Midland Street Historic District

Earning the title "Entertainment Capital of Mid-Michigan," the Midland Street Historic District is home to close to 20 nightclubs, bars, restaurants and pubs, many featuring live music -- from jazz to rock to country. While not as gentrified as Hell's Half Mile across the river, this is where you go to let your hair down regardless of your age or taste in entertainment. Check out Westown, a large nightclub hosting national acts and weekend dance parties, Lucky's Pub featuring karaoke, O'Hare's Bar showcasing live bands in an Irish setting, the Midland Street Pub for sports viewing, B.A.R.T.S. Brew Pub offering beer brewed on the premises and a wide variety of menu items, and the River Rock Cafe where rocking to the beat of live entertainment kicks off the weekend. The area feels more like a miniature Memphis Beale Street than an out-of-control frat party, although we didn't get to experience it at 11 p.m. on a Saturday night.