Sip and Stroll in Lansing's Social Districts

Looking to enjoy a craft beer or cocktail al fresco? Lansing's Social Districts allow you to legally walk public sidewalks with an open alcoholic drink, as long as you stay within the designated boundaries. What started as an initiative to boost local restaurants has turned into a staple of mid-Michigan nightlife. 

Lansing has three social districts: Old Town, Downtown Lansing (including the Lansing Shuffle), and the Red Cedar District (located on Michigan Avenue near the AC/Hyatt House Hotel and Frandor). Heading outside of the city? Check out the social districts in nearby Charlotte and Williamston. Each zone sets its own hours and event schedules. 

How Does It Work?

Find a Participating Business

Go into one of the established participating, licensed businesses and order a social district beverage. They will fix you up with a drink of your choice in a speciality labeled disposable container. Not every bar in the district is participating. 

Get the Official Cup

Your drink must be in a specially branded cup. Standard glassware or generic to-go cups are not allowed. 

Know the Boundaries

Feel free to head out the door with your labeled drink, but stay within the boundaries of the district. Don't travel between districts. If you want to head to a different area, finish up your drink first, then proceed. 

Check the Hours

Social districts have certain hours. Check to make sure you are participating within those hours. The hours for Lansing's social districts (Downtown, Old Town, and REO Town) are Sunday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to midnight. Don't stock up and drink outside before or after the hours. 

Keep the District Clean

Don't be a litterbug. Please drink responsibly and make sure to dispose of the container properly.

REO Town Social District

The REO Town social district hours are Sunday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday through Saturday 9 a.m. to midnight. 

The district spans through downtown and includes The Rusty Mug, The REO Town Pub, The REO Town Clubhouse, and Sleepwalker Spirits and Ale.

Charlotte Social District

The Charlotte social district hours are Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday 12 to 10 p.m.

The district spans the perimeter between W. Harris Ave., S. Washington St., E. Seminary St., S. Bostwick St. For more information and participating businesses, visit Charlotte Rising Social District.

Williamston Social District

The Williamston social district hours are Sunday through Thursday, noon to 9 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, noon to 11 p.m.

The district spans downtown Williamston and includes 4 businesses, including Niko's Taverna. For more information and participating businesses, visit Williamston Social District.