Carefree Travel Guide 2023

Sip and Stroll Three years ago, Michigan legislation allowed for the establishment of “Social Districts” which permit the sale of alcoholic beverages (cocktails to-go) from licensed establishments in approved (and often logoed) containers to customers for consumption within defined areas – like designated seating spaces, parking lots, parks, or even sidewalks. Currently, more than 100 communities operate Social Districts

Greater Lansing CVB

(in nearly half of Michigan’s 83 counties), some with multiple allowable drinking areas.

Downtown Holland

Saugatuck/Douglas Area CVB

Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce

What started as a solution to social distancing required in the early days of the pandemic has continued as a way for bars, restaurants, breweries, wineries, and distilleries to maintain and grow their consumer base. There is hope that this temporary solution will soon become a permanent offering statewide. Grand Rapids leads the state with more than 60 participating businesses making up nine dedicated districts including Downtown, Creston, East Fulton, East Hills, Fourth & Stocking, Michigan Street, Wealthy Street, West Fulton, and West Leonard. Throughout the county, six additional communities also have approved refreshment zones (Ada, Cedar Springs, Grandville, Lowell, Rockford, and Sparta). Social Districts aren’t reserved for big cities – check out some of the other communities taking advantage of this new business tool.

Ludington Area CVB

Visit Muskegon

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West Michigan Tourist Association | WMTA.org