New Hudson Inn
New Hudson, Michigan · Westward Expansion · Est. 1831 · Open today
Since 1831
The New Hudson Inn dates itself to 1831, when it originated as a stagecoach rest stop — originally called the 'Old Tavern' — serving travelers moving between Detroit and Lansing. It sits on Grand River Avenue in New Hudson, between Brighton and Novi just off I-96. A hidden room above the main floor, viewable today, is said to have sheltered escaped slaves traveling the Underground Railroad; a secret stairway was discovered during a remodel about a decade ago, along with artifacts including a hat, jacket, and shoe now on display. It continues to operate as a bar with handcrafted burgers, a wide beer selection, and near-nightly live music.
A remodel roughly a decade ago uncovered a secret stairway to a hidden upstairs room said (per local lore) to have sheltered freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad — artifacts found there are on display in the bar.
What to order: Handcrafted burgers via its build-your-own burger bar, plus a wide selection of beer and ale.
How solid is the claim?
Michigan’s oldest bar — the evidence
New Hudson Inn in New Hudson is our featured pick for the oldest bar in Michigan, with a claimed founding year of 1831. Widely cited (Axios Detroit, Michigan media) as Michigan's oldest bar, but the 1831 date rests largely on the bar's own claim without published documentation, and the State of Michigan has recognized the Old Tavern Inn in Niles (1835) as the state's oldest business still operating in its original building — a credible rival claim.
Competing Claims
Other Michigan establishments with a stake in the title: