There’s nothing like kicking back on a warm summer day with a few drinks and good friends. Detroit is becoming a popular bar-hopping spot with its eclectic mix of breweries, hole in the wall bars, and rooftop drinking spots. The views of the city’s skyline and the Detroit River aren’t bad either. We’re all wishing for warmer weather, the beginning of summer day drinking and (hopefully) a great Tigers season. Here are some of the best rooftop and outdoor bars to celebrate the beginning of Michigan summers.
3Fifty Terrace
While 3Fifty Terrace is technically a nightclub, they’re also open for a 4-10 p.m. happy hour every other Friday and on Sundays. 3Fifty Terrace is open Memorial Day – Halloween weekend each year and features magical views of Detroit, 23 VIP booth sections, and rotating DJs.
Social Kitchen & Bar
Photo via Social Kitchen & Bar on Instagram.
Not only are there drinks but the giant pans of fries is what really brings people from all over Michigan to this Birmingham rooftop lounge. Social Kitchen & Bar beautifully blends traditional ingredients with modern recipes to create the dishes on their brunch, lunch and dinner menus. The bar’s happy hour is every Monday-Friday, 3-6 p.m.
The Alley Deck
One of the top spots for summer day drinking in Detroit, The Alley Deck provides a warm atmosphere that caters to any crowd. The spacious venue frequently hosts concerts in the summer and is equipped with a bar area, BBQ grills and plenty of seating.
Exodos Rooftop
Dubbed as “Detroit’s original rooftop”, Exodos is open during the day for food and drinks through the late night for rooftop parties. The bar is also located in Greektown making it a great location for after dinner drinks.
Livernois Tap
Photo via Lisa Gilpin on Instagram.
Located in the hip town of Ferndale, Livernois Tap’s sleek outdoor space is the ideal spot for artsy Instagram photos and Axle Brewing Company beer. The space is inspired by European beer halls and urban parks making it the perfect after work hangout in the summer. While you’re there, be sure to try one of their “beer-tail” classic cocktail recipes with a beer twist.
The Fountain Detroit
This bar is actually a shipping container plopped in the middle of Campus Martius Park. The Fountain’s prime location and brightly colored beach vibe make it one of the best spots for summer nights in Detroit. It’s easy to sit back with a frozen margarita and a plate of Fountain’s ballpark nachos and pretend you’re at the beach in the middle of Detroit.
Bookies Bar and Grille
Nothing says summer like watching a Tigers game with a bucket of Coronas and a burger at Bookies. Bookies Bar has three levels, including a spacious rooftop that frequently hosts live music. The atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for pre-Tigers game drinks because the shuttle to Comerica Park stops right at the bar.
Motor City Brewing Works
Locals and visitors alike love the cozy vibe and full-service patio at Motor City Brewing Works. Motor City is best known for their brick oven pizzas and interesting beers. The brewery also features a rotating exhibit of local artists every Wednesday.
The Old Shillelagh
The Old Shillelagh has been a Detroit staple since 1975 for St. Patrick’s Day and really any day of the week. The bar features 20 beers on tap, a rooftop patio with live music and a free shuttle to all of Detroit’s major events. Every day is a party at the Old Shillelagh.
HopCat Royal Oak
Photo via TripAdvisor.
Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love happy hour at HopCat? HopCat never disappoints with their selection of delicious food and local beers. Especially at the Royal Oak location with its rooftop seating that’s perfect for watching summer sunsets with a basket of crack fries.
Z’s Villa
Located in a 100-year-old three-story house, Z’s is the perfect spot to stop in before heading out to a concert or game in Detroit. The bar features an open-air patio with volleyball and horseshoes during the summer. Grab yourself a famous Z’s corned beef Reuben and a beer for the perfect summer lunch.
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