- Attraction: Cops & Doughnuts Headquarters
- Location: 521 N McEwan St, Clare, MI 48617
- Industry: Bakery
- Website: https://copsdoughnuts.com/
When an entire police department steps in to rescue a century-old bakery, something magical is bound to happen.
That’s exactly what unfolded in Clare, Michigan, where nine officers pooled their resources to save the historic Clare City Bakery from closure in 2009.
What emerged wasn’t just another donut shop – it became Cops & Doughnuts, a phenomenon that now attracts over 500,000 visitors annually to this small Michigan town.
Operating continuously since 1896, this isn’t your average bakery with a catchy theme. The transformation breathed new life into both the business and downtown Clare, proving that sometimes the most unlikely heroes wear badges and have a serious sweet tooth.
From handcrafted donuts with police-themed names to merchandise that’ll make you chuckle, this place has turned the age-old cops-and-donuts stereotype into pure marketing gold.
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Keep Exploring →Signature Donuts & Bakery Favorites
The Nightstick: This custard-filled long john delivers serious satisfaction with rich chocolate frosting and chocolate chips scattered on top. You’ll understand why locals line up early when you bite into that creamy custard filling.
The Bacon Squealer: Pure indulgence comes in the form of a long john topped with maple icing and two strips of crispy bacon. The sweet-savory combination hits differently when the bacon is perfectly crisp and the maple glaze has just the right thickness.
Bubba’s Sweet & Spicy: For the adventurous, this signature creation features a cake donut loaded with peanut butter frosting, Frank’s hot sauce, hot pepper flakes, and a jalapeño slice. It sounds wild, but the combination actually works beautifully.
Custard-Filled Classics: These aren’t your typical filled donuts – they’re nearly pound-heavy with generous custard that doesn’t disappoint. The quality ingredients shine through in every bite, making them a standout choice.
Jailhouse Rock: This peanut butter-filled Bismark gets crowned with banana frosting, creating an unexpectedly delicious Elvis-inspired treat that keeps people coming back.
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Discover MorePlate-Sized Cinnamon Rolls: These massive spirals of cinnamon goodness require serious commitment. Warm, gooey, and generously sized, they’re perfect for sharing – though you might not want to.
Fresh Apple Fritters: When done right, these are crispy on the outside with tender apple pieces throughout. The generous sizing means you’re getting serious value for your money.
Cream Horns: A local favorite that reminds visitors of old-fashioned bakeries from their childhood. The pastry-to-cream ratio hits that perfect sweet spot.
Shopping & Merchandise Fun
The Cop Shop: This expanded gift section takes up multiple storefronts and features an impressive collection of police-themed merchandise. T-shirts with sayings like “Don’t Glaze Me, Bro!” and “D.W.I. (Doughnuts Were Involved)” capture the playful humor perfectly.
Photo Opportunities: The mock jail cell door provides endless entertainment for families. Kids especially love stepping behind the black iron bars for memorable photos that capture the quirky spirit of the place.
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Keep Exploring →Punny Products: From coffee mugs to bumper stickers, everything embraces the cop-donut connection with humor that’s clever without being cheesy. The merchandise quality matches the creativity of the designs.
Local Souvenirs: Beyond the police theme, you’ll find genuine Clare and Michigan memorabilia that makes for authentic keepsakes from your visit.
Atmosphere & Setting
Historic Charm: The building maintains its early 1900s character while incorporating fun police-themed elements throughout. You’re dining in a piece of Michigan history that’s been lovingly preserved and cleverly updated.
Three-Storefront Layout: The expansion into adjoining buildings creates a spacious experience that never feels cramped, even during busy periods. The flow between the bakery, dining area, and gift shop feels natural and well-planned.
Police Decor Done Right: The theme never feels forced or tacky. Instead, it’s playfully integrated with genuine respect for law enforcement, creating an atmosphere that’s both fun and welcoming.
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Discover MoreCommunity Hub Feeling: You’ll often spot local police officers enjoying coffee alongside families and travelers. There’s a reserved table where locals and officers gather, creating an authentic small-town community vibe.
Other Considerations
Value Pricing: The portions are generous for the price point, making this an affordable treat that doesn’t feel like tourist-trap pricing. Individual donuts are reasonably priced, though bulk discounts aren’t always available.
Peak Hours: Morning visits offer the freshest selection, but lines can form quickly. The operation runs smoothly even during busy periods, so wait times rarely become frustrating.
Parking Ease: Street parking is available right downtown, and finding a spot is typically manageable even during popular times.
Day-Old Options: Look for the “parolees” rack featuring day-old items at reduced prices – a budget-friendly option that still delivers on taste.
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Keep Exploring →Beyond Donuts: The full diner menu includes breakfast sandwiches, hash browns, and coffee that complement the bakery offerings. The egg-bacon-cheese croissants earn particular praise from visitors.
Extended Hours: Open from 5 a.m. to midnight daily, making it accessible whether you’re an early bird seeking fresh donuts or a late-night traveler needing a sweet stop.
Cops & Doughnuts Headquarters
📍 521 N McEwan St, Clare, MI 48617
