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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Michigan's best

Performing arts

Made for those who want to pair their performing arts experience with a venue that feels genuinely cool.

Based on 518 Opinions
+515
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Updated May 2026
01
Small's image 1
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Small, intimate bar with an old school vibe and live music on a solid stage. Atmosphere stays lively and comfortable, drawing an interesting crowd that feels at ease. Layout includes a large concrete dance floor and a back patio for breaks away from the music.

Old school bar vibe with a stage that stands out. Security adds to the cool atmosphere that feels like sneaking into a rock bar.

Bands play in a comfortable and non-drama atmosphere. The space suits live music well.

People are saying

"This bar is a great place to see live music."

"The dance club has great people and a lively mix of music."

"I loved the live bands performing here."

Good to know

1

Small's hosts live music events regularly, featuring both local and national bands.

2

Cover charge is typically around $5 for entry on non-band nights.

3

Parking can be challenging due to ongoing construction in the area.

02
Aretha's Jazz Cafe image 1

Intimate jazz club with classy decor and historical ambiance honoring Detroit's jazz and soul legacy. Atmosphere stays relaxed and supportive, featuring excellent live jazz and a high-quality sound system. Space feels cozy and sometimes crowded, creating a close-up music experience.

A cool jazz club atmosphere sets the tone with top-notch service from bartenders and staff. Walls display Aretha memorabilia including some of her Grammys, adding to the vibe.

A rich musical vibe honors Detroit's jazz and soul legacy here. Jazz jams and live performances offer a fun and engaging experience, even when the playing isn't perfect.

People are saying

"You'll find awesome live jazz music and fun jam sessions here."

"Lady Vonne's tribute performance was a masterclass in elegance and emotion."

"It's a cool place with a great casual atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Jazz jam sessions occur every Sunday night, featuring various artists.

2

Food and drinks are reasonably priced, enhancing the overall experience.

3

A 20% service charge is automatically added to bills.

03
Gate Keeper Bar and Game Store image 1

Large gaming space combines medieval charm with a fully stocked bar and lounge area. Atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming, encouraging socializing and group play. Frequent events and a focus on Magic: The Gathering create a lively, community-driven vibe.

A cool atmosphere sets the tone with a chill area featuring a Nintendo Wii and a good selection of cards. The vibe stays relaxed and the people are friendly.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the bar and gaming area at this cool spot."

"It's a cool gaming store with a bar and lots of events."

"I found the performing arts here to be neat and interesting."

Good to know

1

The store hosts a variety of events, including open mic nights on Sundays.

2

Friday night magic events are popular and often crowded.

3

The store stays open until 1 AM, perfect for late-night gaming.

04
Nandi's Knowledge Cafe image 1

Spacious bookstore filled with African art and cultural artifacts creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. Music and live performances energize the space, attracting a crowd that values black culture and community engagement. The vibe shifts from relaxed daytime reading to lively nighttime events with poetry and dance.

Community-oriented atmosphere creates a cool vibe throughout the space. The spot feels welcoming and relaxed, making it a cool place to hang out.

Events offer a drama free space with friendly folks and good energy. This spot supports the craft without the usual drama found elsewhere.

People are saying

"It's a wonderful reading spot filled with books on various topics."

"The food here is great."

"I found the vibes here to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Thursday is open mic night featuring rap, singing, and poetry.

2

Friday is Twerk n RnB night, which is very entertaining.

3

Karaoke happens at night, transforming the cafe into a lively club atmosphere.

05
Cliff Bell's image 1
Jazz club

Historic jazz club with an Art Deco motif and wooden walls and ceilings creates a classy, elegant atmosphere that transports guests to the 1930s. Live jazz music fills the space with fantastic performances that define the vibe. The venue combines charm and rich history with a focus on music and ambiance.

Cozy, cool vibe fills the jazz bar with an unforgettable atmosphere. The band trio's music adds to the overall cool experience and look.

Live performances by Tariq Gardner and Evening Star offer an inspirational musical spotlight that captures attention fully.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really good."

"The atmosphere here is so cool, with soulful music and a great energy."

"I thought this historic jazz venue was a must-visit spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the venue fills up quickly.

2

Expect a $75 cover charge for events, which may be added to your tab.

3

The jazz performances typically last about an hour.

06
Sid Goldโ€™s Request Room image 1

Live piano karaoke creates an electric atmosphere with a speakeasy vibe and vintage decor reminiscent of the 1930s. The small, dimly lit space fills with a welcoming crowd that mixes experienced and novice singers, making it lively yet intimate.

U-shaped bar with eclectic decor sets a unique tone. The cool vibe shines through with attentive bartenders and a fun karaoke scene.

A fantastic piano player performs with a wide range, matching almost any song sung. The music keeps flowing with a great selection of songs and non-stop play.

People are saying

"The karaoke here is fantastic, especially with the piano accompaniment."

"You can join the singing along with the piano player."

"I found the atmosphere and vibe here to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to access the karaoke section, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a two-hour limit on reservations with a minimum drink purchase.

3

Karaoke sessions start late, so arrive before 1am to participate.

07
The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre image 1

Outdoor amphitheater sits right on the riverfront with beautiful water views and intimate seating. Music carries clearly across the venue, creating a peaceful yet engaging atmosphere. Family-friendly features like a sandbox and outdoor instruments add to the relaxed vibe.

Seating stays extremely clean and the venue feels very cool and unique. Views include water and boats, adding to the cool atmosphere.

Musical events feature great entertainment and a beautiful theater with a clean, comfortable atmosphere.

People are saying

"The view of the Detroit River and the water was spectacular."

"I thought the concerts and shows here were amazing."

"The performing arts sound is crystal-clear, and every note rings out perfectly."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially during large events with 5,000 attendees.

2

Restroom facilities may not be accessible for handicapped individuals.

3

Food and drink prices are high; expect to pay around $38 for a small snack and drinks.

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