The Livery

Imagine a place where century-old history meets the modern art of brewing. That is exactly what The Livery is—a unique craft brewery and restaurant located in the heart of Benton Harbor. The establishment occupies a beautifully restored brick building that was once the Palace Livery stable, built in the early 20th century.

Since its opening in 2005, this spot has become a true engine for the cultural rebirth of the Arts District. As the first craft brewery in the southwest region of the USA (Michigan), The Livery offers guests more than just drinks—it's a full cultural experience combining industrial heritage, home-style cooking, and live music.

Visitors are drawn here by the authentic atmosphere: high ceilings, exposed brickwork, and the spirit of the old town. This is not just a bar, but a vital community space where locals and tourists alike gather to connect with the region's history over a glass of excellent ale or lager.

For those planning a visit, current contact information is provided below. It is recommended to check table availability in advance, especially on concert nights.

The main reason to visit The Livery is, of course, to taste the craft beer brewed right on-site. The brewery is famous for its variety: from light fruit lagers like Red Canoe to rich honey ales like Rusty Ale. If you stop by on a hot day, be sure to try the refreshing Bier Monroe on the outdoor patio.

In addition to drinks, the establishment offers an excellent menu of home-style food. Regulars particularly recommend the signature pizza and traditional pretzels served with beer cheese and mustard. The space is divided into two zones: a cozy pub on the lower floor where life buzzes at the bar, and a spacious upper floor with a balcony and stage, perfect for larger groups.

History buffs should take note of the interior—the original horse elevator has been preserved, serving as a reminder of the building's past. And if your visit falls on a Friday or Saturday evening, you'll likely catch a performance by local musicians. Additionally, the brewery supports a culture of sharing and is happy to fill "growlers" (reusable containers) with beer from other producers, highlighting their friendly approach to the industry.

Finding The Livery is easy: it is located at 190 5th Street, in the heart of the Arts District. If you are traveling by car, the red brick building is easy to spot from the main city roads, and parking is provided nearby for visitors.

The city is located in the southwestern part of Michigan. If you are coming from major transport hubs, the nearest airport is Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, which is about an hour's drive away. For those who prefer taxis, a car can be easily requested through popular apps directly from the city center or from nearby stations.

Travelers using public transport should check local bus schedules in advance. Since the brewery is located in a walkable area, a visit here can be conveniently combined with a stroll through the surrounding galleries and shops of the Benton Harbor Arts District.

The history of this place began over a hundred years ago when the Palace Livery building was constructed in the early 1900s. In those days, it served as a stable and carriage house—a place where travelers could leave their horses or rent a carriage. The red brick walls still hold the memory of the era before mass motorization, when the building was a vital transportation hub for the city.

In the early 2000s, the abandoned historic structure found a second life thanks to the initiative of Leslie Bickel. Her goal was not just to open a business, but to revive the surrounding neighborhood by restoring its architectural heritage. In 2005, The Livery opened here, becoming the first craft brewery in southwest Michigan.

Today, the establishment is considered a symbol of successful industrial revitalization. Inside, unique details have been preserved, such as the original elevator used to lift horses to the upper floors. The project played a key role in turning Benton Harbor into a destination for tourists and art lovers, serving as an "anchor" for the entire creative district.

For a standard visit to The Livery, 1.5–2 hours is usually sufficient. This is plenty of time to leisurely enjoy a tasting flight of several beers and have lunch or dinner in the authentic setting of the historic pub.

If you plan to catch a live music night, which usually takes place on Fridays or Saturdays, you should budget at least 3 hours. The atmosphere of concerts in the old stable building is very engaging, and you will likely want to stay longer to enjoy the performances by local bands.

The establishment welcomes guests from Tuesday to Sunday. The operating schedule varies depending on the day of the week: from Tuesday to Thursday, the doors are open from 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM; on Friday and Saturday, the pub stays open late until 1:00 AM; and on Sunday, it closes slightly earlier at 10:00 PM.

Please note that the brewery is closed on Mondays. Before your visit, especially if you plan to attend a concert or visit on a holiday, it is recommended to check the information on the official website as the schedule may change.

A visit to the brewery can easily be turned into a full travel itinerary, as the surrounding Benton Harbor Arts District is rich with interesting locations. A walk through the neighboring streets will allow you to see how historic industrial architecture harmoniously coexists with modern art spaces.

Just a few minutes' drive or a long walk away are both historic parks and excellent spots for relaxation on the shores of Lake Michigan. Below are the nearest attractions: