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Northern Michigan is a region renowned for its natural beauty and diverse culture. It is also a hub for craft beer enthusiasts, with a growing number of breweries offering unique flavors and experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring the Seven Great Northern Michigan Craft Breweries should be on your bucket list. From refreshing IPAs to mouth-watering stouts, each brewery offers something special. (Click here to see all Lake Charlevoix Homes for Sale)
Being in the top five states for the number of craft breweries, you could say that Michiganders know (and love) good beer. In alphabetical order (we’re not trying to show favoritism), here are some of our favorite breweries in northern Michigan.
Beards Brewery is a popular craft brewery located in downtown Petoskey, Michigan. Known for its cozy taproom and delicious beers, Beards Brewery offers a laid-back atmosphere for visitors. Their signature beers, including the Serendipity Porter and El Dankerino IPA, are favorites among locals and tourists. Beards Brewery also offers a tasty menu, with their famous truffle fries being a must-try. With its warm and welcoming vibe, Beards Brewery is a great spot to relax and enjoy some delicious brews in Northern Michigan.
Since 2012, they’ve created over 100 tasty recipes. In addition, they recently relocated to a new location on Lake Street overlooking Little Traverse Bay. They now have 24 taps and a wide range of food to go with your beverage. Check out their website for fun events and concerts.
Lake Charlevoix Brewing is a craft brewery located in downtown Charlevoix, Michigan. With a focus on using locally sourced ingredients, Lake Charlevoix Brewing offers a range of unique beers that showcase the flavors of Northern Michigan. Their flagship beers, including the Blood Orange Wheat and Lake Haze IPA, are popular among visitors. The brewery also offers a cozy taproom with outdoor seating, making it a great spot to enjoy a cold beer on a warm summer day. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Lake Charlevoix
With taps shaped like the historic red Charlevoix South Pier Light Station, Lake Charlevoix Brewing represents its roots. There are two taprooms in northern Michigan to enjoy their brews and eats – Bridge Street Tap Room in Charlevoix and Boyne City Tap Room in Boyne City. For those who love craft beers, they also offer “Carbonated Vows” so you can have a custom brew for your wedding reception. Moreover, you and all your guests will say “I do” to Lake Charlevoix Brewing! Click here to read a great article about exploring Lake Charlevoix.
North Peak Brewing Company is a craft brewery in Traverse City, Michigan. With a focus on using high-quality ingredients and sustainable brewing practices, North Peak Brewing Company offers a range of delicious beers that reflect the unique flavors of Northern Michigan. Their flagship beers, including the Diabolical IPA and Siren Amber Ale, are favorites among locals and visitors alike. The brewery also offers a delicious food menu featuring pub classics with a Northern Michigan twist. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere,
North Peak Brewing Company opened in 1997 in the Straub Brothers and Amiotte “Big Daylight Candy Factory.” This Traverse City brewery cares about our beautiful state. For example, they believe if you give back to Mother Nature and she will be very good to you, which is their company motto. They even brew beers for big Michigan vs. Michigan State rivalry, appropriately named Hail and Sparta. Perfect for a divided house. Their jolly pumpkin brew goes well with flatbread pizza.
Petoskey Brewing Co is a popular craft brewery located in Petoskey, Michigan. With a focus on using locally sourced ingredients, Petoskey Brewing Co offers a range of unique and delicious beers that reflect the flavors of Northern Michigan. Their signature beers, including the Horny Monk Belgian Dubbel and Juicy New England IPA, are popular among visitors. The brewery also offers a delicious food menu featuring pub classics and seasonal dishes. With its stunning views of Little Traverse Bay and warm atmosphere, Petoskey Brewing Co is a great spot to enjoy some delicious brews and take in the beauty of Northern Michigan.
Located in Petoskey’s “Old Brewery” built in 1898 and served Petoskey Sparkle beer until 1915, this brewery is rich in history. Even though there were many tenants in between, Petoskey Brewing Co moved into the space in 2012. They have three year-round beers, including one that pays homage to the Petoskey Sparkle beer of the past and a long list of limited-time pours.
If you’re a true Michigan craft brew fan, you’ve probably heard of the other two year-round beers – Mind’s EyePA and Horny Monk. Don’t worry if you’re not able to make it to their brewery (which if you have the chance you should go); you’ll find their brews at pubs and stores state-wide. Click here for summer activities in Petoskey, Michigan.
Right Brain Brewery is a craft brewery located in Traverse City, Michigan. Known for its experimental beers and imaginative taproom, Right Brain Brewery offers a unique experience for craft beer enthusiasts. Their flagship beers, including the CEO Stout and Spiny Norman IPA, are popular among locals and tourists.
The brewery also offers a range of barrel-aged beers and creative infusions. With a focus on creativity and innovation, Right Brain Brewery is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Northern Michigan craft beer scene. For example, they have nearly 40 beers on tap at all times and are constantly experimenting with new and unusual ingredients.
If you find a beer you like, you can check your local stores. They sell their beers (draft, cans, and bottles) at hundreds of retailers across the state. Moreover, downtown Traverse City has a lot of great traverse city beer that is locally made. Traverse City Michigan, and Grand Traverse Bay in general on the mission peninsula, are becoming hot spots or filling stations.
Short’s Brewing Company is a beloved craft brewery in Bellaire, Michigan. Founded in 2004, Short’s Brewing Company has won multiple awards for its unique and flavorful beers. Their signature beer, the Soft Parade, is a fruity ale perfect for summertime sipping. The brewery also offers a range of seasonal and limited-edition beers, all of which are worth trying. With its laid-back atmosphere and welcoming staff, Short’s Brewing Company is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Northern Michigan craft beer scene.
However, don’t think this brewery has gotten too big for its britches. Joe and Leah Short still own it, and their love of creativity and ability to create a tight-knit family atmosphere make the pub a one-of-a-kind place to visit. If you ever find yourself near the Bellaire area, stopping by Shorts for a drink (or two) is a must!
Stiggs Brewing Company is a craft brewery in a historic building in beautiful downtown Boyne City. With a focus on using locally sourced ingredients, Stiggs Brewing Company offers a range of unique and flavorful beers that showcase the flavors of Northern Michigan. Their flagship beers, including the Raspberry Radler and Dirty White Boy Belgian Wheat, are popular among locals and visitors.
The brewery also offers a cozy taproom with outdoor seating, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy a cold beer on a warm summer day. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Stiggs Brewing Company is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Northern Michigan craft beer scene.
Stiggs has over 30 beers on tap. In addition, they use locally-scored ingredients for their custom, hand-crafted recipes. Looking to learn how to make your brews? They also offer brewing classes for those who want to make their craft beers at home.
Q: Do these breweries offer tours?
A: Yes, most of these breweries offer tours of their facilities. You can check their websites or call ahead for more information.
Q: Can I bring my food to these breweries?
A: It varies by brewery, but most have their food menus. Some also allow outside food, but it’s always best to check ahead.
Q: Can I bring my kids to these breweries?
A: It varies by brewery, but many are family-friendly and offer kid-friendly menus and activities. Check ahead to make sure.
Northern Michigan is a paradise for craft beer lovers, and the Seven Great Northern Michigan Craft Breweries are a testament to that. From the experimental flavors at Right Brain Brewery to the cozy taproom at Beards Brewery, each offers a unique experience.
Plan your Northern Michigan beer getaway with Northern Michigan Escapes and experience the best of the region’s craft beer scene. Contact us today and savor the delicious brews at the Seven Great Northern Michigan Craft Breweries.
