Libation Exploration
Raise a toast and explore historic Downtown Defiance! The Defiance Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) is a designated public area where alcoholic beverages can be purchased in a designated cup from permitted establishments and carried within the district. Established in 2019, the DORA covers 96 acres of the Defiance Central Business District with the southernmost boundary along Davidson Street.
The DORA was created to add to the vibrancy of Downtown Defiance and encourage more community members and visitors to explore the area. Special events and activities add to the excitement, so check our event calendar for the latest updates!
Rules to Follow
Enjoying the DORA safely and appropriately is important, so please read the following rules before you head out on the town.
- Enter any liquor establishment and request your favorite beer or cocktail in a DORA cup. The DORA operates from noon to midnight Monday through Saturday.
- Exit the liquor establishment onto the sidewalks of Downtown Defiance. Beverages must be purchased in DORA cups to leave an establishment and cups must stay within the boundaries. Signs will indicate those boundaries.
- Enjoy your beverages while strolling through Downtown Defiance and at any participating merchant with the green DORA decal.
- Dispose your DORA cup when empty. DORA cups are one-time use and must be thrown away prior to entering ANY permitted establishment (i.e., business that holds a liquor license) OR any business with the red DORA decal.
- Repeat! Drink responsibly and have fun!
Permitted establishments include the following:
- River’s Edge Bar & Grille | 120 Clinton St.
- Sam’s Ristorante | 501 W. Second St.
- Miami & Erie Restaurant and Lounge | 406 Clinton St.
- Kissner’s Restaurant | 524 Clinton St.
- The Dark Horse Restaurant & Social Club | 651 Clinton St.
- Defiance Eagles Aerie 372 (rules apply) | 711 W. Second St.
- VFW Post 3360 (rules apply) | 201 Clinton St.
Need More Info?
The following documents are available for downloading and printing:
DORA Rack Card
A handy pocket-sized reference card for the DORA.
Downtown Retail Merchants & Public Parking
This guide includes a list of more 40 retailers, a map of their locations, and a map of downtown parking.
