Michigan Drunk History: The Mitten’s 9 Oldest Bars and Taverns
Who says history can't be fun? If there's one thing we know in Michigan, it's fun, and a lot of that fun has been happening for nearly two centuries in the state's oldest, still operating bars and taverns.
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Think of how much history, written and unwritten, has transpired in these establishments. Considering the oldest restaurant on the list, which opened in 1831, six years before Michigan became a state, I'm certain there are countless secrets from both past and present held inside these one-hundred-fifty-plus-year-old establishments.
Michigan's Historical Bars: Nearly Two Centuries of Pouring Drinks and Bearing Souls
The state of Michigan has a proud history of being a hard-working, dedicated state. From the early days of the fur trade to the automotive mecca it's become, the Mitten wouldn't have gotten this far without the grit of its population. Of course, every coin has an opposite side, and when we aren't working, chances are you'll find a lot of us at our favorite watering hole.
What makes one our favorite over the other? Chances are it's the people, the environment, the staff, or some other unique factor that keeps us coming back.
Drunk History: The 9 Oldest, Still Operating Bars In Michigan
I'll admit that I used to fantasize about owning a bar. Then, I got to know some people who owned them. Long hours, constant staffing issues, supply chain difficulties, and inspections are just a few of the reasons I'll leave the bar biz to the pros.
Then, there are those establishments that long ago put those problems behind them and plowed forward through feet of snow and downed air conditioning. They have managed to serve the thirsty masses of Michigan for nearly two centuries.
The 9 Oldest, Still Operating Bars and Taverns in Michigan
Gallery Credit: Scott Clow