If you’re in Kalamazoo and looking for something a little less fancy than a nightclub, with a close, cozy atmosphere, then a well-worn, no nonsense dive bar is the answer. Celebrate the night with the best dive bars in Kalamazoo, MI according to TripAdvisor:
Louie's Trophy House
Louie’s is the oldest bar in Kalamazoo. The bar acts as an escape from the the busy city. When patrons walk in, the first thing they notice is the taxidermy lined walls. It features a cabin on the lake feel. Louie’s has drink specials every night of the week, open mic night every Wednesday, trivia on Thursdays, and live entertainment and music. They're known for their "old and rustic atmosphere, with a charm all their own"!
University Roadhouse
Set right between Western Michigan University and Kalamazoo College, University Roadhouse’s name rings true. You can get great food ideal for a night on the town or seeing friends after the big game. Try the “Go Big” option for $1 more and save on some of the draught beers and cocktail options.
Old Dog Tavern
Located in the historic Star Paper Co. Building, Old Dog Tavern has timeworn, warehouse atmosphere with two bars. Live bands frequently play on its inside and outside stages. With a rotation of Michigan craft beer and cocktails, plus pinball and free ping-pong, it makes for a fun stop with friends. Check their calendar to see who’s playing!
Shakespeare’s Pub
Shakespeare’s Pub is a place where you can watch the big game, play pool, shuffleboard, darts, and eat stellar pub fare. Enjoy fresh, free popcorn while you decide which of the 44 beers always on tap you’d like to try. Check their calendar to see which of their nightly live entertainment is coming up. If you plan to visit on Friday & Saturday, you’ll find it plenty busy as it transforms into a college bar.
Harvey’s on the Mall
Harvey’s on the Mall is a local bar with some tasty, American bar food options, including burgers, pizza and chili. As it’s right next to the State Theatre, it’s the perfect place to go before or after a show. In warmer months, ask for the outdoor seating overlooking downtown.
Waldo’s Campus Tavern
A college bar with two floors, Waldo’s Campus Tavern has pool tables and a ton of TVs, and is accompanied by an outdoor beer garden. There’s drink specials every day and an extensive beer list! Be sure to stop by!
Rugger’s Up & Under
With a dozen of their own beers on tap, brewed in-house, the love of beer at Rugger’s Up & Under shines through. Watch the big game, play some pool and listen to local live music the first Saturday of every month.
Library Kitchen & Tap House
Another bar that caters to the college crowd, Library Kitchen & Tap House has loads of beers on tap in addition to food from wraps and subs to quesadillas and tacos. With plenty of TVs, too, it’s a great place to hang out and watch some football. Take a look at their weekly specials here!
The Green Top Tavern
Established in 1920, the Green Top Tavern is a hometown bar and has been owned by the same family for four generations. They serve up mouthwatering burgers to a wide variety of patrons from every walk of life. Sip on some brews while picking your jam on Touchtunes, and playing darts and pinball.
All of these watering holes wear their histories on their sleeves, and you’re sure to rub elbows with people from all different walks of life. Check out our live entertainment guide, and be sure to request one of our great guides – especially the Kalamazoo Brewery Map!
