How Detroit Bar Crawls Work

If you've never been on a Detroit bar crawl, you might wonder what actually happens between buying a ticket and last call. This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire experience so you know exactly what to expect. ## Step 1: Buy Your Ticket Detroit bar crawl tickets are sold online in advance. Most crawls start at $30 and include access to all participating venues, exclusive drink specials, and no cover charges. Popular crawls — especially holiday events like Halloween and St. Patrick's Day — sell out weeks ahead, so buy early. When you purchase, you'll receive a confirmation email with event details, the check-in location, and the check-in window. Some crawls also send a reminder 24–48 hours before the event. ## Step 2: Arrive at Check-In On the day of the crawl, arrive at the designated check-in location during the check-in window. This is usually 30 to 60 minutes before the official crawl start time. Check-in locations are typically a central bar or venue in the host neighborhood. At check-in, present your ticket (digital or printed) and your ID. You'll receive: - A wristband that grants you access to all participating venues - A route map with the full list of bars and their drink specials - Any included accessories (themed items for holiday crawls, drink tokens, etc.) ## Step 3: Start Crawling Once you're wristbanded, you're free to visit the participating bars at your own pace. Each venue will have a bartender or door staff who recognizes the wristband and grants you entry without a cover charge. Drink specials are available for the duration of the crawl — typically 4 to 6 hours. Specials often include $3–$5 domestic beers, well drinks, and select cocktails. Some venues also offer food specials. ## Step 4: Move Between Venues Detroit bar crawls are either walking-based (within a single neighborhood like Greektown or Corktown) or transportation-included (with a party bus, tuk tuk, or pedal pub connecting venues across neighborhoods). For walking crawls, the route map shows the order of venues and the walking distance between each — usually 1 to 3 blocks. For transportation crawls, the vehicle departs at scheduled times, so check the map for departure times. ## Step 5: Enjoy the Full Route The goal is to visit as many participating venues as you can. You don't have to stay at each bar for a set time — grab a drink, enjoy the vibe, and move on when you're ready. Most crawlers visit 4 to 6 venues over the course of the night. ## Step 6: Plan Your Ride Home When the crawl ends (usually around midnight or 1 AM), plan your safe ride home. Use rideshare, a designated driver, or the People Mover if you're in Downtown or Greektown. Never drink and drive. ## Frequently Asked Questions **Do I need to visit the bars in order?** No. The route map shows all participating venues, but you can visit them in any order. **Can I join late?** Check-in closes at the end of the check-in window. If you miss it, you may not be able to get your wristband. Arrive on time. **Are bar crawls 21+?** Yes. All Detroit bar crawls require a valid 21+ ID. **Can I bring a friend who didn't buy a ticket?** Your friend can join you at the bars, but they won't have a wristband and won't get the drink specials or skip the cover charge. Detroit bar crawls are designed to be easy, social, and fun. Buy your ticket, show up at check-in, and let the night unfold. Browse upcoming Detroit bar crawls and get your wristband.