Michigan’s craft beer scene has plenty to offer, especially if you’re into sipping a fresh local pint with a view. There’s something special about feeling the breeze on a rooftop deck while watching the sun sink over one of Michigan’s iconic lakes. Breweries with rooftop seating and lake views combine great beer with relaxation, so I’ve tracked down the spots that deliver both.
Why Michigan Breweries Stand Out for Rooftop and Lakefront Views
If you’re spending a summer (or even a chilly fall afternoon) in Michigan, you’ll notice that locally owned breweries are everywhere. What really sets some of them apart is how they’ve made the most of their stunning surroundings. Breweries near Lake Michigan, in bustling harbor towns, or perched above scenic inland lakes know what we’re all after: a relaxed vibe, a laid-back crowd, and a killer view to go with a cold drink. Some even face the dunes, while others open right up to endless water, giving an unbeatable backdrop whether you’re flying solo or meeting friends.
The change toward open air, rooftop focused spaces isn’t just about showing off the scenery; it’s also about drawing in visitors who want more than just indoor bar seating. And in Michigan, with so many waterfront towns from Grand Haven to Alpena, breweries have found cool ways to balance great beer, food, and that tour worthy rooftop view. In fact, quite a few have stepped up their food menus and started collaborating with local chefs to make the most of their outdoor spaces. Some places even host yoga classes, sunrise breakfasts, or game days outside, making the brewery feel like a true community hangout no matter the time of year.
Favorite Michigan Breweries with Rooftop or Lakeside Patios
There are dozens of great breweries around the state, but I’m highlighting a handful that really deliver on the promise of both good beer and lake views. These picks have rooftop decks, multilevel patios, or waterside seating where you can actually see the waves rolling in.
- Frankenmuth Brewery (Frankenmuth): Right on the Cass River, the rooftop deck here is a chill spot with river views and a festive vibe. It’s not a Great Lake, but the river setting feels just right on a summer evening. Worth trying their lagers while watching paddleboats drift by.
- Mackinaw Trail Winery & Brewery (Petoskey): Overlooking fields and tucked on a ridge, the patio and rooftop let you see out toward Little Traverse Bay. Their beer lineup runs from light wheat ales to flavorful IPAs, and the lake view brings an extra calming touch.
- Odd Side Ales (Grand Haven): The rooftop lounge isn’t massive, but it puts you right in the heart of this Lake Michigan town. Look west for sunsets, pair their unique brews with snacks from local food trucks, and you’re set for a classic beach town evening.
- Hop Lot Brewing Co. (Suttons Bay): Just a short drive from Grand Traverse Bay, Hop Lot sits among pines and has a busy beer garden plus an elevated patio. You get peekaboo lake views and a woodsy up north feeling, which is perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
- Bier Distillery (Comstock Park, near Grand Rapids): Their second floor patio has nice river views, and while it’s not right on a Great Lake, it gives a similar open air, waterfront match up with creative beers and cocktails to sample.
How to Pick the Right Rooftop Brewery for Your Visit
With so many unique spots, picking the right brewery for you depends on what matters most: the view, the beer, the food, or just the vibe. Here’s how I usually narrow it down:
- Lake Access: Some breweries are steps from the water. Others offer views from up high without direct lakeshore access, but the feeling is just as good on a sunny day.
- Type of Beers: If you’re a fan of IPAs, sours, or hard ciders, check the tap lists online first. Places like Odd Side or Hop Lot lean creative, while Frankenmuth often features traditional German styles.
- Family Friendly Spots: Breweries such as Hop Lot are well known for being relaxed and welcoming for kids and families, with lawn games or firepits outside.
- Food Options: Some breweries have onsite kitchens with everything from burgers to fresh salads and pizzas. Others let you bring your own snacks or order from local food trucks parked nearby.
- Seasonal Considerations: Rooftop and patio seating packs out fast during warm weather. A few spots set up heaters and cover for chillier months, but it’s wise to call ahead if you want to guarantee a rooftop table.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Lakeview Brewery Visit
To enjoy your trip, a little planning goes a long way. Here are some tricks I’ve picked up:
- Arrive Early: Rooftop spots fill up quickly, especially around sunset. A late afternoon arrival gets you prime seating and time to settle in before the evening crowd.
- Check for Live Music or Events: Weekends often mean outdoor music, trivia nights, or release parties that can make the atmosphere more lively.
- Dress for the Weather: Michigan’s breezes can get chilly on the roof, even in summer. Pack a hoodie or light jacket just in case.
- Explore the Neighborhood: Lakeside towns usually have cute shops, art galleries, or public beaches right near the brewery, so it’s worth making a day of it.
- Designated Driver or Rideshare: Safety is key. Many lakeside breweries are in walkable districts, and bigger towns have plenty of rideshare options to keep everyone safe.
Another idea: If you’re planning your visit around a special event like a local festival or live concert series, check ahead for special releases or collab beers brewed just for the occasion. Many breweries also offer brewery tours or behind the scenes tastings that you can add to your rooftop experience, giving beer lovers even more to get excited about.
Common Challenges When Visiting Rooftop Breweries in Michigan
These lakeview breweries are usually crowd pleasers, but a few things can catch visitors off guard. Here’s what I’ve noticed and how to work around them:
- Weather Changes: Lake breezes change fast and clouds roll in just as easily. Always double check the weather, and ask if they have covered seating for unexpected rain.
- Limited Seats: Rooftops and patios aren’t huge, so expect a wait, especially on weekends or festival days. Many breweries use online waitlists or apps, so sign up as soon as you arrive.
- Noise Levels: With live music, chatter, and sometimes passing boats or beach crowds, things can get noisy. If you want a quieter spot, visit earlier in the day or on a weekday.
- Seasonal Closing: While some patios stay open year round with firepits and heaters, a lot of rooftops close as soon as winter hits. Warm days in spring or fall are your best bet for fewer crowds and open patios.
Weather Planning and Comfort
I’ve found that bringing layers makes a difference, even if it’s sunny when you leave home. Wind or storms can pop up unexpectedly near the lakes, so it’s always smart to ask staff about inside backup options. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and even a hat help you stay comfortable all day on a rooftop.
Parking and Transportation
Harbor towns like Petoskey, Grand Haven, and Traverse City get busy on weekends, and parking can be tricky. Look for brewery lots or public parking nearby, and give yourself a little extra time. Bike rentals are also a popular way to hop between breweries, especially in the more compact downtown areas. Some breweries even offer bike racks or rewards for those who arrive on two wheels, encouraging visitors to explore their city sustainably.
Lakeview Brewery Experiences Worth Trying
To help you pick your next destination, here are a few real world stories and features to keep an eye out for during your brewery crawl:
- Many spots, like those on Lake Michigan or Traverse Bay, host sunset “happy hours” where the whole patio turns into a photo worthy hangout.
- Seasonal beer releases are common in late summer and fall; think blueberry wheat ales, tart ciders, or warming porters to sip as the temps drop.
- Check social media for updates, since breweries often announce limited rooftop hours or food truck pairings there first.
- If you’re traveling with a dog, pet friendly patio policies are pretty common across Northern Michigan breweries. Just ask before you go.
- Some lakeview breweries encourage guests to bring their own board games or host casual neighborhood competitions, so don’t be surprised if you stumble upon a cornhole tournament or trivia night right on the rooftop.
I’ve met plenty of travelers who plan entire weekend getaways around brewery patios with some of the best lake views. It’s a fun way to see more of Michigan and chase down new flavors, all while supporting local businesses. For added adventure, consider mapping a short brewery tour from one lakeside patio to the next, especially in areas like Traverse City or the Lake Charlevoix region, where you can sample a range of creative beers and spirits amidst amazing scenery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan’s Lakeview Breweries
Here are answers to some of the most asked questions I get about hitting breweries with rooftop and lakefront seating in Michigan:
Question: When is the best time to visit rooftop breweries for lake views?
Answer: Late spring through early fall gives you the best shot at perfect weather, but even shoulder season weekends can be nice if you dress for it.
Question: Do Michigan breweries with rooftop seating allow reservations?
Answer: Most are first come, first served, especially for outdoor or rooftop tables. Check if they use an online waitlist or app; it’ll save you time.
Question: Are breweries with rooftop seating family or pet friendly?
Answer: Many breweries are welcoming to kids and dogs, especially in Northern Michigan or resort towns. Call ahead or check their website just to be sure.
Question: Do lakefront breweries offer food onsite?
Answer: Most have an in house kitchen or partner with food trucks; menus range from casual pub food to creative farm to table eats.
Get Out and Experience Michigan’s Rooftop Breweries
After visiting so many of these spots myself, there’s something really cool about sipping a local beer while the sunlight hits the water. Whether you’re on a bustling rooftop downtown or lounging by a quiet inland lake, Michigan’s unique combination of brewery culture and scenic outdoor spaces really makes every trip worthwhile. Bring good company, an appetite for adventure, and maybe a camera, because these views are tough to beat. With each new visit, you support the local community, stumble upon new brews, and find different ways to enjoy the unbeatable Michigan landscape. So the next time you’re planning an outing, track down a rooftop or lakeside brewery near you and toast to one of the best views in the Midwest.