Michigan's Must-Try Cocktail Bars: Sip Your Way Through the Great Lakes State

On one hand, Michigan is a beautiful state with all kinds of natural landscapes, cities, and an expanding world of cocktails. The many different cocktail bars spread throughout the state will prove to be quite the adventure for the visitor and the local alike. From the speakeasies with a glimpse into the past to the modern-day marvels of mixology, Michigan offers it all to aficionados of cocktails. You will be taken through some of the must-visit cocktail bars across Michigan in this article so you can sip through the Great Lakes State in style.

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The Sugar House – Detroit

Situated in the historic heart of Detroit's Corktown neighborhood, The Sugar House is the flagship of craft cocktails. Being critically acclaimed and award-winning, The Sugar House is rather often credited to have kick-started the craft cocktail movement in Detroit. This is a place where quiet and openness are well combined and embraced in one perfect atmosphere of romantic evenings and friendly gatherings. The menu is comprehensive, featuring classic and innovative cocktails. Whether you're in the mood for a perfectly balanced Old Fashioned or something a little more adventurous, The Sugar House is bound to impress.

The Last Word – Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor hosts an intellectual vibe, thanks in large part to the University of Michigan, but it's also home to some great cocktail bars, one of the very best being The Last Word. This basement speakeasy adds an element of adventure to a night out. The atmosphere is dark and moody, with candles flickering on every table. Classics and modern creations both find their place on the cocktail menu; if you're feeling extra adventurous, bartenders are more than game to whip something up off-menu. And don't miss their namesake cocktail, The Last Word-a masterclass in balance with gin, green chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice.

The Oakland – Ferndale

Just outside Detroit in Ferndale, The Oakland is a cocktail lounge that has forged its reputation on the back of painstaking attention to detail. The bar space takes its cue from the classiness of the 1920s with touches of retro décor, all rounded by the overall relaxed atmosphere. They are artists behind the bar, and every drink is perfected with extending measures. The menu is seasonal; there's always something new to try between boozy classics and inventive concoctions. The Oakland must be on every cocktail lover's must-visit list.

Ghost Bar at The Whitney - Detroit

For those who enjoy a little history with their cocktails, The Ghost Bar at Detroit's The Whitney is something else. It's in a mansion, of course, and The Whitney is truly an awe-inspiring place that holds the perfect balance between class and creepiness. The Ghost Bar resides on the third floor of this historic building and reportedly houses ghosts to further add in a twist to one's visit. The cocktail menu is as polished as the surroundings, tending towards classic drinks interpreted in a modern manner. So whether you are a believer in ghosts or not, a visit to The Ghost Bar shall be truly memorable.

Sidebar – Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids, also known as Beer City USA, may be famous for its craft breweries. At the same time, when one talks about Grand Rapids, its line of cocktail bars deserves equal merits. Sidebar is intimate and cozy-a haven that gives out a fantastic experience with its cocktails. Its compact fit within a small space actually adds to its charm. The bartenders are really knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their work, and they're always so eager to help you find the perfect drink. The cocktail menu at Sidebar draws rather extensively from classic recipes but with a few modern surprises. It's a just-right place to unwind after adventures in bustling downtown Grand Rapids.

The Velvet Lounge – Muskegon

Muskegon would not be the city first to come to mind when pondering places for cocktails, but The Velvet Lounge is slowly changing that. This swanky bar serves up sophisticated drinking downtown in Muskegon. Modern décor, plush seating, and soft lighting set the mood for a relaxed evening. Cocktails range from fruity and refreshing to strong, spirit-forward concoctions. The Velvet Lounge is an all-around hidden gem that's well worth seeking out the next time you're on Michigan's west coast.

The Raven's Club – Ann Arbor

The Raven's Club is another Ann Arbor favorite that somehow combines a casual atmosphere with an ambitious cocktail menu. Situated right in the center of Main Street, this acts as the perfect destination for relaxed drinks and special occasions alike. Their mixologists at The Raven's Club seamlessly balance an ability to create both classic and modern cocktails. The menu boasts a wide array that could satisfy the taste of any customer. Be sure to try one of their featured drinks, like the "Raven Old Fashioned," serving up a twist on a classic. 

The Diamondback Saloon – Belleville

The Diamondback Saloon in Belleville is a little something different. A very energetic bar with rough-around-the-edges country and a twist of cocktail sophistication, it's known for the live music and dancing, but the cocktails here are right on par, too. Bartenders at The Diamondback Saloon are all about fun, flavorful drinks paying homage to their lively vibe. This is a great place to let loose and enjoy a night out with your friends.

The Kipling House – Lansing

If classic to craft, then Lansing's cocktail scene is rising, but there is one frontrunner: The Kipling House. Upscale, fancy, and sophisticated with a touch of modern comfort and luxury, this elevates drinking in the state's capital. Inside, modern comfort exudes at every turn, from its high-end interior design perspective to the overall feeling of this place. The cocktail menu is well-curated, including both classic drinks and unique creations that let the creativity of bartenders shine. Whether you are a Lansing local or just cruising through, The Kipling House is one place no one who truly loves a well-crafted cocktail should miss.

Conclusion

Michigan's cocktail scene runs as wide as its diverse landscapes-from the traditional cocktail drinker to the most daring of drinkers, there's something for everyone. Whether one finds themselves in Detroit's bustling city, the charming streets of Ann Arbor, or a cozy, small-town bar, finding an incredible cocktail experience that awakens the senses is absolutely inevitable. So the next time one finds themselves in the Great Lakes State, be sure to check out some of these must-visit cocktail bars and raise a glass to toast Michigan's thriving cocktail culture!