Game day in Detroit isn’t just about the action on the field or the final score, it’s a full downtown experience. Before the first pitch or opening kickoff, fans flood local pubs and patios, turning the city’s core into a sea of team colors and camaraderie. Afterwards, win or lose, many stick around to celebrate (or commiserate) over a round. Detroit boasts what Forbes once called “the most compact sports district in America,” with three major venues, Ford Field, Comerica Park, and Little Caesars Arena, all within a short walk. That means whether you’re heading to a Tigers baseball game, a Lions football matchup, or a Red Wings/Pistons showdown, you have a ton of great bars and eateries nearby for pre-game and post-game fun.
This guide taps into real local insight (from a lifelong Michigander’s perspective) on the best places to grab a drink before and after the game. It blends the gritty, authentic vibe of Detroit’s sports traditions with family-friendly tips and savvy local know-how. From historic watering holes where generations of fans have gathered, to trendy new spots with craft beers and rooftop views, we’ve got you covered. So get ready, here’s where to raise a glass on game day in the D.
The Elwood Bar & Grill, Facebook
Before the Game: Best Bars Near Ford Field & Comerica Park
Detroit’s football and baseball stadiums sit side by side in downtown’s Stadium District, surrounded by bars that practically buzz on game days. Whether you want a quick beer and burger steps from the gates or a sit-down meal with the family, you’ll find a spot that fits the bill. Here are the top pre-game bars within a few blocks of Ford Field (home of the Lions) and Comerica Park (home of the Tigers):
Elwood Bar & Grill
Open: Tue-Wed (4-8pm) | Thur 11am-6pm) | Fri (4-11pm) | Sat (11am-6pm) | Sun (8am-8:30am)
300 E Adams Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 962-2337
Website: Elwood Bar & Grill
If you’re looking for a quintessential Detroit game-day bar, the Elwood is it. This historic Art Moderne-style diner-turned-tavern has been serving fans since the 1930s, and it even survived Comerica Park’s construction by being moved to a new spot rather than demolished. Now perched literally between Ford Field and Comerica Park, the Elwood is always packed with fans in team jerseys. Its bright cream-and-blue façade and neon sign scream old-school Detroit charm. On game days, the place fills up early with folks grabbing inexpensive beers and burgers (the menu is classic pub grub) and soaking in the atmosphere. In fact, the Elwood is such a staple that it’s “a popular spot before, during, and after the game,” thanks to its proximity and iconic status. If you love history, note the building’s story, for 60+ years it sat at Woodward and Elizabeth, until being relocated to make way for Comerica Park. The Elwood’s longevity and loyal following make it feel like a living sports museum on big game days. (Tip: It reopened with a refreshed look in 2022 but kept that retro style intact, so it’s a cool backdrop for a fan photo.)
Tin Roof Detroit
Open: Mon-Sun (11am-2am)
47 E Adams Ave St, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 422-7711
Website: Tin Roof Detroit
A newer addition across from Comerica Park, Tin Roof has quickly become a pre-game hotspot for Tigers and Lions fans alike. This bar is actually part of a national chain known for live music, and the Detroit location brings a bit of Nashville-esque flair up north. Expect a “Southern-inspired” menu featuring wings, sliders, quesadillas and even Nashville hot chicken (perfect for a quick bite before walking to the stadium). Tin Roof’s real draw is the festive atmosphere: there’s often a live band or acoustic act playing, especially on weekends, giving the place a party-like energy even on a Tuesday night game. The space is large and lively, with two levels and a rooftop patio that offers views of the ballpark and the city skyline. Families will appreciate the casual vibe and picnic-table seating on the roof (kids are welcome until later in the evening), while friend groups love the cheap beer buckets and signature cocktails. If you’re looking for a high-energy spot where you can sing along to classic rock covers or country tunes before first pitch, Tin Roof is the place. (On a warm summer night, there’s nothing like pre-gaming on their rooftop with the stadium’s lights shining next door.)
Hungry before first pitch or kickoff? Check our picks for the best eats near Ford Field and Comerica Park.
Union Assembly
Open: Mon-Thur, Sun (11am-12am) | Fri-Sat (11am-2am)
2131 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Phone: (313) 636-6000
Website: Union Assembly
Directly across Woodward Avenue from Comerica Park’s outfield, Union Assembly is one of downtown Detroit’s newest and largest dining/drinking venues – and it was built with game days in mind. Spanning two stories and 14,000+ sq. ft., this massive restaurant-bar can fit up to 500 guests, so it’s ideal for big groups or anyone who wants elbow room even on a crowded game day. The second-floor lounge features an indoor-outdoor bar and a three-season rooftop terrace overlooking Comerica Park, you can literally see the ballpark from your table, which adds to the excitement. Union Assembly’s menu goes beyond the usual pub fare (think Detroit-style pizza, creative hot dogs, gourmet mac & cheese, and more), since it’s run by a popular local restaurant group. It’s a spot where you might grab a craft cocktail or local Michigan beer if you’re a “savvy local” fan who enjoys quality, but still want the fun game-day environment. The vibe inside blends industrial-chic design with Detroit sports decor, attracting both die-hard fans and downtown professionals. Families will also feel comfortable here, there are ample tables, and the menu has something for everyone. If you’re early, you might score a balcony seat with that ballpark view. And if not, no worries: Union Assembly has wall-to-wall TVs, so you won’t miss any other games happening that day. (Insider note: On Tigers Opening Day, Union Assembly’s terrace is one of the places to be, with DJs and a celebratory atmosphere.)
Bookies Bar & Grille
Open: Mon 2hrs before any event | WED-THUR (11am-12am) | FRI-SAT (11am-1am) | SUN (11am-8pm)
2208 Cass Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Phone: (313) 962-0319
Website: Bookies Bar & Grille
A short walk from the stadiums (just west of Woodward on Cass Ave), Bookies has long been a favorite for Detroit sports fans – especially those who want some added perks with their pre-game. This three-level sports bar is built for game day meetups. It offers a spacious rooftop patio with skyline views and plenty of TVs, a main floor bar with a 16-foot HD projection screen for watching games, and a second level often used for private parties. Bookies prides itself on making sure you can “enjoy the game from every seat in the house,” thanks to multiple plasma screens plus that giant projector. On game days, they run food and drink specials (think discounted wings, buckets of beer, etc.), and the place can get delightfully rowdy with fans. One huge draw: Bookies traditionally offers a free shuttle service to Tigers, Lions, and Red Wings games (call ahead or check their site to see if it’s running), which means you can park at or near the bar, enjoy a few drinks, then hop a shuttle that drops you right at the stadium gates. It’s “equipped to be the perfect game-day stop,” with that shuttle to Comerica, big screens, and rooftop party vibe. There’s often a DJ or loud music on the roof, giving it a bit of a tailgate feel. If you have a large group, Bookies is great because it’s spacious and even notes they can host groups up to 500 for events. Pro tip: Get there early for big games, their free parking lot fills up fast, but it’s one of the few bars in the area with its own lot.
Grand Trunk Pub
Open: Mon-Thur (11am-10pm) | Thur (11am-12am) | Fri (11am-1am) | Sat (10am-1am) | Sun (10am-10pm)
612 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 961-3043
Website: Grand Trunk Pub
For a more low-key, historic Detroit experience before the game, many locals love Grand Trunk Pub. This bar isn’t right next door to the stadiums (it’s about a 10-minute walk down Woodward, near Campus Martius), but it’s absolutely worth the stroll for its character. The pub is housed in a 1905 historic building that originally was a ticket station for the Grand Trunk Railway – the space features a soaring cathedral ceiling, vintage wood and iron fixtures, and a beautiful old bar. It was converted to a bar in the mid-2000s, preserving that early 20th-century charm. Grand Trunk Pub is beloved by downtown office workers and sports fans alike for its extensive Michigan craft beer selection (around 80 different beers on the list, highlighting local breweries). If you’re a beer aficionado or just want a quality pint before the game, this is your spot. The food menu is solid, ranging from perch and chips to their popular steak bites and sandwiches, so you can definitely grab lunch or dinner here with the family before heading out. Because it’s a bit removed from the immediate stadium area, Grand Trunk can be a tad less hectic and you’re more likely to snag a table on busy game days. It’s also a good choice if you have a mixed group of fans and non-fans – the classic Detroit atmosphere and location on Woodward make it enjoyable even for those who might be downtown for the vibe rather than the game. (Fun fact: The bar is named after the Grand Trunk Railroad, and you can still spot some architectural details inside from its train-station past.)
Detroit Beer Co., Facebook
Detroit Beer Co.
Open: Mon-Thur (11am-11pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-1pm) | Sun (11am-10pm)
1529 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 962-1529
Website: Detroit Beer Co.
Located just a couple blocks from Comerica Park (on Broadway), Detroit Beer Co. is a favorite pre-game gathering spot for craft beer lovers and families alike. This microbrewery and restaurant opened in 2003 in the historic Hartz Building and quickly became “a popular pre- and post-Tigers game destination,” given its convenient location and great brews. Inside, you’ll find a laid-back pub atmosphere with brick walls, high ceilings, and views of the brewing equipment. The Beer Co. typically offers a rotating lineup of fresh house-made beers – from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts – so it’s perfect if you want to try a local Detroit brew before the big game. Their food menu is bigger than typical bar fare, including stone-fired pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more, which makes it very family-friendly. (Bringing kids to a night game? You’ll see plenty of other families here grabbing dinner – the kids can have pizza while the grown-ups sample a flight of ales.) The vibe is warm and neighborly; you might find yourself chatting with the next table about the Tigers’ lineup or Lions draft picks. Detroit Beer Co. is also spacious, but it does fill up on game days, so arriving a bit early is wise if you want a table. Many fans stop in for a pint or two and a bite, then walk over to Comerica or Ford Field well-fed and happy. And if you’re coming back after the game, it’s open late enough to cap off the night with one of your favorite beers. (Insider’s tip: try the “Broadway Light” or “People Mover Porter” – their beer names even nod to Detroit themes!)
The Detroiter Bar
Open: Mon-Thur, Sun (11am-12am) | Fri-Sat (11am-2am)
655 Beaubien, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 963-3355
Website: The Detroiter Bar
For those seeking a no-frills, classic Detroit sports bar experience, The Detroiter Bar is a must-visit. Tucked on Beaubien Street in the Greektown area (about a 10-minute walk from Ford Field/Comerica, or a quick hop on the People Mover), The Detroiter has been a mainstay for downtown drinkers and fans for decades. It’s the kind of place plastered with local sports memorabilia and banners, where the game is always on and the beer is always cold. This “good old-fashioned sports bar has stood the test of time”, managing to stay relevant to generations of Detroit sports fans while maintaining a laid-back, divey charm. On game days, the Detroiter often runs a shuttle service to and from the stadiums (check with the bar, it’s a nice perk if you want to park by the bar or start there and get a ride closer). They also expanded with an outdoor patio, which is great for hanging out in nice weather. The menu is a cut above typical bar food, since it’s near Greektown, they even offer some Greek-inspired dishes like Saganaki (flaming cheese) sausages and Greek salads alongside your burgers and wings. Regulars will tell you to try the “Detroiter Burger,” a loaded bacon-ham-and-cheese burger that is something of a house special. This bar can get raucous (in a fun way) when Detroit teams are playing, expect lots of high-fives with strangers and spontaneous “Let’s go Detroit!” chants. It’s also not unusual to find a mix of fans here; opposing team fans sometimes wander in, and Detroiters are generally welcoming (with some friendly trash talk, of course). In short, The Detroiter is a no-fuss, authentic Detroit sports bar where you’ll feel like a local, even if it’s your first visit.
Bringing the kids? Here’s our complete family guide to Comerica Park.
Greektown Favorites: The Old Shillelagh & Firebird Tavern
Just east of Comerica Park is Greektown, a district known for its restaurants, casino, and lively bar scene – and it’s home to two popular pre-game watering holes worth noting:
- The Old Shillelagh: This three-story Irish pub is a Detroit legend on game days. Opened by a former Detroit cop in the 1970s, Old Shillelagh has become the go-to spot for many Lions and Tigers fans before (and after) games. It’s less than half a mile from Comerica Park, so an easy walk, and if you don’t feel like walking, the Shillelagh often runs a free shuttle to Little Caesars Arena events as well. The moment you step inside, you’ll hear Irish music or maybe live bands on weekends, and see nearly 20 beers on tap (domestic, Irish, and local brews). The pub food menu includes fish & chips, shepherd’s pie, corned beef sandwiches, and even some surprisingly good plant-based options like jackfruit “corned beef” rolls – so both traditionalists and modern eaters will find something. Old Shillelagh’s claim to fame is its ”Best Burger in Wayne County,” a bold statement that many locals agree with (their classic burger is simple but delicious, especially paired with a Guinness). The atmosphere here is very festive and family-friendly during the day – you might see kids with their parents on the first floor grabbing lunch pre-game – and then it gets more adult and rowdy at night. By the time the game ends, the third-floor rooftop and second-floor dance area turn into a post-game party with a DJ, especially if it’s a weekend. If you love a loud, jovial bar where strangers become friends, Old Shillelagh is the spot.
- Firebird Tavern: A few steps away in the heart of Greektown is Firebird Tavern, a gastropub that offers a slightly more refined tavern experience while still catering to sports fans. Billed as having “upscale tavern food in a traditional yet modern setting,” Firebird is a nice option if you want quality cocktails or a hearty sit-down meal without straying from the sports crowd. The interior has exposed brick and wood, giving it a warm vibe. You’ll find elevated pub dishes here – think gourmet burgers, truffle fries, buffalo cauliflower, and a great selection of local and craft beers on draft. It’s a popular spot for groups that might include some non-sports folks because while it has TVs for the game, it’s not overwhelmingly loud or packed to the gills like some traditional sports bars. Firebird Tavern often gets Red Wings and Lions fans before games (as it’s a quick QLINE ride or 15-minute walk to LCA, and about 10 minutes walk to Ford Field). If you’re in Greektown to try your luck at the casino before heading to the game, Firebird makes for a convenient lunch or happy hour stop. They do get busy on game nights, so consider a reservation if you have a larger party. All in all, Firebird Tavern offers a great balance: you can enjoy the raucous spirit of Detroit sports but still hear your companions talk over some quality food and drink.
Before the Game: Best Bars Near Little Caesars Arena (Midtown/Cass Corridor)
When the Red Wings and Pistons moved to Little Caesars Arena (LCA) in Midtown, it expanded the game-day drinking options into Detroit’s Cass Corridor/North Downtown area. These bars are within a short walk (or quick shuttle) of LCA, and they cater to the hockey and basketball crowds (as well as concert-goers, since LCA hosts big concerts too). Many of these spots also draw Lions and Tigers fans who don’t mind a slight detour for a good time. Here are the top picks near LCA:
Harry’s Detroit Bar & Grill
Open: Mon-Thur (11am-10pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-11pm) | Sun (11am-9pm)
2482 Clifford St, Detroit, MI 48201
Phone: (313) 346-4470
Website: Harry’s Detroit Bar & Grill
Just a block from LCA (right by the arena’s Meijer entrance), Harry’s has everything a fan could want in a pre-game bar. It’s a Detroit favorite for both pregame and postgame eats and drinks, especially for Wings and Pistons games. Harry’s is a two-level joint known for its casual comfort food menu and great setup: there’s a rooftop deck that’s awesome in nice weather, plus plenty of TVs inside. Perhaps Harry’s biggest claim to fame is its fan-friendly amenities, “Free Parking in our gated lot” for customers and a free shuttle to the game are huge perks that Harry’s proudly advertises. (Yes, you read that right: if you arrive early and grab a bite or drink, you can park at Harry’s for free and get shuttled to and from Little Caesars Arena, a lifesaver on crowded game nights!). It’s often said to be “the best ticket in town” for that reason. On a big Red Wings home game day, Harry’s parking lot turns into tailgate central with music pumping and fans mingling. Inside, the atmosphere is lively and welcoming, it’s the kind of place where the staff might be wearing team jerseys and everyone’s in a good mood. Harry’s menu goes a bit beyond standard bar fare (they’ve got items like lamb kafta burgers and shrimp tacos alongside burgers and wings), which is a nice surprise if you want a decent meal. They’re known to host one of the biggest Opening Day parties in town on Tigers Opening Day as well, even though that’s a few blocks away, Harry’s has built a reputation for celebrating all Detroit sports. Because it’s so close to LCA, many fans will hang at Harry’s until the last possible minute, then walk over just as the game’s starting (it’s literally a 5-minute walk). And after the game, a lot of people come back to Harry’s to avoid traffic and toast either a win or drown sorrows in a loss. Overall, Harry’s is trusted by locals, you’ll see the same groups meeting there game after game, and it’s earned that trust by being consistently fun, reasonably priced, and deeply connected to Detroit sports fandom.
The Anchor Bar
Open: Mon-Wed (11am-11pm) | Thur (11am-12am) | Fri-Sat (11am-1am) | Sun (11am-10pm)
450 W Fort St, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 262-6876
Website: The Anchor Bar
When talking about Red Wings lore and Detroit sports history, The Anchor Bar inevitably comes up. This unpretentious bar, now located on Fort Street a short distance west of the arena district, was the traditional pre- and post-game haunt of Detroit hockey fans (and sportswriters, and police officers, and really anyone downtown) for decades. In fact, for a long time The Anchor was famously a hangout for newspaper journalists from the nearby Detroit News and Free Press, hence the name and all the old press clippings and photos on the walls. For Red Wings fans, The Anchor is almost sacred ground; “for decades, it was considered a pre-game destination for Wings fans,” often packed elbow-to-elbow before and after games. Now that the Wings play at LCA (not Joe Louis Arena), the bar is a bit farther, it’s about a 15-minute walk or a quick 5-minute drive, but many loyalists still start their night at The Anchor out of tradition. The bar itself is spacious and no-frills: lots of TVs, simple tables, a long bar, and usually plenty of people in Wings gear on game nights. They’ve updated their beer selection in recent years to include more craft brews (reportedly carrying around 40 different beers in bottles and taps combined), but you can still grab a Stroh’s or domestic pint if that’s your thing. The food is straightforward and satisfying, burgers, waffle fries, wings, chili. One cool bit of local flavor: check out the walls of fame with photos of Detroit sports legends and memorabilia. If you’re looking for authenticity over trendiness, The Anchor Bar is the real deal. It’s the kind of place where you might find old-timers telling stories of the Stanley Cup days or younger fans starting new traditions. And despite a change of ownership and some renovations in recent years, The Anchor still feels “old Detroit.” Note: It’s family-friendly in the daytime (kids have been coming with parents since the Joe Louis Arena days), but at night it’s mostly an adult crowd. Also, if you’re up for a little stroll, you can actually walk from LCA to The Anchor, many do, especially after games, to let traffic die down.
Beyond Downtown: Beloved Detroit Sports Bars with Shuttles
Detroit’s downtown stadium district has plenty of options, but it’s worth noting a few legendary sports bars outside the immediate walking area that many locals swear by on game days. These places offer shuttle buses to the games and are destinations unto themselves, overflowing with history and die-hard fans. If you don’t mind a short ride (or are looking for free parking, a common draw), consider these classic spots:
Nemo’s Bar & Grille
Open: Mon-Wed, Sun (11am-11:30pm) | Thur-Sat (11am-12:30am)
1384 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 965-3180
Website: Nemo’s Bar & Grille
Ask any longtime Detroiter about pre or post-game beers, and Nemo’s is likely to come up with a smile. Located in the Corktown neighborhood about a mile west of downtown, Nemo’s is a brick corner bar that has achieved iconic status. In fact, Sports Illustrated named Nemo’s the No. 2 sports bar in the entire country at one point, a huge accolade that speaks to its reputation. This is the kind of place where Detroit’s pro sports history is literally written on the walls, with old photos and memorabilia everywhere. It was the go-to tavern for Tigers fans back when the team played at the old Tiger Stadium (just a block away), and even though the ballpark moved downtown in 2000, fans continue the tradition. Nemo’s runs shuttle buses to all Tigers home games and many other big events (for a small fee like $3 or so round-trip). The bar’s slogan is “Your #1 favorite Detroit sports bar” and thousands would agree. What makes Nemo’s great? For one, the burgers rock, they grill up juicy, no-frills hamburgers that many say are among the best in town. Grab a burger and a beer served in a frosty mug, and you’ll feel right at home. It’s a family-run bar and has been for decades, giving it a friendly, unpretentious vibe. On game days, the place is packed with fans in Tigers or Lions gear (and occasionally a few brave visiting fans), and it has that old-school Detroit charm, you might find yourself in a conversation with a stranger at the next table about the ’84 World Series or Barry Sanders’ glory days. Even if you’re heading to Little Caesars Arena or Ford Field instead, Nemo’s offers shuttles to those games too, it’s common to see their buses lined up outside for hockey or football crowds. There’s plenty of free parking in the area or at the bar, which is a huge plus. Many people make an evening of it: park at Nemo’s, eat and drink there, take the shuttle downtown, then shuttle back and maybe have a nightcap while traffic thins out. It’s efficient and fun. Nemo’s is truly a Detroit sports institution, and walking in feels like stepping into a time capsule of fandom. (Fun trivia: Nemo’s has been around for over 50 years and was a backdrop in the baseball movie “Tiger Town.”)
McShane’s Irish Pub
Open: Mon-Fri (7am-2am) | Sat-Sun (10am-2am)
1460 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216
Phone: (313) 961-1960
Website: McShane’s Irish Pub
Right across from the old Tiger Stadium site (and a short walk from Nemo’s) is McShane’s, another Corktown favorite that has picked up the torch of the old sports days. McShane’s is a lively Irish pub that combines the feel of a neighborhood bar with a bit of modern flair (lots of TVs, plenty of craft beer options). It sits at the corner of Michigan and Trumbull, hallowed ground for Tigers fans – and while the stadium that once stood there is gone, fans continue the Corktown revelry at McShane’s via a free shuttle to the team’s current digs downtown. In other words, they keep the spirit alive. McShane’s offers complimentary shuttles to Tigers, Lions, and Red Wings games, making it easy to park in Corktown and catch a ride. Before you hop on the shuttle, you might want to fuel up: their menu is a cut above typical bar food, featuring Irish-inspired favorites like shepherd’s pie, Irish whiskey steak, and “Irish egg rolls” stuffed with corned beef and cabbage. Of course, you can also get a solid burger or classic fish and chips. Whiskey lovers will be in heaven here, McShane’s boasts one of the most extensive collections of Irish whiskey around in Detroit. The pub atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with lots of dark wood and a classic long bar, and the staff is known to be friendly even on hectic game days. McShane’s often has a mixed crowd of old guard fans and young people from the neighborhood, especially on weekends. If you’re visiting Detroit, spending some time in Corktown at a place like McShane’s gives you a taste of how deeply sports are interwoven with local bar culture. And when you ride that shuttle with a bunch of fellow fans singing or chanting, you’ll feel the camaraderie. (Side note: After the game, if you have time, you could stroll over to the corner of Michigan & Trumbull, now a youth sports field, and pay homage to the spot where Tigers history was made.)
Tommy’s Detroit Bar & Grill
Tommy’s Detroit Bar & Grill
Open: Mon-Fri (11am-2am) | Sat (4pm-2am)
624 3rd Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 965-2269
Website: Tommy’s Detroit Bar & Grill
On the southwest edge of downtown (near Fort St. and Third, not far from the riverfront) sits Tommy’s, a bar bursting with Detroit history. Housed in a building dating back to the 1840s, Tommy’s is known for its ties to both the Prohibition era and even the Underground Railroad. In fact, “the building that houses this sports bar is rumored to have once been part of the Underground Railroad (and Prohibition, for that matter),” and there’s a tunnel beneath the bar that may have been used as an escape route in those days! How’s that for authentic Detroit lore? Beyond the cool history, Tommy’s is a solid sports bar that has been family-owned and operated for many years. It’s a favorite for Detroit Lions and Red Wings fans due to its location (about a 10-minute walk to Ford Field, and they offer shuttle service as well). Walking into Tommy’s feels like walking into a friendly neighborhood pub, the space is filled with Detroit sports memorabilia, and the owner, Eddie, is often around to greet customers (sometimes even giving impromptu tours of the historic basement and tunnel if you ask nicely and it’s not too busy). The bar area is cozy, and there are plenty of TVs for watching whatever game is on. On game days, Tommy’s lays out a buffet or special menu (they’re known for chili and $1 Coney dogs on Lions Sundays, for example). They also have a shuttle that will take you to Tigers, Lions, or Red Wings games, many locals park here because Tommy’s has a small free parking lot and nearby street parking, then utilize the shuttle so they don’t have to deal with stadium parking. The vibe at Tommy’s is very welcoming; you’ll see regulars who know each other, and newcomers are treated like friends. It’s not a large bar, so it can fill up, but that just adds to a convivial, almost tailgate-like atmosphere. If you’re someone who loves discovering hidden gems with great stories (who else can say they had a beer in a bar with a secret tunnel?), put Tommy’s on your list.
(Other notable shuttle bars: Andrews on the Corner on the east riverfront and PJ’s Lager House in Corktown also offer shuttles and good times, but the three above are the legends.)
After the Game: Post-Game Celebrations and Late-Night Hangouts
The final buzzer or last out doesn’t mean the night is over, in fact, for many Detroit fans, it’s just when the party begins (especially after a victory!). Downtown and Midtown Detroit keep buzzing after games, with bars offering late-night entertainment, drink specials, and a chance to let traffic die down while you enjoy the city. Here are some post-game tips and spots to consider:
- Toast the Win (or Rally after a Loss): If the Detroit team wins, you can bet bars like Harry’s, Nemo’s, and the Old Shillelagh will be celebration central. At Old Shillelagh, for example, the post-game often brings a DJ and dancing on multiple floors, you might find fans literally dancing on the rooftop deck under the stars, still in their jerseys. And over at Nemo’s, a win means the beer is flowing and strangers become friends in shared jubilation (Nemo’s stays open late, so you have time to savor that victory feeling). Even if the game didn’t go our way, these bars offer a comforting communal vibe, a chorus of “we’ll get ’em next time” and a round of drinks can ease the sting of defeat.
- Live Music & Nightlife: Detroit’s downtown has plenty of live music if you want to change gears after the game. For a more mellow yet classy vibe, head to Cliff Bell’s, the restored Art Deco jazz club just a block from Comerica Park. It’s a perfect after-game choice if you want to “grab a cocktail and catch some live music at this restored gem”. Often, you can walk in after a game and catch the second set of a live jazz band in this beautifully nostalgic venue, a great way to end the night on a smooth note. If jazz isn’t your thing and you want something more upbeat, Tin Roof often features live bands or a rooftop DJ into the late night, it basically transforms from pre-game hangout to post-game party bar seamlessly. Town Pump Tavern, as mentioned, brings out a DJ on weekends and becomes a mini dance party, which can be a blast if you still have energy to burn. And don’t forget Greektown: places like Old Shillelagh (with its Irish sing-alongs) and neighboring bars often have live rock or cover bands, especially on weekends.
- Late-Night Bites: After a long game and a few drinks, you might be craving a snack. Downtown Detroit has some classic late-night eats. Two must-visit spots, not bars, but worth mentioning, are Lafayette Coney Island and American Coney Island, two 24-hour diners next door to each other on Michigan Avenue, where you can grab Detroit’s famous coney dogs loaded with chili, mustard, and onions. It’s a Detroit tradition to grab a coney after a game (you’ll often see a line of jerseys at 11 p.m. ordering dogs). If you’re around LCA, the UWM District Market inside the arena sometimes stays open a bit for a quick slice or snack as you leave. And a lot of bars like Harry’s and Union Assembly keep their kitchens open late on game nights, so you can get something more substantial if needed.
- Casinos & Cocktail Bars: For those who want to keep the night going, Greektown Casino (a short walk from Ford Field) and MGM Grand Casino (a bit farther out) are open 24/7. Greektown’s casino floor after a game is often buzzing, you’ll see fans still in team gear trying their luck at the slots and tables, or hanging at the casino’s bars which serve late. If you prefer a craft cocktail to cap off the evening in style, downtown has gems like Wright & Company (a chic second-floor bar on Woodward) or Bad Luck Bar (a speakeasy-style cocktail bar), which are open late and offer a quieter atmosphere away from the sports madness. It’s a nice option if perhaps you’re out with a date or just want a nightcap in a classy setting to celebrate a special game day.
- Getting Home Safe: By the time you’re ready to head out, you’ll find that traffic has thinned and rideshares are readily available. Many of the bars mentioned (Harry’s, Nemo’s, etc.) will gladly call a cab for you if needed. Detroit also has scooter and bike rentals if you’re nearby, just be sure you’re sober enough to scoot! The People Mover runs until midnight on most game nights, and the QLINE streetcar can get you up and down Woodward if you need to travel between Midtown and Downtown. The key is, don’t rush, part of the joy of post-game in Detroit is sticking around and enjoying the city’s nightlife while everyone else fights to exit the parking structures.
In summary, a Detroit game day is a marathon, not a sprint: start with a great pre-game meal or drink, soak in the in-game excitement, and finish strong with a post-game adventure. The bars and pubs near our stadiums are an integral part of the city’s sports culture, each offering something a little different, but all bound by the common thread of Detroit pride. Whether you’re raising a craft beer at a modern rooftop bar or clinking a Guinness at a 100-year-old pub, you’re sharing in traditions that unite generations of fans.
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Ready for Game Day in Detroit?
Detroit’s sports scene offers more than just the thrill of competition, it’s about community, tradition, and hometown pride, experienced in the restaurants and bars that surround our stadiums. The next time you head downtown for a game, arrive early and explore a new spot from this list, or linger afterwards and make some memories. You’ll not only have a great time, but you’ll also get to know the city the way locals do, through its food, its hangouts, and its people.
As lifelong Metro Detroiters will tell you, these pre and post-game rituals are what make attending a game in the D special. So grab a pint, join the chorus of fans, and enjoy every moment of the Detroit game-day atmosphere. And if you ever need more personal recommendations, or even advice on what neighborhood to call home to be near all this excitement, don’t hesitate to reach out to a local Metro Detroit expert. We’re always here to share insights, whether it’s the best place for a family dinner before a Tigers game or helping you discover the perfect home base in this vibrant city.
See you in downtown Detroit on game day, cheers!
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