April 25, 2017
If you’re looking for a unique, late-night experience in Downtown Petoskey, rest assured there is one. The Upstairs Lounge located above Leo’s Tavern at 434 East Mitchell Street has a retro feel and plenty of music for relaxing and dancing.
“It’s a good place to see entertainment,” says Johnnie Walker who manages the lounge and coordinates all of the entertainment.
As you walk up from the street level, you enter an age-old disco-rock-n-roll venue unlike any other in the community. There’s a new stage for bands surrounded by booth and bench seating as well as a few high-tops for those who like to stand and watch. A complete, well stocked bar sits to the rear complete with the familiar round padded bar stools.
“This is one of the best sound stages around,” notes Johnnie. “We get people from their early twenties to late sixties on the dance floor.”
The lounge is open Friday and Saturday nights at 9:00 p.m. The entertainment begins at 10. Featured bands include both local acts and headliners from out of town. On Sundays at Leo’s Lounge downstairs, Johnnie spins vinyl for the local service folk. The night is called, “Sunday Sin,” and is a refreshing, yet loud, ending to a busy week for many of the service workers who spend their time serving and caring for the tourists and townies all week long. “Once a month we have comedy at the Comedic North Showcase,” Johnnie begins. “We turn the lounge into a comedy nightclub and then set up a DJ to round out the night.”
The best place to find more is on the Facebook page @upstairsloungepetoskey. And don’t forget, Cinco de Mayo, is just around the corner. That night, comedian, Brad Hall, will attempt to eat 135 tacos. You’ll have to visit the Upstairs Lounge and find out the fun they had arriving at that number. Enjoy the unique that is Downtown Petoskey, and while you’re at it, dance a little and feel years younger.
