Best 10 Breweries in Albany NY: Our Top Picks for Craft Beer Fans

ByAnthony Smith Last Updated:

Albany, New York, is a city that’s quickly gaining a reputation as a hub for craft beer enthusiasts. With a growing number of breweries in Albany, NY, visitors and locals alike have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to sipping on a cold brew. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back spot to enjoy a pint with friends or a brewery with a bustling atmosphere, Albany has something to offer.

Fidens Brewing Company is a great place to start for those seeking a unique and flavorful beer experience. With rave reviews and a wide selection of brews, Fidens is a popular spot among locals and visitors alike. Another top pick is Druthers Brewing Company, which offers a great selection of beers and delicious pub-style food. And for those looking for a more intimate atmosphere, Fort Orange Brewing is a must-visit. Whatever your preference, Albany’s breweries have something for everyone.

Overview of Albany’s Brewing History

Albany, NY, has a rich history when it comes to brewing. In the 19th century, Albany was one of the largest brewing centers in the United States. The city was home to many breweries, including the Albany Brewing Company, the Beverwyck Brewing Company, and the Hedrick Brewing Company. These breweries produced a variety of beers, including lagers, ales, and porters.

During Prohibition, most of the breweries in Albany were forced to close their doors. After Prohibition ended, only a few breweries were able to reopen. These included the Beverwyck Brewing Company, the Dobler Brewing Company, and the Hedrick Brewing Company.

Today, Albany’s brewing industry is alive and well. The city is home to many local breweries, including Fort Orange Brewing, Druthers Brewing, and Perfect World Brewing. These breweries produce a wide variety of beers, from IPAs to stouts to sour beers.

The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) also has a presence in Albany’s brewing scene. The CIA’s Brewery at the CIA, located in nearby Hyde Park, NY, offers a variety of beers brewed on-site. The brewery also offers classes and events for beer enthusiasts.

Top Rated Breweries in Albany

Fort Orange Brewing

Fort Orange Brewing is a popular brewery that offers a variety of fresh and flavorful beer. They started brewing beer in a garage and later opened their brewery in 2017. They have a great selection of beer styles including IPAs, stouts, hefeweizens, double IPAs, New England IPAs, pale ales, blonde ales, wheat ales, amber ales, and for paws porter. Fort Orange Brewing has received positive reviews from customers for its friendly service and great atmosphere.

Website: http://www.fortorangebrewing.com/

Address: 450 N Pearl St, Albany, NY 12204, United States

Druthers Brewing Company

Druthers Brewing Company is a well-known brewery that offers a great selection of beer and food. They have a variety of beer styles including IPAs, stouts, hefeweizens, double IPAs, New England IPAs, pale ales, blonde ales, wheat ales, amber ales, and for paws porter. They also offer a range of food options including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more. Druthers Brewing Company has received positive reviews from customers for its great beer selection and friendly service.

Website: http://www.druthersbrewing.com/

Address: 1053 Broadway, Albany, NY 12204, United States

Nine Pin Cider

Nine Pin Cider is a popular cider that offers a variety of delicious ciders. They have a range of cider styles including dry, semi-dry, sweet, and seasonal ciders. Nine Pin Cider has received positive reviews from customers for their tasty ciders and friendly service.

Website: http://www.ninepincider.com/

Address: 929 Broadway, Albany, NY 12207, United States

Great Flats Brewing

Great Flats Brewing is a popular brewery that offers a variety of tasty beers. They have a range of beer styles including IPAs, stouts, hefeweizens, double IPAs, New England IPAs, pale ales, blonde ales, wheat ales, amber ales, and for paws porter. Great Flats Brewing has received positive reviews from customers for its great beer and friendly service.

Website: http://greatflatsbrewing.com/

Address: 151 Lafayette St #2052, Schenectady, NY 12305, United States

Fidens Brewing Company

Fidens Brewing Company is a popular brewery that offers a range of flavorful beers. They have a variety of beer styles including IPAs, stouts, hefeweizens, double IPAs, New England IPAs, pale ales, blonde ales, wheat ales, amber ales, and for paws porter. Fidens Brewing Company has received positive reviews from customers for their great beer and friendly service.

Website: http://fidensbrewing.com/

Address: 897 Broadway, Albany, NY 12207, United States

Bye-I Brewing

Bye-I Brewing is a popular brewery that offers a range of delicious beers. They have a variety of beer styles including IPAs, stouts, hefeweizens, double IPAs, New England IPAs, pale ales, blonde ales, wheat ales, amber ales, and for paws porter. Bye-I Brewing has received positive reviews from customers for its great beer and friendly service.

Website: https://byeibrewing.com/

Address: 122 Remsen St, Cohoes, NY 12047, United States

The Warbler Brewery

The Warbler Brewery is a popular brewery that offers a variety of flavorful beer. They have a range of beer styles including IPAs, stouts, hefeweizens, double IPAs, New England IPAs, pale ales, blonde ales, wheat ales, amber ales, and for paws porter. The Warbler Brewery has received positive reviews from customers for its great beer and friendly service.

Website: http://warblerbrewery.com/

Address: 155 Delaware Ave, Delmar, NY 12054, United States

Mixed Breed Brewing

Mixed Breed Brewing is a popular brewery that offers a range of delicious beers. They have a variety of beer styles including IPAs, stouts, hefeweizens, double IPAs, New England IPAs, pale ales, blonde ales, wheat ales, amber ales, and for paws porter. Mixed Breed Brewing has received positive reviews from customers for its great beer and friendly service.

Website: https://mixedbreedbrewing.com/

Address: 457 NY-146, Guilderland Center, NY 12085, United States

West Kill Brewing

West Kill Brewing is a popular brewery that offers a range of flavorful beers. They have a variety of beer styles including IPAs, stouts, hefeweizens, double IPAs, New England IPAs, pale ales, blonde ales, wheat ales, amber ales, and for paws porter. West Kill Brewing has received positive reviews from customers for its great beer and friendly service.

Website: https://www.westkillbrewing.com/

Address: 2173 Spruceton Road, West Kill, NY 12492, United States

The Real McCoy Beer Co

The Real McCoy Beer Co. is a popular brewery that offers a range of tasty beers. They have a variety of beer styles including IPAs, stouts, hefeweizens, double IPAs, New England IPAs, pale ales, blonde ales, wheat ales

Website: http://www.therealmccoybeerco.com/

Address: 20 Hallwood Rd, Delmar, NY 12054, USA

Unique Features of Albany Breweries

Brewery Style Restaurant

Many of the breweries in Albany, NY offer a unique experience by combining a brewery with a restaurant. This allows visitors to enjoy a locally brewed beer while also indulging in delicious food. For example, Fidens Brewing Company offers a variety of food options such as sandwiches, salads, and appetizers. They also have outdoor seating available for those who want to enjoy their meal and beer in the fresh air.

Cider Breweries

In addition to traditional breweries, Albany also has cider breweries that offer a unique twist on the classic beer experience. Nine Pin Ciderworks is a popular cider brewery in Albany that specializes in hard ciders made from local apples. Visitors can enjoy a tasting flight of ciders while learning about the cider-making process. The tasting room also features a rotating selection of food trucks and live music.

Eclectic Spot

For those looking for a unique and eclectic spot to enjoy a beer, Rare Form Brewing Company is a must-visit. The brewery is located in a renovated industrial building and features an outdoor patio and tasting room. Their beer selection is constantly changing, so visitors can always expect to try something new. The business owners also pride themselves on being environmentally conscious, using solar power to help run the brewery.

Microbrewery/Pub

For a classic microbrewery experience, visitors can head to Druthers Brewing Company. The brewery features a spacious tasting room and outdoor seating area. They offer a variety of beers on tap, including seasonal options and limited releases. The brewery also has its own parking lot, making it a convenient spot for visitors.

Food and Drink Selection

When it comes to food and drink selection, Albany NY’s breweries have something for everyone. From wings and beer pairings to cider and food pairings, there’s no shortage of options to choose from.

Wings and Beer Pairings

For those looking for a classic pub experience, many of Albany’s breweries offer wings and beer pairings. Fidens Brewing Company, for example, offers a variety of wing flavors, including garlic parmesan and honey mustard, that pair perfectly with their craft beer selection. Druthers Brewing Company also offers a selection of wings, as well as a variety of dipping sauces to choose from.

Craft Beer Selection

Of course, no brewery experience is complete without a great craft beer selection. Albany’s breweries offer a wide variety of options, from cans and crowlers to growlers and glasses. Fort Orange Brewing, for example, offers a rotating selection of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and sours. Meanwhile, Emporium Farm Brewery offers a variety of unique and seasonal flavors, such as its Blueberry Saison and Peach Kolsch.

Cider and Food Pairings

For those who prefer cider over beer, many of Albany’s breweries offer cider and food pairings as well. Nine Pin Cider, for example, offers a selection of ciders that pair perfectly with their food menu, which includes items such as pizzas and calamari. They even offer a kale salad for those looking for a healthier option.

Cocktails and Desserts

For those who prefer cocktails or are looking for something sweet to end their meal, Albany’s breweries have options for that too. Druthers Brewing Company, for example, offers a variety of cocktails, including their signature Druthers Mule. Meanwhile, Brown’s Brewing Company offers a selection of desserts, such as their Chocolate Stout Cake, that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Pet-Friendly Breweries

Albany, NY has a number of pet-friendly breweries that allow you to enjoy a pint with your furry friend. Here are some of the best pet-friendly breweries in the area:

  • Fort Orange Brewing – This brewery is known for its dog-friendly atmosphere. The outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a cold beer with your furry friend. The staff is welcoming and always has a bowl of water ready for your pup.
  • Druthers Brewing Company – Another popular pet-friendly brewery in Albany, Druthers Brewing Company is a great spot to hang out with your dog. The outdoor seating area is spacious and comfortable, and the staff is always happy to see your furry friend.
  • Fidens Brewing Company – Fidens Brewing Company is a cozy and inviting brewery that welcomes dogs. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying a pint with your pup, and the staff is always happy to provide water and treats.
  • Frog Alley Brewing – This brewery is known for its pet-friendly atmosphere and welcoming staff. The outdoor seating area is a great spot to relax with your dog, and the brewery even hosts dog-friendly events throughout the year.
  • Brown’s Brewing Company – Brown’s Brewing Company is a popular spot for beer lovers and dog owners alike. The outdoor seating area is spacious and comfortable, and the staff is always happy to see your furry friend.

These breweries are just a few of the many pet-friendly options in Albany, NY. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a pint with your pup or a fun place to socialize with other dog owners, Albany has something for everyone.