A pit stop at Michigan's oldest bar, the New Hudson Inn
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The New Hudson Inn. Photos: Annalise Frank/Axios
The divey New Hudson Inn in western Oakland County claims to be the oldest bar in the state, and it's worth a visit for history buffs.
The big picture: The neighborhood spot with a rich history dating back to 1831 is known for its burgers, jovial atmosphere and popularity with the biker crowd.
- New Hudson's building is believed to have been a stop on the Underground Railroad, per Hometown Life.
The intrigue: A secret stairway was discovered when the bar got remodeled about a decade ago — along with other old artifacts and belongings like a hat, jacket and shoe that are all now on display, per WRIF and Hometown Life.
The vibe: On a recent Sunday afternoon stop, New Hudson was crowded with patrons chatting with each other and the friendly waitstaff, while college basketball echoed on TVs dotting the walls.
- Also on the wall: historical photographs and tributes to the business's aged status.
Flashback: Michiganders love their hospitality history. Sleder's Family Tavern considers itself the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Michigan, established in 1882.
- When it comes to Detroit bars, the Two Way Inn that dates back to 1876 is widely considered the oldest, though Nancy Whiskey (1902) and Abick's (1907) also rate in the booze-slinging archives.
- The National House Inn in Marshall is widely considered the state's oldest operating hotel, built in 1835.