Eastern Michigan University might not seem like a party compared to the nightlife around the University of Michigan, but you might be surprised by all of the options within walking distance from EMU’s campus.
Woodruff’s
Woodruff’s is an upbeat bar in Depot Town with pool tables, arcade games, a dance floor, seating inside and out and a fully stocked bar. Not to mention, it is owned by an EMU graduate, Hasan Mihyar.
When people think of Woodruff’s many of them think of manager and bartender Andy Garris. In a way, Garris could be considered the unofficial mascot. He has a thick dark mustache people notice right away and is extremely friendly.
Woodruff’s isn’t a huge bar, and it isn’t a venue that get’s packed either. Sometimes the bar area gets really busy, but both Mihyar and Garris chip in and help bartender Nina Chslaghi.
The drinks are never delayed and every customer is treated with with respect.
Aug. 28th is Garris’ 30th Birthday. Woodruff’s will be celebrating with the 5th annual Andyfest. The theme is Masquerade Boogie. Doors open at 8 p.m., and music starts at 9. Cover will be $5.
Sidetracks
A few doors down from Woodruff’s is Sidetracks. It has an extremely unique menu and is locally owned. You will find vegan as well as vegetarian options along with hamburgers to satisfy the meat eaters out there. Happy hour starts at 11 p.m. and ends at 1 a.m.; 25 oz beers are only $2.95, and all liquor is half off. Sidetracks is a long-time staple of Ypsilanti as well as EMU.
Aubree’s & Sticks
Across from Sidetracks there is Aubree’s, and above Aubree’s is Sticks (they are the same place, but some prices differ). They have amazing pizza, are pretty busy at night and serve alcohol.
Aubree’s has tables, and is more of a restaurant with trivia, while Sticks has pool tables, foosball, shuffleboard and music along with a bar. Sticks has different specials every day of the week, so look online or go to Depot Town to check it out.
Tower Inn
Across from Boone Hall on EMU’s campus is Tower Inn, which is not only a restaurant but also has a bar. With happy hour twice a day once from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., then again from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m. There are half off drinks as well as appetizers.
Brandi Bell, a creative writing major, loves Tower Inn, and not just because of their happy hour.
“They have awesome pizza, but I love their pesto chicken panini with chips, it’s my fav!”
Tower Inn also has a karaoke night, called Stoo’s Karaoke that takes place on Wednesdays.
“It is very very popular among EMU students who live on or around campus,” Sean O’Donohue, a Tower Inn employee and EMU student, said.
Abe’s Coney Island
O’Donohue also recommends Abe’s Coney Island.
“It has a really classy atmosphere and gourmet cuisine that I just can’t get enough of,” O’Donohue said.
Abe’s is a 24-hour Coney Island right across the street from the College of Business. They are also known for their amazing Hippy Hash, which is an omelet made with hash browns, and comes in different varieties. Abe’s is a great place to go when you need a study break late at night, especially at finals time.
Theo’s Bar & Grille
Theo’s Bar & Grille, located next to Tower Inn, is a typical college bar that has been around for over 29 years.
Mondays are Greek night, where fraternity and sorority members get in for $1; others 21 and up pay $5 while those under 21 are stuck paying $8. Wednesday is the only other day there is a cover charge, and it is a $1 for everyone.
Theo’s is known for its music and dance floor. They have main entrees as well as munchies and, of course, drinks.
Dom’s Bakery
Dom’s Bakery is a 24-hour bakery located off of Washtenaw. It is a few blocks away from campus, but if you are craving a doughnut, cookie or cupcake late at night Dom’s is the place to go. They are family owned and have amazing desserts. They don’t accept credit or debit though, so either have cash on you or be prepared to use the ATM inside the bakery.
Corner Brewery
Corner Brewery is what it sounds like, a brewery. It has an interesting selection of beers on tap depending on the season in addition to a full kitchen and snacks.
Recent EMU graduate Julian Weisensel describes Corner Brewery’s atmosphere as, “Welcoming to a really broad demographic. Three different generations of the same family would feel just as at home as any group of college students. It definitely caters to anyone who enjoys good beer.”
Ann Arbor’s downtown nightlife is bustling at first glance, but what you might not see right away in Ypsilanti might turn out to be a pleasant surprise.
