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The 8 Best Breweries and Brewpubs in the Midwest

Brew-lovers, rejoice: Here's where to find great beers across the heartland.

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Craft-beer aficionados can sample world-class brews in underrated places, like Davenport, Iowa and Amherst, Wisconsin.

If you haven't noticed,  craft beer scenes   are cropping up across the country. And these days, people are exploring beyond veritable brewpubs, microbreweries and watering holes in their hometowns in search of the next great locally produced lager. Whether you want hearty oatmeal stouts, toasty meads or distinctive IPAs, you'll find no shortage of outstanding pints to sample in the heartland, the epicenter of America's burgeoning beer culture. To help direct you to the best of the best, we've put together the ultimate list of the Midwest's must-visit brewpubs. So, grab your growler and head to these booming beer spots.

Grand Rapids, Michigan

If you're looking to recreate a scene out of "Cheers" sans the melodrama, head to HopCat. With locally crafted brews on tap, like the HopCat Wit vs. Wisdom, and Belgian-style wheats from Holland, this brewpub has a diverse and eclectic range of delicious beers to choose from. The vibe is friendly and laid-back, and you probably won't leave without making at least one friend at the bar. And if hunger sets in, don't skip pairing a plate of mac and cheese with your beer flight. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.

Great Lakes Brewing Co.

Often touted as Ohio's most celebrated brewery, Great Lakes is a beloved spot for beer-loving Clevelanders. Since debuting in the early 80s, the Cleveland -based brewery has quickly morphed into a national brand, selling their most popular brews, like the Dortmunder Gold Lager and the holiday Christmas Ale, in 13 states. Even though they produce more than 130,000 barrels annually, the brewery is still humble to its roots and loves catering to patrons who stop by for a tasting or a pint. Great Lakes even boasts nine beers on tap that change according to the season along with an excellent menu, making it an ideal place to grab a bite during happy hour.

Central Waters Brewing Company

Amherst, Wisconsin

Located in Amherst, a small central Wisconsin town with a population of less than 2,000, from the outside Central Waters Brewing Company appears more like a barn house than a brewery. However, after taking one step into the renovated taproom, you'll be rewarded with the pleasant aroma of flavorful hops. And, of course, you'll likely find craft beer hipsters sipping the Mudpuppy Porter, but you'll also find regular Joes, enjoying a pint while they watch the game. Opened in 1998, Central Waters has won multiple awards for its barrel-aged stouts and continues to be regaled by top outlets as one of the top 10 brewpubs in the country. If you can bear the thought of an icy Wisconsin winter, head to Amherst for their 18th-anniversary party on Jan. 30, which will highlight their top brews with live music and food.

Goose Island Beer Co.

Touted as Chicago 's  original brewery, Goose Island Beer Co. has been brewing their own ales and lagers since 1998. They're known for their Honker's Ale, a rich malty brew with a light hoppy finish, but they also feature 10 other homemade brews on tap, like the 312 Urban Wheat Ale. If you can, get your hands on their revered barrel-aged beer (like the Bourbon County Brand Stout), which is brewed on the premises. Apart from excellent beer, the Lincoln Park brewpub also serves a delicious array of mouthwatering pub fare, like wings, barbecue sandwiches and more.

Front Street Brewery

Davenport, Iowa

Although Front Street Brewery has only been around since 1992, the building it occupies has been standing on Davenport's quaint North Front Street for more than 100 years, giving it the title of Iowa's oldest pub. After stepping inside, you'll feel like you've been transported back into the early 1900's. The bars are made of rich, dark wood and the dining room is dimly lit with Tiffany glass replica lamps. And though the brewery's ambiance charms visitors, it's the beer that keep people returning year after year. The Coastal Kolsch and Riptide Raspberry Wheat Ale are local favorites, but available brews on tap change according to the season. In addition to sampling hearty pints of your favorite beers, Front Street offers free tastings and tours to offer insight into their beer-brewing process. While you're there, make sure to order their buttermilk breaded onions or beer nuggets.

Boulevard Brewing Company

Kansas City, Missouri

Since opening in 1989, Boulevard Brewing Company has been a staple in  the Kansas City   beer scene. Decorated with a tall, branded chimney stack, exposed brick buildings and three-stories of sustainable brewing space, you can easily spend a few hours sampling and touring the historic Bavarian-style brew location. You'd be remiss to leave without tasting their award-winning Tank 7 Farmhouse Ale, which earned a high approval rating in the Washington Post's 2015 Beer Madness competition, which calculates readers' top brew picks across the country. Boulevard Brewing Company is also revered for its IPAs, especially its Single-Wide and Heavy Lifting varieties. After sampling their 30 unique beers, take a tour of the expansive property, which houses two event spaces, a tasting room and enough equipment to brew over 600,000 barrels of beer a year. 

Minneapolis Town Hall Brewery

Minneapolis

With over 50 breweries and taprooms in the Twin Cities alone, sampling  Minneapolis ' famed  beers can seem like an intimidating task. But fret not: visiting the local hotspot, Minneapolis Town Hall Brewery on Washington Avenue, is a perfect place to start your beer jaunt. Featuring new varieties on tap every week and 10 free-flowing kegs pouring bartenders' favorites, you can always find an original flavor to taste. Make sure to sample their famous Black H20 Stout or the lighter Masala Mama IPA. And consider pairing their hearty ales with a side of their melt-in-your-mouth fried cheese curds or their mac and cheeseburger topped with fried mac and cheese.

Keweenaw Brewing Company

Houghton, Michigan

Located in the beautiful college town of Houghton, Keweenaw Brewing Company prides itself as the Upper Peninsula's largest brewer. The taproom is a true microbrewery, so the only fare you'll find on the menu is salted peanuts. However, their open door policy allows any patron to bring their own snack as they sip on a Pick Axe Blonde Ale or a Widow Maker Black Ale. And its rustic interior beckons you to sit and stay awhile with two large bars, a cozy fireplace and plush leather couches. In addition to regular ales, Keweenaw also brews their own root beer, birch and ginger beer for lighter, non-alcoholic sips. 

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American Craft Beer The Best Craft Beer, Breweries, Bars, Brewpubs, Beer Stores, And Restaurants Serving Serious Beer.

30 Best Craft Breweries In The Midwest

RAVE reviews is an online site that combines lifestyle, entertainment and travel with product assessments. They recently published   a ranking of the 30 Best Breweries in the Midwest that is interesting in its approach and not totally stupid.

And while we may have some qualms about the listing’s order, it’s a very solid collection of craft breweries, all of them worth your time…

This list was compiled based on triangulated data from recent national lists —   The Daily Meal , GearPatrol.com , First We Feast , Timeout , and Craftbeer.com , regional lists from Thrillist and Vacation Rental Blog — plus qualitative details from Wikipedia .

Then RAVE looked at sales rankings from Beer Advocate and the Brewers Association to round out things.

The following criteria was used to determine the top breweries in the Pacific Northwest…

• Nostalgia factor – how well it reflects the local region’s attributes and culture
• Popularity factor – how popular is it based on sales and word-of-mouth
• Scarcity factor – how difficult it is to obtain and the demand for small batch runs
• Cult factor – how often people talk about it and the strength of its following
• Destination factor – how it treats visitors (tours, tasting rooms or restaurants, etc.)

Breweries can get up to 20 points for each. A 20 in any of the factors would make that factor a perfect score for that brewery. And those scores once tallied determined the ranking’s order.

And here’s what they came up with…

Top Breweries in the Pacific Northwest

• Bell’s Brewery – Kalamazoo. MI
• Founders Brewing – Grand Rapids, MI
• Surly Brewing Co. – Minneapolis, MN
• Dark Horse Brewing – Marshall, MI
• Great Lakes Brewing – Cleveland, OH
• New Glarus Brewing – New Glarus, WI
• Toppling Goliath Brewing Co – Decorah, IA
• Moody Tongue Brewing – Chicago, IL
• August Schell Brewing Company – New Ulm, MN
• Summit Brewing – St Paul, MN
• Revolution Brewing – Chicago, IL
• Upland Brewing – Bloomington, IN
• New Holland Brewing – Holland, MI
• Fat Head’s Brewery – Middleburg Heights, OH

• Sun King Brewery – Indianapolis, IN
• Stevens Point Brewery – Stevens Point, WI
• Pipeworks Brewing – Chicago, IL
• Central Waters Brewing Co. – Amherst, WI
• Perennial Artisan Ales – St Louis, MO
• Kuhnhenn Brewing – Warren, MI
• Nebraska Brewing – Papillion, NE
• Lost Cabin Beer Company – Rapid City, SD
• Firehouse Brewing – Rapid City, SD
• Big Rip Brewing – North Kansas City, MO
• Fulton Brewing Company – Minneapolis, MN
• Lakefront Brewery – Milwaukee, MN
• Hoppin’ Frog Brewery – Akron, OH

Want more destination breweries in different US regions?

30 BEST CRAFT BREWERIES IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST

30 BEST CRAFT BREWERIES IN THE AMERICAN SOUTHWEST

Posted by: AmericanCraftBeer.com March 15, 2022 0

About AmericanCraftBeer.com

• BREWERY TOUR
• MINHAS OKTOBERFEST
• PREMIUM BREWS
• CRAFT BREWS
• MALT LIQUORS
• FLAVORED MALT BEVERAGES
• OLD FASHIONED SODAS
• PRIVATE LABEL & CONTRACT PACKAGING
• MINHAS CRAFT BREWERY, WISCONSIN
• PIZZA BREW RESTAURANT, CALGARY
• MINHAS MICRO BREWERY, CALGARY
• MINHAS DISTILLERY, WISCONSIN
• ONLINE GIFT SHOP

America’s most historic Brewery

The Minhas Craft Brewery welcomes you to relax and enjoy tasting at the Lazy Mutt Lounge, before your tour. On our guided tours you will learn a lot of brewing like what an IPA is, why we make the best craft beer and hear the amazing stories of entrepreneurs who have run this brewery for the past century.

When you take a tour of the brewery, we also suggest you allow extra time, to visit 'The Herb and Helen Haydock World of Beer Memorabilia Museum.' Valued at over $1 million, it is the largest museum of its kind. Featuring hundreds of brewery advertisements from the past, Lithographs and prints from the mid 1800-era. The museum also holds a collection of tap handles, growlers, model cars, trucks and trains from all around the world. Also visit our gift shop to buy beer, clothing, glassware and souvenirs.

End this perfect "DAYCATION" by visiting the friendly town of Monroe. The famous Monroe Courthouse square, quaint shops and try some of the best tasting cheese sold in the country are worth a trip.

Tours Run 7 Days A Week

45-60 minutes.

Tours CLOSED on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day

For groups of more than 12, we ask that you give us advance notice so we can have adequate staff on hand to ensure a great visit. Children under age 12 enter for Free. By Reservations Only. For Bookings Call 608-328-9120 .

All tours include a take home “Thank You” pack including 4 bottles of the finest craft beers, 1 Blumer's Soda and a branded sampler glass.

Minhas Craft Brewery Monroe Google Virtual Tour

Nothing beats the real experience, however take a virtual tour into our Craft Brewery in Monroe, Wisconsin tour center and museum to see what you can expect when you visit. Click on any of the images below to start the tour.

Tour & Museum

Merchandise store, brewery history, tasting room / bar, memorabilia museum, lazy mutt lounge.

Tour Location:

• The Original Des Moines Brew Tour
• The Sip of Des Moines Tour
• Bachelor Party Brew Tours
• Bachelorette Party Brew Tours
• Special Occasion Brew Tours
• Corporate Outing Brew Tours
• Conventions & Conferences
• Private Tour Inquiry
• 1717 Brewing Co.
• Brightside Aleworks
• Confluence Brewing Company
• Exile Brewing Co.
• Firetrucker Brewery
• Fox Brewing
• Kinship Brewing Co.
• Mistress Brewing Co.
• Peace Tree Brewing Co.
• Gift Certificates
• Monthly Beer Box
• Our Des Moines Beer Guides
• Brew Tour Transportation
• Top Hotels to Stay at While in Des Moines
• More Cities

An all-inclusive tour of Iowa’s best breweries

Fantastic way to explore your city and spend an afternoon/evening

"I would highly recommend this to anyone. Barry and Eric were excellent tour guides and did a great job of not only teaching us about the history of beer, but also made a point to learn about each person's favorite type of beer so it was including in the samplings. All the places we visited were great. I definitely plan on doing this again."

Recommended by

Des moines craft beer journey.

Experience Des Moines in a way you never have before with City Brew Tours! Join us for a spin around the capital of Iowa, exploring its greatest breweries and sampling its best local craft beers. Come see why this Midwest city deserves its place in the big leagues of craft brewing!

learn about the

Breweries we visit.

Get ready for Des Moines’ best breweries! We have teamed up with our favorite Des Moines breweries to offer an exclusive view of the process behind creating their one-of-a-kind brews. Each brewery was hand-picked in order to give you the memorable craft beer experience for which the city is known!

what you get

With your brew tour.

Sit back and relax as one of our experienced beer guides chauffeurs you between 3-4 local Des Moines breweries. Enjoy up to 16 samples of craft beers over the course of 3-5 hours along with a perfectly paired meal or snack to complete the experience.

Miles Traveled

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15 Best Breweries In Chicago You Must Visit

August 4, 2022 by //  by  Midwest Explored Leave a Comment

If you’re looking for the best breweries in Chicago , then you’ll want to check out this list!

Chicago is starting to become known as the ‘craft beer capital of the country’, and for good reason.

Planning your trip to Chicago last minute?

Make sure to book ahead. Hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top pics for Chicago!

Top Experiences And Tours In Chicago:

• Chicago River Architecture Cruise (Skip the Ticket Office!)
• Willis TowerSkydeck & The Ledge Ticket (Elevator express entry!)
• Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Ticket (Panoramic views of Chicago!)
• Big Bus Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Tours (24, 48, or 72-hour options available.)

Hop Hotels In Chicago:

• Eurostars Magnificent Mile (In the heart of Chicago!)
• The Peninsula Chicago (Near museums)
• Club Quarter Hotels Wacker (Overlooking the Chicago River!)
• Hotel Blake (Close to Millennium Park.)

Within the city and the surrounding suburbs, there are just over 160 breweries and taprooms.

Lovers of craft beer have started flocking to Chicago, spending days in the city exploring its many breweries.

With so many different breweries in Chicago, it’s hard to pick just a few as the best.

So if you don’t have a ton of time to sample craft beer in Chicago, this list is the best place to start.

That’s because all of these Chicago brewpubs are highly rated. They have carved out a unique place for themselves in Chicago’s craft beer scene, and it shows.

Many of these Chicago IL breweries have a dedicated customer base who just keep coming back.

One sip of beer from any of these breweries and you’ll quickly see why!

So, let’s take a look at some of the best breweries in Chicago that you’ll definitely want to visit!

Sample Micro Brewed Beers At Begyle Brewing

Begyle Brewing is known for its straightforward micro-brewed beers.

You’ll find Begyle Brewing in what is known as ‘Malt Row’ in Chicago’s Ravenswood Industrial Corridor, in Chicago.

They have a community-supported brewery program, which means they are able to create new brews thanks to their community.

This is done through growler fill subscriptions, hosting events, and supporting other local organizations.

Because of this, Begyle Brewing has become a staple of the neighborhood. Along with that, their micro-brewed beers are very popular.

That’s because their taproom is full of delicious but approachable beers that you can sample. You can sample the brews in their taproom, or head outside to their gorgeous patio.

They also offer Chicago brewery tours at Begyle Brewing, which is a great way to learn about the micro-brewing process.

Tickets Here to explore Chicago: Chicago City Pass

Revolution Brewing Is Illinois’ Largest Craft Brewery

Not only is Revolution Brewing the largest craft brewery in Illinois, but it’s also independently owned.

Revolution Brewing opened in 2010, and since its opening, it has become a very popular brewery in Chicago.

In fact, they now have two locations in Chicago.

The original Milwaukee Avenue location is where you’ll find the brewpub and restaurant.

There, they serve a wide variety of beer, wine, and liquor along with a full menu. On the menu, you’ll find items like shrimp tacos, sandwiches, and cheese curds.

Their newest location is on Kedzie Avenue, and it houses the brewery and taproom.

At the Kedzie location, you can order beer, and light snacks, and every Saturday they have public brewery tours.

Revolution Brewing is easily one of the best breweries in Chicago.

Tickets Here: Chicago’s 360 Observation Deck.

Pilot Project Brewing Is A More Unique Chicago Brewpub

If you want to sample a wide variety of beers, from different local brewers, in one spot, then head to Pilot Project Brewing. Pilot Project Brewing is on Milwaukee Avenue, at Logan Square.

It’s a more unique Chicago brewpub because it’s actually a brewery incubator.

What that means is at Pilot Project, you’ll get to sample new brews that local brewers are just starting in the business.

With your help, they offer recipe suggestions, give guidance on marketing, and more to help new brewers get started.

So, whenever you visit Pilot Project, you’ll get to try something brand new that you won’t find anywhere else, literally.

Because of this, their tap list is always changing, sometimes daily.

Their tasting room is a comfortable space with craft brews, local coffee roasters, a scratch kitchen, and lots more.

Pilot Project Brewing is an excellent Chicago date night idea , and it’s one of the coolest Chicago brewpubs.

Before exploring Chicago breweries, how about some sightseeing?

Tickets here: Willis Tower Skydeck!

Lo Rez Brewing And Taproom Specializes In Traditional Beer Recipes

The founders and owners of Lo Rez Brewing and Taproom say that they make ‘traditional beer for a modern world’.

Both founders were originally programmers that started making beer in their garage as a hobby.

They became masters of brewing and over the years they started getting certified in microbrewing.

Their hobby and passion for it grew, and eventually, they made a career switch.

In 2015, they started building their brewery in Pilsen, a neighborhood in the lower westside of Chicago.

Today, their industrial taproom is typically full of people enjoying one of the beers off of their tap list.

They have a core group of brews that you can almost always find on tap.

Lo Rez Brewing and Taproom also has seasonal brews as well as hard seltzers that are on rotation on the tap list.

With just one sip of any of their beers, you’ll see why Lo Rez is such a popular brewery in Chicago. And one of the best places to visit to enjoy Chicago at night!

A cool way to explore breweries in Chicago is on the Bikes, Bites, And Brews Biking Tour!

The Haymarket Pub And Brewery Is One Of The Top Rated Brewpubs In Chicago

If you only have time to check out a few of the Chicago breweries on this list, then the Haymarket Pub and Brewery is a good place to start.

With almost 2,000 positive Google and Facebook reviews, it’s one of the best breweries in Chicago.

You’ll find it on West Randolph Street, near Fulton Market.

At Haymarket, they have a large tap list that rotates fairly frequently. So there is almost always a new Chicago craft beer to try when you visit.

Along with the large tap list, they have a full pub restaurant.

At the pub, you’ll find menu items like sandwiches, burgers, wings, and more.

It’s a great Chicago brewery right in the heart of the city.

Tickets here to make exploring Chicago a lot easier: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus.

Old Irving Brewing Co Is A Fun Chicago Brewery

The Old Irving Brewing Co. has a really fun atmosphere to match their Chicago craft beer tap list.

Their tap list changes, but it features brews that are available all year, seasonal brews, and more experimental brew flavors.

On their website, they have a breakdown of what craft beer flavors are available and when.

So, if you find one you love, you’ll know when to come back for more.

Not only are they a brewery, but they also have a pub restaurant, a funky industrial taproom, and a patio with outdoor games like cornhole.

They don’t serve just Chicago craft beers either. They also have a large selection of whiskey and bourbon, and locally made hard ciders.

This is one Chicago brewpub you definitely want to visit!

Tickets Here: Chicago Go City All Inclusive Pass

Dovetail Brewery Serves Classic European Brews In Chicago

Dovetail Brewery says they ‘brew like monks, minus the vows’. That’s because they specialize in classic European brew recipes.

The owners of Dovetail met in Munich, Germany, while getting their Master Brewer Certifications, but both are originally from Chicago.

It was there that they discovered they both loved the traditional brewing methods of Europe and wanted to bring that back to the US.

The rest is history so to say, and Dovetail Brewery was created. They combine traditional European brewing techniques with American creativity to create their unique craft beers in Chicago.

Along with their spacious taproom where you can try their unique brews, they also have a beautiful Biergarten that is open seasonally.

You can typically find around 20 beers either on tap or bottled that you can try.

Like most Chicago breweries, they have a few staple beers along with a variety of seasonal flavors.

Enjoy River Views When You Visit Metropolitan Brewing

Metropolitan Brewing is a brewery in Chicago IL that is known for its German-style lagers.

Their taproom is a large warehouse-type place where you can try one of their many beers.

Typically, they have about 3 year-round flavors and then another 10 or so flavors that rotate or are seasonal.

When it’s nice out, you can enjoy their beer on the beautiful riverside patio.

The riverside patio is literally right on the edge of the river and has tons of picnic tables, string lights, and of course, great views.

Metropolitan Brewing is also a family-friendly and dog-friendly Chicago brewery.

So, you can relax on the river with your family, friends, or dog while you get to enjoy delicious Chicago craft beer.

DryHop Brewers Is A Great Place To Try Craft Beer In Chicago

DryHop Brewers is a European-style gastropub that also offers seasonal craft beers in Chicago.

You’ll find it in the Lakeview East neighborhood of Chicago.

They serve lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, and all of the menu items pair perfectly with their craft brews.

Because all of their brews are seasonal, their tap list isn’t as big as some of the other craft breweries on this list.

However, you’ll still typically have about 6 different brews to choose from.

They also usually have at least one hard cider and one non-alcoholic beer on tap and a selection of wines and mixed drinks as well.

Their food menu is pretty typical for a Chicago brewpub and has items like burgers, sandwiches, small bites, homemade pizzas, and salads.

On weekends, from 11 am to 2:30 pm, they also serve brunch.

It is one of the things that makes DryHop Brewers one of the more unique Chicago breweries on this list.

Goose Island Taproom Is Home To One Of The Most Popular Chicago Craft Beers

You may have seen Goose Island brews in your local beer distributor or grocery store selection.

That’s because, in 2011, Goose Island was acquired by Anheuser-Busch and started to become available widely across the US.

The taproom and brew house has been in Chicago since 1999 and has become a staple part of the craft beer community in the city.

They continue to be dedicated to the Chicago brewing community and still brew a large majority of their beers there.

Their taproom has also remained open, and you can go there to sample both classic Goose Island brews and some of their new offerings.

Throughout the week, you can also take a Chicago brewery tour at Goose Island at their Fulton Street location.

After your tour, enjoy some brews and enjoy some of their small snack items like charcuterie trays or bring your own food!

Experience An Upscale Pub Environment At Maplewood Brewery And Distillery

Maplewood Brewery and Distillery is a slightly more luxurious Chicago brewpub.

Their lounge, which is what they call their taproom, has an industrial vibe with leather chairs at tall tables, ambient lighting, and exposed brick walls.

They also have an outdoor patio that you can enjoy when the weather is nice.

Maplewood Brewery has 5 flagship beers that you’ll be able to try year-round.

Along with those, they have seasonal lagers, seasonal ales, experimental flavors, and small batch craft beers in Chicago that you can try.

If you’re looking to try a certain micro-brewed beer, they have a beer calendar on their website where you can see what will be available and when.

Maplewood Brewery hosts fun events throughout the year often themed around a fun idea or special brew, that are very popular too.

It’s one of the best brewpubs in Chicago with a fun atmosphere in a more upscale environment.

Go Bowling And Try Chicago Craft Beer At Burnt City Brewing

Burnt City Brewing is another fun Chicago date night idea , thanks to its great brews and 8-lane bowling alley.

In fact, it’s the only Chicago brewery with a bowling alley!

They specialize in craft ales and stouts that pair perfectly with their upscale pub menu.

When you visit, you’ll find a smaller selection. But that’s because they are a smaller brewery that is part of a larger brewer collective in Chicago’s District Brew Yards.

However, don’t let that deter you. Their brews are some of the best Chicago beers and they are frequently highly rated amongst craft beer lovers.

Plus, you’ll be supporting a smaller Chicago brewery when you visit Burnt City Brewing which helps them expand their tap list offerings.

Burning Bush Brewery Is A Hip Microbrewery In Chicago

Burning Bush Brewery is a family-owned microbrewery in Chicago’s North Center neighborhood.

Not only do they serve high-quality Chicago craft beers, but they’re also dedicated to positively impacting their neighborhood.

They host a variety of charity events, fundraisers, and more that benefit their community.

Burning Bush is also family-friendly and dog-friendly!

With a beautiful hip taproom and a sunny patio, it’s a great place to sample micro-brewed beers in Chicago.

They typically have about 10 beers on tap that range from classic recipes to more experimental flavors.

While they don’t have a full kitchen, they do offer a small snack menu, and a few times a week they host a variety of local food trucks.

Try Uniquely American Micro Brewed Beers At Half Acre Beer Co One Of The Coolest Breweries In Chicago

Half Acre Beer Co. is known for its ‘purposefully rough American micro-brews’.

They aim to have intense and unique flavors on tap for you to enjoy throughout the year.

On tap, they have 6 micro-brewed beers that you can find year-round. They range from IPAs, Pale Ales, Pilsners, and Lagers.

Along with their year-round offerings, you’ll also find seasonal and monthly brews, as well as brews that you can only try in their taproom.

Their taproom is massive and they also have a seasonal beer garden.

There, you can relax in the sun and enjoy their taproom-only brews.

If you want to try a uniquely Chicago craft beer, then you’ll want to head to Half Acre Beer Co.

Visiting here is one of the coolest things to do in Illinois!

Moody Tongue Brewing Company Is The World’s First Two Star Michelin Brewery

For those who may not know, restaurants, and now breweries are awarded Michelin Stars for their ‘outstanding cooking’.

To earn a Michelin Star, let alone two, is a huge honor that many chefs will never achieve.

This is why Moody Tongue Brewing Company is a very unique Chicago brewery.

They have not one, but two Michelin Stars, which is a huge honor and accomplishment. In fact, they are the first brewery in the world to earn this distinction.

That’s not the only thing that makes Moody Tongue Brewery so unique.

All of their beers are actually chef-driven, which means you’ll be able to try some of the most exotic and unique micro-brewed beers in the world here.

They typically have about 15 different beers that you can try and each brew pairs with their Michelin Star menu.

This is one of the best breweries in Chicago, and definitely worth a visit if you want a unique craft beer in Chicago.

To start your day off right, or to end a fun night with friends, try having a great breakfast in Chicago.

Packing List When Visiting Breweries in Chicago

If you are searching, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly when packing to visit Chicago.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when exploring breweries in Chicago.

It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with the RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID  sleeves are  the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet.

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery . This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and is so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies with family and friends when at the breweries in Chicago!

Hydration is so important when traveling. You want to remain hydrated throughout your travels to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you.

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the charcoal filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this  set of collapsible silicone foldable water bottles  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all.

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. then this   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great.

This list of breweries in Chicago is just a small sample of the over 160 different breweries in the city and surrounding suburbs.

Chicago is certainly one of the best places to visit in the Midwest , and its breweries are top-notch.

It’s full of some of the most highly rated and unique Chicago area breweries!

Whether you’re a fan of exotic flavors, classic European brews, or intense American flavors, the breweries on this list have a craft beer in Chicago perfect for you.

One thing is for certain, Chicago is the craft beer lover’s dream Midwest vacation destination !

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Finding the Best in Midwest Weekend Getaways

The Best Wineries, Breweries, & Cideries in the Midwest

I think it’s safe to say that microbreweries and wineries are gaining more popularity. Thankfully, we have some of the best wineries, breweries, and cideries in the Midwest! No need to travel to the metropolitan areas. From Minnesota to Wisconsin, & Iowa we are full of great places to grab a drink, enjoy a brew or wine, and relax! Check them out!

7 Hills Brewing Co

Covered bridges winery, tellurian brewing, tassel ridge winery, shiny top brewing, convergence ciderworks, little swan lake winery, fishback & stephenson cider house, danish countryside vines & wines, limestone brewers, toppling goliath, madison county winery, textile brewing company, river hops brewing, gravity storm brewery, schells brewing co, angry hog brewery & taproom, morgan creek vineyards, foremost brewing cooperative, sylvan brewing, maiden rock apples winery & cidery, potosi brew pub.

Located in a historic industrial part of Dubuque is 7 Hills Brewing Co . An open, modern, and friendly setting just makes this brew pub that much better. The food is delicious, the staff super helpful, and the brews delicious! Go for the french fries and Millworx Mule, which is a ginger beer with lime, AND it’s gluten-free!

Madison County, Iowa, is home to the Covered Bridges and its home to Covered Bridges Winery. The owners started their wine making as a hobby and over 10 years later, it’s a booming business with wine that is winning all sorts of awards! They not only serve up delicious wine, but frequently offer live music, yoga, and more to make your experience top notch! Add in a beautiful building and we guarantee you’ll love your time relaxing in rural Madison County.

Plan a Winery & Brewery Tour in Madison County

Located along the Cedar River near downtown Charles City Tellurian offers indoor and outdoor seating. They brew their own beer and frequently have food trucks onsite which offers a super relaxing feel. They also offer clean-up events (with free beer), group runs ending with beer, and other great events! I personally love their Mango Selzer. I also recommend visiting on a night when Cedar Valley Ex-Press is on site! (My favorite food truck, which offers several gluten-free items!)

Get Outdoors in Charles City, Iowa

Located on a gravel road near Pella, you’ll find Tassel Ridge Winery . Not only do they offer tastings of their Iowa grape grown wines, but also have board games available for folks to play, snacks, gifts, and more! They have a wide variety of wines including dry wines, white wines, dessert wines, and fruit wines! We recommend enjoying their chocolate and wine pairings! Delicious!

Plan a Girls Trip t o Pella

Downtown Fort Dodge, you’ll find Shiny Top Brewing. Their store front looks like a regular restaurant and that’s even what you’ll find when you step inside, but what isn’t regular is their beer and pizza! They offer a variety of brews and some of the best pizza I’ve ever had! It’s a must stop when you’re in the area.

Fun Things to Do in Fort Dodge, Iowa

Downtown Decorah in an unassuming building you’ll find delicious Cider is a new joint! Convergence CiderWorks has not only renovated this building into a beautiful home, but they are also serving up delicious ciders and partnering with several local producers! The thing I loved most about Convergence brews were that they weren’t too sweet and syrupy….plus the folks were super friendly and helpful! A bonus is their offerings of fresh and unique small plates, appetizers, and snacks!

10 Things to Do in Decorah (and Surrounding Areas)

Live music, bison, delicious snacks, and great wine…it doesn’t get much better than that and it’s exactly what you’ll find at Little Swan Lake Winery outside of Estherville, Iowa. Not only is this one of the best places to spend a Saturday night in the area with friends, but if you don’t want to worry about drinking and driving, book a room in their bed and breakfast!

A Perfect Girls Day in Estherville

Enjoy the beautiful view at Fishback & Stephenson Cider House , the delicious food, and variety of cider! Breweries are fun, but Cideries are now popping up all over and this is one of my favorites. It’s a great place to grab a snack (I recommend the green beans) and a flight of ciders so you can try several, but if you just want one glass, go for First Crush!

The Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways in Southeast Iowa

Developed in an old barn, you’ll find Danish Countryside Vines & Wines located between Exira & Elk Horn, Iowa. Owner Loren is passionate about his wine and his community! Not only is he happy to share the process with anyone willing to listen, he’s brewing delicious wines, and building a community around his winery like events called Danestock, which is a weekend event jam packed with live music, culture, and delicious food!

6 Danish Treasures in Elk Horn

Located downtown Osage in a converted garage, you’ll find one of the friendliest local breweries in Iowa! The people at Limestone Brewers are the nicest, the pizza is delicious, and the beer is the coldest and some of the best around! My favorite?! The Devil’s Punch Bowl!

10 Reasons to Visit Osage!

Don’t be deceived by the industrial location of this Decorah based brewery. Inside Toppling Goliath you’ll find a great dinning room and brew pub that offers a large variety of brews and hard seltzers. They also have a menu of delicious salads, sandwiches, wraps, and pizzas!

Tucked into the side of a hill in rural Madison County, you’ll find a fun spot to spend an evening or afternoon. Wine, locally brewed beer, wine slushies, fire pits, bags, lots of relaxed seating, and more will make your time in Madison County a fun one.

Located in a historic building in Dyersville, Iowa is one of the coolest tap rooms I’ve ever seen! Textile Brewing Company is housed in a former gasoline engine factory and sewing factory building. They’ve done an immaculate job renovating it to a beautiful taproom featuring their beers, which are equally delicious!

Downtown, you’ll find a sweet little brewery that is not only a beautiful building offering board games to enjoy with a group, but live music, and of course delicious beers! River Hops Brewing offers cold beer in a wide variety so every drinker can find something they like! We loved the Oxbow Orange & Lemon Lager.

Downtown Austin is home to Gravity Storm Brewery which is a cooperatively owned microbrewery! They offer flights, growlers, and at least 8 microbrews on tap! If you love a laid back feeling then this is the tap room for you! Plus…complimentary popcorn!

Austin, MN: Not Just SPAM – 9 Reasons to Visit

Schells Brewing Company is exactly a microbrewery, but it’s such a fun stop in New Ulm that you need to put it on your list! They may have labels that are shipped all over the country, but the brewery in New Ulm still has a small feel. Take the tour, catch a glimpse of the resident peacocks, and enjoy a taste test! Then, enjoy their beer garden!

The Top 5 Things to Do in New Ulm

Located on the edge of Austin, you’ll find an unassuming brewery & taproom called Angry Hog . Enjoy table and chairs inside or the patio outdoors. One of the most unique features of Angry Hog is their option to add fruit puree to any of their brews and customize your beer! Grab a flight and enjoy a quiet night!

A winery with delicious food and a beautiful setting is what you’ll experience at Morgan Creek Vineyards , rural New Ulm. They not only have a beautiful tasting & dining room, but also outdoor seating with a firepit, live music, and more! Enjoy a flight of wine, a glass, or even a bottle! They offer exclusive dining experiences that are unique. Make a reservation today!

In downtown Owatonna, Minnesota, Foremost Brewing Cooperative is doing things a little different. This brewery was started with a group of folks who wanted to see downtown Owatonna thrive. They developed a cooperative for their brewery. Now, they offer delicious beers (like the Dark Sweet Cherry Sour) and yummy food! They are serving up a wide menu of Ales, IPA’s, Stouts, Sours, & Seltzer. If you’re hungry they offer shareable apps, salads & grain bowls, paninis, sandwiches, wraps, & flat breads! You won’t be hungry long! Add great beer & good food in with a beautifully restore building and it’s a great place to spend some time!

6 Great Stops in Owatonna

After a long day of biking along the Root River State Trail that runs adjacent to Lanesboro, nothing is better than a cool brew. Luckily for folks visiting this southern Minnesota town, you’ll find Sylvan Brewing. This small town brewery is serving up their delicious brews in a renovated grain elevator and it’s been so well done, maintaining the history while making it functional. Even better than the location….is the delicious beer! I’m a huge fan of sours, so I was super excited to find three sours on tap during our visit: a margarita sour, Amaretto Sour, and Cran-Orange Sour.

While they were all delicious, both T & I fell in love with the Cran-Orange Sour. Thankfully, these sours are a happy medium of sweet & sour. Don’t worry, if you’re not a sour fan, they have plenty of other options like Willow, which is a Citrus Wheat Ale, and Lanesbrew, an American Lager. Live music, a food truck, indoor & outdoor seating and you’ll enjoy a visit.

Visit Maiden Rock for the Apples or wine, stay for the Cider! This rural Wisconsin establishment (located near the Great River Road) is a great place to visit. Learn about the different types of apples they grow and why. Taste test cider, wine, and snacks. Shop their marketplace or grab a drink and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. They also offer tours and special events.

2 Day Itinerary for the Great River Road: Explore the North Mississippi River

A drive to Potosi Brew Pub is worth it! This historic brewery nestled in the super small town of Potosi offers the ABA National Brewery Museum and Great River Road Interpretive Center. Enjoy a meal in their Brew Pub along with a 6 brew flight or enjoy one of their events. Across the street, find Potosi Winery Tasting Room, candy shop, ice cream shop, and more!

Visit the Best Wineries, Breweries, & Cideries in the Midwest

Well, there you have it! Our favorite wineries, breweries, and cideries in the Midwest. We love visiting them, we love checking out each of their individual vibes, and trying their creations! We think you’ll love them too! Want our FREE EXCLUSIVE breweries, wineries, & cideries checklist?! Make sure to sign up for our newsletter to get it!

Post Updated: 8/30/2023

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Because life's too short to stay home …, mad about brew, in the town that worships beer, brewery tours draw legions of fans..

© Beth Gauper

For people who love beer, there's no better place to drink it than in a brewery.

In 1880s, beer-loving Milwaukee had more than 80 of them. Three became national giants, giving Milwaukee the nicknames Beer Town and Suds City, but only one survived.

That's Miller, acquired in 1969 by Philip Morris and now part of Molson Coors. Schlitz closed in 1981, and Pabst in 1997.

Enter the first upstarts.

In 1985, Sprecher became the first brewery to start up in Milwaukee since Prohibition. Against Miller's Lite, it put up beers with so much heft you could have them for lunch: Black Bavarian, Russian imperial stout, Doppelbock.

Lakefront brewed its first beer in 1987, after Russ Klisch bought his brother Jim a home-brewing kit and soon found himself competing to see who could make the best beer.

The brothers brewed fast and furiously-the first fruit beer since Prohibition, the first certified organic beer, the first gluten-free beer, a spicy pumpkin lager. With Sprecher, they put the love back into the beer.

All three breweries offer tours, all different but all popular: You get to drink the beer.

And when you're done with those, visit the new upstarts: the dozens of craft breweries popping up around the city. Many of them offer tours .

Lakefront Brewery

It's safe to say that Lakefront's is the most fun. I got there an hour early, riding my bike from downtown past the old Schlitz brewery and through the rejuvenated Beerline B neighborhood. Already, 15 people were in line for the 1 p.m. tour.

At 12:35 p.m., we showed our IDs and were ushered inside a cavernous hall, where we got a plastic glass, four coupons for beer and a voucher for a free beer that afternoon at one of 13 restaurants.

I could see that some serious drinking lay ahead, so I bought a slice of Meglio's pizza to have with a glass of the Rendezvous Ale, a French country ale that was light but more substantial than New Glarus' popular Spotted Cow, a Wisconsin farmhouse ale.

That went down pretty easily, so I followed it with a glass of Wheat Monkey, which our guide, Joe, said was "flying off the shelves."

Standing in front of three fermentation tanks painted with the images of the Three Stooges, Joe told us the only rule at Lakefront is to have a good time.

"There's always someone who's been here as many times as I have, and the reason is what we have in our hand, it's the beer," he said. "Okay, who's been here 25 times? 35 times? More than 100?"

He told us about the home-brewing kit that started it all and claimed that the city sold the current brewery, an old power plant, to the Klisch brothers in return for "free beer for life."

The brewing process is basically the same everywhere: In the mash tun, grain is steeped in hot water. After the grain is strained out, the resulting wort is boiled and hops are added. It's cooled and sent to fermenting tanks, where yeast is added.

But at Lakefront, Joe explained what the yeast does after it devours the sugars in the wort: "It does what we do when we eat too much. The yeast is going to poop-poop out alcohol and carbon dioxide, which creates carbonation. Then it reproduces with itself and parties."

The used-up grain, he said, is fed to worms, whose waste becomes organic fertilizer. For good measure, he added that the cups from which we were drinking were made from old plastic bags and diapers and also will be composted.

Yum! But no one stopped drinking.

Then Joe showed us the original Bernie Brewer's Chalet from the old County Stadium, which the Klisches bought as a souvenir. He pointed to its famous slide.

"Bernie would only slide down it when the Brewers hit a home run, so of course it's in perfect shape," he cracked.

In the bottling room, Joe made us sing "Making Our Dreams Come True," the theme song from "Laverne and Shirley," the TV sitcom that was based in the fictional Schotz Brewery in Milwaukee and ran from 1975 to 1983: "Schlemiel! Schlimazel! Hasenpfeffer Incorporated!"

"If you don't sing, we'll send you out that exit door, and that way there's no more beers," he warned.

But I made it onto the sunny riverside patio where tour guests can spend as much time as they want, using up their coupons and watching the Brew City Queen II tour boat chug up and down the river between Lakefront and two brewpubs, the Milwaukee Ale House and Rock Bottom Brewery.

I only had room for one more beer, so I tried the Riverwest Stein amber lager, which Joe said was the brewery's most popular.

"People think it's too dark, but then they taste it," he said. I could see why the brewery is so popular. Its beers are deceptively mild, pleasing to most palates yet packed with flavor.

© Milwaukee Parks

Sprecher Brewery

At Sprecher, the beers are as chewy as a slice of multigrain bread. Started in 1985 by Randal Sprecher, a former Pabst supervisor, it takes the Belgian view that beer is the bread of life.

And sure enough, on the tour, we got up close and personal with the ingredients, smelling hops pellets and tasting barley-malt grains -- yum, just like a bowl of Grape-Nuts.

Brewmasters can tinker with the beer at many points. Corn, rice or wheat can be used as grains along with various barley malts, which, when roasted, give beer color and flavor-of coffee, caramel or chocolate, for example.

The type of hops used gives it aroma, and its bitterness balances the sweetness of the malt. Like Lakefront, one of Sprecher's bestsellers is a Viennese-style lager, the Special Amber.

Its flavors span the globe-in addition to its German-style Black Bavarian and Hefe Weiss, it also produces the Belgian Abbey Triple, Irish Stout and Austrian-style Radlers.

Ironically, for the first Milwaukee brewery to open since Prohibition, Sprecher is just as well known for its delectable sodas, which are ubiquitous in gourmet delis.

On this brewery tour, you're likely to drink just as much of its root beer and cream soda, and it makes seven other soft drinks, including Orange Dream, Grape and Cherry Cola.

MolsonCoors

And then there's the MolsonCoors brewery tour. It's just as popular as the other two, because more people still drink Miller Lite than craft beers.

When I went, it was only 11 a.m. on a chilly Saturday, and already 94 people were gunning for a taste of High Life.

"Now, you all signed the Enthusiasm Clause before going on the tour," shouted a peppy young guide named Ryan. "So I'll be assessing your enthusiasm to see if you get the free samples."

We had gathered in Miller Valley, along the Menomonee River, to hear the story of Frederick Miller, a royal brewmaster in Germany who had New World-size ambitions.

One day, he packed up his yeast and decamped to America, where, in 1855, he bought a small brewery in Milwaukee. Miller not only knew how to make beer, he knew how to make people want to drink beer.

Over the years, he and his sons gave social cachet to a workingman's beverage. They opened a beer garden and used catchy slogans — for High Life, it was "the Champagne of Bottle Beers," winner of a 1903 contest — and symbols, such as the Girl in the Moon, a coy damsel perched on a crescent.

Thus Miller beers became part of the fabric of Milwaukee, and the city's beautiful new ball park bears its name.

The nice family success story grinds to a halt in 1969, when Miller was acquired by tobacco giant Philip Morris. In 2002, South African Brewing bought it, and in 2008, it merged with Coors. In 2016, the Belgian multinational InBev acquired SABMiller, which then sold its stake in MillerCoors to Molson Coors.

Today, it's a little hard to work up much enthusiasm for a global conglomerate that's best known for making Miller Lite and 30 other brands of American-style pilsener.

The tour include a flashy video, but it's as insubstantial as the beer. We looked through a glassed-in balcony at a room full of machinery and got a dizzying 30-second explanation of brewing as we looked at a row of kettles.

However, the Caves Museum and wood-paneled Miller Inn pub, where we drank our samples, were quite atmospheric.

They should be, considering the brewery's age and history. Even if a tour guide's explanation of the brewing process makes your eyes glaze over, the story behind the beer always is interesting.

For more on breweries in southern Wisconsin, see Road trip: Breweries of southern Wisconsin .

For a list of beer festivals, see Best brew fests .

Trip Tips: Milwaukee brewery tours

Be sure to bring photo identification; otherwise, you might end up drinking root beer.

Events: Milwaukee Beer Week , with sampling and other events across town.

Riverwalk Boat Tours : On Saturdays, the Brew City Queen II or Milwaukee Maiden pontoon boats offer a 3 Pub cruise.

Lakefront Brewery : On the Milwaukee River just north of downtown, Lakefront Brewery's daily tour is very popular. Tour hours vary. All Saturday tickets are sold online; for other days, 15 tickets are first-come, first-served.

Cost is $8-$11, including a pint glass, four 6-ounce pours and a free beer at local restaurants, good only until 6 p.m. that day.

Sprecher Brewing Co. : In the suburb of Glendale, Sprecher brews artisan beers and sodas. Tour hours vary, but generally there are at least two tours on weekday afternoons and more from Friday through Sunday; check the schedule.

Cost is $8, $5 for people under 21, and includes a tasting glass and four samples. Reserve online or call 414-964-2739.

Milwaukee Brewing Co. : Now with two breweries, one in the Walker's Point neighborhood and one in part of the old Pabst Brewery complex, it supplies the beer for the Milwaukee Ale House in the Third Ward.

Both breweries offer tours, Saturdays at the original 2nd Street Brewery in Walker's Point and Fridays through Sundays at the 9th Street Brewery near Fiserv Forum. Cost of $12 includes a pint glass, samples and a token for a beer at a later time.

Miller Brewery (MolsonCoors): One-hour tours are given daily in summer and Monday through Saturday the rest of the year. It's no longer free; cost is $10, $5 for Wisconsin residents with state-issued ID.

Walk in or reserve in advance, 414-931-2337 or 800-944-5483. Saturday is busiest, though visitors won't see production that day. The plant is along the Menomonee River, west of downtown and just south of Washington Park.

Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery : This event center offers Beer History Tours that include a 16-ounce Pabst or Schlitz, $10.

For more about sightseeing, festivals and lodgings, see Milwaukee stories .

Where to drink beer

Great bars and brewpubs are legion. But one of the most popular places to drink in the summer is Estabrook Beer Garden in Estabrook Park, on the Milwaukee River and Oak Leaf Trail north of downtown.

Modeled on beer gardens in modern-day Munich, it features German beer served in half- and full-liter glass mugs, shared tables, polka music and fresh-baked German pretzels and wurst.

People also can bring their own food, and dogs are allowed. In the park, there's a dog park, disc golf and a riverfront boardwalk.

There are also beer gardens in Humboldt, Hoyt and South Shore parks. Others parks are served by a traveling beer truck from Sprecher Brewing. There's live music at each of the stops from Wednesday through Saturday.

In Glendale, the Bavarian Bier Haus has a large beer garden. On the four weekends after Labor Day, it hosts the annual Oktoberfest in adjoining Old Heidelberg Park.

Where to stay

The 90-suite Brewhouse Inn & Suites now occupies parts of the 1877 Pabst Brewery. It's built of Cream City brick and is the centerpiece of the new Brewery neighborhood around the 20-acre complex.

Getting around

It's easiest by bike. Not far from Schlitz Park, the paved, 3.7-mile Beerline Trail heads north on the west side of the Milwaukee River, passing Lakefront Brewery. The trail is lined with murals and public art.

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Chicago's Best Brewery Tasting Rooms

Where to drink craft beer straight from the source

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Breweries offer drinkers a chance to connect with brewers and enjoy fresh draft beer. They’re good places to hang out with friends, where you can order off-premises food or bring small children. They’re also great places to “work from home.”

This list is limited to breweries within the city limits without full kitchens and food menus. Customers at these taprooms rely on delivery, carryout, or a food truck parked outside. For breweries with kitchens, also known as brewpubs, check out this map .

Mikerphone Brewing

Inside a suburban industrial park, Mikerphone is a brewery with a patio with variety on draft — stouts, sours, IPAs. There’s also hard seltzers and NA options. The husband-and-wife founders say their brewery makes “craft beer inspired by music.”

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Illuminated Brew Works

IBW in Norwood Park has adopted a cult theme: the taproom is styled as a “secret” lodge and drinking IBW beer will make customers members of an illuminati. There’s a variety of beers on tap and a 10 percent discount to customers who ride their bikes to the taproom.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Illuminated Brew Works (@illuminatedbrewworks)

Alarmist Brewing & Taproom

This dog- and kid-friendly taproom has a 18-seat courtyard that’s open seasonally. Find a good variety of lagers, ales, and sours on draft.

Spiteful Brewing Tap Room

A few steps away from Half Acre, Spiteful is a smaller operation with a great kid-friendly space that soaks up a lot of sunlight. It’s not a massive room, but it’s good for small groups, and it offers a decent variety of delicious beers.

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Hop Butcher For The World

The name’s inspired by poet Carl Sandburg, and the brewery has taken over some hallowed ground — Half Acre Beer Co.’s original Lincoln Avenue space. Hop Butcher had the task of not changing the vibe too much, locals routinely packed the old space. But as a place to showcase their IPAs and other beers, they did want to make the space uniquely theirs. It’s small and tends to get crowded on the weekend, but it’s a nice place to play board games and hang out.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Borracho Grande (@borrachogrande)

Dovetail Brewery

Another brewery along the Malt Row corridor in Ravenswood, Dovetail specializes in modern interpretations of German-style lagers. The beer is refreshing and the space is friendly.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dovetail Brewery (@dovetailbrewery)

Where to Find Chicago Breweries With Outdoor Seating and Beer Gardens

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Begyle Brewing

Begyle’s taproom is tidy and comfy, a good place to hang out for a point or a tasting. Brewery tours are also available. Begyle is known for its award-winning Imperial Pajamas.

Revolution Brewing

Revolution is the state’s largest independent craft brewer, and it recently purchased a new Avondale brewery with a cavernous taproom up a short flight of stairs. The space is ideal for large gatherings and the bar usually has a special draft offering — say a variant of Deth’s Tar, the brewery’s barrel-aged stout. There’s the occasional pop-up, but delivery is the best bet for food.

Hopewell Brewing Company

One of the hipper taprooms in the city, Hopewell stands along Milwaukee Avenue in Logan Square. Find pale ales, lagers, sours, and board games here. While there’s no kitchen, the brewery often hosts food pop-ups.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hopewell Brewing (@hopewellbrewing)

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Maplewood Brewery & Distillery

This dimly lit Logan Square pub hidden on a residential block is a tribute to Chicago dive bars. Find a good variety of styles and boozy slushies. Maplewood also makes its own spirits.

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Pilot Project Brewing

Pilot Project is a newish concept in Logan Square, one that serves as a business incubator for several breweries, allowing them to serve their beer as they hammer out production concerns and figure if they want their own locations. The space is beautiful and airy, though it tends to get jammed on weekends. There’s also a patio space next door. For folks who don’t want booze, there’s also a full espresso bar. There are currently six breweries on tap, including Indian-influenced Azadi and Brewer’s Kitchen which takes a culinary approach to beer making.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pilot Project Brewing (@pilotprojectbrewing)

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Solemn Oath Brewery Still Life

Solemn Oath finally opened its Chicago location with a unique design that uses a ’70s rec room aesthetic. One of the more popular bars in Logan Square in 2021, the brewery is a good place for a date.

Life on Marz Community Club

The North Side spinoff of the brewery from the owners of Maria’s Community Bar in Bridgeport, this small space in the same building as iconic ice cream parlor Margie’s Candies, has a small tap list and plenty of non-alcoholic drinks, including CBD seltzer.

Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap

This space has become a sanctuary in a quiet stretch of Lincoln Park. This taproom also has a full bar and cocktails, a rarity. The space tends to get loud as weekend nights go on, so get here early. There’s also a patio overlooking Kingsbury.

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On Tour Brewing Company

On Tour packs in crowds for crushable pilsners, weisses, and saisons as well as nitro selections and growlers to go. Food trucks and pop-ups sometimes make appearances. This is one of the more beloved taprooms among beer fans in Chicago, and makes an ideal venue for a private event.

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Goose island beer co..

It only took 20 years after Goose Island opened its Fulton and Wood facility for it to debut this gem of a tasting room that offers taproom specials as well as tours of the brewing facility. There’s also a huge depot of vintage bottles, some available for takeout. The tap list differs from the original Goose Island Clybourn brewpub in Lincoln Park. The original closed in 2023 and will move into the Salt Shed later in 2024.

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Midwest Coast Brewing Company

West Town’s Midwest Coast Brewing sports a cozy taproom that allows customers to construct custom flights with IPAs and lagers. Customers are welcome to bring in their own food or order delivery.

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Whiner Beer Company

Whiner Beer broke into the mainstream with Le Tub, which it proclaimed the first beer designed for drinking while in a bathtub. What happens in the privacy of a drinker’s own home isn’t up for discussion, but in public, Whiner is known for its barrel-age brews, and it’s not just about the stouts. Find fruit beers, sours, and more.

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Chicago’s Essential Burgers

Where to Eat and Drink in Chicago’s Back of the Yards Neighborhood

Turner Haus Brewery

Chicago’s only Black-owned taproom is located in Bronzeville, sharing space with Sip & Savor, a coffee mini chain. Highlights in this small and cozy space including Lola, an IPA made with basil, jalapeno, and peanut butter. Queen’s Legacy is aged in Uncle Nearest whisky barrels, it’s a Caribbean-style stout.

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• Around the Midwest

Step Behind the Scenes with These Totally Fascinating Midwest Factory Tours

Check out these tours for a firsthand look at how Midwest goods like snowmobiles, chocolate and even parade floats get made.

Amanda Doyle is an author and freelance writer/editor based in St. Louis. She has a BA in journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia and a master's in environmental studies from the University of Illinois-Springfield.

Manufacturing helped build the Midwest as a global economic and cultural force. These factory tours give insights into the process of creating what we eat, what we put in our homes, how we move around, and the ways we celebrate. Before you go: Check websites for reservation information, cost, age limits and accessibility limitations.

Food + Drink

Askinosie chocolate, springfield, missouri.

Small-batch is a big deal here, as are personal relationships— Askinosie deals directly with every farmer growing their cocoa beans. The company has won numerous national and international awards for their bars, cocoa powders, and confections. Regular 45-minute tours step off Mondays at 3 p.m. For the month before Christmas, founder and CEO Shawn Askinosie leads special Saturday tours at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. And here's a sweet deal: Every tour gets you a 10 percent discount in the chocolate shop.

More to try: Go behind the scenes with DeBrand Fine Chocolates in Fort Wayne, Indiana, or Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate in St. Louis.

Bell's Brewery, Kalamazoo, Michigan

The good folks at Bell's started their now-huge operation in a 15-gallon soup pot in 1985, and they love showing off their humble beginnings. At the flagship facility in Kalamazoo, a 45-minute tour includes a peek at the 15-barrel system that produced the first batches of popular Two Hearted and Oberon brews. The nearby Bell's Comstock brewery also gives regular tours. Keep an eye on the website for special tours like the Hopslam, where guests can try a hop rub.

More to try: The three-hour Hard Hat tour at Wisconsin's New Glarus Brewing Co. includes a behind-the-scenes visit to both the original Riverside brewery and the new Hilltop brewery, plus a beer and cheese pairing. Milwaukee earns its Brew City nickname through a variety of brewery tours . Grand Rapids, Michigan, aka Beer City, also offers multiple brewery production tours .

Cedar Grove Cheese, Plain, Wisconsin

Cedar Grove Cheese, about 35 miles west of Madison, has worked with local dairy farmers for more than 100 years to source milk for its premium cheeses. Factory tours are available on request; visitors learn about the history and art of cheesemaking as well as the economics of small-scale production. The on-site store sells fresh-from-the-vat cheese curds as well as daily cheese specials.

More to Try: In Thorp, Wisconsin, college students lead guided farm tours at Marieke Gouda during the summer; in other months, visitors are still welcome to the farm where award-winning Gouda is made. The National Historic Cheesemaking Center in Monroe, Wisconsin, tells the story of cheesemaking in Green County and sponsors occasional cheesemaking demonstrations. Open seasonally.

Faribault Mill, Faribault, Minnesota

It's a trip to the heart of cozy when you walk inside a woolen mill with more than 150 years of operation under its belt. Faribault Mill sits astride the Cannon River, and with a combination of century-old and modern equipment and processes, the mill creates high-quality throws, blankets, scarves and other accessories. Tours leave Fridays and Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Reservations recommended.

Kohler Tubs and Fixtures, Kohler, Wisconsin

You may not have given a second thought to the humble bath fixtures in your house, but you'll never look at them the same way after taking the factory tour at Kohler's world HQ. As you walk through foundry, pottery, and brass-building sections, you'll see the origins of china lavatories and exquisite cast-iron soaking tubs, as well as learn the history of this immigrant-built business and town.

Factory tours are scheduled on request, begin at 8:15 a.m. and last for about 3 hours. The production facility is just one of the tourable parts of the Kohler complex: see the surrounding gardens, adjacent resort hotel, Art Walk and Kohler Design Center through guided or self-guided tours (some areas are limited to resort guests).

Kokomo Opalescent Glass, Kokomo, Indiana

This producer of art glass and other fine-glass products, in business since the late 1800s, takes visitors on a detailed exploration of the inner workings. The company's stained glass and dalle de verre (slab of glass) panes grace churches all over the world, and you can see the process from start to finish in a 75-minute tour. Tours accommodate up to 20 people and are offered Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 11 a.m.; advance reservations required.

More to Try: In Logan, Ohio, see how washboards are made on guided tours of the Columbus Washboard Co. Kendrick Forest Products in Edgewood, Iowa, offers seasonal tours that go through Iowa's largest sawmill as well as the custom cabinet shop and other stops.

Moving Around

Ford rouge factory, dearborn, michigan.

The Ford Rouge Factory Tour guides visitors through the automaker's history and above the assembly line of the company's most technologically advanced plant, which turns out the popular F-150 pickup truck. Catwalks offers bird's-eye views of the plant's floor; a multisensory film experience (think vibrating seats and gusting wind) gives a peek at engineering innovation. Learn about the company's sustainable manufacturing efforts by checking out the building's solar-power equipment and its living roof.

The Parade Company, Detroit

Clowns, flamingos and aliens peek out from around every corner of this Detroit mainstay, the home and production facility for most of what viewers experience during America's Thanksgiving Parade each November. See the parade floats being assembled, but remember to dress for the weather: the warehouse is not overly climate-controlled. Tour times vary through the seasons.

Polaris Snowmobiles, Roseau, Minnesota

Adventure seekers will find the need for speed satisfied by a deep dive into the world of sporty vehicles like ATVs and snowmobiles, both of which come off the Polaris line here. A free, one-hour tour takes guests through the process, from welding to the final painted decoration. No free sample snowmobiles at the end, but it might just inspire your own future purchase! Tours Monday-Friday at 2 p.m.

More to Try: See how Airstream trailers are built on tours in Jackson Center, Ohio. In Forest City, Iowa, learn how Winnebago motorhomes and camper vans are built; tours generally run April through October. John Deere, with multiple ag equipment manufacturing sites in Iowa and Illinois, offers tours that vary by location.

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RV Vacation: Best Brewery Tours in the Midwest

What’s better than hitting the road, camping out with some friends and having a few cold ones while you’re at it? Not much!

Around the Midwest, there have been a huge number of great breweries popping up. Far from the big breweries of yesteryear, these small craft breweries put focus on great beer, good times—and they’ll even show you around the place.

Take an RV trip with us to a few of the best breweries in the Midwest. We’ll show you where to camp and what to drink.

LAKEFRONT BREWERY

Not far from Downtown Milwaukee, this brewery puts emphasis on the old-school Wisconsin favorites: beer, polka, fish fries and fun.

Many attendees see this as the hands-down best brewery tour in Wisconsin—which is saying a lot, considering the high number of breweries in the area. For just $7, you get four beer samples, a pint glass and a tour of the facility. On Friday nights, expect a fish fry and a live polka band—as well as plenty of beer. But get there early! Tours have a tendency to sell out early.

What to Drink:

Fixed Gear is a best-seller at Lakefront. It’s a dry-hopped red IPA with plenty of bite.

Where to stay:  Wisconsin State Fair RV Park  

During the Wisconsin State Fair in nearby West Allis, Wisconsin, the state fairgrounds are a bustling place. The rest of the year, however, the doors are open to RVers. There’s plenty of place to pull up and stay for a few nights.

FOUNDERS BREWING

Grand Rapids, Michigan is a small town that can get bitingly cold in the winter. That’s why they need plenty of strong, dark beer to get through the tough season. Enter Founders Brewing, who has been making award-winning beer in west Michigan for over a decade.

Founders offers tours of the facility on Saturdays and Tuesdays.

What to Drink: 

Founders Breakfast Stout, as well as its barrel-aged variant Kentucky Breakfast Stout, are not to be missed for fans of whopping, strong beer.

Where to Stay:  Woodchip Campground

Located not far from downtown Grand Rapids—and just a 15 minute drive from Founders Brewing—Woodchip Campground has all the amenities to make a family vacation a load of fun.

BELL’S BREWING

Not far from Grand Rapids, Bell’s Brewing is located in the college town of Kalamazoo, Michigan. Famous for its flash-in-the-pan, hyper-seasonal beers that drinkers flock to try before they disappear, Bell’s offers great food, an interesting tour and wide array of beers to try. (They even have a webcam set up so you can see what they have on tap right now!)

If it’s available, the HopSlam is a must. With six different hop varieties and over 70 IBU, it’s a tart, refreshing and hefty double IPA.

Where to stay:  Markin Glen Park

With over 38 modern RV sites, this 160-acre park offers plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy the Good Life. There’s fishing, swimming, playgrounds and more.

THREE FLOYDS

Of any of the aforementioned breweries, Munster, Indiana’s Three Floyds likely has the most fervent—and weirdest—fanbase. With beer names like “Permanent Funeral” and “Rabbid Rabbit,” Three Floyds lives up to its tagline of “It’s Not Normal.”

If you can get past the odd names and wacky labels, you’ll find some of the best beer in the Midwest, along with a cool tour and some great food in their brewpub.

The year-round favorite Gumballhead is a tasty wheat beer that’s a must-have. But—if you’re feeling daring—try to get a taste of Dark Lord, their Russian Imperial Stout that fetches mile-long lines (seriously).

Where to stay:  Emerald Trails Campground

Located just over the Illinois border, but still just a short drive away, Emerald Trails offers all the amenities that RV campers have come to expect, including full hookups, on-site swimming pool and plenty of scenery.

The 19 Best Kansas City Breweries

What are the best Kansas City Breweries you absolutely must check out? Well, we’ve done the work to figure that out for you! We have sampled their brews, spent time in their taprooms, and read all the online reviews to come up with our take on the top Kansas City Breweries to explore this year! 

Breweries List

Kansas City Breweries

Kansas City is a vibrant Midwestern city known for its jazz, barbecue, and love of sports. However, they’re also gaining recognition for the city’s rising beer scene. You can expect to find a variety of brewing styles, including traditional ales, hop-forward IPAs, barrel-aged sours, and experimental brews.

Kansas City’s local breweries take pride in using fresh, local ingredients, and many of them give back to their community through partnerships with local non-profits. If you’re a beer lover, you’ll be sure to find something to suit your taste buds in this bustling city.

What are the top breweries in Kansas City?

Kansas City is home to a plethora of amazing breweries, each with its own unique vibe and flavor profile. Some of the most popular beers in this city are hoppy IPAs, barrel-aged sours, and traditional farmhouse ales.

But what sets these breweries apart from the rest is their commitment to quality, community, and creativity. Many of these breweries have won awards at national beer festivals, while others are just starting to make a name for themselves.

What makes the breweries in Kansas City so great is their passion for making delicious beer and their willingness to experiment with new and exciting flavors.

Below, we’ve listed some of the best breweries in Kansas City, MO that you simply cannot miss.

How we picked the best Kansas City Breweries?

With every ‘top breweries’ post that we write, we make sure to do diligent online research to determine who makes it on our list. From reading online reviews and reviewing beer selections to checking other authority websites and sampling their beers. We do our best to take all the information we collect and give you our opinion of the top breweries in Kansas City.

However, we know we aren’t perfect and if we’ve missed a Kansas City brewery that you think should be on this list, contact us and let us know who the brewery is and we’ll do our best to include them!

Did we miss something?

If you think a brewery deserves a spot on our list, Vote for them ! If you’re a brewery looking to update your information or get in touch, contact us!

The Best Kansas City Breweries

Alright, let’s get to it, shall we? Here’s our list of the top Kansas City Craft Breweries!

Boulevard Brewing

If you’re a craft beer lover in Kansas City, Boulevard Brewing is a must-visit destination. Founded in 1989, it has grown to become the largest specialty brewer in Midwestern America. One of the most unique features of Boulevard is its beer hall, which offers free tours that give you an inside look at its brewing process.

Boulevard offers a wide selection of beers, including year-round staples like their popular Unfiltered Wheat and Tank 7 Farmhouse Ale, as well as a variety of specialty and seasonal releases. Many of their beers have won awards at the Great American Beer Festival, so you know you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to stop by Boulevard for a pint or two and take a tour to learn more about their delicious brews.

Customer Review: Boulevard is amazing. I love all the room in here and options to go outside. SO many beers available – my favorites are the experimental beers you can try. They also have seltzers and canned cocktails for the non-beer drinker.

• Phone: (816) 701-7247
• Address: 2534 Madison Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
• Beers to Try: Space Camper Cosmic IPA and Unfiltered Wheat
• Website: boulevard.com/

If you’re looking for an authentic German-style beer experience in Kansas City, look no further than the Kansas City Bier Company. This brewery is dedicated to crafting delicious lagers and ales that stay true to their German roots. They even import their malt and hops from Europe to ensure that every sip is as authentic and delicious as possible.

At the Kansas City Bier Company, freshness and flavor are key. Their brewing process is designed to create beers that are bursting with flavor, and you can taste the difference in every glass. If you’re feeling hungry, be sure to pair your drinks with their bratwurst and German-style sausages for the ultimate German dining experience.

Customer Review: Great beer, food, service, and everything else. You can tell how passionate they are about German style beer and culture. Definitely my favorite spot (not just brewery) in the neighborhood.

• Phone: (816) 214-8691
• Address: 310 W 79th St, Kansas City, MO 64114, United States
• Beers to Try: German-style Pilsner
• Website: kcbier.com/

Martin City Brewing Company

Martin City Brewing Company is a craft brewery with several pizza and taproom locations across the Kansas City area, making it a popular spot for both foodies and beer enthusiasts. Their original location, Coast to Coast Pub in Martin City, is a must-visit destination, but they also have other locations in Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, and Lanexa.

When it comes to beer, Martin City Brewing Company offers a variety of options to suit every taste. They have a lineup of core beers, seasonal releases, limited-release IPAs, and barrel-aged beers, so there’s always something new to try.

Don’t miss the chance to try their popular Donut Stout, a seasonal release that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re a fan of craft beer, pizza, or just looking for a fun night out, Martin City Brewing Company is a great place to visit.

Customer Review: Coast to Coast is a great! Good, vibe and Martin City Brewery beer! Happy hour specials and $1 oysters on Wednesday. The MCBC staff at all locations are well trained, professional and very friendly.

• Phone: (816) 268-2222
• Address: 500 E 135th St, Kansas City, MO 64145, United States
• Beers to Try: Donut Stout
• Website: martincitybrewingcompany.com/

Cinder Block Brewery

Cinder Block Brewery in North Kansas City specializes in artisanal beer, using only the finest local ingredients to create delicious, unique brews that are sure to please any palate.

They have a beautiful patio that is the perfect spot to enjoy a cold beer on a sunny day. And if you’re a Kansas City Chiefs fan, this is the place to be! The brewery is a great spot to watch sports and cheer on your favorite team with other fans.

What sets Cinder Block Brewery apart is their commitment to using local ingredients in their beer. They work closely with local farmers and producers to source the freshest hops and grains, resulting in a lineup of brews that are bursting with flavor.

Customer Review: LOVE this brewery! Such a fun and welcoming environment with DELICIOUS and creative beers and ciders. I’m not even a beer lover and I have found so much here that I love!

• Phone: (816) 298-6555
• Address: 110 E 18th Ave, North Kansas City, MO 64116, United States
• Beers to Try: Weathered Wit Wheat Beer and Paver’s Porter
• Website: cinderblockbrewery.com/

Double Shift Brewing

Double Shift Brewing is a small but mighty brewery located in the heart of the Crossroads Art District in Kansas City. The brewery was originally founded as a “second shift” job by a local firefighter, and since then it has become a popular destination for beer lovers in the area.

At Double Shift Brewing, you can expect high-quality beer in small batches. They take pride in their attention to detail, crafting each beer with care and using only the best ingredients. Their lineup of beers includes some popular farmhouse ales, IPAs, and some wild creations that are sure to surprise and delight your taste buds.

One of their most unique beers brewed on site is the Brunch Pirate, a wild creation that’s reminiscent of pancakes, maple syrup, and bacon, paired with coffee and a little whiskey for good measure. It’s the perfect beer to enjoy on a lazy weekend morning or to sip with friends at the brewery.

Customer Review: Had several different beers here and all of them were done well. Beertenders were friendly and helpful, even when it got busy. Probably my favorite brewery in town.

• Phone: (816) 304-7028
• Address: 412 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
• Beers to Try: Brunch Pirate
• Website: doubleshiftbrewing.com/

City Barrel Brewing

If you’re looking for a fun and stylish place to grab a beer in Kansas City, look no further than City Barrel Brewing. This brewpub serves elevated pub food and cocktails in an industrial-chic space that’s perfect for a night out with friends.

One thing that sets City Barrel Brewing apart is their focus on hoppy, wild, and sour beers. They offer a range of flavors and styles, so there’s always something new to try. Whether you’re a fan of IPAs or sour beers, City Barrel Brewing has something that’s sure to please your palate.

A few brews worth mentioning are the Adulting, which uses Japanese rice to add spice to the lager, and the Recovery Beer, which has hints of mango and is packed with electrolytes. These unique creations are just a taste of what you can expect when you visit City Barrel Brewing. So grab a seat, order some delicious food, and sample some of the best beer Kansas City has to offer!

Customer Review: As far as Craft Brews and Craft Eats this place definitely has it right. […] As far as the beers, I am an IPA Fan and loved the different palate of colors and flavors the Brews came with. Good job C.B. keep up the good work, Cheers!

• Phone: (816) 298-7008
• Address: 1740 Holmes St, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
• Beers to Try: Adulting and Recovery Beer
• Website: citybarrelbrewing.com/

Border Brewing Company

Nestled in the heart of the Crossroads Arts District, you’ll find City Barrel Brewing – a cozy and welcoming spot that’s perfect for a night out. This craft brewery offers a wide variety of beer styles that are both approachable and complex in flavor. From crisp lagers to bold IPAs, there’s something for everyone at City Barrel Brewing.

But this brewery is more than just great beer. They also host live music and trivia nights, making it a fun and lively spot to hang out with friends. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, don’t miss their small batch beer tapping every Thursday. It’s a chance for the brewers to experiment and try out new recipes, and it’s also a chance for you to taste a brew like the pros do.

Customer Review: Great new space with back patio, good selection of beers brewed on-site. Friendly staff

• Phone: (816) 469-5287
• Address: 512 E 18 St, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
• Beers to Try: Strawberry Blonde
• Website: borderbrewco.com/

Torn Label Brewing

Torn Label Brewing is not just a brewery, it’s an experience. Tucked away in a less-traveled area, it’s a hidden gem that’s worth seeking out. Their indoor and outdoor seating areas are perfect for enjoying some delicious pub food and amazing craft beers.

Torn Label Brewing prides itself on using local ingredients, and it shows in their brews. The House Brew, a coffee stout made with locally-sourced coffee beans, is a standout favorite. They also have tons of limited-release beers that rotate through their taps, making every visit a new adventure. And if you’re a trivia buff, be sure to check out their unique “Small Batch Trivia” night on Wednesdays, hosted by Geeks Who Drink.

Customer Review: This is the best brewery in Kansas City. And I’m not just saying that because I’m halfway through a growler of Baba Turk. Consistently high quality brews; they make nothing that isn’t amazing. Consider yourself lucky if you tried The Witch. I hope they make it every year until forever.

• Phone: (816) 656-5459
• Address: 1708 Campbell St, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
• Beers to Try: House Brew Coffee Wheat Stout
• Website: tornlabel.com/

Brewery Emperial

Brewery Emperial in the Crossroads District is a must-visit for beer lovers in Kansas City. This craft brewery is known for its expertly crafted American and European beers that are brewed on-site. The brewery’s full-service beer garden and patio are the perfect place to enjoy a cold one on a sunny day.

What sets Brewery Emperial apart from the rest is their dedication to using locally sourced, fresh seasonal ingredients in their delicious food menu. Their farm-to-table approach ensures that every dish is bursting with flavor and made with the highest quality ingredients.

Customer Review: Downtown Kansas City but plenty of free parking! The Extra Special Biscuit is super tasty – malty and clean. The food menu looks great and the outdoor seating is big. Going to bring the wife and kiddos back to this one!

• Phone: (816) 945-9625
• Address: 1829 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
• Beers to Try: Biscuit American Ale
• Website: breweryemperial.com/

Stockyards Brewing

Stockyards Brewing in Kansas City is located in the historic West Bottoms area, also known as the Stockyard District. This brewery is like an old western saloon that’s been updated with a modern craft brewery. They’re all about brewing great, unpretentious beer for hardworking people while revitalizing a historic location rich in their city’s history.

One of the coolest things about this spot is that they’ve kept the original bar, woodwork, and vibe of the olden days. It’s a great place to catch the Kansas City Chiefs game or listen to live bluegrass music. If you’re looking for a laid-back brewery experience with a nod to the past, Stockyards Brewing is definitely worth checking out.

Customer Review: What a cool vibe! Mix a cowboy saloon with a dj that plays requested old western 45s with local craft drafts and you have a throwback experience worth revisiting. You have to check it out!

• Phone: (816) 945-7729
• Address: 1600 Genessee St #100, Kansas City, MO 64102, United States
• Beers to Try: West Bottoms IPA
• Website: stockyardsbrewing.com/

The Big Rip Brewing Company

The Big Rip Brewing Company is a small but mighty brewery and is the perfect spot to try something unique and delicious. Not only do they serve delicious pretzels, but you can also order food from their neighbor, Hawg Jaw BBQ.

The Big Rip is known for their inventive and sometimes downright spooky beer styles, most with fun sci-fi and horror movie themes. Their brewing system is computerized to ensure each batch is perfect, and they take great pride in brewing in small batches to maintain high quality. With so many unique flavors to try, The Big Rip is a great place to expand your beer horizons and try something new.

Customer Review: Truly enjoyed our evening at The Big Rip. The brews were delicious and having live music just adds a special touch.

• Phone: (816) 866-0747
• Address: 216 E 9th Ave, North Kansas City, MO 64116, United States
• Beers to Try: Zelda’s Vanilla Cream Ale
• Website: bigripbrewing.com/

Casual Animal Brewing

Casual Animal Brewing is a small but mighty craft brewery that is all about quality over quantity. They specialize in small-batch session beers that are always fresh and packed with flavor. The team at Casual Animal is dedicated to using local ingredients whenever possible, so you know you’re getting a taste of Kansas City with every sip.

Plus, they give back to the community by donating $2 for every pint sold to local non-profit organizations. If you’re looking for a fun night out, Casual Animal often hosts events like comedy nights and game nights. While they don’t have a full kitchen, they offer tasty snacks, and you can always expect to find delicious food trucks or pop-up events parked outside.

Customer Review: Excellent space and beer – nicest overall that I’ve seen on Brewer’s Alley. Wide range, mostly on the easily palatable end of the beverage range. Think hard seltzer, hazy IPA, ice cream ale. Really pleasant, especially with the greenery – worth a visit.

• Phone: (816) 648-0184
• Address: 1725 McGee St, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
• Beers to Try: Cat Shark Amber Ale
• Website: casualanimalbrewing.com/

BKS Artisan Ales

If you’re looking for a top-quality craft brewery in Kansas City, look no further than BKS Artisan Ales! Located in the Brookside area, they were the first brewery in the area and have been making a name for themselves ever since. Their hazy IPAs are some of the best in the city, and they’re always experimenting with new and interesting beer styles.

Whether you’re into barrel-aged, hop-forward, sour ales, or farmhouse ales, BKS Artisan Ales’ beer menu has got you covered. And if you’re a fan of lagers, be sure to check out their Pivo Project initiative. They’re always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in craft brewing, so don’t miss out on a chance to visit this amazing brewery!

Customer Review: Best beer in Kansas City and beyond ! Most amazing a beer – worth the drive from anywhere, you won’t be disappointed. Friendly staff and great tap room. Highly recommend. Our go to for great IPA’s and craft beer !

• Phone: (816) 673-3027
• Address: 633 E 63rd St #120, Kansas City, MO 64110, United States
• Beers to Try: Bohemian Style Pilsner
• Website: bksartisanales.com/

Alma Mader Brewing

Welcome to Alma Mader Brewing, a small but mighty brewery owned and operated by the brewers themselves! They’re passionate about creating delicious beers that combine traditional techniques with innovative twists. If you’re a fan of hoppy beers, you won’t be disappointed – they’re known for their flavorful and aromatic ales and lagers.

One unique feature of Alma Mader is their impressive Lukr side-pull faucet, which allows them to slow-pour pilsners for a perfect foam head. This technique builds a thick and creamy layer of foam, almost like whip cream, that intensifies the flavor of the beer. It’s definitely worth trying!

Customer Review: Awesome brewery in downtown Kansas City. We got two great tasting ipa beers there. Great place to get great beer and hangout. Very chill. Good service. They offer some very small snacks. I would visit this brewery again.

• Phone: (816) 945-2589
• Address: 2635 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
• Beers to Try: Czech Style Pilsner
• Website: almamaderbrewing.com/

River Bluff at River Market

River Bluff at River Market Brewing is one of Kansas City’s newest craft breweries! Located in the bustling River Market District, River Bluff is passionate about crafting unique elixirs using both traditional and modern brewing methods.

They’ve already made a name for themselves by winning awards at the prestigious Great American Beer Festival. The large tasting room is perfect for watching your favorite sports games on multiple TVs or enjoying live music and other events. Come taste the passion and artistry in every pint at River Bluff.

Customer Review: Great open space located in the Riverbend. I don’t normally enjoy sour beers but the spicy sour was really unique and delicious! They have one other spicy beer, you can tell it’s made with different types of peppers but it didn’t have any heat.

• Phone: (816) 255-2360
• Address: 201 Main St Ste 101, Kansas City, MO 64105, United States
• Beers to Try: Sandy Dunes Pale Ale
• Website: riverbluffbrew.com/

Pathlight Brewing

Pathlight Brewing is a new brewery located in the charming Shawnee neighborhood, just outside of Kansas City. Not only is their taproom kid-friendly, but their patio is also dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend to hang out with you.

Pathlight Brewing offers a diverse selection of beer styles, from smooth and creamy milk stouts to bold and hoppy West Coast IPAs. However, what sets them apart are their wild and sour ales that are bursting with unique and complex flavors. Make sure to stop by and try out some of their beers while enjoying their friendly atmosphere.

Customer Review: Fantastic space with lots of beer options! Easily top 5 for beer in KC. Space is nice and open with an outdoor patio.

• Phone: (913) 400-2615
• Address: 11200 W 75th St, Shawnee, KS 66214, United States
• Beers to Try: Foeder Saison Pinot Noir Sour
• Website: pathlightbrewing.com/

Callsign Brewing

Welcome to Callsign Brewery, a veteran-owned brewery in Kansas City that combines their passion for brewing with their history with the armed forces. At Callsign Brewery, you’ll find military-themed brews that honor those who served. Their focus is on traditional ales that are crafted with care and precision to create a memorable drinking experience.

Not only do they brew great beer, but they also offer a family-friendly and open atmosphere with an outside patio where you can enjoy a cold one with friends and family. In addition to their love for the military, Callsign Brewery also supports the armed forces by raising and donating money to various veteran initiatives.

Customer Review: Fantastic examples of each style of beer. All very crisp and clean, if you enjoy IPA’S don’t sleep on the Tanker Imperial IPA!

• Phone: (816) 702-7777
• Address: 1340 Burlington St, North Kansas City, MO 64116, United States
• Beers to Try: Fighter Pale Ale and Freedom Lager
• Website: callsignbrewing.com/

Fringe Beerworks

Fringe Beerworks is a unique craft brewery in the vibrant area of Lee’s Summit. They’re housed in a historic building that’s been given a modern twist, featuring an eclectic collection of beers with something for everyone. Don’t miss out on their refreshing grapefruit beer that’s perfect for summertime sipping.

Fringe Beerworks is always innovating and experimenting with new seasonal brews, so you can always try something new. They’re also the only all-electric brewery in the Kansas City metro, and they’re committed to sustainability by upcycling their spent grain and recycling wherever possible. Come for the beer, and stay for the cool atmosphere and commitment to the environment!

Customer Review: Great brews in the downtown Lee’s Summit area. Super chill owner and great patrons around. Stop in for an afternoon brew and relax. 6+ years strong!

• Phone: (816) 600-2552
• Address: 224 SE Douglas St, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063, United States
• Beers to Try: Freshly Squeezed Grapefruit Wheat
• Website: fringebeerworks.com/

Crane Brewing

If you’re looking for a unique and delicious beer experience, you have to check out Crane Brewing in Raytown! This craft brewery specializes in farmhouse ales and sour beers, which are aged in wood or steel, giving them bold flavors with Euro heritage.

To top it off, they’ve got some outrageously colorful beers, including one made with beets! And if you’re feeling peckish, they’ve got you covered with their partner, the Greg-Co BBQ food truck. With a focus on creativity and quality, Crane Brewing is a must-visit for any beer lover looking for something new and exciting.

Customer Review: Please check this place out. Good quality brewing. Great assortment of beers. Best lemonade I’ve ever had. Good food with the taco truck daily and Harps BBQ on the weekends.

• Phone: (816) 743-4132
• Address: 6515 Railroad St, Raytown, MO 64133, United States
• Beers to Try: Tea Weiss Sour Ale with Berry Rooibos Tea
• Website: cranebrewing.com/

Enjoy the best breweries in Kansas City!

Make sure to go and check out Kansas City’s best craft breweries, grab a locally brewed pint (or 2), and support your local brewers!

If we’ve missed a brewery on our list that you think should be added,  contact us and let us know  who the brewery is and why you think it should be added to our list of the top breweries in Kansas City!

About The Author

Craft Beer Guide's Ultimate Local Brewery Showdown!

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• All Michigan

Two of the top 10 best small towns in the entire Midwest are in Michigan

• Updated: Apr. 18, 2024, 8:51 a.m. |
• Published: Apr. 18, 2024, 8:17 a.m.

Downtown Traverse City, Michigan. Photo by Kaytie Boomer | MLive

• Edward Pevos | [email protected]

Michigan is full of charming small cities and towns and two of them have just been recognized nationally, ranking in a list of the best small towns in the Midwest.

Both Traverse City and Petoskey rank at numbers eight and four, respectively, in USA Today’s 10Best list for Best of the Midwest: Top 10 Small Towns to Visit .

“Traverse City showcases the beauty of Lake Michigan and the wilderness that surrounds it,” USA Today wrote. “Be sure to see the Sleeping Bear Dunes along the lake, taste the famous wines produced here, and enjoy the flavorful cherries that put the town on the map in the first place. There are outdoor adventures to be had throughout the year, as a little bit of snow doesn’t stop the locals from getting out and having fun.”

Of Petoskey, it wrote: “The northern reaches of Lower Michigan are renowned for their abundant natural beauty, and Petoskey is no exception. During the late afternoon, visitors can stroll along the aptly named Sunset Park and bask in the beauty of Lake Michigan amidst the golden glow of twilight, while daylight hours bring the opportunity to explore Bear River Valley Recreation Area, a natural feature that’s rife with rapids.”

Here are the rest of cities on USA Today’s 10Best list of Best Small Towns to Visit in the Midwest:

10. Winterset, Iowa, 9. Dyersville, Iowa, 7. Mitchell, South Dakota, 6. Put-in-Bay, Ohio, 5. Vevay, Indiana, 3. Council Grove, Kansas, 2. Marysville, Kansas, 1. Madison, Indiana.

USA Today has numerous 10Best lists which are first nominated by a panel of experts made up of editors from both USA Today and 10Best.com . The top 10 is then determined by a public vote. Here is everything in Michigan ranked in USA Today’s 10Best for 2024 so far:

• Campus Martius Park in Detroit - No. 1 Public Square in the U.S.
• Detroit Institute of Arts - No. 1 Art Museum in the U.S.
• Grand Rapids - No. 1 Best Beer City in the U.S.
• Frederik Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids - No. 1 Sculpture Park in the U.S.
• Ludington, Michigan - No. 1 Historic Small Town in the U.S.
• Hop Lot Brewing Co. in Suttons Bay - No. 2 Beer Garden in the U.S.
• Saugatuck - No. 2 Coastal Small Town in the U.S.
• Mackinac’s Lilac Festival, Holland’s Tulip Time - No. 2 & No. 3 Flower Festival in the U.S.
• Michigan Science Center in Detroit - No. 3 Science Center in the U.S.
• Detroit’s Street Art - No. 5 Street Art Scene in the U.S.
• Electric Forest - No. 6 Music Festival in the U.S.
• Bell’s Brewery in Comstock - No. 6 Best Brewery Tour in the U.S.

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The 14 Best Brewery Tours in the United States

words: Nick Hines

photo: Sweetwater Brewing Co.

It’s hard to beat getting a beer right from the source. The flavors are simply more intense from beers kegged and canned days or even hours before consumption. Being at the source also has another added benefit: brewery tours.

Not every brewery offers brewery tours. For the ones that do, the behind-the-scenes view can be an unbeatable experience in beer appreciation (not to mention all the free samples). From California to New York, here are the best breweries to visit for a look at how the best craft beers are made.

Boulevard Brewing Co. in Kansas City, Missouri

Boulevard has three levels of tours : free public tours, the smokestack tour and tasting, and the private tour. The hour-long free tour gives you a behind-the-scenes look at one of Missouri’s best breweries, as well as a bit of history. Shell out some money for a tour, and you can get a two-hour guided tasting and food pairing (the smokestack), or a personalized tour with two full pints (the private tour).

Maui Brewing Co. in Kihei, Hawaii

Not everyone gets a chance to make it out to the Hawaiian islands. But if you do, you should visit Maui Brewing Co. Daily 45-minute tours lead people through the brewery, the cellar, and the packaging line for $15. Then there’s a tasting of Maui Brewing’s flagship beers at the end, a full beer of your choice, and a free souvenir glass.

Tröegs in Hershey, Pennsylvania

Like doing things at your own pace? Tröegs is the brewery tour for you. The self-guided tour path through the brewery lets people wander through the fermentation/filtration hall, the quality lab, packaging lines, and the barrel-aging room. Best of all, it’s free. For something a little more, there’s a $5 guided tour that includes a few samples and a souvenir glass.

Sweetwater in Atlanta, Georgia

Sweetwater Brewing knows how to party. Every half hour from Wednesday to Sunday there are  $12 tours  that include a souvenir pint glass and six 6-ounce samples. Walking through someone’s place of employment couldn’t be more fun.

Stone Brewing Company in Escondido, California

Stone has tours at all three of their breweries (Escondido, Richmond, Virginia, and Berlin, Germany). The tour of Stone’s home state of California is the one you don’t want to miss. For $3, you can get a souvenir tasting glass and four 4-ounce samples of beer. One of those samples is a special release beer.

Sierra Nevada in Chico, California

Sierra Nevada’s brewery in Chico has every level of tour you could imagine. There’s the self-guided tour to explore at your leisure, the educational tasting tour that only takes 30 minutes, an engineering tour, a three-hour beer geek tour, a sustainability tour, and the standard brewhouse tour.

Anchor Brewing in San Francisco

America’s first and oldest craft brewery only offers two tours a day , and only on weekdays. But don’t mistake the scarcity for quality. The tour lasts an hour and a half and includes a brief story of Anchor’s long history, a walk through of the brewery’s three floors, and a tasting session.

Allagash Brewing in Portland, Maine

Allagash offers a free tour that includes four 3-ounce pours of beer. And while it’s hard to beat free beer, the Grand Cru Tour is something to behold. It’s three hours long, and guests get in-depth knowledge about the brewing process — blending and brewing, quality control, and tasting beers straight from the barrel.

Abita in Abita Springs, Louisiana

Louisiana’s top craft brewery offers $5, 30-minute tours that include 4-ounce pours. There’s also free self-guided tours where visitors get to look over the brewery tanks. Whichever one you choose, you know there’s going to be delicious Abita beer waiting for you at the end.

Bell’s Brewing in Kalamazoo, Michigan

The original Bell’s brewery in Kalamazoo is historic. It’s also right next to the General Store — the beer garden at the Eccentric Café. After the tour through the brewery, relax and pick up a pint from the more than 40 different beer options on tap.

Samuel Adams in Boston, Massachusetts

Samuel Adams Boston Lager helped kickstart the craft beer movement. Today, Boston Beer Company is one of the biggest in the country. The first-come, first-serve tours give you an inside glimpse into how that all happened. There’s also the Morning Mash-in Tour, where you can go in early and taste exclusive experimental beers.

Dogfish Head Brewery in Milton, Delaware

Dogfish Head’s free, hour-long tour shows visitors how the beer is made and gives some history of the people behind 60 Minute IPA. Also, you get four healthy samples. If you go on the more involved Grain to Glass tour, you’ll also learn about the Dogfish Head distillery, where vodka and rum are made.

Brooklyn Brewery in Brooklyn, New York

Making it into the Brooklyn Brewery tour in the trendy Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn can be a challenge, but it’s a challenge with a worthy reward. The Small Batch Tour gives visitors a chance to see what it takes to be one of the largest craft brewers in the United States.

New Belgium Brewery in Fort Collins, Colorado

The 100 percent employee-owned New Belgium Brewery offers free 90-minute tours . Samples are included, but look ahead on your schedule if you’d like to get a look inside because the tours fill up quickly.

Published: March 29, 2017

• The 14 Best Brewery Tours in the United States | VinePair
• https://vinepair.com/articles/14-best-brewery-tours/
• wbs_cat Beer, wbs_brand Abita, wbs_brand Allagash Brewing Company, wbs_brand Anchor Brewing Company, wbs_brand Bell\'s Brewery, wbs_brand Boulevard Brewing, wbs_brand Brooklyn Brewery, wbs_brand Dogfish Head Brewery, wbs_brand Maui Brewing, wbs_brand New Belgium Brewing, wbs_brand Samuel Adams, wbs_brand Sierra Nevada Brewing, wbs_brand Stone Brewing, wbs_brand SweetWater Brewing Company, wbs_brand Tröegs, beer, craft beer, Travel
• Why You Should Be Putting Salt in Your Coffee | VinePair
• https://vinepair.com/articles/putting-salt-coffee/
• Vicki Denig
• advice_etiquette
• wbs_cat Coffee, coffee

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The 15 best Midwest wineries worthy of a getaway

Looking for a scenic, boozy escape? Plan your next trip around pours of excellent of vino at these Midwest wineries.

The best part about Midwestern wineries? They’re typically within driving distance to many major cities, making a quick weekend getaway easy to plan. Whether you’re into cabernet, a sparkling connoisseur or simply a curious sipper looking to discover new labels, the best Midwest wineries have something for you.

Watch out, Napa and move over  Sonoma —the best wineries in the Midwest give the country’s better-known vino regions a run for their money. While it’s not the first place that comes to mind for a wine vacation in the US, this part of the country still brims with idyllic vineyards set against serene backdrops or perched atop sprawling estates. Here’s our pick of the best, right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍷 The best wine vacations in the US 🏘️ The best cities in the US right now 🏞️ The best hot springs in the US

Morgan Olsen is an editor at Time Out USA. At  Time Out , all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

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Best Midwest wineries

1.  2 Lads Winery | Traverse City, MI

This sleek Michigan winery is situated on 58 acres of land, more than 23 of which are devoted to grapes. The makers at 2 Lads specialize in cool-climate red and sparkling wines as well as several whites. The spacious and modern tasting room is the perfect backdrop to savor the fruits of their labor. Sip and swirl from a trio of different 2020 rieslings before dabbling in the 2019 pinot noir or treating yourself to a 2015 sparkling rosé reserve.

📍 Discover the best  things to do in Traverse City

2.  Chateau Chantal Winery & Inn | Traverse City, MI

Before founding this jaw-dropping winery, couple Robert and Nadine were a priest and a nun, respectively. They both sought new careers before they wound up meeting each other, getting hitched and building a European-style winery in Traverse City. Today, Chateau Chantal  spans 65 acres and includes a bed and breakfast with 12 beautifully appointed suites. If you’re not staying the night, opt for the Caddy Flight, with three pours served on the spacious East Patio or West Terrace, with sweeping views of the impressive property.

Discover the best things to do in Traverse City

3.  Stone Hill Winery | Hermann, MO

The elegant feel of Stone Hill Winery transports guests to a countryside estate somewhere in Europe. Tours run approximately every 90 minutes, but the talented crew here can always turn up the frequency to accommodate additional traffic. Unfortunately, due to safety precautions, the Grapes to Glass VIP winery tour—which offers a behind-the-scenes look of the vineyard, presshouse and cellars—is suspended for now. On the other hand, there’s still plenty of space outside to sip a glass al fresco before leaving the property.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Missouri

4.  Black Star Farms | Suttons Bay, MI

This Kentucky-inspired estate doubles as a massive winery and a bespoke 10-room inn, where guests are treated to house wine, gourmet breakfast and evening happy hour. Beyond the main attraction (reds, whites and everything in between), Black Star Farms is surrounded by three miles of hiking trails, paved biking paths that lead to other wineries and plenty of nearby beaches.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Michigan

5.  Hartland Winery | Ashley, IN

Alan Lockhart started making wine back in 2006 with no real intention of ever opening a winery, but when the amateur winemaker started entering competitions, the awards rolled in. It would take another seven years to create Hartland Winery , the winery of his dreams, complete with a tasting room and a patio made for sipping Le Crescent varietals and Chateau Reserve, a full-bodied red blend aged in bourbon barrels.

📍 Discover the best  things to do in Indiana

6.  Von Stiehl Winery | Algoma, WI

Wisconsin's oldest licensed winery offers over 40 wines to taste in its Civil War-era building and dreamy outdoor terrace that’s usually vibing with live music on Saturday evenings during the summer schedule.

The vineyard is six miles north in Door County, where three French-hybrid grape varieties deliver fruity, semi-sweet rosé and dry, citrus-packed pinot grigio. Don’t leave without trying von Stiehl's Cherry Bounce, a sweet blend of cherry brandy and cherry wine that smacks of Door County's favorite fruit.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Wisconsin

7.  Cedar Ridge | Swisher, IA

This Iowa winery doubles as a distillery, and you can gaze upon row after row of corn and grapes while you’re enjoying the fruits of the fields. Cedar Ridge ’s massive farm puts guests in the thick of the process and the product, with multiple seating areas across the estate including an event center, tasting room, vineyard room and outdoor seating options on the lawn or a sprawling patio.

📍 Discover the best  things to do in Iowa

8.  Schram Vineyards | Waconia, MN

If you've got winos and beer nerds in your group, this is the place to go. Husband-and-wife team Aaron and Ashley Schram opened this brewery-winery combo pack back in 2013, and they’ve been pouring boozy beverages ever since.

With five acres of outdoor seating in addition to an indoor tasting room, Schram deals in tastings and tours. Sip gewürztraminer, chardonnay and sparkling rosé before diving into a beer flight with styles that range from American blonde ale to Minnesota IPA.

Discover the best things to do in Minnesota

9.  Four Daughters | Spring Valley, MN

As its name suggests, this winery belongs to a couple and their four daughters who work together to produce and sell vino. The expansive estate houses a six-acre vineyard, a decidedly modern tasting room and plenty of outdoor space with a sprawling patio. When you tire of Four Daughters ’ wine (impossible, really), switch to their Loon Juice hard cider or —depending on the season— a pour of bourbon, crafted from the corn that grows in the fields that surround the vineyard.

📍 Discover the best  things to do in Minnesota

10.  Mawby Vineyards | Suttons Bay, MI

It’s all about the bubbly stuff at this vineyard situated on the Leelanau Peninsula, which is dotted with plenty of other wineries if you’re looking to explore. The area’s cooler growing season promises wines rich with acidity, and Mawby ’s pours range from a ripe brute rosé and a semi-dry sparkling cider to a floral cuvée. But no trip is complete without a glass of Sex, a rosé sparkling wine that's bursting with ripe, red fruit aromas and a smooth, rounded finish.

11.  Lynfred Winery | Roselle, IL

Located less than 30 miles from Chicago, Lynfred is equipped with a four-suite bed and breakfast, so you don't have to go far when you've had your fill of vino. The remarkable property has indoor and outdoor spaces, where guests can taste their way through the storied winery’s portfolio—from merlot and syrah to viognier and chenin blanc. In addition to wine, Lynfred also bakes and sells loaves of bread (like red cheddar and garlic) that go fast—snag yours Friday through Sunday.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Illinois

12.  Door Peninsula Winery | Sturgeon Bay, WI

If you’re not on one of the tour buses, then it’s probably advisable to get to Door Peninsula  early as the allocated parking soon fills up. Throughout the winery, there are all manner of beverages on display together with gift ideas and everything you could possibly imagine tempting your wallet out of its snug little pocket. There’s even a spacious outdoor area complete with a firepit and chairs. 

📍 Discover the  best things to do in Wisconsin

13.  Vermilion Valley | Wakeman, OH

Set against the big sky of a rural Ohio estate, you’ll find Vermilion Valley ’s tasting room—a striking rustic barn perched on a sprawling green lawn. The winery is one of the state’s only 100 percent sustainable winemakers, which means you’ll be rewarded with an intriguing selection of natural wines, their calling card, on the menu as well. Try the classic dry red pet-nat or a fresh-nosed pinot noir rosé. Guests can also enjoy the rolling hills on outdoor picnic tables.

📍 Discover the best  things to do in Ohio

14.  Prairie Berry Winery | Hill City, SD

This award-winning South Dakota winery offers some spectacular views of Black Elk Peak. It’s also a great stop if you’re incorporating a trip to the legendary  Mt. Rushmore  national memorial. A limited, but delicious, menu is available, offering mostly soups, salads and cheeses suitable for a light dinner, including some vegetarian and child-friendly options. You can purchase bottles of almost everything you taste here, plus a selection of fruit wines is on offer, as well as traditional handcrafted European wines.

15.  Oliver Winery & Vineyards | Bloomington, IN

One look at the lush garden that encompasses this Indiana winery, and you’ll probably ask if you can move in. Do the next best thing and book one of Oliver ’s alfresco picnics in advance so that you can sip wine and nosh on charcuterie in the serene outdoor space. Pop a bottle of sauvignon blanc, pink moscato or orange blossom-scented mead; by the end of the day, you’ll probably join the winery’s club to keep the party rolling all year.

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Before Luke Combs plays in front of the 'best fans' for his Milwaukee concerts this week, he tours Miller Brewery and even shotguns a beer

Before Luke Combs kicks off his "Growin' Up and Gettin' Old" tour in Milwaukee this week, he went on another kind of tour. One that is quintessentially Brew City.

Combs, one of country music's biggest stars, is playing two shows at American Family Field : One Friday and another Saturday. But ahead of that, he took a tour of the Miller Brewery . And, we got to tag along.

Yes, he was every bit as kindhearted, down-to-earth and genuine as he seems. And yes, he shotgunned a beer just like he does on stage. Except this time, he was hanging out on a brewhouse rooftop with the iconic giant red Miller sign and the Milwaukee Brewers' ballpark as his backdrop.

Not only did Combs — a longtime Miller Lite fan and years-long partner — see where the magic happens, he also checked out the specialty packaging on cases and cans that's coming out in honor of his blockbuster tour.

"It's just surreal, you know?" Combs told the Journal Sentinel. "I feel like I get to live so many amazing, surreal moments. And, I'm really thankful for that for sure. It's crazy. It's crazy."

Here's what we learned about Combs' tour and what he got into on the Miller tour. And, how about his eight Academy of Country Music Awards nominations that were announced earlier this week? We asked him about those, too.

Luke Combs talks about his 'Growin' Up and Gettin' Old' tour and why he's kicking it off in the Midwest

A or A+ shows don't cut it for Combs. He's shooting for A++.

"I try to do everything I can do to take care of my voice, take care of myself, make sure that we're doing everything we can," Combs said. "People that come are the only reason we get to do what we do. Putting on an A++ show is really important to me."

About to embark on his 25-date stadium tour, he's excited — and "a little nervous."

"You feel like you're standing at the bottom of a mountain and you're looking at the top a little bit," he said.

But after last year's "Luke Combs World Tour," he said he feels more prepared for what's ahead of him.

"We've played everywhere all over the world," Combs said. "But, the Midwest, it feels like home to me. So, good place to start it."

HOW TO AVOID TRAFFIC: Luke Combs concerts could cause delays on I-94 this weekend

Combs, who grew up in North Carolina, hadn't been anywhere close to Milwaukee when he started his music career — his first plane ride came at age 25. But, he remembers his earlier stops up here fondly.

He opened for Blake Shelton at Summerfest in 2018 and made an appearance at Farm Aid at Alpine Valley Music Theatre in 2019.

"The Midwest is like the best fans in the world," Combs said. "I mean, honestly. People probably say that all the time."

But, that doesn't mean pulling out of the driveway Tuesday night wasn't hard after the "amazing" time he spent with his "awesome" wife Nicole and their two sons — Tex and Beau — these past few months. Fortunately, he won't have to miss his other half too long. She'll be headed up this way this weekend.

What will always make it onto Combs' setlist this time around? "The songs that people would expect," Combs shared.

"Playing all the hits," he said. "That's why people are there, and I want to give them what they want."

But, each night of the tour will have a different vibe.

Combs' opening acts Friday — in the order they'll hit the stage — are the Wilder Blue, Charles Wesley Godwin and Cody Jinks.

"Friday's more in the Americana, singer-songwriter world," Combs said. "So, our set reflects that a little bit. But, obviously, still playing all the hits."

Saturday's openers will be Colby Acuff, Drew Parker, Mitchell Tenpenny and Jordan Davis.

"Saturday night is more mainstream, Top 40 country stuff, which is what I do, really," Combs said.

Combs loves watching Jinks and Davis perform — they keep him honest, he said — and he knows they're going to kick some you know what.

The first opener will start at 5:45 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with gates opening at 5 p.m.

The parking lots will open at 3 p.m. Friday and 2:30 p.m. Saturday. Tailgating will be permitted. Give yourself plenty of time to drive in and get through security.

There also will be a "Bootleggers Tailgate Party" at 3 p.m. Saturday with two up-and-comers picked by Combs and Nashville-based concert series Whiskey Jam: Ryan Larkins and Graham Barham. It'll take place at Am Fam Field's Third Base Plaza, and will be free to attend for Combs concert ticketholders, with food and drinks available to purchase.

Luke Combs' love for Miller Lite and his visit to Miller Brewery

After getting into Milwaukee Wednesday morning, Combs hung out at the Brewers stadium for a couple of hours, worked out, then was off to the Miller Brewery.

How long has Combs been a fan of Miller Lite? "Forever, probably."

"My dad's been drinking it for a long time," Combs said. "It was always around the house."

If his music career never worked out, he said, he would still be sporting a Columbia fishing shirt and drinking a Miller Lite somewhere in the world.

"That's what I would be doing anyways," he said. "So, I really wanted to go after things that I was already passionate about that felt natural and authentic to me. So, I'm very thankful for (Molson Coors) being receptive to have me on board. I feel super lucky."

Sporting a Brewers Barrelman hat, Combs and his team walked into a conference room on the brewery's complex Wednesday. He was met by a small group of longtime brewery employees and other Molson Coors staffers. The beer cases and cans with his new specialty packaging were displayed on tables.

The design features a ribbon that says "Beer Never Broke My Heart" wrapped in between the tuning pegs of a guitar. Combs' name is at the top of the headstock.

LUKE COMBS IN MILWAUKEE: Country superstar introduces heartbreaking new baseball-tinged song at American Family Field

After everyone went around the room introducing themselves, they were instructed to suit up in PPE — yellow safety vests, glasses, hard hats, toe caps and headsets.

On Combs' VIP tour of the brewery, he got a first-hand — and at times, hands-on — look at the operations with facts and history lessons along the way.

The first stop was a packaging plant, where Combs met machinist Jeff Malecki who has "But they ain't seen us together" from Combs' song "Forever After All" tattooed across his arm.

The two shook hands and got a picture together. That would become a reoccurring scene throughout Combs' visit.

It seemed like every employee who crossed paths with Combs received a handshake. And, if they wanted a photo or autograph, they got those, too, without any hesitation.

In the warehouse, Combs saw cases with the specialty packaging sliding out of a machine — he pulled his phone out to document that — and stacks of those cases getting carried off on a pallet via forklift.

At one point, Combs stood in front of what looked like a mountain of the cases. "Get this one," he said to a photographer as he hugged the cases as far as his arms would stretch.

Later, he'd get to snag one of the cans right off of a quick-moving line.

He got a taste of that and a few different brewery roles, including one that involved flipping a cardboard box filled with unconstructed cases into place. A few cases snuck out the back, but not too shabby for a first-timer.

"Thanks for letting me do that," Combs said to the workers as he shook their hands. "Thanks for letting me be in the way."

Combs also tried his hand at adding hops, one of which was liquid. "Have y'all seen 'Superbad'?" Combs asked with a bucket of hops in hand.

It reminded him of the scene when McLovin was trying to buy booze at a liquor store and said to the cashier: "You know, I heard they recently decided to add more hops to it."

Toward the conclusion of the tour, Combs said he had a "truly amazing" time. But, his favorite part had to be the grand finale.

He got to go up on a brewhouse rooftop with striking views of the city, the home of the Brewers and that big red Miller sign.

Up there is where he shotgunned a beer in under 5 seconds, and had the honor of sampling an exclusive maturation stock that not many get to try.

"To be standing up here is really a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," Combs said.

How about those eight ACM Awards nominations

The 59th Academy of Country Music Awards nominations were announced earlier this week. Combs leads the nominations with eight , including entertainer of the year, male artist of the year, album of the year, song of the year, single of the year and music event of the year.

"It's really awesome," he said. "Always surprising, I think ... In a lot of ways, it feels like I've been doing this a lifetime. And, in a lot of ways, I feel like I've been doing it for six months. So, I feel like sometimes I'm so conflicted with knowing what to feel or think ... It's an honor. It's my wildest dreams coming true. So, I'm a very lucky guy every day."

A 2024 win via Combs nomination for entertainer of the year would clinch the coveted triple crown award, which consists of an entertainer of the year win plus wins in an act's respective new artist (male, female, duo, or group) and artist (male, female, duo or group) categories, a USA TODAY report said.

The event will air on Prime Video and the Amazon Music channel on Twitch live from Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on May 16.

Piet Levy of the Journal Sentinel staff and USA TODAY contributed to this report.

National Geographic praises ‘under-the-radar' national parks in Midwest

Published april 17, 2024 • updated on april 17, 2024 at 7:58 pm.

Love getting out and experiencing nature but hate overcrowding? National Geographic has published its list of the 10 best national parks to avoid summer crowding, and several Midwestern entries made the cut.

In fact, the magazine cited Indiana Dunes National Park as the country’s best for families looking to stay away from the massive crowds that pile into places like the Grand Canyon and Yosemite every year.

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The park not only features 15 miles of sandy shoreline, but also features remarkable hiking trails, kayaking and canoeing opportunities and a variety of other outdoor activities.

Admission to the park starts at $15 for pedestrians and $25 for private vehicles, and admission is valid for seven days after purchase.

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An annual pass can be purchased for $45.

Also in the Midwest is Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky. Guided tours are the only way to actually see the caves, but they’re a surefire ticket to avoiding summer heat, according to the magazine.

According to the National Park Service, entrance to Mammoth Cave National Park is free, but access to the variety of guided cave tours start at $15, with more information available on the park’s website.

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Voyageurs National Park in northern Minnesota also earned praise, both for its ample shoreline and boating activities but also for its quiet campsites, where visitors can sometimes see the incredible light shows of Aurora Borealis.

The park does not require an admission fee, but tickets must be purchased for tour boats, camping fees and more.

More information can be found on the park’s website.

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The countdown to “HOT TO GO!” is on.

Fresh off a stint opening for Olivia Rodrigo on tour, Chappell Roan is set to strike out on her own nationwide ‘The Midwest Princess Tour’ at festivals, theaters, music halls, distilleries, islands and harbors all over North America this spring.

That includes a headlining gig at Buffalo, NY’s Outer Harbor on Friday, May 24 and an appearance at Flushing’s Governors Ball on Sunday, June 9.

As expected, demand to see the campy 26-year-old pop star live is high.

According to Roan’s Instagram , so many shows were sold out they had to upgrade to larger venues.

“I can’t believe this it’s gonna [be] so much fun omg,” she added.

There’s just one downside- it won’t be cheap to see the “Red Wine Supernova” singer live this year.

At the time of publication, the lowest price we could find on tickets was $112 before fees on Vivid Seats.

Other shows — excluding seven of her eight festival appearances — have tickets starting anywhere from $123 to $327 before fees.

Want a few more details about how much it will cost to catch Roan live at the venue closest to you?

You’re in the right place, “Pink Pony Club” members.

We’ve got everything you need to know and more about ‘The Midwest Princess Tour’ below.

All prices listed above are subject to fluctuation.

Chappell Roan tickets 2024

A complete calendar including all tour dates, venues and links to the cheapest tickets available can be found here:

(Note: The New York Post confirmed all above prices at the publication time. All prices are in US dollars, subject to fluctuation and include additional fees at checkout .)

Vivid Seats is a verified secondary market ticketing platform, and prices may be higher or lower than face value, depending on demand. 

They offer a 100% buyer guarantee that states your transaction will be safe and secure and your tickets will be delivered prior to the event.

Chappell Roan 2024 festival appearances

As you may have noticed, Roan is making quite a few festival appearances this year.

For a closer look at where they’re going down and who she’ll be performing with, take a look at our breakdown of all of Chappell Roan’s 2024 festival appearances here:

Chappell Roan set list

The most recent ‘Midwest Princess Tour’ stop — excluding Coachella — was in Kansas City, MO on April 8.

Here’s what Roan performed that night, according to Set List FM .

01.) “Femininomenon” 02.) “Naked in Manhattan” 03.) “After Midnight” 04.) “Picture You” 05.) “Casual” 06.) “Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl” 07.) “HOT TO GO!” 08.) “Coffee” 09.) “Kaleidoscope” 10.) “Bad Romance” (Lady Gaga cover) 11.) “Love Me Anyway” 12.) “Good Luck, Babe!” 13.) “Red Wine Supernova” 14.) “My Kink Is Karma”

15.) “California” 16.) “Pink Pony Club”

Chappell Roan new music

In 2023, Roan released the 14-song “Rise and Fall of a Midwestern Princess.”

The exuberant yet reflective record features bangers like “HOT TO GO!” and “Naked In Manhattan” as well as longing ballads “Kaleidoscope” and “Coffee” that show off her vocal range.

Most recently, she dropped the bouncy, synth-y single “Good Luck, Babe” this year.

If you want to check out her catalog, you can find all of Chappell Roan’s music here .

Huge stars on tour in 2024

If Roan isn’t coming to a city near you this year, no need to fret.

Many iconic artists could be headed your way in the next few months.

Here are just five of our favorite pop stars you won’t want to miss live in 2024.

•  Olivia Rodrigo

•  Charli XCX with Troye Sivan

•  Kacey Musgraves

•  Lizzy McAlpine

•  Holly Humberstone

Who else is out and about? Take a look at our list of the 50 biggest concert tour in 2024 to find out.

Why you should trust ‘Post Wanted’ by the New York Post

This article was written by Matt Levy , New York Post live events reporter. Levy stays up-to-date on all the latest tour announcements for your favorite musical artists and comedians, as well as Broadway openings, sporting events and more live shows – and finds great ticket prices online. Since he started his tenure at the Post in 2022, Levy has reviewed Bruce Springsteen and interviewed Melissa Villaseñor of SNL fame, to name a few. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.

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