A gorgeously ornate historic building in downtown Houghton houses the Douglass House Saloon, also known as "The Dog".
Cheers to History
The Douglass House Saloon
Gold cupolas crown the breathtaking Italian Renaissance architectural marvel that is the Douglass House, located in Houghton, Michigan's bustling downtown district. Below the white terra cotta façade, awaits The Dog.
Now, "The Dog" we are referring to here is not of the canine variety. Inspiring the similarly spirited loyalty of its namesake, this is the affectionate nickname given to the Douglass House Saloon. This street level saloon is one of Houghton's oldest businesses, and for many who have lived or travelled to the Keweenaw, has been a formative place tied to fond memories.
For over a hundred years, this saloon has seen many come into their adulthood, celebrate and commiserate... all while watching the march of time and progress in the Copper Country unfold from a seat at the picture window. The Dog is a place where patrons can return and find the warm welcome among the iconic woodwork and Tiffany glass, whether it's part of a weekend ritual or a years-long return journey.
Under new ownership, this longstanding nexus of history and shared community lives on through a similarly tenured Keweenaw family. Here, Tristan Sleeman and family keep the history and popcorn flowing, just like you remember it.
The Douglass House Saloon
A Historic Keweenaw Establishment
Cozy and welcoming, The Dog welcomes all to enjoy good conversation and good sips.
Originally built in 1860, the Douglass House served as a 50-room hotel for visitors to the Copper Country and a hub for dancing, dining, and early Copper Country nightlife. Over the next four decades, the Douglass House experienced both tragedy and triumph that yielded the magnificent Italian Renaissance-inspired structure we can patron today.
Nicknamed "The Dog" or "The Doghouse", visit this local saloon on Sheldon Avenue in Houghton, Michigan for a taste of Keweenaw history and a cold beverage. This downtown Houghton location offers excellent access to local shopping and dining. Situated right on the corner of Isle Royale Street, visitors to this saloon can quickly locate themselves along the Houghton Waterfront Pier and walking path to experience live events and music, farmers markets, boat access, and public art.
Want to try their house specialties? May we recommend:
The Tom Collins
The Yooper Challenge
A basket of the finest, saltiest popcorn this side of the Portage Canal
Like snowflakes, no two beers are the same. Our hometown breweries are born from the minds of Michigan Tech chemists and passionate brewologists (yeah, it’s a…
Enjoy Responsibly
Recreating Responsibly at The Dog
A trip to the Douglass House Saloon is an adult opportunity to kick back and relax while enjoying a local craft beer, a handmade cocktail, and a darn fine pickled egg. The Douglass House Saloon is an establishment intended for adults 21 years and older. While ideally situated within walking distance from many of our fine lodging, always remember to utilize a Designated Driver or one of our local cabs or rideshare drivers. Kipis!
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