The United States has a thriving craft beer industry, with breweries offering a wide range of styles, flavors and experiences. Across different states, breweries can provide insight into local culture, innovative brewing techniques and community-focused initiatives.
Visiting these destinations enables beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike to explore a diverse range of offerings, from traditional lagers to experimental ales.
1. Oregon: Discovering Portland’s Brewing Heritage
While Oregon has a rich history of craft beer production, its re-emergence as a distinct market segment is a more recent development. The so-called “craft beer revolution” began in the 1980s on the West Coast and rapidly expanded across the nation. Visitors can explore a variety of styles — from small-batch IPAs to spontaneously fermented ales — often crafted with locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques.
The Oregon Coast may also offer scenic brewery stops where you can enjoy a crisp lager with ocean views, a barrel-aged stout or a fig-infused ale, making a road trip along the coastline a delightful experience for beer lovers. Consider stopping in small towns — such as Astoria, Reedsport and Brookings — where inventive brewers turn each pint into a memorable adventure. From patio views overlooking bays to wind-fermented ales in open-air tanks, the Oregon beer scene can provide inspiration and indulgence for anyone passionate about craft beer.
2. Colorado: Tasting Denver, the Napa Valley of Beer
In Colorado — renowned for its breathtaking scenery and lively beer culture — you can experience the thrill of outdoor adventures alongside craft beer tastings in Denver. Denver’s brewing history dates back to the mid-19th century, when early breweries emerged to serve miners during the Colorado Gold Rush. This was the beginning with the establishment of Rocky Mountain Brewery in 1859.
Today, Denver is a leading craft beer city. The city is home to hundreds of breweries, ranging from small neighborhood operations to nationally recognized producers. Events like the Great American Beer Festival further solidify Denver’s reputation as a key beer destination. Many local breweries tend to focus on experimentation, quality and stylistic diversity, attracting both industry professionals and engaged consumers.
3. Iowa: Visiting Des Moines’ Brewery Community
Iowa is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with breweries offering a diverse range of styles and local flavors. For instance, Big Grove Brewery offers award-winning beers, hard seltzers and a strong community focus. It has locations in Des Moines, Iowa City and Solon.
In Des Moines, Confluence Brewing Company pairs community events with thoughtfully aged fruit beers. Exile Brewing Company brews and bottles all of its beer on-site, emphasizing freshness and a welcoming brewpub atmosphere. Visitors to Iowa can explore these and other breweries to experience the state’s dynamic craft beer offerings.
4. North Carolina: Experiencing Asheville’s Craft Beer Culture
You can consider Asheville the heart of craft beer in the Appalachian region. From tiny nano-breweries to tasting bars specializing in wild and sour beers, visitors can explore a variety of breweries. You may find outdoor patios perfect for relaxing or mostly organic breweries that source local ingredients, such as coffee and pumpkin. Whether by foot, car or even on a mega-bike, Asheville can host several annual beer festivals and brewery tours.
Local brews have garnered national recognition, earning medals from the Great American Beer Festival and accolades for favorites like Ninja Porter. When planning a trip, consider Asheville for both its beer and the friendly, inclusive atmosphere that makes every brewery feel like a local favorite.
5. California: Exploring Los Angeles’ Craft Beer Scene
Collaboration, diversity, and innovation can be seen as central features of the local scene. Visiting breweries across different neighborhoods may help illustrate how beer reflects Los Angeles’ cultural richness. Creativity and collaboration among brewers often result in distinctive Southern California beers that are typically enjoyed only in local tasting rooms.
In California, state and local governments have revised laws and regulations to support and attract craft breweries actively. These changes include permitting breweries “by right” and formally classifying craft brewing as a form of small-scale manufacturing. This reduces barriers to entry and encourages industry growth. Consider trying Highland Park Brewery, Bar Bandini or The Varnish.
6. Pennsylvania: Tracing Philadelphia and Pittsburgh’s Lager Legacy
In the 19th century, German and Central European immigrants brought Pennsylvania’s brewing traditions to cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, popularizing smooth, accessible lagers. Today, Pennsylvania breweries continue to refine their lager programs, blending tradition with modern techniques and showcasing the state’s lasting influence on American beer. Pennsylvania’s craft breweries emphasize community, locality and creativity while offering beers that appeal to a socially and gender-diverse audience.
The local industry also connects to broader cultural practices, including environmental awareness and support for localism. Consider spots like Independence Beer Garden, where rotating regional and domestic craft beers are served just steps from the Liberty Bell. At the iconic Eastern State Penitentiary, Fair Chance Beer Garden pairs local brews with stories of the prison’s past.
Discovering America Through Beer
Exploring craft breweries across the U.S. can provide both quality beer and an understanding of regional brewing traditions. Each brewery may feature distinctive beers, production methods and taproom experiences that reflect local culture and innovation.
Whether for a short trip or an extended tour, these breweries exemplify the diversity, creativity and dedication that characterize American craft brewing.
