Here's something entirely different this weekend -- a pedal-powered pub crawl. See if the description makes you say "go" or "no."
"Experience Detroit's most interesting and notorious bars, watering holes and breweries by bike," says the first blurb at a site for Motor City Gears and Beers, which describes Saturday's four-hour rolling tour. "Enjoy a variety of limited beer samples along the way."
It's unclear which are the "notorious" stops along the drink-and-ride trail through Corktown, Midtown (aka Cass Corridor), Greektown, Eastern Market and the Dequindre Cut, but here's what is known about the first-time event:
- Distance: 10, 15 or 25 miles.
- Hours: 1-5 p.m. After-party from 5-8 p.m. at Robert's Riverwalk Hotel.
- Refreshment: "Stops at numerous bars offering water, food specials and limited beer sampling along the way. Guests will receive sample vouchers valid for no more than 24 ounces while riding. . . . Each venue will also offer food and drink specials if you are pacing yourself and looking to reload and refresh along the way."
- Base: Warehouse district near the riverfront. Parking available for $5 for the day.
- Cost: $70, plus $5 "convenience fee" if bought online here.
At Crain's, Anjana Schroeder says these are among participating sites:
- Andrews on the Corner in the historic warehouse district
- The Old Miami in the Cass Corridor
- Green Dot Stables and Nancy Whiskey in Corktown
- Thomas Magee’s Sporting House Whiskey Bar in Eastern Market
Schroder quotes an organizer:
“We are thrilled to launch the first Motor City Gears and Beers and look forward to sharing many of the unique features Detroit has to offer,” said Regina Stocco, founder of The Social Connection. “Many of our destinations have survived the many years of economic challenges and we are proud to reintroduce many of these charming gems on this inaugural ride.” . . .
A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy.
Bikes and beers are two of our favorite things, though not necessarily together. Actually, when bikers talk about draft during a ride, they typically usually mean letting a lead rider reduce wind resistance -- not amber beverages from taps.
We hope this phrase doesn't also gain dual meanings during Gears and Beers: bottoms up.
