Embracing a Michigan winter is a lot easier with a pint of beer in your hand, and a cozy patio to enjoy it on with friends. What started off as a major pivot for our Michigan breweries during the original pandemic shutdown, unique outdoor patios have turned into a yearly point of pride as they welcome guests to dine and drink outside. Each brewery offers a different twist, you’ll find everything from basic picnic tables to tricked-out glass-sided sheds complete with couches and blankets across Michigan.
We put together a shortlist of patios to check out this season, and it is by no means complete. It seems like every brewery now offers some form of winter outdoor space. As with everything right now, best to call ahead to check on availability and hours for these popular spots. Happy outdoor drinking Michigan.
From expansive patios, igloos, fire pits and outdoor activities, craft breweries across Michigan have adapted to the winter weather to enhance their establishments.
River Saint Joe via Facebook
River Saint Joe
15475 Walton Road
Buchanan, MI 49107
269-409-8015
Riversaintjoe.com
Local craft beer expert Jeff Mox could not recommend River Saint Joe enough. “It’s pretty flipping cool,” he said. In fact, he refrained from saying much more, so as to not ruin my first visit. From what I can deduce, there is a lot on tap at this third coast hot spot. Considered a farmstead brewery, you can enjoy a beer ice side in the winter when they offer a kind of mini version of curling. In summer, they transform the space into a bocce ball court. Grab a pint, full of local flavors, at this spot.
From expansive patios, igloos, fire pits and outdoor activities, craft breweries across Michigan have adapted to the winter weather to enhance their establishments.
Batch Brewing via Facebook
Batch Brewing Company
1400 Porter Street