Warmer days are here, and there’s no better way to enjoy them than dining outdoors at one of Greater Lansing’s inviting patios. Whether you’re sipping cocktails with friends, sharing a romantic meal, or grabbing a bite with family, al fresco dining adds a fresh twist to any outing. With more than 100 restaurants offering outdoor seating, we’ve rounded up a few local favorites that deliver great food, great vibes, and that perfect patio atmosphere.
Some Local Favorites
This pedestrian-friendly block on Albert Street in East Lansing has picnic tables, lounging chairs, games and music throughout the summer, May through August. Find a friend to play Connect 4, cornhole, giant Jenga, ping pong, giant chess and more. While you may have to stick to the associated patio dining while drinking alcohol, you can order takeout and a soft drink and enjoy the open space between Grove Street and M.A.C. Avenues.
Read MoreThis was one of the first and most popular patios among Lansing-area craft breweries. The space takes up an alley between buildings, and each year it gets a fantastic new upgrade.
Read MoreThis microbrewery offers craft beer, wine, soda, and scratch-made food, including some of the best pizza in Lansing. The beer garden is spacious, relaxed, and dog-friendly. Stop by on a Wednesday for live music!
Read MoreTucked away just outside the lower level of the English Inn's pub is this sweet cobblestone terrace that overlooks the expansive grounds situated on the banks of the Grand River. Both pub and dining room menus are available.
Read MoreGraduate Rock Bar, perched atop the Graduate Hotel in downtown East Lansing, is a stellar rooftop patio spot. Think panoramic views of MSU’s campus, Spartan Stadium, and the city skyline. With its craft cocktails, local beers, and light bites, Graduate Rock Bar delivers a relaxed yet stylish vibe perfect for sunsets or game day hangouts.
Read MoreGraham Vineyard is a family-owned winery offering wine tastings, hard cider, and wine by the glass. Visitors can enjoy pizza, sandwiches, charcuterie, and salads in a cozy tasting room or on the spacious outdoor patio with yard games and entertainment. The spot is both kid- and pet-friendly, making it ideal for family outings! Check ahead for current hours before you visit.
Read MoreHarrison Roadhouse in East Lansing just dropped its new summer burger menu, featuring out-of-this-world smash burgers that are big on flavor and perfectly crispy on the edges. Grab a spot on the patio, where you can toast marshmallows and make s’mores right at your table, a sweet way to celebrate summer with friends and family.
Read MoreHorrocks in Lansing offers the perfect blend of food, drinks, and atmosphere on its spacious beer garden patio. Sip a craft brew from nearly 50 taps, enjoy a snack from their market, and take in the laid-back vibes, often with live entertainment on nights and weekends. It’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike!
Read MoreSituated downtown in Lansing's Stadium District, LBC boasts a spacious outdoor area ideal for enjoying lawn games or cozying up by the large gas fire pit as the night falls. You might even catch the excitement of the crowd cheering after a fantastic play at nearby Jackson Field, home of the Lansing Lugnuts.
Read MoreChoose a bite from one of Lansing Shuffle’s unique eateries, grab a drink in a social district cup, and head to the riverfront patio for scenic views of the Grand River, River Trail, and downtown Lansing. Play a round of shuffleboard or catch live trivia, karaoke, and other weekly events.
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This patio is set back from the sidewalk in downtown DeWitt, a neighboring community of Lansing. You can truly feel the small-town atmosphere as families stroll by on their way to the nearby ice cream shop. The brewery is located inside an old, repurposed church.
Read MoreThis courtyard tucked away from the sidewalk in Old Town Lansing is the perfect spot for people-watching. Whether you're here for a festival, to shop or just to dine, you don't want to skip a visit to MEAT.
Read MoreOne North Kitchen and Bar is a casual dining restaurant featuring scratch cooking, craft beers, and cocktails, live entertainment and more. Both the Lansing and East Lansing locations offer patio seating, plus plenty of TVs for cheering on your favorite sports team.
Read MoreNestled on the banks of the Red Cedar River, the River House Inn features an outstanding menu and great drinks. The inn has a scenic outdoor patio and gazebo for the warmer months and features intimate dining and fireplaces inside.
Read MoreLooking for a fun and tropical Tiki experience? Then Summerlands is the place for you. This is a locally-owned craft beer and beverage establishment with great food options.
Read MoreThis Tuscan steakhouse offers a taste of Italy right here in Lansing! The patio provides ample seating for dinner and fire pits that make for a perfect evening enjoying a craft cocktail or two.
Read MoreThe food from The Cosmos and the large beer garden out back add up to a great outdoor experience. Meet up with some friends and order some cocktails, some duck fat fries to share (or not), or an artisan pizza, and let your cares slide away.
Read MorePhoto credits: Tom Gennara, James Lenon, Looking Glass Brewing, BAD Brewing Company, Zoobie's Old Town Tavern, River House Inn, MEAT Southern BBQ, The English Inn, and Choose Lansing. Big thanks to our #lovelansing community for their awesome imagery and social media posts.