When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Blue Front Ann Arbor
Why Blue Front Ann Arbor is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Blue Front Ann Arbor is a beloved and historic craft beer and wine store that has been a cornerstone of the Ann Arbor community since 1922. Located at 701 Packard Street, it offers an extensive selection of over 1000 beers and ciders and around 200 wines, catering to everyone from casual drinkers to seasoned connoisseurs. What sets Blue Front apart is its commitment to being more than a store—it serves as a knowledgeable guide for customers, with staff that are friendly and well-versed in beverages to help patrons discover new favorites. The store continually refreshes its offerings, introducing new products weekly, making every visit an opportunity to explore something unique. It boasts long hours, staying open late into the night, especially on weekends and football Saturdays, which adds to its appeal as a lively community meeting spot. Renovated recently under new ownership, the store upholds its tradition while modernizing its approach, making it a great place for friends to gather, share tastes, and enjoy the convivial atmosphere around craft beverages.
Here's what people think of Blue Front Ann Arbor
As of recent, Blue Front Ann Arbor holds a 4.7-star rating based on 165 reviews.
Customer reviews of Blue Front Ann Arbor are overwhelmingly positive, reflected in its strong 4.7-star rating from 165 reviews. Many reviewers highlight the store’s wide selection, noting the impressive variety of beers, ciders, and wines available. The staff’s expertise and friendly service receive frequent praise, with customers appreciating personalized recommendations and the helpful guidance they provide. The atmosphere is described as welcoming and unpretentious, reinforcing Blue Front’s role as a community hub. Positive reviews also comment on the regular introduction of new and interesting products, which keeps the experience fresh and engaging for returning visitors. On the other hand, some negative feedback mentions occasional inconsistencies in stock availability and higher prices on certain items compared to larger retailers. A few reviewers also note the store’s layout can feel a bit cramped due to its historic building structure. Nonetheless, these issues are relatively minor compared to the overall satisfaction expressed by customers. In conclusion, Blue Front Ann Arbor enjoys a strong reputation for its historic charm, extensive selection, and dedicated customer service, making it a favored destination for both locals and visitors seeking quality craft beer and wine.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Alexa Wester
Great selection of craft beer and wine. Knowledgeable and friendly staff. Highly recommend!
James Diamond
Other then whooping Kissel in Mario Kart. It has to be noted. Great selection of Craft beer and domestic beers, wine and snacks
Mark Hanss
I didn't catch his name, but the long haired guy running the store Sunday night was a great salesmen and rep for the business. Will definitely be back and already passed on the recommendation to friends. Great selection of hard to find international and domestic micros and macros, as well as the usual macros. Prices seem reasonable and staff is willing to break up four and six packs which is a huge kindness, especially when you're rarely having others over due to COVID. There are also small size options of Belgians that I've only ever seen in the large bottle stateside. Just a heads up, Athletic Brewing Company lists you guys as a "bar/restaurant" on their website vendor guide, not in their "store" category.
Aislinn C
Great place to buy beer, wine, and ciders. Staff is really knowledgeable and helpful. I was looking for a variety pack to get my friend for his birthday and Erik was the best. He helped me pick out a few new beers and some tried and true brews. Really took pride and knew his stuff. Bonus - they sometimes have a very cute bulldog manning the till. Highly recommend stopping by and checking out this place.
Brett Borsvold
Very good selection of Michigan and other craft beer. I especially love the Belgian options too! If you're really lucky, you can toss a game of darts with the owner.
How to reach Blue Front Ann Arbor
None
Website: None
Why Blue Front Ann Arbor may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Blue Front Ann Arbor with your friends?
When planning a meetup with friends or family, finding a spot that blends a welcoming atmosphere with diverse activities can transform an ordinary gathering into a memorable occasion. Blue Front Ann Arbor is the perfect destination for such social occasions. Established in 1922, this iconic craft beer and wine store in Ann Arbor carries a legacy of being a community hub where beverage lovers come together. It isn’t merely a store; it’s a place where the spirit of camaraderie and discovery thrives. With a staggering selection of over 1000 beers and ciders and 200 wines, Blue Front provides a unique environment for socializing, sampling, and sharing new tastes. This vast variety ensures there is genuinely something to satisfy every palate, from those just beginning to explore craft beverages to seasoned connoisseurs.
The knowledgeable and friendly staff enhance the experience by guiding your group through their extensive inventory, making it easier to find rare brews or crowd favorites, fostering a sense of shared adventure. Moreover, Blue Front’s long hours, including late-night availability on weekends, offer flexibility that suits any group’s schedule. Whether it’s a casual afternoon rendezvous or a lively evening gathering, the venue offers an inviting setting where friendships are strengthened over the clink of bottles and the joy of discovery. Blue Front Ann Arbor is more than a store; it’s a vibrant local landmark ideal for what matters most—gathering, connecting, and enjoying life with your circle of friends or family.
What kind of activities can you enjoy at Blue Front Ann Arbor?
Blue Front Ann Arbor offers numerous activities that make it an exceptional venue for group meetups beyond just shopping for drinks. One of the highlights is their free tasting sessions held twice weekly, which invite guests to explore different beers and ciders by sampling before purchasing. These tastings provide a lively chance for groups to interact, share opinions, and discover new favorites together in a relaxed social setting. This interactive experience turns an average shopping trip into an educational and enjoyable outing, perfect for bonding over the nuances of craft beverages.
Additionally, the shop regularly introduces new products every week, meaning every visit carries the potential for fresh discoveries. This dynamic inventory keeps the atmosphere exciting and invites groups to form traditions such as monthly visits to try newly arrived selections. The knowledgeable staff regularly host these tastings and are always available to provide personalized recommendations, turning the shopping experience into a true guided tour through the world of craft beer and wine. For groups, these activities promote discussion, laughter, and shared memories around the joy of tasting and learning, making Blue Front a social venue as much as a retail store.
Why is Blue Front Ann Arbor ideal for a group meetup?
Several factors make Blue Front Ann Arbor an outstanding choice for hosting a group meetup. First, the location itself stands at a prominent and easily accessible intersection of Packard, State, and Arbor streets in Ann Arbor, making it convenient for locals and visitors alike to assemble. The venue’s historic significance—operating continuously since 1922—adds a charming and unique backdrop for meetings, connecting guests to a rich local heritage. This adds a layer of meaning and authenticity to any gathering, enhancing the group experience.
Inside, the spacious but cozy atmosphere lends itself well to mingling. Groups can comfortably browse the shelves filled with a massive selection of over 1000 beers and ciders and 200 wines, enabling everyone to find something suited to their taste. The friendly and highly knowledgeable staff provide personalized service and help facilitate choices quickly, minimizing wait time and maximizing enjoyment. The store’s hours, which extend late into the night on Thursdays through Saturdays, offer groups the flexibility to plan late meetups without concern for rushing. Additionally, the venue supports local breweries and artisanal products, which creates a sense of community that groups can feel proud to support together. Blue Front Ann Arbor isn’t just a place to buy drinks—it’s a destination that fosters connection and shared enjoyment.
What makes the beverage selection at Blue Front Ann Arbor so special for groups?
Blue Front excels in offering an unparalleled selection of craft beer, cider, and wine — a critical factor for any group looking to share diverse tastes and preferences. Boasting over 1000 different beers and ciders and 200 wines, the selection covers a broad spectrum of styles, origins, and flavor profiles. This allows groups with varied tastes to find their perfect beverage under one roof, creating a more inclusive and satisfying meetup experience. Whether your group prefers hoppy IPAs, crisp lagers, robust stouts, refreshing ciders, or rich reds and whites, Blue Front has you covered.
Moreover, the store regularly adds new products weekly, ensuring that there is always something novel for groups to explore together. This constant rotation transforms each visit into an exciting opportunity for discovery. The staff’s depth of knowledge allows them to recommend hidden gems and popular picks alike, tailoring suggestions to each group’s preferences. This expert guidance enhances the tasting and sharing experience by encouraging members to step outside their usual comfort zones and enjoy new favorites together. The impressive breadth and dynamic inventory make Blue Front a vibrant playground for any group eager to explore the world of craft beverages.
Are there special community or cultural aspects that enrich meetups at Blue Front Ann Arbor?
Yes, the historic and community-driven nature of Blue Front Ann Arbor dramatically enriches the meetup experience. Established in 1922, the location has served as a beloved neighborhood fixture for generations, and its survival through many decades reflects its deep-rooted connection to the Ann Arbor community. This history creates a sense of nostalgia and belonging for locals and newcomers alike. The current ownership embraces this heritage while adapting to contemporary craft beverage trends, making Blue Front a living bridge between tradition and modernity.
Supporting local breweries and artisans is a core part of Blue Front’s mission, which resonates with patrons who value community sustainability and craft culture. By hosting weekly introductions of new local and regional brews, the venue not only supports the craft scene but fosters a collective identity among its visitors. For groups, this means your meetup doubles as a celebration of local creativity and community spirit. Knowing your gathering supports small producers and keeps a historic local business thriving adds a meaningful dimension to the socializing. Blue Front Ann Arbor thus combines the pleasures of great beer and wine with a unique and inviting community atmosphere.
How does the staff contribute to a great group meetup experience at Blue Front Ann Arbor?
The staff at Blue Front Ann Arbor are a key element in making this venue ideal for group meetups. Described consistently as friendly, approachable, and highly knowledgeable, the team acts as excellent guides through what might otherwise be an overwhelming selection of drinks. Their ability to offer personalized recommendations ensures that each group member finds beverages suited to their individual tastes, which helps create a cohesive and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Furthermore, the staff’s enthusiasm and passion for craft beers and wines add warmth and engagement to any visit. They facilitate tastings and conversations around beverages, encouraging group members to ask questions and share opinions. This interaction fosters a lively, educational, and social environment, ideal for making any meetup more memorable. Their commitment to customer service extends to accommodating group needs with patience and flexibility, whether it’s helping plan purchases for a party or organizing tastings. The staff turn what could be a typical retail visit into an interactive and personal experience that elevates group gatherings.
What are the operating hours and facilities like for groups at Blue Front Ann Arbor?
Blue Front Ann Arbor offers generous hours that meet the needs of diverse schedules, perfect for flexible group meetups. The store is open daily with extended hours Thursday through Saturday, staying open until 2:00 am, which is exceptional for a craft beer and wine store. These late hours give groups the ability to plan both casual daytime visits and lively evening events without feeling rushed. Opening early at 11:00 am most days provides a comfortable window for midday socializing or after-work gatherings.
The store’s location at the triangle formed by Packard, State, and Arbor streets is well-known, accessible, and surrounded by other shops and eateries, making it easy to combine your visit with meals or other activities. Although primarily a retail space, Blue Front encourages a relaxed pace for tastings and exploration, supporting groups that want to absorb the selection and share insights comfortably. The combination of convenient location, accommodating hours, and a conducive environment all contribute to making Blue Front Ann Arbor a great choice for groups looking to host meetups centered on craft beer and wine culture.
How does Blue Front Ann Arbor’s history and culture enhance group meetups?
Rooted in Ann Arbor since 1922, Blue Front is more than just a place to buy beverages—it is a storied landmark embedded in the city’s social fabric. Its long history, transitioning from a cigar and newsstand store to a premier craft beer and wine shop, imbues it with an authentic character that modern establishments often lack. This history enriches group meetups by providing a tangible connection to the city’s past and its evolving tastes. Visitors can experience a sense of stepping into a place that has been a silent witness to generations of community life.
This evolving legacy is actively maintained by the current owner Robert Vogt IV, who revived the venue with renovations and a renewed focus on craft beverages, ensuring that Blue Front remains both a historical icon and a contemporary hotspot. Group meetups here benefit from this dual identity, combining the charm of a heritage site with the excitement of new, curated craft beer and wine selections. This blend of tradition and innovation adds an intangible but powerful quality to gatherings, making them feel special and rooted in local culture. Blue Front Ann Arbor is a place where shared history and shared drinks come together to create memorable group experiences.