sliders Brew, New Orleans, LA
In the lively city of New Orleans, District Donuts Sliders Brew offers a trifecta of deliciousness: donuts, sliders, and coffee. The urban-industrial design complements the vibrant, bustling atmosphere inside.
Their gourmet donuts are a feast for the senses, with inventive flavors such as Vietnamese iced coffee and hibiscus. Pairing donuts with savory sliders and craft coffee makes for a culinary adventure.
9. Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee, Costa Mesa, CA
Costa Mesa’s Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee is the epitome of chic. This modern donut shop offers hand-crafted treats alongside artisanal coffee in a sleek, stylish setting.
It’s a must-visit for those who appreciate both aesthetics and taste. At Sidecar, donuts become an art form, delighting both the eyes and the palate.
10. Blue Star Donuts, Portland, OR
Blue Star Donuts in Portland is a modern haven for donut aficionados. With a bright, minimalist design, this shop focuses on using high-quality ingredients to create gourmet delights.
Their inventive flavors, such as blueberry bourbon basil and lemon poppy seed, set them apart from the typical donut experience. Each donut is a testament to Portland’s culinary creativity.
11. Union Square Donuts, Somerville, MA
Union Square Donuts in Somerville, Massachusetts, brings a rustic, industrial flair to the donut scene. Known for their large, fluffy donuts, this shop is a staple for locals and visitors alike.
Toppings and flavors vary from classic to contemporary, with options like maple bacon and brown butter hazelnut. Each donut is a creation of passion and innovation.
12. Donut Friend, Los Angeles, CA
In the heart of Los Angeles, Donut Friend combines creativity with a love for music. This vibrant shop allows customers to customize their donuts with an array of fillings and toppings.
Music-themed decor adds to the lively atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and tourists. Each donut is a personal creation, reflecting the customer’s unique taste.
13. Randy’s Donuts, Inglewood, CA
Randy’s Donuts in Inglewood is an iconic landmark, famous for its giant rooftop donut. This classic shop has been serving up large, freshly made donuts for decades.
No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a stop here. Randy’s is more than just donuts; it’s a piece of Californian history.
14. Dough, Brooklyn, NY
Nestled in Brooklyn, Dough offers a cozy escape with its warm, inviting interior. This trendy shop is famed for its large, fluffy donuts and exotic flavors.
From passion fruit to hibiscus, each donut is a burst of creativity. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely treat.
15. The Salty Donut, Miami, FL
Miami’s The Salty Donut redefines what a donut can be. This artisan shop focuses on chef-driven creations, using quality ingredients to craft unique flavor profiles.
The modern interior reflects the culinary innovation found in each donut. Flavors like maple bacon and white chocolate tres leches stand out as crowd favorites.
16. Psycho Donuts, San Jose, CA
At Psycho Donuts in San Jose, the experience is as fun as the name suggests. This quirky shop features a playful, funhouse theme that’s reflected in their uniquely named donuts.
The eclectic decor adds to the whimsical atmosphere, making each visit an adventure. From cereal-topped delights to creatively filled confections, there’s something for every palate.
17. Five Daughters Bakery, Nashville, TN
In Nashville, Five Daughters Bakery is a charming spot known for its 100-layer donuts. The rustic-chic design creates a welcoming atmosphere for indulging in these culinary masterpieces.
Each donut is a testament to craftsmanship and creativity, with flavors like vanilla cream and chocolate sea salt. The layers add a unique texture that sets them apart.
18. Union Donuts, Chicago, IL
Union Donuts in Chicago is more than a shop; it’s a community hub. With its vibrant environment, this bustling location offers fresh, inventive donuts with a modern twist.
The shop’s focus on inclusivity and creativity is evident in their varied menu. From classic favorites to new creations, every donut is a delicious surprise.
19. The Doughnut Project, New York, NY
Located in New York City, The Doughnut Project is a hip spot that blends art with gastronomy. The street art-inspired design is a reflection of the creative donuts they serve.
For those seeking a taste of New York’s cutting-edge food scene, this shop offers a unique blend of flavor and flair.
20. General Porpoise Doughnuts, Seattle, WA
General Porpoise Doughnuts in Seattle offers a nautical-themed escape with its charming decor. This shop specializes in filled donuts, using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients.
The light, fluffy treats come in flavors like lemon curd and chocolate marshmallow. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere makes it a delightful stop for any donut aficionado.
21. The Donut Pub, New York, NY
The Donut Pub in New York is a blend of tradition and innovation. This classic shop offers both traditional and contemporary donuts in a cozy, diner-style atmosphere.
The nostalgia is palpable, whether you’re enjoying a classic glazed or trying a new flavor. It’s a spot that caters to all tastes, bringing a touch of New York history to every bite.
22. Dynamo Donut + Coffee, San Francisco, CA
In San Francisco, Dynamo Donut + Coffee is a vibrant haven for donut lovers. This shop focuses on organic, locally-sourced ingredients to create unique flavors in a lively setting.
The artistic atmosphere is a reflection of the city’s creativity, with donuts that surprise and delight. Favorites include spiced chocolate and lemon pistachio.
23. The Fractured Prune, Ocean City, MD
The Fractured Prune in Ocean City brings a beachy vibe to the donut world. This quirky shop allows customers to customize donuts with an array of glazes and toppings.
It’s a playful experience, with options like blueberry glaze and peanut butter drizzle. The fun, casual atmosphere is perfect for a seaside treat.
24. Gourdough’s, Austin, TX
Ever thought a donut could double as a meal? At Gourdough’s in Austin, Texas, they take the concept of indulgence to a whole new level. Picture a donut towering with toppings like fried chicken or bacon, each bite a burst of flavor.
This spot offers an experience that challenges traditional donut norms. The vibrant atmosphere, complete with rustic touches, makes every visit memorable.
25. Sublime Doughnuts, Atlanta, GA
In Atlanta, Georgia, Sublime Doughnuts is where creativity meets confectionery. With flavors as unique as their names, each donut is a masterpiece waiting to be devoured.
From the tangy ‘Orange Dream Star’ to the rich ‘Fresh Strawberry N Cream,’ there’s something for every palate. The shop’s cozy ambiance invites you to relax and enjoy every bite, making it a perfect spot for both locals and tourists alike.