Beer travel in the United States has evolved into a vibrant and dynamic pursuit, drawing enthusiasts from around the world to explore the diverse and thriving craft beer scene. From the Pacific Northwest to the shores of New England, each region offers its own unique flavors, traditions, and experiences for beer lovers to discover. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey across the U.S., highlighting some of the most iconic breweries to visit in each area, along with tips for planning the ultimate beer-centric adventure.
Pacific Northwest:
Deschutes Brewery (Bend, Oregon): Founded in 1988, Deschutes Brewery is one of Oregon’s oldest and most beloved craft breweries. Known for its innovative brews and commitment to sustainability, Deschutes offers guided brewery tours and a lively taproom where visitors can sample a wide range of beers, including its flagship Black Butte Porter and Fresh Squeezed IPA.
Fremont Brewing Company (Seattle, Washington): Nestled in Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood, Fremont Brewing Company is renowned for its award-winning beers and commitment to environmental stewardship. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of beers on tap in the brewery’s cozy Urban Beer Garden, featuring brews like the Universale Pale Ale and Lush IPA.
Colorado:
New Belgium Brewing Company (Fort Collins, Colorado): Founded in 1991, New Belgium Brewing Company is one of Colorado’s largest and most influential craft breweries. Visitors can take guided tours of the state-of-the-art facility, sip on flagship beers like Fat Tire Amber Ale and Ranger IPA, and enjoy stunning views of the Rocky Mountains from the brewery’s outdoor patio.
Avery Brewing Company (Boulder, Colorado): Known for its bold and innovative brews, Avery Brewing Company has been pushing the boundaries of craft beer since 1993. Beer travelers can visit the brewery’s expansive taproom to sample a diverse lineup of beers, including barrel-aged specialties like the Uncle Jacob’s Stout and Maharaja Imperial IPA.
California:
Russian River Brewing Company (Santa Rosa, California): Russian River Brewing Company is synonymous with world-class sour beers and hoppy ales. Visitors flock to the brewery’s Santa Rosa location to taste iconic beers like Pliny the Elder Double IPA and Supplication Sour Ale, and soak up the laid-back California vibes in the brewery’s beer garden.
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens (Escondido, California): Located in the heart of Southern California’s beer country, Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens is a mecca for craft beer enthusiasts. The sprawling facility features a restaurant, beer garden, and brewery tours, offering visitors a chance to sample Stone’s bold and innovative beers, such as the Arrogant Bastard Ale and Stone IPA.
New England:
Tree House Brewing Company (Charlton, Massachusetts): Tree House Brewing Company has gained a cult following for its hazy, juicy IPAs and barrel-aged stouts. Beer travelers can visit the brewery’s rustic taproom in Charlton to enjoy fresh pours of popular beers like Julius IPA and King Julius Double IPA, and soak up the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Allagash Brewing Company (Portland, Maine): Founded in 1995, Allagash Brewing Company is a pioneer of Belgian-style brewing in the United States. Visitors to the brewery’s Portland location can take guided tours of the facility, sample a diverse lineup of Belgian-inspired beers, and learn about Allagash’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Midwest:
Founders Brewing Co. (Grand Rapids, Michigan): Founders Brewing Co. is synonymous with bold, flavorful beers and Midwestern hospitality. Visitors to the brewery’s Grand Rapids taproom can enjoy a rotating selection of beers on tap, including classics like the Breakfast Stout and All Day IPA, as well as limited releases and barrel-aged specialties.
Surly Brewing Co. (Minneapolis, Minnesota): Surly Brewing Co. has been a driving force behind Minnesota’s craft beer renaissance since its founding in 2005. Beer travelers can visit the brewery’s Minneapolis destination brewery, which features a spacious beer hall, outdoor beer garden, and guided brewery tours, offering a taste of Surly’s acclaimed lineup of beers, including Furious IPA and Darkness Russian Imperial Stout.
Beer travel in the United States offers a rich tapestry of experiences for enthusiasts to explore, from the scenic landscapes of the Pacific Northwest to the historic streets of New England. Whether you’re sampling hoppy IPAs in Colorado, sipping sour ales in California, or enjoying Belgian-style beers in New England, each brewery offers a unique glimpse into the vibrant and diverse world of American craft beer. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on a beer-fueled adventure across America that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for the art and craft of brewing. Cheers to beer travel in the U.S.!