Hidden Speakeasies in Michigan: Where to Find Secretive Bars Across the State
From password-only doors to underground cocktail lounges, Michigan’s modern speakeasies channel the Prohibition era with moody decor, craft drinks and elusive entrances. Here's where to find them – from Detroit to Traverse City and beyond.
Did you know that Michigan enacted Prohibition nearly three years before the federal ban on alcohol? We’ve always been ahead of the curve, and we proved that once again when we were the first state to ratify the 21st amendment – effectively leading the charge to repeal the federal ban. During the Prohibition years, Detroit and other border cities smuggled liquor from Canada. But, as the Detroit Historical Society points out, patrons had a craving for “real beer” along with “near beer” – hence the rise of underground speakeasies in Michigan.
The original purpose of speakeasies may have been to remain under the radar, but these days Michigan’s modern speakeasies are making a name for themselves. Moody atmospheres, back-room locations and classy cocktails set the tone for a swanky night out.
Johnny’s Speakeasy, Royal Oak
Armed with a one-time password – revealed on the day of your reservation – enter through a back kitchen door, descend a staircase and walk through a freezer (don’t worry, it’s not real). In downtown Royal Oak, Johnny’s Speakeasy fuses together a low lit, throwback ambience with farm-to-table dining.
IDC (I Don’t Care), Grand Rapids
Only those in the know (hint: sign up on their website) can get the entry code. On the second floor of the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, this covered balcony bar overlooks downtown Grand Rapids. Mirrored balls and ‘70s tunes inspire a vibe that’s more disco than Roaring ‘20s, with drinks that will warm you to your core – like a coffee-infused Old Fashioned and a Chambord-spiked hot chocolate topped with toasted marshmallows.
Bad Luck Bar, Detroit
The door will most likely be locked when you arrive in the alley between Griswold and Woodward. Knock or call for entry and step into a world where drinks are considered experiments – like a chicory-smoked mezcal mixed with coffee liqueur, Galliano, blood orange, cinnamon and pineapple, and set aflame over pebbled ice.
The Last Word, Ann Arbor
The Last Word was a popular Prohibition-era cocktail that was invented around 1915 at the Detroit Athletic Club. Today, this namesake bar is accessible through a set of unmarked red doors, revealing glowing wood decor and a menu of light bites and inventive cocktails.
The Counting Room, Houghton
In the heart of downtown Houghton, the Counting Room is hiding in plain sight in the basement of the Vault Hotel. Low ceilings create a cozy atmosphere as you grab a seat at the bar scattered with inlaid coins or gather around bar tables crafted from barrels. Masterfully restored antique furniture and even an old bank teller window complete the scene. No password is required, but only hotel guests can enter this space to order special cocktails filled with hand-carved ice.
Low Bar, Traverse City
Located beneath the 7 Monks Taproom in downtown Traverse City, Low Bar has a menu that almost exclusively focuses on bourbons and other spirits to create specialty cocktails. Enjoy a relaxed ambience crafted with moody lighting, dark velvets and a collection of house rules that include remaining seated while ordering and “to be men and women of good character.”
The Trap Door, Clare
Sink into a red booth and peruse the menu of rare whiskeys, elegant wines and handcrafted cocktails. With an interior inspired by the Prohibition era, innovative drinks of the month and regular artist spotlights keep the experience fresh – and if you’re not sure what to order, try a seasonal cocktail flight!
2FOG’s Pub, Howell
Keep an eye out for a mural of a farm scene to find the secretive alleyway entrance. Tucked in the basement of the Heart of Howell building, 2FOG’s Pub is part speakeasy, part neighborhood bar with Michigan microbrews and comfort food. The robust cocktail menu pays homage to old Hollywood legends, notorious gangsters and Prohibition-era drinks.
The X, Flint
In downtown Flint, look for a glowing red X and press the doorbell below. A small staircase leads you upstairs where you’ll spot a red button on a bookcase. Behind the books is the entrance to a sophisticated speakeasy where you’ll be instantly transported to another era. Under low lights, bartenders mix drinks with precision – and each one is made for sipping.