Local Wyandotte Hot Spot Smugglers Run Is Closed
Posted on Smugglers Run’s social media pages spelled out the sad news that the end of the road is here:
Due to the current economic environment that we all face, Smugglers Run has made the very difficult decision to close and cease operations effective immediately. Over the last six-plus years, we have met and provided entertainment for many great people. We would like to thank everyone for their support, which includes all of our bands, as they all became part of our Smuggs Family. Words cannot properly express the gratitude we have for all of you. We love 
you all so much!! Thank You!!
Smugglers Run The Tiki Bar
Their motto was: There’s no experience like Smugglers Run on the River!
The Invite was to experience the newest and most unique live music and entertainment venue – Smugglers Run! Get ready to be swept away by our eclectic mix of live music, craft cocktails, and captivating atmosphere. Join us for an unforgettable experience!
It hosted many events, live music, catering, and banquet services, and this was no small venue. It looked like a boat warehouse, which was huge on the inside. It was converted to a large stage with a complete state-of-the-art light and sound system.
Complete with VIP suites that provide our guests with an exclusive and luxurious experience. Enjoy the show from the comfort of your private booth, with bottle service and a dedicated server. Plus, get special access to our VIP lounge and other exclusive amenities.
Smugglers Run Also Helped With Local Charities
In December of 2023, WCSX, along with 101 WRIF – FM Detroit, 94.7 WCSX, Power Play Detroit, and Chit for our Rock the Red Kettle Party to benefit the Salvation Army. Check out the fun photos here.
As for myself, it was an incredible honor to rock the Smuggler’s Run Stage. From a band aspect, the sound, lighting, and staff who ran it were tops. It made me feel like a Rock Star.
Lots of Major Rock Acts Made their Mark On The Stage
From Dokken and Lynch Mob to Puddle of Mudd, Quiet Riot, and Britney Fox. Also, there are some of the best tribute acts I have ever seen. Like Armmagedden to Def Leppard. Kiss tribute to Strutter, Looking Back tribute to Bob Seger, Aeroforce tribute to Aerosmith, and so many more.
The venue had it all: 80s and 90s music, dance parties, all-male reviews, and even Micro Wrestling.
Even The Names Of The Food Served At The Show Was Special
Like Led Zeppelin Misty Mountian Fries, Dokken Breakin The Foof Chain Burger, and Meatloaf Sandwich. Great White Queso Nachos and more.
Who Knows What’s Next For The Venue
People on Smugglers Run’s Facebook account share their memories and nice things about the venue. You can join the conversation using this Smuggler’s Run Facebook Page link.
Rockin' With Dokken in Wyandotte At Smugglers Run
Another great night as WCSX was Rockin’ with Dokken in Wyandotte at Smugglers Run! The WCSX VIP Suite was full of happy winners out for a night of live rock music on Saturday night, August 5th. Twin brothers from Tampa, Kamenar opened the night. This was my third time seeing Kamenar. I can’t believe how much these two bring to the stage. They had a great set and the crowd was off to a great start for the evening.
Screamin’ Scott joined me at Smugglers Run and we hung out with our WCSX winners, met some new friends and spent some time with our old friends. I am amazed every time I am out with Screamin’ Scott how many people he knows and how many know him. Not only does he know them, but there are also a lot of nicknames involved. lol… To me, nicknames show that you clearly have shared memories with the person. Screamin’ introduced me to Eastside Mary. She was hilarious and one of those people that celebrate their birthday to the highest degree.
Eastside Mary, Screamin’ Scott and Hangman
Speaking of birthdays, one of our WCSX VIP Suite winners, Tim, also had a birthday. Tim has called during the Power Lunch many times and he is a huge Dokken fan. I’m sorry to say, Tim was one of the few people that I did not get a picture with, but I hope you had a great birthday, Tim!
Lynch Mob
Lynch Mob did not disappoint. Watching George Lynch and his band play was spectacular. The quality and craft of guitar playing on stage was phenomenal. Opening with “She’s Evil But She’s Mine,” Lynch Mob mixed a few Dokken songs into their set including “Into The Fire” and “When Heaven Comes Down.” They made us wait for it, but they did play “Wicked Sensation” and “Unchain The Night” to wrap up their set.
Dokken
Don Dokken hit the stage with a presence. Opening with “Kiss of Death,” he had the crowd from the beginning. Show highlights included “Breaking The Chains,” “Alone Again,” and “Dream Warriors.” Dokken wrapped up the evening with “In My Dreams” and “Tooth and Nail.”
HILARIOUS SIDE NOTE: When live bands come in, there is a certain amount of chaos. When Dokken was heading to the stage, Smugglers Run’s owner, Kevin Travers stopped and asked Dokken’s drummer, BJ Zampa… and I quote, “Did you forget your pants?” to which BJ responded, “No, I did not.” Kevin told me, “I never saw anybody purposely go on stage in their underwear.” I was laughing hysterically. Kevin is a no BS, down-t0-earth kinda guy. He is a straight-up pleasure to work with. Behind the scenes (and sometimes in front of the scenes) you meet some real characters when you have live bands in. Kevin, I give you credit for the way you get the job done.
Rockin’ With Dokken in Wyandotte At Smugglers Run – The Photos
