Weekends in Detroit – and let’s face it, even some weeknights – are ones for the books. With 142.9 square miles making up the entire city, there are plenty of killer bars that know how to show you a good time. Whether you’re throwing a birthday party, bachelor or bachelorette party, or you’re just looking to straight up party, Detroit’s got you covered.
Though we at Daily Detroit have many favorites scattered throughout the city, we picked 10 winners that are perfect for hosting your next group outing.
1. ROOFTOP: 3Fifty Terrace
Seven floors above Detroit’s Music Hall is 3Fifty Terrace – a glamorous rooftop bar with amazing panoramic views of the city. If you’re looking for a sexy, dazzling summertime party – you’ve found the place.
Dance under the stars as some of Detroit’s hottest DJs spin everything from underground jams to mainstream hits. Perfect for any party, this rooftop feels more like a swanky resort-style fantasy, with a granite-top bar and lounge furniture open for bottle service reservations.
2. SPORTS: Harry’s Detroit
Looking for a place where your whole crew can catch the game together? Harry’s Detroit is probably the most underrated place to watch any sports game. Slightly secluded with its two-story brick exterior, you’ll find a cult-following of Detroit sports fans gathered here most any time.
Just north of I-75 in Midtown, within walking distance of Comerica Park, Ford Field, and the soon-to-be Red Wings District.
If you’re feeling lazy, Harry’s also offers free parking and shuttles to sporting events. Needless to say, this laid-back venue with a patio that offers sweeping views of downtown Detroit is the place to be when it comes to sports.
3. DANCING: Delux Lounge
Located in the heart of Greektown, Delux Lounge is a prime spot to get down on the dance floor. The party never stops with the DJs at Delux, spinning hit after hit to keep the crowd moving until close.
For group parties, be sure to reserve the VIP area located just off the dance floor. But otherwise, get your groove on anywhere, as this place has tons of available seating and lovely mood lighting to accommodate the large number of napkin-throwing guests.
4. GAMES: Punch Bowl Social
If you’re looking for entertainment, you’ve come to the right place. Punch Bowl Social is a funky party bar big enough to hold 850 people, and is equipped with 150 dining area seats. The space boasts 4 bars, 8 bowling lanes, 2 ping pong tables, 2 private karaoke rooms, retro video games, shuffleboard sets, darts, pinball machines, foosball and pool tables, ski ball and even a photo booth.
Punch Bowl Social is all about serving local fare, so in addition to their special “punch”, they also offer a multitude of Michigan made craft beers. With more than enough space to host any sized party, this grown up version of Chucky Cheese is perfect for accommodating private parties.
5. FANCY: Iridescence
As the crown jewel of the Motor City Casino Hotel, this sassy two-tiered dining room offers a breathtaking panoramic view of downtown Detroit. Expect nothing but exceptional service, with an award-winning wine list and impressive wine cellar, including bottles stored in a 40 foot high glass case in the dining room.
Perfect for celebrating an anniversary, birthday or any occasion, Iridescence offers a legendary menu full of elegant, well-rounded dishes – including a luscious peanut butter bar. If you’re looking to relax with a glass (or bottle) of wine, then it’s time to make your reservation.
7. DIVE: Old Shillelagh
Greektown’s Old Sillelagh might not look appealing from the outside, but once you’re through the door you’ll have yourself a rowdy, beer-soaked good time. With two floors, a rooftop deck and the occasional a giant tent in the parking lot, Old Shillelagh offers variety in everything from booze selection to music.
Perfect to begin or end your night, this is one Irish pub you won’t soon forget. Game days are always a blast at the pub, which also offers a free shuttle to all sporting events, concerts and other downtown happenings.
[Insider Tip]: And in case you couldn’t guess, we love this place on St. Patrick’s Day.
8. KARAOKE: Anchor Bar
Anchor Bar is a laid-back, family-owned establishment, poised to show you and your friends more than just a good time. Every Friday night from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., they offer karaoke in their “hidden nook” – the back room where many Detroiters choose to celebrate special occasions.
Complete with pool tables, dart boards and plenty of room for you and your friends, Anchor Bar is full of adventure.
9. DJ: TV Lounge
Grungy on the outside, mesmerizing on the inside, TV Lounge offers the best local house, techno, electronic dance, hip-hop and R&B DJ sets until the wee hours of the night. From the dark, looming dance floor to the open air of the rooftop, TV Lounge offers every party the perfect club atmosphere to take any weekend night to the next level.
TV Lounge offers a great variety of mixed cocktails, as well as a consistently well curated selection of local artists. Be sure to get there early as long lines tend to frequent this bar’s front door.
10. LIVE MUSIC: HopCat
With 130 craft beers on tap, you can’t go wrong at HopCat Detroit. Built earlier this year, this hybrid bar/live music venue is perfect for all parties and private events.
HopCat’s second floor venue, the Huma Room, consists of a stage set area and outdoor patio available for booking of parties of 400 or more. Be sure to check out the events calendar to see what’s going on – whether it’s a live band, a craft beer tasting or some wacky art contest, this bar knows how to party – oh, and make sure you try the crack fries.