Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Grand Rapids East, MI

Eastown's version of a neighborhood watering hole, this dive offers a dark, cozy setting no matter the time of day. Rub...

Eastown's version of a neighborhood watering hole, this dive offers a dark, cozy setting no matter the time of day. Rub shoulders with locals at the spacious rectangular bar, enjoy a game on the tube and a few cold beers, or just wriggle your way into one of the snug booths with a newspaper and catch up on current events. The dark paneled walls are littered with beer-related posters and sports souvenirs of all types. A small games area (which appears deceptively large thanks to a 15-plus foot ceiling) in the rear of the building offers an additional option with its pool table and video games.

Hours: Mon-Fri 3pm-2am; Sat-Sun Noon-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express

DOWNTOWN. Few downtown bars offer the unique mix of casual atmosphere and upscale setting that J. Gardella's,...

DOWNTOWN. Few downtown bars offer the unique mix of casual atmosphere and upscale setting that J. Gardella's, fortunately, manages to pull off. This multi-level nightspot, located in a beautifully restored building less than a block from Van Andel Arena, is often packed with members of the young professional crowd, who enjoy sipping imported beers and martinis in a cozy setting of exposed brick walls, wood trim, high ceilings, antique bars, and dark hardwood flooring. The fabulous menu is a big hit with families, and there are few souls who can resist the kitchen's massive burgers and homemade potato chips.

Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-2am; Sat 4pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express

DOWNTOWN. Likely one of the few places in town where you'll find Guinness Stout on tap and Jameson Whiskey behind the...

DOWNTOWN. Likely one of the few places in town where you'll find Guinness Stout on tap and Jameson Whiskey behind the counter, this Pearl Street staple brandishes the quintessential "pub look" ­ dark-stained trimwork and furniture, a beautiful antique bar, and cozy wooden booths. Add to the mix their unique menu, which features such staples as smelt fries, Irish stew, corned beef and cabbage, and fish-n-chips, as well as a variety of more Americanized bar standards like sandwiches, salads, and soups. Flanagan's features live local bands four nights a week.

Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-2am; Sat Noon-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express , Diner's Club

WAREHOUSE DISTRICT. A short distance from Grand Rapids' downtown scene, this beautiful brew pub is popular not only as...

WAREHOUSE DISTRICT. A short distance from Grand Rapids' downtown scene, this beautiful brew pub is popular not only as an upscale place to toss back a few hand-crafted ales and lagers but also as a terrific dinnertime destination ­ rumor has it their barbecue is unmatched. Located in the historic Wolverine Brass Building (circa 1904), the Founders Taproom sports weathered brick walls, dark-stained oak columns and trimwork, and exposed brickwork, showcasing some of the structure's original architectural integrity and style. Enjoy live local bands or just watching the brewing process as you sip on a frosty mug of Founders IPA, Weizenbeer, or Porter. Founders Taproom also features a pool table for those wanting to work off a few calories with some "moderate exercise."

Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-2am; Sun 3pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express