Downtown Gladstone is excited to introduce its new Social District, a vibrant, walkable area where patrons can enjoy adult beverages from licensed establishments outdoors in specially marked containers. Created in partnership with the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), the district supports local businesses and enhances downtown’s appeal year-round.
Participating Establishments
| (1) Saunders Point Brewing | (2) Wally's Bar | (3) Midd Bar & Lounge |
| 1000 Delta Ave, Gladstone, MI | 917 Delta Ave, Gladstone, MI | 903 Delta Ave, Gladstone, MI |
How it Works
- Order your drink from a participating business.
- Receive it in a specially marked 16 oz or smaller non-glass cup.
- Enjoy it within the designated commons areas.
- Dispose of containers responsibly—single-use cups only!
Understanding the Boundary
Social District Boundary: The social district designates areas where establishments with a Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) license and a Social District permit may sell beverages for outdoor consumption. The Gladstone Social District includes Delta Avenue and nearby streets, with commons areas such as sidewalks and the Farmers Market Square at 907 Delta Avenue. For special events, the area may temporarily expand into the event commons area.
Commons Areas: Commons areas are clearly marked spaces within the district where consumption may take place. These areas do not include the licensed premises themselves. Drinks must be consumed either in the establishment where purchased or within the designated commons areas, which include the sidewalks highlighted in blue on the map above and the Farmers Market Square at 907 Delta Avenue.
Event Commons Areas: For special events, the City Commission may approve an expanded event commons area, allowing social district beverages to be consumed within additional designated streets, including Delta Avenue and portions of 8th and 10th Streets, as shown on the map above.
Hours of Operation
The social district will operate year-round, with hours of operation detailed in the table below. After 10:00 PM, beverages may only be sold for consumption within the license holder’s service area and not in the district commons areas, per their liquor license.
| Sunday | 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
| Monday | 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
| Thursday | 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
| Friday | 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
| Saturday | 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
I have questions.
Awesome! We have answers!
Can I bring my own alcohol? - No. Only alcoholic beverages purchased from participating, licensed establishments within the Social District are allowed.
Can I take a drink from one bar or restaurant into another? - No. Beverages purchased from one licensed establishment cannot be brought into another. Drinks must remain in the outdoor common area or designated consumption zone.
How will I know where I can take my drink? - Look for clearly posted signage showing where the Social District begins and ends. You may also refer to the map provided on this page.
Can I take my Social District drink into retail shops or other businesses? - This depends on the business. Some may allow Social District drinks inside, while others may not. Please look for window decals or ask staff before entering.
Are open containers allowed outside of the Social District? - No. Open containers of alcohol are only permitted within the Social District boundaries. Taking a beverage outside the district may result in a citation.
Does this change the rules on public intoxication? - No. All standard public behavior laws still apply. Being visibly intoxicated or disorderly can result in removal from the district or legal action. Reporting such occurrences should be directed to law enforcement.
Who oversees safety and cleanliness in the Social District? - The City of Gladstone maintains the area through partnerships with the DDA, Public Safety, and local businesses to ensure safety, cleanliness, and compliance. Please use provided trash bins and report any violations or issues to Gladstone Public Safety or the DDA.
Report a Safety Concern
Please contact central dispatch at 911. Gladstone Public Safety can also be reached during regular business hours at (906) 428-3131.