Houghton is university town — which means the bar scene is thriving. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual day drink or live music and cocktails, it’s easy to find a spot with the right vibe. The best part? All of the best bars in Houghton, MI, are located on a single 0.3-mile stretch.
As with most places in the U.P., Houghton bars are exceptionally relaxed. It’s very much a come-as-you-are culture; it’s not uncommon to see people stop by fresh from a run, bike ride, or snowboarding session. Slip on a pair of jeans, and you’re good to go!
Looking for a meal? Many of the restaurants in Houghton also have bars.
1. Keweenaw Brewing Company
The Keweenaw Brewing Company — or the KBC, as it’s more commonly known — is the best of the bars in Houghton, MI. (Assuming you like beer, that is.) The beer is locally brewed and exceptionally cheap at $3.50 per pint. It’s a popular spot for local professionals, but the crowd is always varied. On any given day, you’ll see local running groups, snowmobilers, people playing board games, and families with kids.
In the summer, sip your beer on the outdoor deck; the colorful mural and hanging lights add to the vibe (see photo at the top of the page). When the temperatures drop below zero in the winter, grab a seat next to the fireplace. The KBC doesn’t serve food, so many people bring takeout from local restaurants. Our favorites are Sky Sushi, Ambassador, Rodeo Mexican Kitchen, and Chicago Beefs.
Address: 408 Shelden Avenue, Houghton, MI 49931
2. Doghouse Saloon
Popular with Michigan Tech students and alumni, the “Dog” is a classic dive bar with a sense of history. Bring quarters for the pool table in the back, and try your luck at the pull-tab games. Come on a weekend when Michigan Tech is in session, and it can get a bit crowded and loud; it’s much more relaxed in the summer. Try the pickled eggs — they’re a U.P. standby.
Address: 517 Shelden Avenue, Houghton, MI 49931
3. Continental Fire Co.
Built inside a historic fire house, the Continental Fire Co. is an updated, sleeker alternative to most of the bars in Houghton, MI. It also has a solid liquor list and serves some of the best mixed drinks in town.
In the early evening, the Continental tends to attract local professionals — mostly because it’s also home to the Bonfire Restaurant. When the live music starts, however, the crowd gets more varied. Looking for DJs and dancing? Come on Club Night for a 20-something crowd and super-cheap drink specials. Check Facebook for the music and DJ schedule.
Address: 408 E Montezuma Ave., Houghton, MI 49931
4. Library Bar & Restaurant
The Library is a bar and restaurant that attracts a wide range of people. The bar side is dim and cozy, with dark colors; the restaurant side has huge windows with a view of Portage Lake. You can get drinks and food on both sides. Although the Library brews its own beer, we prefer the wine (the servings are generous).
Address: 62 Isle Royale St., Houghton, MI 49931
5 .Downtowner Lounge
The Downtowner, or the DT, tends to attract students, snowmobilers, and scattered locals. The vibe can be polarizing, but everyone can agree on the excellent deck. The big booths and round tables are the perfect place to sit in the sunshine with a beer. When the weather turns, head indoors for pool, darts, and sports on TV.
Address: 100 Shelden Avenue, Houghton, MI 49931
6. B&B Bar
Located just out of downtown Houghton, the B&B is a friendly dive bar with plenty of Yooper regulars. The vibe is relaxed — play pool, shuffleboard, or darts, or sit at the bar and watch whatever game is on TV. Don’t miss the pickled eggs, which always get rave reviews.
Address: 409 Memorial Road, Houghton, MI 49931
7. Schmidt’s Corner Bar
Schmidt’s Corner is about as casual as it gets. It’s located in the middle of nowhere — actually, just 5 miles down the Houghton Canal Road, but it feels remote — so it’s frequented mainly by locals and the occasional visitor. The kitchen serves decent pizza and bar snacks; stop by after an adventure to the nearby Redridge Steel Dam or North Canal Township Park.
Address: 16810 Fire Hall Road, Schmidt Corner, MI 49931
Things to Do Nearby the Bars in Houghton, MI
Looking for something fun to do after your drink? All of the bars in Houghton are a few steps from the Houghton Waterfront Trail — it’s the perfect place to go for a walk to Houghton Waterfront Park or East Houghton Waterfront Park. You can also check out the best spots for hiking in Houghton or go for a swim at the beaches near Houghton, MI.