When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Circus Bar & Billiards
Why Circus Bar & Billiards is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Circus Bar & Billiards is a dynamic and inviting establishment that offers a great environment for friends to meet up and enjoy a variety of entertainment options. With its blend of a lively bar atmosphere, billiards tables, and a karaoke stage, it caters to those looking for both social interaction and engaging activities. The venue's dim lighting combined with friendly staff and affordable drinks make it an appealing spot for casual nights out. Its spacious billiards room allows multiple groups to play pool comfortably while the karaoke stage invites patrons to showcase their talents or simply enjoy live entertainment. This combination of features makes Circus Bar & Billiards a versatile hangout spot that accommodates different tastes and moods. Whether you’re looking to relax over a drink, challenge friends to a game of billiards, or sing your favorite songs, this bar creates an inclusive and entertaining setting perfect for social gatherings. In addition, the bar's reasonable prices and energetic vibe contribute to a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeated visits and group celebrations.
Here's what people think of Circus Bar & Billiards
As of recent, Circus Bar & Billiards holds a 3.6-star rating based on 84 reviews.
User reviews of Circus Bar & Billiards reveal a generally enjoyable experience with a 3.6-star rating based on 84 reviews. Many reviewers appreciate the bar's fun atmosphere, highlighting the good karaoke setup, lively music, and the spacious billiards area as key positives. Patrons find the drinks affordable, the staff friendly, and the overall vibe conducive to a fun night out with friends. The combination of pool tables and a karaoke stage offers a unique entertainment mix that many guests have enjoyed. However, some negative feedback points to the dim lighting as a drawback, possibly making the ambiance feel too dark for certain visitors. A few reviews mention issues with noise levels or occasional crowding that detracts from comfort. Other criticisms include the bar occasionally feeling a bit dated or lacking variety in food options, which some patrons hoped would be improved. Despite these concerns, many guests conclude that Circus Bar & Billiards remains a solid choice for casual socializing and entertainment in a relaxed setting. Overall, the positive aspects like affordable drinks, entertainment variety, and personable staff outweigh the negatives, making it a recommended venue for groups looking to unwind and have fun together.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mohamad Omais
This is the WORST bar in all of Ann Arbor. Do not go there even if its your last resort, go home instead. We had this place reserved for a private party. As I arrived around 10:30 (quite early) we were told the place was over capacity (even though texting my friends inside the place was not). Came back around 11:30 and was trying to get in the main bottom entrance (no line) the bouncer said that we had to go through the street entrance (there is no street entrance). So we knocked on the back door and the bouncer was like I cant let you in because you need wrist band from the bottom entrance, after explaining the situation he said we should try again and this haggling back/forth kept going for a couple times until we decided this place seriously wasn't worth it. Also, I never heard of anyone going to this place unless it was for a specific event. the current 2.4 stars is actually generous.
Aru Sau
The best karaoke in town. Cheap beers. They've got some real deal going on Wednesday. During Halloween, they had 4 dance floors with one live band. You won't find a New York night club style sound, interior but they don't charge NYC's price as well. Hands down, I'm a fan.
Brianna Beardsley
I really want to love this place, but have had many mixed experiences, and the negative are currently out-weighing the positive. Be careful; the bartenders are ruthless and will actively attempt to overcharge or not give you change if they think you are too drunk to notice or care. It has happened multiple times to me and friends. I was even double charged (I paid my tab in person in cash and was still charged on my credit card despite not having authorized or signed anything). The cheap drinks, free pool and karaoke are awesome... but it's heartbreaking to feel like I cannot trust the staff to do right by their customers.
Matthew Stone
Goodbye circus! You have been a wonderful place to hang at. I wish I knew how good the cavern club was 5 years ago. This place is way more than just the circus. It has 4 different clubs and bars in the building, which on certain nights you can go to all of them for one cover. The basement is the cavern club, with a fireplace and nice bar. Top is the circus, with all the lion's, clowns, and karaoke you can find. I'll miss this place.
Diana Everitt
I went to the circus and there was a girl vomiting outside the steps, stuff like that happens at other bars too.... but I then watched the bouncers PUSH her down a full flight of steps, mid vomit, and yell at her. On top of that, the circus has 2 signs for a credit card minimum. One sign says $10 and the other says $20. I asked the bar tender which sign was right, and she said $10. After i checked my credit card statement i was charged $20 even though i only spent around $15-17. I called the Circus to ask them about this and the manager said "i can't be bothered with this for that amount of money" i told him i could dispute the charges with my credit card company and at that point he yelled "then don't come back" and hung up the phone. I know it's only a few bucks, but that doesn't make it OK. I will not be going here again.
How to reach Circus Bar & Billiards
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Why Circus Bar & Billiards may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Circus Bar & Billiards with your friends? If you are looking for a relaxed yet entertaining spot to hang out, Circus Bar & Billiards offers the perfect blend of ambiance, activities, and social vibe to make your gathering memorable. This welcoming hole-in-the-wall dive bar embraces an inclusive atmosphere where everyone from casual drinkers to game lovers can connect. Friendly staff, affordable drinks, and a dedicated space for billiards create a comfortable environment encouraging laughter, friendly competition, and good times. Whether it’s a casual night out or a special meetup, this place brings friends together with its casual charm and laid-back vibe that makes it easy to chat, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company without pretense. The big karaoke stage also offers a chance for you and your friends to be the star of the night, adding an extra layer of fun that goes beyond your average bar scene. With all these assets, Circus Bar & Billiards is a natural rallying point to refresh your friendships and make unforgettable memories.
What activities can you enjoy at Circus Bar & Billiards? The centerpiece of this venue is clearly its large billiards room, which offers ample tables and space for groups to compete or casually play pool together. Billiards is not only a fun and engaging game but also a great icebreaker for groups to bond over friendly matches. Alongside billiards, the bar features a substantial karaoke stage that invites vocal enthusiasts and shy singers alike to grab the mic and entertain their peers. Karaoke nights provide a unique opportunity for groups to share unforgettable laughs and cheer each other on, adding a communal spirit to your meetup. The bar itself serves a variety of affordable drinks, including beers and cocktails, enabling guests to enjoy their favorites without worrying about overspending. The dimly lit, casual setting enhances the vibe, creating an inviting space where your group can relax, talk, and soak in the lively atmosphere without feeling rushed or crowded. Together, these activities keep the energy vibrant and ensure that every member of your group can find something enjoyable.
Why is Circus Bar & Billiards perfect for a group meetup? The venue’s design naturally supports larger groups by combining social spaces with entertainment areas, allowing your party to spread out and engage in different ways without losing the communal spirit. The billiards room doubles as a social hub where conversation moves fluidly alongside the game, making it ideal for both casual get-togethers and competitive challenges. Likewise, the karaoke area encourages group participation while also providing a stage for individuals to shine, fostering a mix of group camaraderie and personal expression. Staff at Circus Bar & Billiards are noted for their friendliness and attentiveness, which means your group can expect good service that keeps the evening running smoothly and supports a hassle-free experience. The bar also prides itself on reasonably priced drinks, helping groups stay within budget while still having a great time. The overall atmosphere—unpretentious, welcoming, and fun—ensures that groups of friends or family feel at ease from the moment they arrive until the last song is sung or game is finished.
What makes the food and drink options stand out for social gatherings? While primarily known for its drinks and entertainment, Circus Bar & Billiards complements the experience with food offerings that satisfy without overshadowing the main activities. Menu items are designed to be easy to share and snack on between games of pool or songs, making them perfect for groups who want to eat while staying engaged in fun. The drinks menu features a variety of budget-friendly options, from cold beers to mixed cocktails, that accommodate different tastes and preferences within your group. This inclusive drink selection ensures that everyone can find something enjoyable, making the bar a one-stop spot for food, fun, and socializing. Importantly, the pricing of these offerings makes it feasible for larger groups to gather without the concern of steep tabs, enhancing accessibility for wide circles of friends and family. The combination of tasty food, affordable drinks, and an energetic social scene rounds out the package to create a winning formula for group meetups.
How does the ambiance contribute to a great meetup experience? Circus Bar & Billiards strikes the right balance between lively entertainment and a laid-back, dive-bar vibe. Its dim lighting and rustic decor create a cozy atmosphere that encourages relaxation and open conversation among friends. The space feels unpretentious, which removes social barriers and allows guests to be themselves comfortably. Music and karaoke add a dynamic layer without overwhelming the space, letting conversation flow easily even as the night energizes around you. The friendly staff and regular patrons contribute to a welcoming community feel that enhances the social fabric of your gathering. The bar’s reputation as a “fun little bar” with a lively scene means your group can count on an environment that is both entertaining and intimate, ideal for deepening connections or simply unwinding together after a busy day. This ambiance makes it easy to settle in, have fun, and make the most out of every moment with your group.
Why do visitors give Circus Bar & Billiards a 3.6 rating, and what can you expect? With an overall rating of 3.6 from 84 reviews, Circus Bar & Billiards presents itself as a popular but no-frills spot that appeals to a dedicated crowd. Some visitors praise its inexpensive drinks, large billiards room, and lively karaoke nights, appreciating the friendly staff and relaxed vibe. However, the mid-range rating also indicates there may be occasional critiques regarding service speed, space, or the dive-bar atmosphere depending on personal preference. This mix is common for casual neighborhood bars that focus more on creating a fun, unpretentious environment rather than upscale experiences. For groups looking for a simple, budget-friendly meetup place where the focus is on socializing and entertainment, Circus Bar offers solid value and a welcoming spirit. People frequent it for its authenticity, community feel, and the familiar warmth that only a beloved local bar can provide, making it a reliable choice for casual gatherings.
What kind of group sizes and occasions suit Circus Bar & Billiards best? This venue is well-suited for medium-sized groups looking for a place to socialize, play games, and enjoy a night out without the formality of a large club or restaurant. Groups of friends celebrating casual weekends, birthday parties, or after-work meetups will find the space’s blend of pool tables and karaoke stage perfect for varied entertainment styles. While it is not a sprawling event hall, the layout allows groups to spread out comfortably for both interactive activities and quieter conversations. The informal setting means it attracts a diverse crowd, so groups looking to mix socialization with some people-watching or mingling with others will enjoy the vibe. Whether planning a lively night with drinks and games or just a relaxed evening catching up, the bar’s atmosphere and facilities cater well to many social occasions, making it a versatile meetup spot.
What should guests know before visiting Circus Bar & Billiards? Visitors should be prepared for a dive bar vibe that emphasizes fun and friendliness over luxury or extravagant design. The dim lighting and casual decor set a mood that is comfortable and welcoming but may not suit those expecting an upscale or trendy experience. Since it is a popular local spot, it can get busy on weekend nights, especially when karaoke is in full swing, so arriving early or making plans with your group can help secure space. While food and drink prices are reasonable, it’s wise to bring cash or be prepared for standard bar transaction methods. The staff’s reputation for friendly service means your group’s needs will usually be well handled, but as with any lively bar, patience can enhance the overall experience. Finally, guests can look forward to an authentic, lively atmosphere where the focus stays on good times with good company rather than anything flashy or formal.
In summary, Circus Bar & Billiards is an excellent venue for groups seeking a laid-back, engaging environment where entertainment like billiards and karaoke meets affordable drinks and friendly faces. Its natural social spaces and diverse activities make it easy to rally friends or family for a truly enjoyable meetup. The combination of its dive-bar charm, welcoming staff, and range of group-friendly features positions it as a standout choice for casual gatherings in Ann Arbor. Whether you want to compete over pool, sing your heart out on stage, or simply relax with cold drinks amid good company, Circus Bar & Billiards provides a well-rounded, welcoming experience that keeps people coming back again and again.