Tipton becomes latest Indiana city to approve open container alcohol district
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Tipton has become the latest in a string of Indiana communities to create a designated outdoor refreshment area—or DORA—that will allow people to buy drinks within the district and enjoy them outside or in area shops.
DORAs are permitted under a law approved by the Legislature last year that is meant to boost tourism, local restaurants and entertainment districts. Since then, at least two dozen Indiana communities have created the districts with several more in the process of doing so.
The Tipton City Council in September approved its DORA boundaries that encompass much of the city’s downtown and Tipton Park. Seven bars and restaurants have been approved to participate, and the city has designated a vendor area where temporary eateries can also take advantage of the district.
The Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission this month approved Tipton’s district.
Mayor Kegan Schmicker said in a statement that Tipton’s DORA “presents an exciting opportunity to enhance the downtown experience.”
“By encouraging visitors to stay longer and explore, we aim to increase the time and money spent in our local shops and restaurants, fostering a more vibrant community for both residents and guests,” she said. “This initiative aligns with our commitment to supporting local businesses and creating a welcoming, dynamic atmosphere in downtown Tipton.”
The district allows people who are 21 years and older to purchase alcoholic beverages from approved businesses and carry and consume them outside and in shops that allow it.
The Mad Tap is one of the sellers in the district.
“When we opened The Mad Tap, we wanted to create a family-friendly social hub, a place for the community to gather,” said co-owner Mindy Mason in a news release. “I believe DORA will provide an additional attraction to patrons, a destination for people to get out in Tipton and roam around the shops, dining spots and other downtown events, all while enjoying a beer or a cocktail if they choose.”
Tipton’s DORA will be active every day. Hours are noon to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 10 a.m. to midnight on Friday and Saturday. Event organizers can request additional hours.
The district’s rules require patrons to carry alcohol in designated DORA cups with restrictions on size. Beer and flavored malt beverages can be up to 16 ounces; wine, cider and hard seltzer is limited to 12 ounces; and mixed drinks can be up to 10 ounces with no more than 2 ounces of liquor. Patrons are permitted to carry two drinks at once.
“We’re thrilled to see DORA coming to Tipton, especially as it coincides with the opening of Wheelies,” said Cliff Ragan, a co-owner of Wheelies, a bar that recently opened in downtown Tipton. “This is an exciting opportunity to bring our community together, creating a lively atmosphere that will make it easier for visitors to explore all that Tipton has to offer.”