Best 18 Breweries in Kansas: Our Top Picks for Craft Beer Lovers
Kansas is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is known for its rolling hills, vast prairies and wheat fields, and friendly people. However, it is also home to some of the best breweries in the country.
Kansas has a rich history of beer-making that dates back to the 1850s when German immigrants settled in the state. Today, Kansas boasts a thriving craft beer scene with over 60 breweries spread across the state. These breweries offer a wide range of beer styles, from classic lagers and ales to experimental brews that push the boundaries of what beer can be. Whether you’re a casual beer drinker or a seasoned connoisseur, there’s something for everyone in Kansas’ craft beer scene.
The Beer Scene in Kansas
Kansas has a vibrant beer scene with many local breweries that offer some of the best brews in the business. The state is home to a growing number of craft breweries that cater to the discerning tastes of beer consumers and geeks alike. Kansas is a great destination for beer lovers who want to experience the local beer scene and taste some of the finest craft beers in the region.
Craft beer has become increasingly popular in Kansas over the years, with many local breweries producing a wide range of unique and flavorful brews. These craft breweries are known for their attention to detail and their commitment to using only the finest ingredients to create their beers. Many of these breweries offer tours and tastings, giving visitors an opportunity to learn more about the brewing process and sample some of the best beers in the state.
The beer scene in Kansas is diverse, with breweries specializing in different styles of beer. From pale ales and IPAs to stouts and porters, there is something for everyone in the local beer scene. Some of the most popular craft breweries in Kansas include Boulevard Brewing Company, Free State Brewing Company, and Tallgrass Brewing Company.
Kansas has a strong community of beer enthusiasts who are passionate about supporting local breweries and promoting the craft beer culture in the state. These beer geeks are always on the lookout for new and exciting brews, and they are always eager to share their knowledge and expertise with others.
Exploring the Variety and Quality of Kansas Breweries
Kansas is home to a thriving brewery scene, with a wide variety of breweries offering unique and high-quality beers. From classic styles to experimental brews, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Kansas.
One of the standout features of Kansas breweries is their commitment to quality. Many of the state’s breweries have won awards for their beers and have gained national recognition for their dedication to crafting exceptional brews. Visitors to Kansas can expect to find breweries that take pride in their craft and are passionate about producing the best possible beer.
In addition to quality, Kansas breweries also offer a diverse range of beer styles. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, there is a beer for every taste preference. Many breweries also offer unique and experimental beers, such as fruit-infused brews or barrel-aged ales. Visitors to Kansas can expect to find a wide range of beer styles and flavors to explore.
Some of the best breweries in Kansas include Central Standard Brewing, Torn Label Brewing Company, and Free State Brewing Company. These breweries have gained a reputation for producing high-quality beers and offering unique and exciting brews. Visitors to Kansas should be sure to check out these top-rated breweries.
Spotlight on Top Breweries
Central Standard Brewing
Central Standard Brewing is a small craft brewery located in Wichita, Kansas. They produce a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and sours. Their taproom is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, and they often host events and live music.
Website: http://www.centralstandardbrewing.com/
Address: 156 Greenwood, Wichita, KS 67211, United States
Torn Label
Torn Label is a Kansas City-based brewery that focuses on creating unique and flavorful beers. They offer a wide range of styles, from classic lagers to experimental sours. Their taproom is a cozy spot to enjoy a cold beer and catch up with friends.
Website: http://tornlabel.com/
Address: 1708 Campbell St, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
Alma Mader
Alma Mader is a relatively new brewery located in Wichita, Kansas. They specialize in creating modern, hop-forward beers that are both approachable and complex. Their taproom is a welcoming space that often features local artists and musicians.
Website: http://www.almamaderbrewing.com/
Address: 2635 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
Boulevard
Boulevard Brewing Company is one of the largest and most well-known breweries in Kansas. They produce a wide range of beers, including their famous Tank 7 farmhouse ale. Their taproom is a popular destination for beer lovers from all over the country.
Website: http://boulevard.com/
Address: 2501 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
KC Bier Co
KC Bier Co is a German-style brewery located in Kansas City, Missouri. They specialize in creating traditional German beers, such as hefeweizens and pilsners. Their taproom is a cozy spot to enjoy a pint and some authentic German food.
Website: http://kcbier.com/
Address: 310 W 79th St, Kansas City, MO 64114, United States
Fringe
Fringe Beerworks is a small brewery located in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. They produce a variety of beers, from classic IPAs to experimental sours. Their taproom is a laid-back spot to enjoy a cold beer and catch up with friends.
Website: http://www.fringebeerworks.com/
Address: 224 SE Douglas St, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063, United States
Brewery Emperial
Brewery Emperial is a Kansas City-based brewery that focuses on creating traditional European-style beers. They offer a range of styles, from classic pilsners to Belgian-style saisons. Their taproom is a cozy spot to enjoy a pint and some good conversation.
Website: http://www.breweryemperial.com/
Address: 1829 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
BKS Artisan Ales
BKS Artisan Ales is a small brewery located in Kansas City, Missouri. They specialize in creating unique and flavorful beers, often using unusual ingredients and techniques. Their taproom is a cozy spot to enjoy a pint and some good company.
Website: http://www.bksartisanales.com/
Address: 633 E 63rd St #120, Kansas City, MO 64110, United States
Crane Brewing
Crane Brewing is a small brewery located in Raytown, Missouri. They specialize in creating sour beers, often using locally sourced ingredients. Their taproom is a laid-back spot to enjoy a cold beer and some good conversation.
Website: https://www.cranebrewing.com/
Address: 6515 Railroad St, Raytown, MO 64133, United States
Defiance Brewing Co
Defiance Brewing Co is a small brewery located in Hays, Kansas. They produce a range of beers, from classic lagers to experimental IPAs. Their taproom is a cozy spot to enjoy a pint and some good company.
Website: http://www.defiancebeer.com/
Address: 2050 Old Hwy 40, Hays, KS 67601, United States
Martin City Brewing
Martin City Brewing is a Kansas City-based brewery that offers a range of beers, from classic lagers to experimental sours. They also have a restaurant and taproom, where visitors can enjoy a meal and a cold beer.
Website: https://www.martincitybrewingcompany.com/
Address: 410 E 135th Street, Kansas City, MO 64145
City Barrel Brewing
City Barrel Brewing is a Kansas City-based brewery that focuses on creating unique and flavorful beers. They offer a range of styles, from classic IPAs to experimental sours. Their taproom is a cozy spot to enjoy a pint and some good company.
Website: http://www.citybarrelbrewing.com/
Address: 1740 Holmes St, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
Torn Label Brewing
Torn Label Brewing is a small brewery located in Kansas City, Missouri. They produce a range of beers, from classic lagers to experimental sours. Their taproom is a laid-back spot to enjoy a cold beer and some good conversation.
Website: http://tornlabel.com/
Address: 1708 Campbell St, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
Stockyards Brewing
Stockyards Brewing is a Kansas City-based brewery that offers a range of beers, from classic lagers to experimental IPAs. Their taproom is a cozy spot to enjoy a pint and some good company.
Website: http://www.stockyardsbrewing.com/
Address: 1600 Genessee St #100, Kansas City, MO 64102, United States
Kansas Territory Brewing Company
Kansas Territory Brewing Company is a small brewery located in Washington, Kansas. They specialize in creating unique and flavorful beers, often using locally sourced ingredients. Their taproom is a laid-back spot to enjoy a cold beer and some good conversation.
Website: http://www.kansasterritorybrewingco.com/
Address: 1827 Wilson Dr, Washington, KS 66968, United States
Tallgrass Brewing Co. Tap House
Tallgrass Brewing Co. Tap House is a Manhattan-based brewery that offers a range of beers, from classic lagers to experimental IPAs. Their taproom is a cozy spot to enjoy a pint and some good company.
Website: https://tallgrasstaphouse.com/
Address: 320 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS 66502, United States
River City Brewing Co
River City Brewing Co is a Wichita-based brewery that offers a range of beers, from classic lagers to experimental IPAs. Their taproom is a laid-back spot to enjoy a cold beer and some good conversation.
Website: http://www.rivercitybrewingco.com/
Address: 150 N Mosley St, Wichita, KS 67202, United States
Walnut River Brewing Company
Walnut River Brewing Company is a small brewery located in El Dorado, Kansas. They produce a range of beers, from classic lagers to experimental IPAs. Their taproom is a cozy spot to enjoy a pint and some good company.
Website: https://walnutriverbrewing.com/
Address: 111 W Locust Ave, El Dorado, KS 67042, United States
Popular Beers and Their Unique Flavors
Kansas is home to a variety of breweries that offer a diverse range of beer flavors. Some of the most popular beers in Kansas include IPAs, lagers, sours, ales, imperial IPAs, farmhouse ales, and more. Each beer has a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from the rest.
One of the most popular beers in Kansas is Tank 7 by Boulevard Brewing Company. This farmhouse ale is known for its fruity and spicy notes, making it a refreshing drink on a hot day. Another popular beer is Space Camper Cosmic IPA by Boulevard Brewing Company, which has a citrusy and tropical flavor profile that is perfect for IPA lovers.
For those who prefer a more unique flavor, the Grapefruit Beer by Free State Brewing Company is a great option. This beer is a blend of a German-style radler and a wheat beer, giving it a sweet and tangy taste. Another unique beer is the American Barleywine by Tallgrass Brewing Company, which has a rich and malty flavor profile with hints of caramel and toffee.
If you’re looking for a darker beer, the Oatmeal Stout by Free State Brewing Company is a great choice. This beer has a smooth and creamy texture with a chocolate and coffee flavor profile. The American Imperial Stout by Tallgrass Brewing Company is another great option for dark beer lovers, with a bold and complex flavor profile that includes hints of dark chocolate and espresso.
For those who prefer a lighter beer, the Bohemian/Czech Pilsner by Free State Brewing Company is a crisp and refreshing option. The American Porter by Tallgrass Brewing Company is also a great choice, with a smooth and balanced flavor profile that includes notes of chocolate and roasted coffee.
Kansas also has a variety of IPAs, including the Black IPA by Tallgrass Brewing Company, which has a unique flavor profile that includes hints of dark chocolate and coffee. The New England IPA by Three Rings Brewery is another popular option, with a hazy appearance and a juicy flavor profile that includes tropical fruit and citrus notes.
Food Pairings and Brewery Atmosphere
When it comes to visiting a brewery, the atmosphere and food pairings can be just as important as the beer itself. Luckily, many of the best breweries in Kansas offer a variety of food options and unique atmospheres to enhance the overall experience.
Some breweries, such as Martin City Brewing Company, offer a full menu of delicious food options that pair perfectly with their brews. From pretzels and pizza to bratwurst and burgers, visitors can find something to satisfy any craving. The taproom at Martin City Brewing also boasts a cozy and inviting atmosphere, complete with a fireplace and outdoor patio.
Other breweries, such as Boulevard Brewing Company, partner with local food trucks to offer a rotating selection of tasty bites. This allows visitors to try something new with each visit and adds to the overall excitement of the experience.
For those looking for a more traditional brewpub atmosphere, Brewery Emperial is a great option. With a focus on European-style beers and a menu of classic pub fare, visitors can enjoy a pint and a hearty meal in a cozy and intimate setting.
Kansas City is also known for its barbecue and jazz, and some breweries have taken note. Places like Torn Label Brewing Company and Fringe Beerworks offer live music and a selection of barbecue-inspired snacks to enjoy while sipping on a cold brew.
No matter what type of food or atmosphere you’re looking for, the best breweries in Kansas have something to offer. So grab a pint, try some delicious food, and soak in the unique atmosphere of each brewery.