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Keweenaw's Explorer Blog

Must Try Outdoor Patio Spots in the Keweenaw Peninsula

For drinks (and a bite), here's where to go

 

Patio Season is Michigan’s secret 5th season. It’s an undeniable fact that Michigan has some of the most beautiful and temperate summer and early fall seasons thanks to the embrace of the Great Lakes. When the sun comes to play in the Keweenaw Peninsula, nothing beats enjoying a cold beverage and good food in the great outdoors! Check out this list of great Keweenaw bars and restaurants with outdoor patios and hangout spaces:

Keweenaw Brewing Company (KBC)

  • Location: Houghton, MI
  • Ambiance: Relaxed, laid-back downtown brewery vibe
  • Patio Vibe: Spacious multi-tiered beer deck with incredible views of the Portage Lake Lift Bridge, LoHo, and the Portage Canal beyond.
  • Drink Feature: Locally brewed craft beers including the popular Widow Maker Black Ale, Red Jacket Amber, and rotation seasonal brews.
  • Get a Bite: While KBC doesn’t serve food, you can bring in to-go orders from nearby restaurants.
  • Kid Friendly: Yes, families are welcome!
  • Dogs Allowed: No, dogs are not allowed on the premises.
beer on kbc deck
The KBC's unobstructed views are just as tasty as the brews!

The Den Restaurant

  • Location: Houghton, MI
  • Ambiance: A casual fine-dining experience in downtown Houghton.
  • Patio Vibe: A cozy nook carved out between the historic buildings, with shaded or sunny options and comfortable seating. Enjoy the painted mural for photo ops, and the excellent view of the Portage Canal.
  • Drink Feature: Michigan-focused craft beers and creative cocktails, like the Superior Siren.
  • Get a Bite: Wood-fired creations like steaks and burgers, along with shareable appetizers.
  • Kid Friendly: Yes, with a kids' menu and family friendly vibe.
  • Dogs Allowed: No, dogs must stay outside the premises.
Drone shot of The Den's new patio overlooking the Houghton waterfront in downtown Houghton.
The Den's patio is ready and waiting for you. What'll be your order?

The Downtowner (DT)

  • Location: Downtown Houghton, MI
  • Ambiance: Classic sports pub appeal
  • Patio Vibe: outdoor seating right under the shadow of the Portage Lake Lift Bridge
  • Drink Feature: Cold draft beer and weekly cocktail specials
  • Get a Bite: American pub-style food like burgers, sandwiches, wings, and tasty apps
  • Kid Friendly: Yes, during the day up through dinner time. As night falls, the DT is adults-only
  • Dogs Allowed: No, dogs must stay outside the premises.

LoHo Social District

  • Location: Houghton, MI waterfront (from Isle Royale St. to the Bridge)
  • Ambiance: Walkable waterfront walks with beautiful landscaping and public art
  • Patio Vibe: Open air public seating ideal for people watching and enjoying the vibrant local scene.
  • Drink Feature: Enjoy your favorite beverage from participating local bars or restaurants (currently KBC, the Ambassador, and The Den).
  • Get a Bite: Eclectic options from nearby eateries in Houghton and Hancock.
  • Kid Friendly: Yes, the district is family friendly and welcoming.
  • Dogs Allowed: Yes, leashed dogs are part of the community fun.
aerial view of a downtown waterside market
Let your cold beverage accompany you on a fun excursion to the activity in the LoHo Social District!

Roy’s Pasties & Bakery

  • Location: Houghton, MI
  • Ambiance: Quaint and inviting local bakery
  • Patio Vibe: Cozy storefront seating with scenic views of the Portage Canal. Public seating on the sidewalk across the street is also available.
  • Drink Feature: Locally roasted coffee!
  • Get a Bite: Freshly baked pasties, pastries, and a variety of sandwiches.
  • Kid Friendly: Absolutely, kids love the sweet treats and casual setting.
  • Dogs Allowed: Yes, dogs are welcome to relax by the canal.
Family of three sitting on Roy's patio eating donuts.
Morning sunshine, coffee, and a donut is just about the best way we can think to start a Copper Country adventure!

Gino’s Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge

  • Location: Hancock, MI
  • Ambiance: Classically welcoming, with a touch of modern charm.
  • Patio Vibe: Fenced in outdoor seating surrounded by greenery with sun and shaded seating.
  • Drink Feature: Patio Pail cocktails and local brews!
  • Get a Bite: A mixed American-style menu with a definite nod to recipes hearkening to original Keweenaw Italian/local cuisine.
  • Kid Friendly: Yes, with a family friendly menu.
  • Dogs Allowed: No, pets are not permitted.
Girls sitting at Gino's patio having a drink.
Gino's Patio Pail is a fun summery drink to enjoy with friends!

Carmelitas - A Southwestern Grille

  • Location: Calumet, MI
  • Ambiance: Colorful and vibrant, with a lively Mexican flair.
  • Patio Vibe: outdoor seating under shaded trees
  • Drink Feature: Thimbleberry Margaritas, need we say more!
  • Get a Bite: Signature aged steaks and Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.
  • Kid Friendly: Yes, the menu has kid approved options.
  • Dogs Allowed: Yes pets are permitted on the patio!

Shute’s 1890 Saloon

  • Location: Calumet, MI
  • Ambiance: Historic and relaxed, with a vintage vibe.
  • Patio Vibe: Small, casual outdoor area perfect for a laidback drink.
  • Drink Feature: Cold beer and classic cocktails.
  • Kid Friendly: No, this is more of an adult hangout spot.
  • Dogs Allowed: Yes, friendly dogs are permitted!

Mariner North

  • Location: Copper Harbor, MI
  • Ambiance: A modern cabin-like feel and friendly service.
  • Patio Vibe: A cozy little outdoor seating spot in the front, perfect for dining al fresco while watching Copper Harbor buzz. Note: no table-side service here, order your food to-go to enjoy!
  • Drink Feature: Craft beers and hearty cocktails.
  • Get a Bite: American comfort food.
  • Kid Friendly: Yes, great for families and groups.
  • Dogs Allowed: No, dogs are not allowed in the outdoor area.

Brickside Brewery

  • Location: Copper Harbor, MI
  • Ambiance: Laid back brick brewery with that certain Copper Harbor je ne sais quoi.
  • Patio Vibe: Sunny outdoor area with outdoor seating all with excellent views of Copper Harbor main street and the surrounding nature.
  • Drink Feature: Creative craft brews that rotate seasonally.
  • Get a Bite: Food truck on site, so see what tasty dishes they’re serving up!
  • Kid Friendly: Yes, board games indoors and kiddos welcome outdoors of course.
  • Dogs Allowed: Yes, dogs are welcome outdoors. 
Outside of Brickside Brewery in Copper Harbor
Park your bike and pull up for a little R&R in Copper Harbor!

Harbor Haus Restuarant 

  • Location: Copper Harbor, MI
  • Ambiance: Fine dining on the Lake Superior waterfront.
  • Patio Vibe: Open-air seating with grand Lake Superior views for a more laid-back experience, while still enjoying the fantastic German-Austrian inspired menu.
  • Drink Feature: Find an extensive wine list or fun cocktails for the patio.
  • Get a Bite: Fresh caught fish, and steakhouse favorites all elevated with local ingredients and deep inspiration from German and Austrian cuisine.
  • Kid Friendly: Yes, especially for kids with diverse palates. 
  • Dogs Allowed: Yes, dogs are welcome on the patio.

Fitzgerald's Hotel & Restaurant (The Fitz)

  • Location: Eagle River, MI
  • Ambiance: Upscale yet relaxed, with breathtaking Lake Superior views.
  • Patio Vibe: Lakefront seating that offers stunning sunset views over Lake Superior.
  • Drink Feature: An enormous whiskey and Michigan craft beer menu, along with handcraft cocktails and NA options.
  • Get a Bite: Gourmet dishes with a focus BBQ and fusion, featuring local and sustainable ingredients.
  • Kid Friendly: Yes, especially for adventurous eaters.
  • Dogs Allowed: Yes, dogs are welcome to enjoy the view with you.
KCVB Fitz web
As far as patio views go, you can't get much closer to Lake Superior. Enjoy the fresh breezes and incredible sunsets at the Fitz!