Best 13 Breweries in Chicago IL: A Guide to the Top Craft Beer Destinations
Chicago, Illinois, is home to some of the best breweries in the world. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from when it comes to enjoying a cold beer. With a variety of styles and flavors available, there’s something for everyone in the Windy City.
One of the things that makes Chicago’s breweries so special is the love and passion that goes into each batch of beer. From small, independent breweries to larger, more established ones, you can be sure that every sip you take has been crafted with care and attention to detail. Whether you prefer hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or crisp lagers, you’ll find a brewery in Chicago that can satisfy your taste buds.
If you’re a beer lover, Chicago is a must-visit destination. With so many amazing breweries to choose from, you’re sure to find a new favorite spot to enjoy a cold one. So why not grab some friends and head out on a brewery tour to discover all that the city has to offer?
Why Chicago?
Chicago is known for many things: deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and architecture, to name a few. But what many people may not know is that Chicago is also a beer city. With over 200 breweries in the Chicagoland area, it’s no wonder that Chicago has become a destination for beer lovers.
Craft beer has been on the rise in recent years, and Chicago has been at the forefront of this movement. The city has a rich history of brewing, dating back to the mid-1800s when German immigrants settled in the area and brought with them their love of beer. Today, Chicago is home to some of the best craft breweries in the country.
Chicago’s breweries offer a wide range of styles, from traditional German lagers to experimental IPAs. Many of these breweries also have taprooms where visitors can sample the beers and learn about the brewing process. These taprooms often feature unique designs and atmospheres, making them a great place to hang out with friends and enjoy a cold beer.
In addition to the breweries themselves, Chicago also hosts a number of beer festivals throughout the year. These festivals bring together breweries from around the country and offer visitors the chance to sample a wide variety of beers in one place.
Top Breweries in Chicago
Goose Island
Goose Island is one of the oldest and most well-known breweries in Chicago. They started brewing in 1988 and have since become a household name. They are best known for their Bourbon County Stout, which is a must-try for any beer enthusiast. Goose Island has several taprooms throughout the city, including its flagship location in the Fulton Market District.
Website: http://www.gooseisland.com/
Address: 1800 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, United States
Dovetail Brewery
Dovetail Brewery is a small, family-owned brewery located in the Ravenswood neighborhood of Chicago. They specialize in traditional European-style beers, with a focus on German and Belgian styles. Dovetail is known for its lagers, which are brewed using traditional methods and take longer to ferment than ales. Their taproom is cozy and inviting, with a large outdoor patio for the warmer months.
Website: http://dovetailbrewery.com/
Address: 1800 W Belle Plaine Ave, Chicago, IL 60613, United States
Revolution Brewing
Revolution Brewing is one of the largest breweries in Chicago, with a production facility and taproom in Avondale and a brewpub in Logan Square. They are known for their hop-forward beers, including their flagship Anti-Hero IPA. Revolution also has a barrel-aged beer program, with several limited-release beers available throughout the year.
Website: http://revbrew.com/
Address: 2323 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
Off Color Brewing
Off Color Brewing is a unique brewery located in the Hermosa neighborhood of Chicago. They specialize in traditional European styles, with a focus on Belgian and farmhouse ales. Off Color is known for its creative and experimental beers, including its popular Apex Predator farmhouse ale. Their taproom is cozy and intimate, with a large outdoor patio for the warmer months.
Website: http://www.offcolorbrewing.com/
Address: 1460 N Kingsbury St, Chicago, IL 60642, United States
Marz Community Brewing
Marz Community Brewing is a brewery and taproom located in the Bridgeport neighborhood of Chicago. They are known for their creative and experimental beers, including their flagship Jungle Boogie wheat ale and their Bubbly Creek sour series. Marz also has a large outdoor beer garden, which is perfect for enjoying a beer on a warm summer day.
Website: https://marz.beer/
Address: 3630 S Iron St, Chicago, IL 60609, United States
Maplewood Brewery & Distillery
Maplewood Brewery & Distillery is a unique brewery located in Logan Square. They are one of the few breweries in Chicago that also distills spirits, including gin and whiskey. Maplewood is known for its creative and experimental beers, including its popular Son of Juice IPA. Their taproom is cozy and inviting, with a large outdoor patio for the warmer months.
Website: http://maplewoodbrew.com/
Address: 2717 N Maplewood Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
Half Acre Beer Company
Half Acre Beer Company is a brewery and taproom located in the North Center neighborhood of Chicago. They are known for their hop-forward beers, including their flagship Daisy Cutter Pale Ale. Half Acre also has a barrel-aged beer program, with several limited-release beers available throughout the year. Their taproom is spacious and inviting, with a large outdoor patio for the warmer months.
Website: http://halfacrebeer.com/
Address: 2050 W Balmoral Ave, Chicago, IL 60625, United States
Corridor Brewery & Provisions
Corridor Brewery & Provisions is a brewery and restaurant located in the West Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago. They are known for their creative and experimental beers, including their popular SqueezIt IPA. Corridor also has a full kitchen, serving up elevated pub fare and wood-fired pizzas. Their taproom is cozy and inviting, with a large outdoor patio for the warmer months.
Website: http://www.corridorchicago.com/
Address: 3446 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, United States
Hopewell
Hopewell is a small brewery located in the Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago. They are known for their approachable and easy-drinking beers, including their popular First Lager. Hopewell also has a barrel-aged beer program, with several limited-release beers available throughout the year. Their taproom is cozy and inviting, with a large outdoor patio for the warmer months.
Website: http://www.hopewellbrewing.com/
Address: 2760 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
Solemn Oath
Solemn Oath is a brewery and taproom located in the Naperville suburb of Chicago. They are known for their creative and experimental beers, including their popular Butterfly Flashmob IPA. Solemn Oath also has a barrel-aged beer program, with several limited-release beers available throughout the year. Their taproom is spacious and inviting, with a large outdoor patio for the warmer months.
Website: https://www.solemnoathbrewery.com/
Address: 2919 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
Pilot Project
Pilot Project is a unique brewery and taproom located in the Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago. They are a collaborative brewery, partnering with other breweries and homebrewers to create unique and experimental beers. Pilot Project also has a full kitchen, serving up elevated pub fare and wood-fired pizzas. Their taproom is cozy and inviting, with a large outdoor patio for the warmer months.
Website: https://www.pilotprojectbrewing.com/
Address: 2140 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
Begyle
Begyle is a brewery and taproom located in the North Center neighborhood of Chicago. They are known for their approachable and easy-drinking beers, including their popular Blonde Ale. Begyle also has a barrel-aged beer program, with several limited-release beers available throughout the year. Their taproom is cozy and inviting, with a large outdoor patio for the warmer months.
Website: http://www.begylebrewing.com/
Address: 1800 W Cuyler Ave, Chicago, IL 60613, United States
Life on Marz Community Club
Life on Marz Community Club is a unique brewery and taproom located in the Bridgeport neighborhood of Chicago. They are a collaborative brewery, partnering with other breweries.
Website: https://www.lifeonmarz.club/
Address: 1950 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
Beer Styles and Specialties
Chicago’s craft beer scene is known for its diverse range of beer styles and specialties. From hazy IPAs to barrel-aged stouts, there’s something for every beer lover in the Windy City. Here are some of the most popular beer styles and specialties that you can find at the best breweries in Chicago.
Deep Wood Series
The Deep Wood Series is a collection of barrel-aged beers that are aged in oak barrels for up to two years. These beers are known for their complex flavors and aromas, which are created by the interaction between the beer and the wood. Some of the most popular beers in the Deep Wood Series include barleywines, imperial stouts, and sour ales.
Hazy IPA
Hazy IPAs are a relatively new style of beer that have taken the craft beer world by storm. These beers are known for their hazy appearance and juicy, fruity flavors. They are brewed with a special type of yeast that produces a cloudy appearance and are often dry-hopped with fruity hops to give them their characteristic flavor.
Belgian Beers
Belgian beers are known for their complex flavors and aromas, which are created by using unique yeast strains and brewing techniques. Some of the most popular Belgian beers include saisons, dubbel ales, and tripel ales. These beers are often brewed with spices and herbs to give them a unique flavor profile.
Barrel-Aged Stout
Barrel-aged stouts are a type of beer that are aged in oak barrels for several months to several years. During this time, the beer absorbs flavors and aromas from the wood, which gives it a unique character. Barrel-aged stouts are known for their rich, complex flavors and are often brewed with chocolate, coffee, and other ingredients to enhance their flavor profile.
Helles
Helles is a type of lager beer that originated in Germany. It is known for its light, crisp flavor and is often described as a “session beer” because of its low alcohol content. Helles is brewed with a special type of yeast that gives it its characteristic flavor and is often served in tall, narrow glasses.
Apex Predator Farmhouse Ale
Apex Predator Farmhouse Ale is a type of beer that is brewed with a special type of yeast that gives it a unique flavor profile. It is known for its spicy, fruity flavors and is often brewed with a variety of grains and hops to give it a complex character. Apex Predator Farmhouse Ale is a popular beer style among craft beer enthusiasts in Chicago.
Overall, the best breweries in Chicago offer a wide range of beer styles and specialties to suit every taste. Whether you’re a fan of hazy IPAs, barrel-aged stouts, or Belgian beers, you’re sure to find something that you’ll love at one of Chicago’s many craft breweries.
Planning Your Brewery Tour
Chicago is a city with a vibrant craft beer scene, and it can be overwhelming to decide which breweries to visit. Planning your brewery tour ahead of time can help ensure that you make the most of your time in the city.
First, it’s important to consider how you will travel between breweries. Chicago has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains, that can be a convenient and affordable option. Alternatively, you may want to consider renting a car or hiring a private tour company.
When selecting which breweries to visit, consider your personal preferences for beer styles and brewery atmospheres. Some breweries specialize in certain styles, such as sours or IPAs, while others offer a wide variety of options. You may also want to consider the size of the brewery and whether it offers tours or tastings.
It’s important to note that due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many breweries have implemented safety protocols, such as requiring proof of vaccination or limiting capacity. Be sure to check each brewery’s website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before visiting.
To make the most of your brewery tour, consider organizing your visits geographically. Chicago has several neighborhoods with clusters of breweries, such as the West Loop and Logan Square. This can help minimize travel time between breweries and allow you to explore different areas of the city.
Finally, be sure to pace yourself and stay hydrated throughout the day. Many breweries offer food options, such as food trucks or on-site restaurants, to help you stay fueled.
By planning ahead and considering these factors, you can ensure a fun and enjoyable brewery tour in Chicago.
Brewery Extras
Chicago is known for its fantastic breweries, but there’s more to the beer scene than just great brews. From taprooms to dive bars, Chicago has something for everyone. Here are some brewery extras to check out when you’re in the Windy City:
Taprooms
Chicago has plenty of great taprooms, where you can sample a variety of beers straight from the source. Hopewell Brewing Company in Logan Square is a popular choice, with a cozy atmosphere and plenty of seating. Dovetail Brewery in Ravenswood is another great option, with a spacious taproom and a focus on traditional German-style beers.
Beer Halls
If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and plenty of beer options, check out one of Chicago’s beer halls. The Berghoff in the Loop has been serving up German-inspired fare and beer since 1898. Revolution Brewing in Logan Square has a massive taproom with plenty of seating and a menu of delicious pub grub.
Dive Bars
For a more laid-back vibe, head to one of Chicago’s dive bars. The Map Room in Bucktown is a beloved spot for beer lovers, with a rotating selection of craft brews and a cozy atmosphere. The Rainbow Club in Ukrainian Village is another popular dive bar, with cheap drinks and a jukebox.
Brunch
If you’re looking for a boozy brunch spot, Chicago’s breweries have got you covered. Moody Tongue in Pilsen offers a brunch menu on weekends, with dishes like oysters and waffles paired with their signature beers. Half Acre Beer Company in Lincoln Square also has a brunch menu, with items like breakfast tacos and beer-mosas.
Chicago’s brewery scene has something for everyone, whether you’re a beer lover or just looking for a fun spot to hang out. From taprooms to dive bars, there are plenty of extras to explore beyond just great beer.
The Chicago Craft Beer Industry
Chicago’s craft beer industry has been growing steadily in recent years, with over 200 breweries operating in the city. The industry has become a significant contributor to the local economy, generating jobs and revenue for the city.
Craft beer enthusiasts in Chicago have a wide variety of options to choose from, with breweries offering everything from traditional styles like lagers and stouts to more experimental and innovative flavors. Many local breweries also offer spacious taprooms that provide the ideal backdrop for group hangs, making them popular destinations for social gatherings.
Some of the most popular breweries in Chicago include the famous Dovetail Brewery, Maplewood Brewery and Distillery, Half Acre Beer Company, and Metropolitan Brewing. These breweries have gained a reputation for producing high-quality craft beer that has won over both locals and visitors alike.
The Chicago craft beer industry has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Many breweries have implemented eco-friendly practices, such as using renewable energy sources and reducing waste, to minimize their environmental impact.
Overall, the Chicago craft beer industry is a vibrant and dynamic community that continues to grow and evolve. With new breweries opening up regularly and established breweries expanding their offerings, there has never been a better time to explore the world of craft beer in Chicago.