My Bartender
Grand Rapids, Michigan, has a vibrant drinking scene. From the energetic dive bars of Wealthy St to the cocktail lounges along Grand River, Grand Rapids has a watering hole for every type of drinker.
But Grand Rapids isn’t all about getting sloshed. Read on to learn about the best bars in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and all they offer.
Two James Spirits – Grand Rapids
740 Michigan St NE Suite 75A, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Phone: 616-840-0502
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Two James Spirits is a casual dine-in bar located in Old East End on Michigan St NE and Eastern Ave NE. Two James Spirits is a Detroit-based distillery that specializes in sustainable, eclectic spirits.
The Grand Rapids location holds true to the age-old tradition of Two James Spirits’ motto of great spirits made locally.
In addition to a great selection of spirits made from locally sourced ingredients, Two James Spirits offers a traditional bar food menu with burgers, sandwiches, and fries.
Meanwhile Bar, Inc.
755 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Phone: 616-233-1679
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Meanwhile Bar, Inc is a relaxed, friendly dive bar located in the middle of the East Hills and Baxter neighborhoods of Grand Rapids.
Meanwhile Bar, Inc. features classic red dive bar walls, an outdoor patio for the warmer months, and retro arcade games to pass the time.
Like any good dive bar, Meanwhile Bar, Inc. features a healthy list of specials. No matter what day you pop in, you’re sure to get a deal. Visit their website to learn more about their daily specials.
Mulligan’s Pub
1518 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Phone: 616-451-0775
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Mulligan’s Pub is a traditional Irish pub located between the neighborhoods of East Hills and Baxter. Mulligan’s Pub has a relaxed dive bar feel and features wood accents for a cozy feel during the winter months.
Mulligan’s also offers patrons a couple of pool tables and a regular lineup of live music acts.
Billy’s Lounge
1437 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Phone: 616-459-5757
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Billy’s Lounge is a laid-back bar with a lively blues scene located in the Eastown community. Billy’s Lounge is a local favorite for happy hour specials.
Drop by the lounge on a weekend night for a lively, energetic scene. In addition to great local drink options, Billy’s lounge offers candle-lit table service and pool tables.
I recommend Billy’s lounge for weeknight dates or a boisterous hangout on the weekend.
Brewery Vivant
925 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Phone: 616-719-1604
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Brewery Vivant is located in East Hills on Cherry St SE, and Cherry Dr. SE. Brewery Vivant is a LEED-certified microbrewery that specializes in traditional European beers and bar cuisine inspired by local ingredients.
Brewery Vivant offers several attractions. You can schedule a tour of the brewery, enjoy a drink on the patio while watching live music, or grab a bite inside with one of Brewery Vivant’s sustainable beers.
SpeakEZ Lounge
600 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Phone: 616-458-3125
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SpeakEZ Lounge is located a stone’s throw from the Grand River on Monroe Ave. NW and Trowbridge St. NW in Belknap Lookout. SpeakEZ Lounge specializes in mixing the old with the new.
The ambiance has a modern yet timeless feel and the bar features classic cocktails of the best as well as modern mixies. SpeakEZ Lounge also features an eclectic food menu to keep you satisfied on those long nights out.
I recommend visiting SpeakEZ Lounge on the weekend for a relaxed night of food and drink. Alternatively, stop in Saturday morning to cure your hangover with their delicious brunch.
Steel Cat Bar
640 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Phone: 616-288-9632
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Steel Cat Bar is a chill tavern located on Bridge St. NW and Stocking Ave. NW. Steel Cat Bar is known for its ice bar and frosty taps.
Combine the ice-cold beer with unbeatable prices, and you have a perfect venue for football games. Steel Cat Bar also occasionally features live events. Check their event calendar to see what’s coming up.
Steel Cat Bar offers a host of drink specials and a daily happy hour from 7 am to 7 pm. I recommend grabbing a bucket of beers with your buddies at Steel Cat Bar if you want to cut loose in Grand Rapids.
SIDEBARGR
80 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
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SIDEBARGR is an intimate cocktail lounge located on the north side of Downtown Grand Rapids, right next to the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
SIDEBARGR specializes in seasonal cocktails crafted from locally sourced ingredients, but they also offer a modest selection of wine and local beer.
SIDEBARGR’s ambiance is cozy yet elevated. You can dress casually, but skip the shorts and flip-flops.
Glass House
710 Michigan St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Phone: 616-214-8415
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Glass House is a sports bar and grill located in Old East End on Michigan St NE and Grand Ave NE. Glass House is super laid back. The decor is minimal, and the ambiance is whatever you make it.
Cheap beer and savory comfort food make the Glass House a great place to relax with a drink, catch up with old friends, or watch the game. Glass House also hosts a weekly trivia night on Tuesdays at 7 pm and a karaoke night on Wednesdays.
Logan’s Alley
916 Michigan St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Phone: 616-458-1612
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Logan’s Alley is a casual microbrewery located in Midtown. Logan’s Alley features over 200 micro-brews, making it the perfect watering hole for craft beer nerds.
Logan’s Alley has a mellow vibe perfect for light conversation after work or an easygoing get-together with old friends. Logan’s Alley has a quaint outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying the summer and fall months.
The staff is friendly, the food is good, and the drinks are excellent. I highly recommend Logan’s Alley.
The Pyramid Scheme
68 Commerce Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Phone: 616-272-3758
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The Pyramid Scheme is no rip-off. This vibrant pinball bar is located in the heart of the Heartside neighborhood, around the corner from the Harris Building.
The Pyramid Scheme is a large bar with a roomy front area that packs out during the weekend. In the back, The Pyramid Scheme features a rock venue that hosts local and national artists.
Final Thoughts
Grand Rapids has animated nightlife full of cheap drinks, good food, and live music. The city’s bar scene is laid back, with plenty of entertainment options to keep you occupied during the cold winter. Whether it’s date night or game day, Grand Rapids has you covered.
Did we leave a bar off our Best Bars in Grand Rapids, Michigan list? Let us know in the comments below! We are always looking for local recommendations for charming hole-in-the-wall spots.
Best Bars in Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Two James Spirits – Grand Rapids
- Meanwhile Bar, Inc.
- Mulligan’s Pub
- Billy’s Lounge
- Brewery Vivant
- SpeakEZ Lounge
- Steel Cat Bar
- SIDEBARGR
- Glass House
- Logan’s Alley
- The Pyramid Scheme
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