While the weather’s still nice, we’ll be saying “outside, please” when the hostess asks us our preference for seating. How could you not, with so many wonderful patios to choose from? But let’s take it to the next level — quite literally — by zeroing in on the best rooftop patios in the Ann Arbor area, including several in the heart of the city and others a reasonable drive away in neighboring communities.

These second-story patios are equipped with all of the amenities needed to enhance an already elevated dining experience, including shade umbrellas, twinkling lights, heaters, plants, and more. Not to mention, from this vantage point, you’ll get an uninterrupted view of surrounding scenery while you sip and snack!

 

The Circ Bar

210 South 1st Street, Ann Arbor

Established in 2018, The Circ Bar is a relatively new addition to Ann Arbor’s flourishing nightlife scene. But the building has been around for decades, and has undergone an extensive renovation with a modern, industrial-style feel. Part cocktail bar, part event venue, part restaurant, Circ has plenty of space to gather and mingle, both inside and outside — as it includes four unique bars, a rooftop deck, and a dreamy outdoor alley patio adorned with string lights. Situated just outside the second-story lounge with walls of windows, the rooftop deck is the only bar in Ann Arbor offering unobstructed views of the sunset!

 

Jolly Pumpkin

311 South Main Street, Ann Arbor

Founded by Ron Jeffries in 2004, Jolly Pumpkin began in Dexter and now operates pubs and tap houses in Dexter, Ann Arbor, Detroit, Traverse City, Royal Oak, Grand Rapids and Chicago. While each of their locations offers its own character and delicious menu, today we’re specifically highlighting their Ann Arbor location’s fabulous rooftop patio. Hidden from street view and complete with a plethora of shaded tables, this outdoor gem is a must-visit during summer. Here, you can escape the harsh sunlight and sip on their refreshing, oak-aged “Michigan wild” beers.

 

Palio Del Sole

347 South Main Street, Ann Arbor

A destination for gourmet Tuscan dishes in Ann Arbor since 1991, Palio is named for the famous horse race that runs yearly through Siena, Italy. Their authentic, country-style cuisine pairs with warm, rustic Italian decor inside. During the summer, you can grab a seat on Ann Arbor’s largest and most popular outdoor gathering spot: the rooftop patio, called Palio Del Sole! It offers the best view of Ann Arbor’s lively downtown and has its very own kitchen with a unique dining experience. The patio’s translucent awning keeps you cool in the spring and summer and heaters keep you warm in the fall and winter. Be sure to order their legendary sangria by the pitcher!

 

Casa Dominick’s

812 Monroe Street, Ann Arbor

To say Dominick’s is an Ann Arbor staple is an understatement. Since opening in 1960, this locally owned spot has been the go-to for locals, students and families looking for great food and drinks near campus. Dominick’s is famous for their potent sangria, their Italian-inspired eats, and of course, their massive second-story patio. Stop by on a warm day and bask in the sunlight on the patio (with one of their massive mason jars full of sangria). And if the upstairs patio is full, don’t worry — there’s another ground-level patio with picnic tables, a fountain, and plenty of shade.

 

Exchange Bar & Grill

157 East Main Street, Northville

The relatively new Exchange Bar & Grill is housed in a historic building in downtown Northville that has held a number of businesses over the years, including Poole’s Tavern, Getzie’s Pub, Little Joe’s Bar, and more. While maintaining the property’s original charm, Exchange went through some major renovations, including the recent addition of a new rooftop patio. This shaded space added nearly 50 additional seats and is the first of its kind in Northville. An additional bar was also added upstairs to serve the rooftop area with beer, wine and spirits — and even has a couple of TVs so you can keep an eye on the game. Don’t miss their famous Tavern Burger, considered the best in town!

 

Pinky’s Rooftop

100 South Main Street, Royal Oak

Those living northeast of Ann Arbor are within reach of Pinky’s in Royal Oak — an adorable cocktail bar with playful decor. The food menu is just as creative and enticing as its pink interior, featuring American small plates and a special rooftop brunch menu on the weekends. And their rooftop cocktail list has something to please every palate, including Pinky’s Ice Pops, where you can choose the popsicle flavor dipped in your base of choice: either rosé or prosecco. Surrounded by tropical plants all around, you’ll feel like you’re on vacation on this airy rooftop patio. And it is partially covered and heated for those cooler nights!

 

Raise the Roof!

What rooftop patios in the Ann Arbor area are you most excited to visit?