Hello, beer lovers! Alex here, your friendly guide to all things craft beer in Ann Arbor. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this town’s breweries are sure to give you a memorable experience. Ann Arbor’s breweries range from cozy taprooms hidden in historic buildings to spacious outdoor beer gardens that are perfect for warm-weather hangouts. Each spot offers something unique, from innovative brews to delicious bites. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top local breweries that are guaranteed to make both your taste buds and Instagram feed happy!
Must-Visit Breweries in Ann Arbor
1. HOMES Brewery
When HOMES opened, it shook up the local brewery scene in the best way possible. With a Korean-inspired menu and inventive beers, this brewery has quickly become a favorite. Their “Same Same Different” IPA series has gained quite a following, and after a taste, you’ll understand the hype.
Why Visit: The vibe is unbeatable, especially on their outdoor patio during summer. Their “King Cold Brew” sour series offers a unique combination of coffee and fruity flavors, perfect for those looking to try something out of the ordinary.
Insider Tip: Their patio fills up fast on weekends, so plan to arrive early if you want a seat. And if you’re into sours, you’ll find some of the most creative options here.
2. Arbor Brewing Company (ABC)
You can’t talk about Ann Arbor breweries without mentioning Arbor Brewing Company. This spot has been serving locals since 1995 and remains a staple. The Washington Street taproom is a blend of historic charm and modern design, and it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to stay for hours. Their “Sacred Cow” IPA is a must-try for any beer enthusiast.
Why Visit: Arbor Brewing’s dedication to sustainability is impressive – they were one of Michigan’s first breweries to go solar! They also offer an exclusive bottle-share program for members, giving them access to limited-release brews and barrel-aged specialties.
Fun Fact: If you’re a local, consider joining their bottle-share program to enjoy exclusive releases. It’s a great way to experience unique beers you won’t find anywhere else.
3. Wolverine State Brewing Co.
Wolverine State stands out by focusing mainly on lagers, a bold move in a world dominated by IPAs. Their “Gulo Gulo” IPL (India Pale Lager) has a dedicated fan base, and it’s easy to see why. This brewery has a relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes it perfect for casual meet-ups with friends.
Why Visit: Their trivia nights on Wednesdays are a local favorite, so get there early to grab a table! Wolverine also hosts “Meet the Brewer” nights, giving you a chance to chat with the brewers and learn more about the craft.
Must-Try: Their Tundra Winter Lager, which is available during the colder months, is a festive treat with warm, spiced flavors. It’s a seasonal favorite for locals and visitors alike.
4. Grizzly Peak Brewing Company
Housed in a historic building downtown, Grizzly Peak has been a staple since 1995. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and hearty brews, this brewery has a loyal following. Their “Bear Paw Porter” is a popular choice and pairs perfectly with the chillier Michigan nights.
Why Visit: Grizzly Peak’s pub-style menu features classics like pretzels with beer cheese, making it a top spot for those looking to enjoy some comfort food alongside their beer.
Cool Feature: They offer a private cellar room with a speakeasy feel, perfect for special occasions. If you’re looking for a unique brunch spot, their Sunday brunch with beer pairings is a great way to end the weekend.
5. Edelbrau Brewing Company
For fans of traditional German-style beer, Edelbrau is a hidden gem. Despite being newer on the scene, they’ve quickly gained a reputation for their authentic brewing methods. The taproom’s industrial-cozy vibe makes it a comfortable spot to unwind after a long day.
Why Visit: Their seasonal Maibock, available in spring, is worth planning a trip around. Edelbrau also offers monthly brewing workshops where you can learn about German brewing techniques.
Must-Try: Their Maibock, which is only available for a short time each year, is well worth the wait and is a fan favorite among locals.
6. HOMES Campus Brewing
The new addition to the HOMES family, Campus Brewing, has brought the same creativity and flair to South U. This spot focuses on small-batch brews, often pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing. The space has a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, great for both studying and socializing.
Why Visit: Their monthly beer releases are always a big event, with new and unique beers that aren’t available elsewhere. They’ve recently launched a “Local Artists Series,” featuring label art by Ann Arbor artists, making their cans collectible items.
Insider Tip: Follow them on social media to stay updated on release dates, as their new brews often sell out quickly.
7. Blue Tractor BBQ & Brewery
If there’s one thing that pairs perfectly with beer, it’s BBQ. Blue Tractor combines both with mouth-watering results. Their “Bumper Crop” IPA pairs beautifully with their smoked meats, making it a go-to for BBQ and beer lovers alike.
Why Visit: Their “Smoke & Sour Sundays” is a unique event where they pair smoked meats with special sour beer releases. Even if you’re not usually a fan of sour beers, you might find yourself converted!
What to Order: The smoked brisket paired with their Bumper Crop IPA is a crowd-pleaser. Blue Tractor’s laid-back atmosphere makes it a great choice for everything from a casual dinner to a group celebration.
Why Ann Arbor’s Brewery Scene Is Special
Ann Arbor’s brewery scene isn’t just about the beer – it’s about the people and the community. Each of these breweries has a unique personality, with passionate brewers excited to share their creations. Many of them offer tours where you can learn about the brewing process, and their staff is always eager to chat about the latest releases or favorite pairings.
What sets Ann Arbor’s brewery scene apart isn’t just the quality of the beer – though that’s certainly a big part of it! Each of these breweries has found a way to reflect the city’s unique, creative spirit. From experimenting with new flavors to emphasizing sustainability, Ann Arbor’s breweries represent the best of local culture.
Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or just beginning your craft beer journey, these breweries deserve a place on your list. And if you see me around, don’t hesitate to say hi! I’m always down to chat about beer and share recommendations.
Final Thoughts for Enjoying Ann Arbor’s Breweries
Ann Arbor’s craft beer scene is truly something special, and it’s only growing. So grab some friends, pick a brewery, and toast to all the great things Ann Arbor has to offer. Cheers to new adventures, delicious brews, and unforgettable memories!
