Midwest breweries offer a world of flavors and experiences beyond St. Louis. From farmhouse breweries nestled in scenic locations to craft beer pioneers making waves in the industry, there are plenty of destinations worth exploring.
Check out these top breweries worth traveling for:
Scratch Brewing
Located in Ava, Illinois, just 1.5 hours from St. Louis, Scratch Brewing is set in an idyllic location near Shawnee National Forest. Named one of the most beautiful places to drink beer in the world by All About Beer magazine, this farmhouse brewery offers a rotating draft list that includes unique brews like seasonal barrel-aged strawberry and farmhouse ale.
Piney River Brewing
Situated in Bucyrus, Missouri, a 3-hour drive from St. Louis, Piney River Brewing is a farmhouse brewery in the Ozarks. With a diverse beer menu, including the award-winning Mexican-style lager Cerveza Rio Ale, this brewery also offers accommodations for a perfect weekend getaway.
BKS Artisan Ales
Making a mark in Kansas City, BKS Artisan Ales was the first craft brewery in the Brookside neighborhood. Known for standout beers like Clouds Hazy Double IPA and Pivo Project Bohemian-Style Pilsner, this brewery has garnered national recognition for its creations.
Upland Brewing Co.
With locations in Bloomington, Carmel, and Indianapolis, Upland Brewing Co. is a popular choice in Indiana. Known for its diverse beer menu, including ales, lagers, and experimental brews, this brewery is expanding with a new tap house in Indy.
KC Bier Co.
Embracing local pride and German beer traditions, KC Bier Co. in Kansas City offers a selection of year-round beers and seasonal specials, like a Vienna-style lager for the fall. The brewery's Bavarian-style Biergarten is a must-visit for Oktoberfest celebrations.
3 Floyds Brewing Co.
With a reputation for being 'not normal,' 3 Floyds Brewing Co. in Munster, Indiana, has a cult following for its bold flavors. From the popular Gumballhead American wheat ale to limited releases like Dreadnought IPA, this brewery pushes boundaries.
Third Space Brewing
Established by Milwaukee natives, Third Space Brewing has quickly risen in the craft beer scene. Recognized as one of the fastest-growing breweries in the nation, Third Space offers a solid lineup of brews, including Happy Place Midwest pale ale and Heavenly Haze IPA.
Alluvial Brewing
Nestled on a 40-acre organic farm near Ames, Iowa, Alluvial Brewing offers a unique taproom experience with hoppy, sour, and seasonal beers. Adventurous drinkers can try the Orange Lazarus Milkshake IPA, a creative blend of flavors.
New Holland Brewing
Serving beer since 1997, New Holland Brewing in Holland, Michigan, is a stalwart in the craft beer scene. With a range of year-round and seasonal beers, as well as a detailed release calendar, this brewery is a leader in the industry.
Fulton Beer
Starting in a Minneapolis garage, Fulton Beer has grown to become a household name in the Twin Cities region. With two breweries and a presence in numerous bars, Fulton offers a diverse beer selection, great food, and a welcoming taproom atmosphere.
These Midwest breweries showcase the richness and diversity of the craft beer landscape, inviting beer enthusiasts to travel beyond St. Louis in search of exceptional brews and memorable experiences.