Craft Beer Enthusiasts — Plan Your Next Getaway with These 'Beercations'

Grand Rapids, Michigan: A Rising Star in the Beer Scene

It's fitting to begin with Grand Rapids, often dubbed "Beer City" for its impressive array of over 80 breweries within an hour's drive and the popular "Beer City Ale Trail." Situated along the Grand River and about 30 miles from Lake Michigan, Grand Rapids offers more than just excellent beer. Attractions like the Grand Rapids Art Museum, Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, and Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives should definitely be included in any visitor's plans. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum features artifacts from the former president's tenure and includes a holographic tour of the White House during his administration. Meanwhile, the Grand Rapids Downtown Market boasts over twenty food vendors, restaurants, a rooftop greenhouse, and a kitchen incubator for aspiring food entrepreneurs. Founders Brewery, inspired by a traditional German beer hall and housed in a repurposed truck depot, offers a diverse range of seasonal and classic beers. City Built serves up an eclectic mix of brews complemented by Puerto Rican cuisine. If you're looking for a break from beer, consider trying some local hard cider, crafted from regionally grown apples, which is another specialty of Grand Rapids.

Denver, Colorado: A Hub for Craft Beer

Known as the Mile High City, Denver boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture, featuring world-class museums, vibrant sporting events, and a diverse range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to historic and haunted locales. Nestled against the stunning Rocky Mountains, national parks are just a day trip away. With around 150 breweries, Denver is a significant hub in the craft beer movement. You can explore the numerous breweries on your own or opt for one of the many beer tours available. The Lower Downtown Denver Craft Beer Tour combines history with craft beer tasting, while the Denver Food and Craft Beer Tour highlights local cuisine alongside craft brews. For those interested in street art, RiNo Beer and Graffiti offers a unique experience. With such a variety of options, beer lovers might find it challenging to choose. The Grateful Gnome is a relaxed brewery and sandwich shop that often features live music, including occasional Grateful Dead tribute acts. Odell Brewing Company in RiNo is a family-owned establishment that donates all tips to local charities. Briar Common, located near Mile High Stadium, is equally known for its food as it is for its beer. Additionally, Liberati Osteria offers an intriguing selection of beer-wine hybrids called oenobeers, made from grapes.

Charleston, South Carolina: A Charming Destination

Famed for its southern hospitality and charm, the city of Charleston is steeped in history while boasting a vibrant scene of modern restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Celebrated for its stunning architecture, theaters, churches, and gardens, Charleston hosts the Spoleto Festival USA, one of the premier performing arts festivals in America. Visitors can enjoy a historic cruise in the Charleston harbor, a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride, or even a spine-chilling tour of the city's most haunted locations. Nestled among the picturesque cobblestone streets and historic mansions is a burgeoning brewery scene. Commonhouse Aleworks offers a full menu alongside its craft beer selection. Rusty Bull Brewing Co. welcomes families with food trucks, live music, and a diverse array of craft beers, from pale ales to robust stouts. For organic seasonal brews, head to Freehouse Brewery, located on the scenic banks of the Ashley River. Dog-friendly Munkle Brewing Company specializes in Belgian and German styles, featuring pool tables, TVs, outdoor seating, and cornhole for a lively atmosphere. Edmund's Oast Brewing Company is a must-visit, offering a cool taproom and pub fare, including coal-fired pizzas worthy of high praise. Pub and Brewery Tours provide intimate walking experiences and a bus tour that shares tales of Charleston's rich history while visiting three historic pubs. Charleston Brews Cruise is another bus tour option, featuring tastings of unique brews at each stop.

Ithaca, New York: A Hidden Gem

While the Finger Lakes region is renowned for its wines, particularly rieslings and ice wines, the burgeoning beer scene just four hours from NYC is equally enticing. The heart of Finger Lakes brewing is undoubtedly Ithaca Beer Co., where visitors adore the indoor-outdoor taproom and the brewery's iconic Flower Power IPA. Another standout is Southern Tier Brewing Company, named for the southwestern region of New York. This brewery has expanded its reach, now available in New York City and featuring taprooms nationwide, but it all began in Lakewood, where you can enjoy seasonal favorites like Pumpking in the fall or the classic Southern Tier IPA year-round. Continue your Finger Lakes beer adventure at Grist Iron Brewing Company in Burdett and Bottomless Brewing in Geneva.

Flagstaff, Arizona: A Year-Round Destination

Though Arizona is often associated with hot, arid deserts, the northern mountain town of Flagstaff enjoys four distinct seasons. With summer temperatures averaging in the low 80s, stunning fall foliage, abundant winter snowfall, and vibrant spring blooms, adventure beckons throughout the year. The Historic Downtown and Railroad District features charming vintage buildings that have been converted into shops, restaurants, galleries, and breweries. Located along Historic Route 66, both Mother Road and Dark Sky Brewing Co. collaborate with their neighbor, Pizzacletta, to offer fantastic beer paired with Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizza. Historic Barrel and Bottle House serves up elevated bar cuisine alongside a diverse craft beer selection on tap. Lumberyard Taproom and Grille, situated in a former lumber yard, includes a taproom, restaurant, and a patio with a cozy fire pit. These spots and more are within easy walking distance, with many being dog-friendly. A short drive south leads to Verde Brewing Company, That Brewery, and other local favorites. Consider planning your next "beercation" around one of Flagstaff's exciting festivals. Notable events include the Flagstaff Blues and Brews, an outdoor beer and music festival held every June, and the Flagstaff Brew HaHa, a beer tasting extravaganza featuring over 60 local, regional, and national brewers, taking place every January.

Portland, Maine: A Craft Beer Haven

Wandering through this charming peninsula city reveals historic mansions, delightful shops, restaurants, and stunning ocean vistas. The lobster is exceptional, and the iconic lighthouse—the most photographed lighthouse in the U.S.—dates back to the 1700s. Recently, Portland has gained fame for its impressive concentration of outstanding breweries within a compact area. In fact, it leads the nation with 18 breweries for every 50,000 residents. A standout destination is Foulmouthed Brewing, known for its family-friendly vibe, tasty beers, and extensive menu. The dog-welcoming Rising Tide Brewing Company features a cool layout, great beer, a fun atmosphere, and a selection of food trucks. For an educational tour coupled with fantastic tastings, check out Allagash, renowned for its exceptional Belgian-inspired brews, kid-friendly activities, and delicious food truck options. With many brew bars located close together, visitors can easily pub crawl independently, though guided tours enhance the experience. Maine Brew Bus Tours provides a variety of unique adventures, including Bike and Brews, Walk, Talk, and Taste, Port City Running Brew Tour, and the Brews Cruise, among several bus tour options.

San Diego, California: A Craft Beer Paradise

California is credited with igniting the craft brewing movement in 1965 when a young Fritz Maytag revitalized the struggling Anchor Steam Brewery and began crafting new beers inspired by lost styles. Today, with approximately 1,000 craft breweries, the state stands as a premier destination for beer tourism. While it’s tough to choose just one California city, San Diego shines year-round, offering visitors not only exceptional craft beer but also nearly perfect weather, stunning beaches, picturesque mountains, Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, a lively downtown, wineries, and incredible cuisine. With over 140 breweries, finding one nearby is a breeze. Experience a brewery tour in a vintage Swiss safari vehicle downtown or in North County with Scavengers. Opt for the unique San Diego Beer Train Trolley Tour. At Mission Brewery in the East Village, you can bring your own food and enjoy an hour-long tour that includes tastings. In Little Italy, Ballast Point offers casual dining options both indoors and outdoors. Border X Brewing specializes in Mexican-inspired beers, featuring delights like Abuelita's Chocolate Stout and Horchata Golden Stout, both infused with rich, spicy aromas. So many breweries, so little time to explore them all.

Stowe, Vermont: A Craft Beer Gem

Vermont has become a beer paradise for New Englanders, thanks to its farm-to-table dining paired with hoppy brews and a vibrant après-ski culture. The most renowned brewery in the state is The Alchemist, which has operated its brewpub in Waterbury since 2003. Famous for its unfiltered IPAs, the standout beer is Heady Topper—likely familiar from the enthusiastic praise of your New England friends. In addition to their longstanding Waterbury location, The Alchemist opened a new beer garden in Stowe in summer 2021. While you're in Stowe, be sure to visit von Trapp Brewery, Stowe Cider, and Idletyme Brewing. For a luxurious stay—whether for a ski-and-beer getaway or to soak in the stunning fall colors—Topnotch Resort is the ultimate destination, perfectly situated in the heart of Stowe.