Best Summertime Bars In Detroit

The sun is shining and that means it's time to take advantage of as much outdoor time as possible before the cold creeps back in. The Detroit area offers a ton of summer entertainment and is home to a number of area bars that feature outdoor patios, frosty and fruity cocktails and spectacular views. These patios are a great way to enjoy a cool summer drink in the warm city sun while taking in amazing of the downtown skyline.

1917 American Bistro
19416 Livernois
Detroit, MI 48221
(313) 863-1917
www.1917americanbistro.comThis newer Detroit bistro features traditional American cuisine with a touch of Italian flare at reasonable prices. The restaurant's rooftop patio is popular with customers and occasionally features entertainment, including poetry nights. The ambiance inside is just as nice with a fabulous window view and gorgeous art gallery. 1917 American Bistro is also known for its friendly staf, quick service and awesome juice bar. For those who prefer non-alcoholic summertime drinks, the juice bar provides delicious fruit blends for the perfect accompaniment to any Detroit sunset.

Motor City Brewing Works
470 W Canfield St
Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 832-2700
www.motorcitybeer.comSmall and simple, this popular chalet-style brewery is known for its handcrafted, unfiltered, unpasteurized brews, all of which can be found on tap. Located in the heart of Detroit's cultural center, beer isn't the only thing that keeps Motor City residents coming back. The brick-oven pizzas are a hit with visitors who can also munch on typical bar food as well as seasonal dishes. Another draw is the establishment's rooftop patio with a fantastic view of the Midtown area. Every Wednesday, Motor City Brewing Works has a revolving art show featuring a different local artist each week, and the brewery also hosts weekly bike rides for some good, old-fashioned summertime fun. Make sure to check out the Summer Brew, a wheat beer that goes perfectly with a slice of orange, a great June to August drink.

Related: Best Outdoor Bars in Detroit

Bookies Bar & Grille
2208 Cass Ave.
Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 962-0319
www.bookiesbar.comBookies Bar & Grille is one of the area's best sports bars, and a great place to head before and after the big game. The restaurant's party atmosphere and three levels of entertainment make it a popular hangout. Downstairs is a mob-themed bar and often features a live radio show, the hottest DJs and rocking live bands. The upstairs level is where the restaurant can be found, and features typical bar food like hamburgers, a variety of sandwiches and mouthwatering appetizers. But what makes this a truly great bar in the summertime, is Bookies' rooftop patio; it has a great view of downtown, making it the perfect people-watching spot. Take advantage of the daily happy hour and game day specials to save a few bucks. Shuttle service is even available to the Detroit Tigers, Red Wings and Lions' games during each of the seasons.

The Alley Deck
4120 Woodward Ave
Detroit, MI 48218
(313) 833-9700
www.majesticdetroit.comThe Alley Deck in the Majestic Theatre complex offers up one of the area's biggest rooftop patio bars. Located above the Garden Bowl and adjacent to the Magic Stick, the patio overlooks the Woodward Avenue corridor. Open for 5 months out of the year from May until September, The Alley Deck is great for evening cocktails after shows in the Magic Stick. It is also the perfect venue for a private outdoor party. The bar features a barbecue grill, shuffleboard, an outdoor sound system and a full screen television, making this a great spot some for evening entertainment in the summer months.

Related: Best Dive Bars in Detroit

Tracy Heck is a freelance writer living in Dearborn, Michigan. She covers Music & Entertainment. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.