The Depot Town Social District allows visitors to enjoy alcoholic beverages within designated outdoor areas while exploring Depot Town. Participating bars and restaurants serve drinks in approved to-go cups, which may be carried throughout the social district and into select retail shops. Designed to enhance the Depot Town experience, the social district creates a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike—supporting local businesses and offering a unique way to experience one of Ypsilanti’s most historic neighborhoods.
Eligible licensed alcohol establishments are in the process of permitting with the City of Ypsilanti, and the State of Michigan. Launch date is to be determined, and subject to the permitting review process.
Depot Town Social District Map
Where Can I get A Social District Beverage?
As permits are awarded, this list will be updated.
rULES oF a sOCIAL dISTRICT
● Establishments can only serve to-go drinks in non-glass containers that do not exceed 16 ounces. To-go beverages must prominently display the logo of the establishment and the Depot Town Social District Logo.
● Beverages may only be served on premises of the liquor license, not in the common areas.
● Only alcohol purchased from participating establishments in the approved drinking cups may be consumed in the social district.
● Enjoy your drink responsibly within the marked social district.
● You may not enter another food or beverage establishment or its outdoor seating area with your to-go drink.
● You may not reuse your cup. Please dispose of your glass in the proper recycling receptacle prior to departing the district.
● All other alcohol serving laws apply.
Depot Town Social District operations and Maintenance plan
faq
Can I bring my drink into other stores?
Drinks must be consumed in the establishment it was purchased, or within the Commons Areas before entering another food service venue. However, you’re welcome to bring your drink into participating retail locations that permit it, as indicated by signage on their doors.
Can I bring an empty Social District cup into a business to reuse it?
No, Social District containers (cans or cups) can not be reused at any participating location. A new container must be used for each additional beverage purchased
Can I bring my own drink, pour it into a Social District cup, and walk around the area?
No, the only drinks allowed are those purchased from businesses participating in the Social District program. No outside drinks are permitted within the boundaries per State and local law.
Can I be drunk in public now?
No, being drunk in public is still an offense under MCL 750.1671 (E).
Signage fOR eNTERING/eXITING sOCIAL dISTRICT
sIGNAGE fOR eNTERING bUSINESSES
sOCIAL dISTRICT fACTS
As of September 2025, 144 municipalities have established Social Districts in the State of Michigan.
In Washtenaw County: Ann Arbor, Chelsea, Dexter, Manchester, Milan, and Saline have established Social Districts. Ypsilanti is the only City in Washtenaw County that does not have a Social District.
The Social District law does not have a sunset provision like, for example, the “Cocktails to Go” legislation which sunsets in 2025.
There are no communities in Michigan that have revoked their Social Districts for health and safety reasons.
-Grand Rapids reduced SD zones in 2021 because of conflicting licensing issues for events.