By Vanessa Vasquez, Editor-in-Chief
Chicago has long been a hub for craft beer enthusiasts, with its diverse and innovative brewing culture gaining national recognition. The city boasts a rich craft beer scene, from small neighborhood breweries to large-scale, well-established breweries, offering a range of styles and flavors that cater to all tastes. Whether you're a seasoned craft beer connoisseur or just beginning your exploration of the craft beer world, Chicago offers an abundance of options to satisfy your palate. In this guide, we’ll explore the best breweries, beer events, and tasting experiences in Chicago's vibrant craft beer scene.
Top Breweries to Visit in Chicago
Discover the Best Breweries in Chicago
Chicago’s craft beer scene is defined by its diverse selection of breweries, each offering unique styles, atmospheres, and experiences. From historic locations to modern brewpubs, here are some of the top breweries to check out during your visit:
- Goose Island Beer Co.: Founded in 1988, Goose Island is one of the pioneers of the Chicago craft beer movement. The brewery is famous for its Bourbon County Brand Stout and wide range of innovative beers. The Goose Island Brewpub in Lincoln Park is a great place to sample their classics alongside limited-edition brews.
- Revolution Brewing: As one of Chicago’s largest independent breweries, Revolution Brewing in Logan Square is known for its flagship Anti-Hero IPA and an extensive variety of seasonal and special release beers. The spacious taproom features an inviting atmosphere, with a menu of delicious bites to pair with your brew.
- Half Acre Beer Company: Located in Lincoln Square, Half Acre is a favorite among locals for its bold, hop-forward beers, such as the Daisy Cutter Pale Ale. The brewery's taproom and beer garden provide a laid-back environment to sample their creative brews and seasonal releases.
- Metro Brewing: Situated in Jefferson Park, Metro Brewing has become a staple in Chicago’s craft beer community. Known for their German-inspired lagers and family-friendly vibe, Metro Brewing offers a range of crisp, clean beers perfect for those who enjoy classic, well-crafted brews.
- Cultivate by Forbidden Root: Located in the same space where Band of Bohemia pub was previously situated, Cultivate by Forbidden Root is a brewpub with a botanical theme, offering plant-infused ales, cocktails, and comfort food. It has a beautiful building and serves amazing food and beer.
Best Beer Bars and Taprooms in Chicago
Where to Enjoy Craft Beer in the City
If you're looking to explore Chicago’s craft beer scene beyond breweries, the city is home to many beer bars and taprooms where you can sample a variety of local brews. Here are a few standout locations:
- The Beer Temple: Located in Roscoe Village, The Beer Temple is a must-visit for any craft beer lover. With 20 rotating taps, the bar offers a mix of local, national, and international craft beers. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through the extensive list and help you discover new favorites.
- Hopleaf Bar: Situated in Andersonville, Hopleaf is a well-loved spot for craft beer fans, featuring an extensive bottle list and a wide selection of beers on tap. The bar also has an impressive food menu, with Belgian-style frites and hearty sandwiches that pair perfectly with your beer of choice.
- Lincoln Park’s Beer Bistro: A cozy spot offering craft beers from around the world, this beer bistro features a rotating selection of drafts and a curated bottle list. The inviting atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make it a great place to explore the world of craft beer in a relaxed setting.
- Bangers & Lace: Known for its creative beer list and cozy atmosphere, Bangers & Lace in Logan Square offers craft beers from both local and national breweries, including rare and hard-to-find brews. Their extensive whiskey selection is also worth noting for those looking to pair beer with a cocktail.
- Map Room: This Bucktown bar is a favorite for its cozy, neighborhood vibe and impressive selection of craft beers. With 20 rotating taps and a solid bottle list, the Map Room is perfect for those looking to explore Chicago's craft beer scene in a casual environment.
Chicago Craft Beer Events to Attend
Explore Craft Beer Festivals and Events in Chicago
Chicago’s craft beer scene thrives with a year-round calendar of beer festivals, events, and beer tastings. If you’re visiting during the right time, don’t miss these must-attend events:
- Chicago Craft Beer Week: Held annually in May, Chicago Craft Beer Week is one of the most anticipated beer events in the city. The week-long celebration features over 300 events across bars, restaurants, and breweries, including tap takeovers, beer pairing dinners, and special releases. It's an excellent moment to immerse yourself in the city's craft beer scene and meet the talented local brewers.
- The Great American Beer Festival (GABF): While not specific to Chicago, the GABF in Denver is an annual event that features some of the best breweries in the nation, including Chicago-based ones. Many local breweries travel to this event, and it serves as a fantastic opportunity to discover new breweries and beers from Chicago and beyond.
- Chicago Beer Festival: Held in Union Station, the Chicago Beer Festival is a great way to sample craft beers from some of the city’s best breweries. The event features a wide variety of styles and often includes exclusive or limited-edition brews that you can’t find elsewhere.
- Festival of Wood and Barrel-Aged Beers: Hosted in Chicago, this festival highlights the best barrel-aged beers in the craft beer world. Whether you’re into whiskey-barrel-aged stouts or funky sour beers, this event is perfect for those who appreciate complex flavors and innovative brewing techniques.
- Beer and Bacon Fest: Chicago is home to this delicious festival that pairs two of life’s best indulgences—beer and bacon. Held annually in the city, the Beer and Bacon Fest features dozens of craft beer vendors, each paired with bacon-themed dishes to create a mouthwatering experience.
Unique Chicago Craft Beer Experiences
Special Tours and Beer Tasting Experiences
Chicago’s craft beer culture isn’t just about drinking great beer; it’s about experiencing the craft and innovation behind it. Here are some unique craft beer experiences you shouldn’t miss:
- Chicago Brewery Tour: Take a guided brewery tour through some of Chicago’s most iconic craft breweries. The tour includes transportation, tastings, and an insider’s look at the brewing process. It’s a great way to learn about Chicago’s craft beer history and sample a variety of brews.
- Beer Tasting and Pairing Classes: Several breweries and beer bars in Chicago offer beer tasting and pairing classes. These classes are perfect for both newcomers and beer aficionados, as they provide a deeper understanding of the art of beer tasting and how to pair beer with food.
- The Chicago Brewseum: For history buffs and beer lovers alike, the Brewseum is a fascinating destination. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of beer and brewing, with exhibits that span the origins of Chicago’s brewing industry to modern craft beer innovations.
Conclusion
Chicago’s craft beer scene offers something for everyone, from renowned breweries to hidden gems and vibrant beer bars. Whether you're exploring a historic brewery, attending one of the city’s many beer events, or learning more about beer through specialized tours and classes, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in Chicago's craft beer culture. So, plan your visit, raise a glass, and enjoy the wide variety of flavors that Chicago’s craft beer scene has to offer.