New York State has become one of the top spots for craft beer in the country. From the Hudson Valley to the Finger Lakes and all the way up to the Adirondacks, there’s no shortage of local breweries making great beer. Whether you’re a longtime fan of craft brews or just starting to try new styles, there’s something for everyone across the state.
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This article highlights some of the best breweries in New York State. These places are known for their quality, creativity, and local character. Many of them use ingredients grown right in New York, which helps support nearby farms and small businesses. No matter where you are in the state, chances are there’s a great brewery not too far away. Some offer small-batch beers you can only get at the taproom, while others are known across the region. If you’re planning a weekend trip or just want to try something new, this guide can help point you in the right direction. Keep reading to check out some of the top breweries that New York has to offer.
#30 – SingleCut Beersmiths
SingleCut Beersmiths, located in Astoria, Queens, is known for its innovative approach to brewing and its focus on delivering high-quality, flavorful beers. The brewery stands out for its extensive range of hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, and smooth lagers, all crafted with a blend of traditional techniques and modern twists. What makes SingleCut special is their attention to detail in every beer they produce, which has earned them a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts. The brewery’s commitment to quality is clear from their carefully chosen ingredients and the precision with which each brew is made. With a vibrant taproom and a variety of rotating beers, it’s a great spot for both newcomers and seasoned beer lovers. SingleCut Beersmiths has established itself as a standout in the New York craft beer scene, offering a unique experience that keeps people coming back for more.
#29 – Keegans Ales
Keegan Ales, based in Kingston, New York, is a well-loved brewery that has been a staple of the local craft beer scene since its founding. Known for its classic, balanced brews, Keegan Ales offers a range of beers that appeal to both newcomers and seasoned beer drinkers. Their flagship brew, the Mother’s Milk Stout, is particularly popular, with its smooth and rich flavors that have won fans far beyond the Hudson Valley. What makes Keegan Ales stand out is its commitment to quality and consistency. The brewery uses traditional brewing methods while also experimenting with new styles and flavors. Keegan Ales’ taproom offers a relaxed and welcoming space for guests to enjoy a pint, and the brewery’s connection to the local community adds to its charm. Whether you’re stopping by for a tour or simply enjoying a beer with friends, Keegan Ales provides an authentic, down-to-earth craft beer experience.
#28 – Wild East Brewing Co.
Wild East Brewing Co., based in Brooklyn, is quickly gaining attention for its fresh take on craft beer. This brewery takes a unique approach by blending traditional European brewing techniques with a modern craft beer flair. Known for its wide variety of beers, from crisp lagers to creative farmhouse ales, Wild East emphasizes balance and flavor in every brew. The brewery prides itself on using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, helping to support nearby farms and small businesses. Wild East Brewing Co. has built a reputation for crafting beers that appeal to both new drinkers and seasoned enthusiasts, offering something for every taste. The laid-back, welcoming taproom is the perfect spot to enjoy their latest creations, and the brewery’s commitment to sustainability and community makes it a standout in the Brooklyn craft beer scene. For anyone looking to experience great beer with a local touch, Wild East Brewing Co. is a must-visit.
#27 – Evil Twin Brewing
Evil Twin Brewing, originally founded in Denmark by Jeppe Jarnit-Bjergsø, set up its first brick-and-mortar location in Ridgewood, Queens, in 2019. Known for pushing creative boundaries, Evil Twin built a name on bold, unconventional beers and striking can designs. The Queens taproom has become a go-to spot for beer lovers looking to try something different. Their lineup includes a wide mix of styles, but they’re especially known for hazy IPAs, pastry stouts, and sour ales that often feature unexpected ingredients. Beers like Even More Jesus, a rich imperial stout, and Falco, a punchy IPA, have become favorites. They also release a steady stream of small-batch and experimental brews, with playful names and unique flavor combos. While their approach may be modern and sometimes wild, quality and technique are always at the core. For those wanting something off the beaten path, Evil Twin Brewing delivers a fresh and fun experience.
#26 – Plan Bee Farm Brewery
Plan Bee Farm Brewery, located in Poughkeepsie, New York, is a unique spot where farm-to-glass brewing thrives. The brewery prides itself on using 100% New York State ingredients, many of which are grown directly on their 25-acre farm. By focusing on local, seasonal ingredients, Plan Bee creates beers that reflect the flavors of the Hudson Valley. Their process is a blend of tradition and innovation, using wild yeast from honeycomb, estate-grown grains, and hops, while also fermenting beers in oak tanks made from locally sourced wood. The brewery’s taproom, set in a charming 1830s barn, provides a cozy environment for visitors to enjoy their innovative brews. Whether you’re there to try their flagship Barn Beer or one of their seasonal releases, Plan Bee offers a refreshing and sustainable craft beer experience. With a commitment to both local sourcing and environmental responsibility, this brewery is a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts.
#25 – Obercreek Brewing Company
Obercreek Brewing Company, located in the scenic town of Wappingers Falls, New York, is known for its commitment to crafting high-quality, small-batch beers. The brewery stands out for its use of locally grown ingredients, including hops, grains, and fruits, which contribute to the unique flavors in each brew. Obercreek specializes in a variety of styles, from crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs and rich stouts. The brewery’s focus on quality and sustainability is evident in every step of the brewing process, making each beer a true reflection of the surrounding area. Obercreek’s rustic taproom offers a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can enjoy their beers while taking in beautiful views of the farm and the nearby creek. Whether you’re a long-time beer lover or new to craft beer, Obercreek Brewing Company provides a welcoming environment and a fantastic selection of brews to enjoy.
#24 – Finback Brewery
Finback Brewery, founded in 2014 by Basil Lee and Kevin Stafford, has quickly become one of Queens’ most popular craft breweries. Known for their innovative and hop-forward beers, Finback specializes in creating bold IPAs, rich stouts, and experimental brews that push the boundaries of flavor. The brewery takes pride in using high-quality ingredients and cutting-edge brewing techniques to craft beers that are both unique and well-balanced. Finback also emphasizes sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly practices throughout their brewing process. The brewery frequently collaborates with other local businesses, adding to the excitement around its releases. Whether you’re a long-time beer lover or new to craft beer, Finback Brewery is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience innovative brews in New York.
#23 – Drowned Lands Brewery
Drowned Lands Brewery, located in Warwick, New York, is a hidden gem in the Hudson Valley, known for its creative beers and dedication to quality. The brewery focuses on producing a variety of styles, with a particular emphasis on Belgian-style ales and barrel-aged brews. What makes Drowned Lands stand out is its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, often incorporating fruits, herbs, and spices grown right in the region. The brewery’s rustic taproom, set in a beautiful location with scenic views, offers a perfect setting to enjoy their unique and flavorful beers. Drowned Lands takes pride in its small-batch brewing process, ensuring each beer is crafted with care and attention to detail. Whether you’re a fan of fruity sours, rich stouts, or crisp lagers, Drowned Lands Brewery offers something for every palate. For those who appreciate innovative brewing and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a must-visit spot in New York’s craft beer scene.
#22 – Fifth Hammer Brewing Company
Fifth Hammer Brewing Company, located in Long Island City, New York, is known for its creative and experimental approach to brewing. The brewery has gained attention for its wide range of beer styles, including bold IPAs, rich stouts, and refreshing lagers. Fifth Hammer’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of flavor is evident in their constant innovation and willingness to experiment with different ingredients and techniques. The brewery’s taproom offers a relaxed, community-focused environment where visitors can enjoy a variety of fresh, small-batch beers. Fifth Hammer also prides itself on its collaborations with other local breweries, further strengthening its ties to the New York craft beer scene. Whether you’re a long-time craft beer enthusiast or just getting into the scene, Fifth Hammer Brewing Company is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to try something new and exciting in New York.
#21 – Kings County Brewers Collective
Kings County Brewers Collective (KCBC), located in Brooklyn, New York, has become a standout in the city’s thriving craft beer scene since its founding in 2016. Known for its bold and experimental approach, KCBC offers a diverse selection of beers, including hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, and refreshing lagers. The brewery’s focus is on creating flavorful brews that cater to a wide range of tastes, often with unique twists on classic styles. KCBC also thrives on collaboration, regularly teaming up with other local breweries to create exciting limited-edition beers. The brewery’s taproom is a vibrant, welcoming space where guests can enjoy their latest creations while soaking in the lively Brooklyn atmosphere. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Kings County Brewers Collective continues to grow its reputation as one of the top craft breweries in New York, making it a must-visit for any beer lover in the area.
#20 – Threes Brewing
Threes Brewing, based in Brooklyn, New York, has earned a reputation for crafting well-balanced, flavorful beers that appeal to a wide range of tastes. Founded in 2014, the brewery specializes in producing a variety of styles, including hop-forward IPAs, crisp lagers, and smooth stouts. Threes is known for its emphasis on drinkability, ensuring that their beers are both flavorful and easy to enjoy. The brewery also places a strong focus on quality ingredients, often collaborating with local farms and businesses to source the best possible produce. Threes Brewing’s taproom provides a relaxed space where visitors can sample the latest releases and enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere. With its commitment to quality, innovation, and community, Threes Brewing has become a favorite in Brooklyn’s vibrant craft beer scene, making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to enjoy a well-crafted pint in New York.
#19 – Sand City Brewing Co.
Sand City Brewing Co., located in Northport, New York, is known for its dedication to creating bold, hop-forward beers that stand out in the Long Island craft beer scene. Founded in 2014, the brewery has built a loyal following with its focus on brewing a variety of styles, especially juicy IPAs and flavorful stouts. Sand City’s commitment to quality is evident in every batch, using premium ingredients to craft beers that are both unique and highly drinkable. The brewery’s small-batch approach allows them to experiment with different flavors and ingredients, keeping their lineup fresh and exciting. Sand City’s taproom offers a cozy, laid-back environment where beer enthusiasts can sample the latest creations and enjoy the local craft beer culture. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy brews or rich dark beers, Sand City Brewing Co. is a must-visit for anyone exploring New York’s craft beer scene.
#18 – Big Ditch Brewing
Big Ditch Brewing, based in Buffalo, New York, has grown into one of the city’s most popular craft breweries since opening in 2014. The brewery began as a small project between two science-minded friends before expanding into a large taproom in downtown Buffalo. Known for producing high-quality and approachable beers, Big Ditch has built a reputation for consistency and flavor. Signature releases like Hayburner IPA, Low Bridge Golden Ale, and Excavator Rye Brown Ale are well-loved for their balance and drinkability. In addition to its main Buffalo location, the brewery expanded in 2025 with a new taproom and production site in Lockport, reflecting its steady growth and strong following. The welcoming atmosphere of its taprooms makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy fresh beer and good company in Western New York.
#17 – Strangebird
Strangebird Brewing, based in Rochester, New York, opened in 2021 and has quickly built a reputation for quality and creativity. The brewery doubles as a restaurant, offering house-made food alongside an ever-changing lineup of beers. Known for experimenting across styles, Strangebird has created local favorites like Unfettered Soul, a hazy double IPA packed with hops, and Bird Light Yuzu, a crisp and citrusy option that’s easy to drink. Fans of Belgian-inspired beers often seek out Savoir-Vivre, their take on a classic Tripel with a smooth finish. While the menu rotates often, these beers have helped the brewery stand out as both approachable and inventive. Strangebird’s mix of skill, fresh flavors, and a welcoming taproom setting has made it a favorite stop in Rochester’s growing craft beer scene.
#16 – Newburgh Brewing Company
Newburgh Brewing Company, located in Newburgh, New York, has been a key player in the Hudson Valley beer scene since opening in 2012. The brewery is set inside a historic brick building that overlooks the Hudson River, giving visitors a unique backdrop while they enjoy a pint. Known for its wide variety of approachable beers, Newburgh Brewing has built a loyal following through both quality and consistency. Their flagship MegaBoss IPA is popular for its tropical hop character, while the Cream Ale pays tribute to a traditional New York style and has won national recognition. Other favorites include their Brown Ale with chocolate and toffee notes and the lighter NanoBoss Session IPA. Beyond the beer, the taproom is known as a welcoming community hub that often hosts live music and local events, making it a true gathering spot in the heart of the Hudson Valley.
#15 – Genesee Brew House
Genesee Brew House, located in Rochester, New York, is part of one of the oldest and most recognized names in American brewing. The Genesee Brewing Company dates back to 1878, and the Brew House, which opened in 2012, serves as a tribute to that long history. It offers a unique blend of tradition and creativity by brewing small-batch beers that often pay homage to classic styles while also introducing new ideas. Visitors can enjoy a rotating lineup of beers, including modern takes on old favorites and seasonal specials brewed on-site. The Brew House features a tasting bar, pilot brewery, and even a museum that shares the story of Genesee’s roots in the region. Overlooking High Falls and the Genesee River, it’s also a scenic spot to enjoy a pint. Genesee Brew House gives both longtime fans and new visitors a chance to experience one of New York’s most iconic brewing names in a fresh way.
#14 – Southern Tier Brewing Company
Southern Tier Brewing Company, founded in 2002 in Lakewood, New York, is one of the most recognized names in the state’s craft beer scene. Known for its wide variety of bold and flavorful beers, Southern Tier has built a strong following across the country. One of their most well-known beers is Pumking, a seasonal pumpkin ale that’s become a fall favorite. They’re also known for 2XIPA, a strong and hoppy double IPA, and Blackwater Series stouts, which offer rich, dessert-like flavors in beers like Crème Brûlée and Thick Mint. Southern Tier combines classic brewing techniques with creative recipes, producing beers that are both approachable and full of character. The brewery also operates taprooms in other locations, but the Lakewood location remains the heart of their operation. With its large brewing facility, welcoming taproom, and lineup of well-known beers, Southern Tier continues to be a key player in New York’s craft beer scene.
#13 – Brewery Ommegang
Brewery Ommegang, located in Cooperstown, New York, has been a major name in American craft beer since it opened in 1997. Known for its focus on Belgian-style brewing, Ommegang blends old-world techniques with modern creativity. Signature beers like Three Philosophers, a strong Belgian-style quadrupel blended with cherry ale, and Witte, a smooth and citrusy wheat beer, have helped define their reputation. The brewery is set on a beautiful farm and modeled after traditional Belgian farmstead breweries, which gives it a unique charm that draws in visitors from all over. Over the years, they’ve also become known for creative collaborations and special releases. Ommegang’s attention to detail, quality ingredients, and respect for tradition have helped it stay relevant and respected in a constantly changing beer scene. Whether you’re into strong, complex ales or lighter, refreshing styles, Brewery Ommegang offers a thoughtful lineup that reflects years of experience and care.
#12 – Equilibrium Brewery
Equilibrium Brewery, founded in 2009 in Middletown, New York, has quickly earned a reputation for its innovative and balanced approach to brewing. Known for their hop-forward IPAs, the brewery specializes in creating beers that perfectly balance flavor and drinkability. Equilibrium’s smooth, juicy IPAs are among their most popular offerings, often showcasing bold, yet well-rounded hop profiles. The brewery also explores other styles like rich stouts, barrel-aged brews, and experimental sours, all while maintaining their commitment to high-quality ingredients and precision brewing. Their taproom provides a relaxed environment for visitors to sample their latest creations, and their collaborations with local breweries keep things fresh and exciting. For anyone looking for innovative craft beers with exceptional balance, Equilibrium Brewery remains a standout in the New York craft beer scene.
#11 – West Kill Brewing
West Kill Brewing, located in the scenic Catskill Mountains, offers a unique experience for craft beer lovers. This family-owned brewery focuses on producing high-quality, small-batch beers that reflect the local environment. Known for using ingredients sourced from nearby farms, West Kill Brewing emphasizes freshness and sustainability in every brew. Their selection includes a variety of well-balanced IPAs, rich stouts, and crisp lagers, all brewed with a passion for innovation and local flavors. The brewery’s rustic taproom and beautiful mountain views create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors looking to enjoy a cold one in a relaxing setting. West Kill Brewing’s commitment to community and quality has made it a favorite destination for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re hiking in the Catskills or just passing through, this brewery is a great spot to experience the best of craft beer in a picturesque setting.
#10 – Root + Branch Brewing
Root + Branch Brewing, located in Copiague, New York, and has quickly made a name for itself in the craft beer scene with its focus on quality and creativity. Known for its small-batch brews, the brewery specializes in a range of styles, including bold IPAs, rich stouts, and experimental beers. What sets Root + Branch apart is its dedication to innovation, often pushing the boundaries of flavor while maintaining a focus on balance and drinkability. The brewery prides itself on using the best ingredients, frequently working with local farms to source fresh produce. With a cozy taproom and a welcoming atmosphere, Root + Branch offers an ideal setting for enjoying a pint or two with friends. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just starting your journey, Root + Branch Brewing delivers a memorable experience with every visit. It’s a great spot for anyone looking to try something new and exciting.
#9 – Beer Tree Brew
Beer Tree Brew, based in Port Crane, New York, has gained a loyal following for its bold and creative craft beers. The brewery focuses on brewing experimental beers with unique flavors, using high-quality ingredients to craft everything from juicy IPAs to rich stouts and sours. Beer Tree Brew stands out for its commitment to pushing the boundaries of flavor while maintaining balance and drinkability. Their taproom offers a laid-back space for beer enthusiasts to enjoy the latest releases, and the brewery’s welcoming atmosphere makes it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. What sets Beer Tree apart is their dedication to using innovative brewing techniques, often incorporating unexpected ingredients to create truly one-of-a-kind brews. Whether you’re looking for something hoppy, fruity, or rich, Beer Tree Brew offers a wide variety of options that are sure to satisfy any craft beer lover’s palate.
#8 – Wayward Lane Brewing
Wayward Lane Brewing, based in Schoharie, New York, has quickly earned praise for its dedication to traditional brewing styles and clean, well-made beers. Founded in 2021 and located on a scenic farm in a restored 1800’s hop house, the brewery focuses on brewing classic styles like lagers, saisons, and mixed-fermentation ales. Wayward Lane also produces a range of oak-aged beers that highlight their commitment to old-world techniques. Many of their ingredients are sourced locally, helping them produce beers with a real sense of place. The relaxed setting, combined with their focused lineup, makes the brewery a go-to spot for people who enjoy thoughtfully made beer without the gimmicks. It’s a peaceful stop with brews worth remembering.
#7 – Suarez Family Brewery
Suarez Family Brewery, located in Livingston, New York, has earned a strong reputation for its clean, well-made beers and its focus on classic European styles. Founded by Dan Suarez, a former brewer at Hill Farmstead, the brewery has taken a more traditional path in a scene often driven by bold trends. Suarez Family Brewery is best known for its crisp lagers, mixed-culture farmhouse ales, and low-ABV beers that highlight subtle flavors and balance. Every batch is brewed with care, often using local ingredients to keep things fresh and seasonal. The brewery avoids gimmicks, focusing instead on making simple beers that are easy to enjoy and consistently high in quality. The quiet, rural setting adds to the relaxed experience, and their tasting room provides a peaceful place to try their thoughtful lineup. For those who appreciate well-crafted, understated beers, Suarez Family Brewery is one of the most respected names in New York’s craft beer community.
#6 – Fidens Brewing Company
Fidens Brewing Company, based in Colonie, New York, has quickly become one of the most talked-about breweries in the state since opening in 2019. Known for its bold and hazy IPAs, Fidens has earned a strong reputation among craft beer fans who seek out juicy, hop-heavy brews. Their beers are often released in small batches, which adds to their appeal and keeps customers coming back for the latest drop. Fidens focuses heavily on quality and consistency, using top-notch ingredients and careful brewing techniques to make sure every can lives up to its reputation. The brewery’s tasting room offers a straightforward, no-frills space where the beer is the main event. Despite being a newer name, Fidens has already gained national attention, with many of their releases selling out quickly. If you’re a fan of fresh, well-made IPAs, Fidens Brewing Company is a place you’ll want to keep on your radar.
#5 – Prison City Brewing
Prison City Brewing, based in Auburn, New York, has gained a strong reputation for crafting high-quality beers with a focus on flavor and consistency. Founded in 2014, the brewery gets its name from Auburn’s history as the home of a major state prison. Despite the gritty name, Prison City has become well-loved for its welcoming taproom and standout beer lineup. One of their most well-known beers is Mass Riot, a hazy IPA that has drawn attention from craft beer fans across the country for its smooth body and juicy hop profile. They’re also respected for a solid range of other styles, from crisp lagers to rich stouts and seasonal releases. Prison City Brewing is a great stop for anyone looking for well-made beer in a relaxed, no-nonsense setting.
#4 – Mortalis Brewing
Mortalis Brewing, located in Avon, New York, has quickly become one of the most talked-about breweries in the state since opening in 2017. Known for its creative and bold approach, Mortalis specializes in heavily fruited sours, pastry stouts, and hazy IPAs that often sell out shortly after release. Beers like Hydra, a rotating series of thick, fruit-packed sours, and Thanatos, a rich imperial stout, show off their experimental style and strong attention to detail. Mortalis doesn’t shy away from trying new flavor combinations, often blending ingredients like berries, marshmallows, chocolate, and more into their recipes. Even with all the variety, they keep quality and balance front and center. Their taproom offers a clean, friendly setting for visitors to try fresh pours and limited releases. For those who enjoy bold flavors and creative brewing, Mortalis Brewing stands out as a top destination in New York’s craft beer scene.
#3 – Hudson Valley Brewery
Hudson Valley Brewery, based in Beacon, New York, has become a standout in the craft beer scene for its innovative approach to brewing. Since its opening in 2017, the brewery has gained recognition for its hazy IPAs, fruited sours, and barrel-aged creations. Known for pushing the limits of flavor, Hudson Valley creates beers with bold hop profiles and unique fruit blends that appeal to both craft beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. The brewery’s taproom, nestled in the heart of the picturesque Hudson Valley, offers a laid-back environment to enjoy fresh pours and experimental releases. With a focus on creativity and quality, Hudson Valley Brewery has earned its place as one of New York’s top craft breweries, making it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the area’s growing beer scene.
#2 – Grimm Artisanal Ales
Grimm Artisanal Ales, located in Brooklyn, New York, has made a name for itself with its unique and experimental approach to brewing. Founded in 2013 by Joe and Lauren Grimm, the brewery focuses on small-batch beers that push the boundaries of flavor. Known for its bold, hop-forward IPAs, creative barrel-aged sours, and mixed-culture ales, Grimm Artisanal Ales consistently delivers beers with distinctive profiles and complex flavors. One of their standout beers is Double Negative, a smooth and rich double IPA that highlights their skill with hops and balance. With an emphasis on high-quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques, the brewery has earned a loyal following. Grimm’s taproom offers a welcoming space to try their latest creations and enjoy the fresh, experimental beers that keep fans coming back. For anyone seeking adventurous and well-crafted beers, Grimm Artisanal Ales continues to be one of Brooklyn’s most exciting breweries.
#1 – Other Half Brewing Co.
Other Half Brewing Co. is one of the most talked-about craft breweries in New York State. Based in Brooklyn, with locations in the Finger Lakes and beyond, it’s known for its bold IPAs and creative beer styles. Many beer fans line up for new releases, and cans often sell out fast. What makes Other Half stand out is its focus on quality and fresh ingredients. They work hard to push the limits of flavor while keeping things well-balanced and easy to enjoy. Signature beers like All Citra Everything, a juicy, hop-packed IPA, and Green City, a refreshing and aromatic pale ale, have become favorites among craft beer enthusiasts. The brewery also collaborates with other top names in craft beer, which helps keep their lineup exciting and fresh. Whether you’re visiting the original Brooklyn location or one of their other spots, the taproom experience is laid-back and welcoming. If you’re into craft beer, this is a place worth checking out. Other Half Brewing Co. continues to grow while staying true to what made it popular in the first place.
New York Beer Scene: From Colonial Taverns to Craft Powerhouse
New York has been brewing beer since colonial times, and its role in American beer history is hard to ignore. By the late 1800s, New York City alone had dozens of breweries, thanks to large immigrant communities and growing demand. After Prohibition, most of that momentum disappeared—but the craft beer wave brought it back in a big way.
Today, New York is home to more than 500 breweries spread across every corner of the state. From the Hudson Valley to the Finger Lakes, and from Brooklyn to Buffalo, New York’s beer scene is full of variety and creativity. You’ll find hazy IPAs, farmhouse saisons, sours, pilsners, and everything in between.
The state’s agricultural support for brewers has helped too. New York’s Farm Brewery license encourages the use of locally grown hops and grains, which gives many beers a true regional identity. Whether you’re stopping by a rustic barn brewery upstate or sipping small-batch releases in a Brooklyn taproom, the state offers something unique for every kind of beer drinker.
FAQs About New York Beer
How many breweries are in New York?
New York State has over 500 breweries, making it one of the top states for craft beer in the U.S.
What is the New York Farm Brewery license?
It’s a special license that rewards breweries for using local ingredients. To qualify, a percentage of hops and grains must come from New York farms.
What are the best beer regions in the state?
The Hudson Valley, Finger Lakes, and New York City metro area are all known for having strong beer cultures and unique styles.
Do New York breweries host events?
Yes—many host live music, food truck nights, trivia, and seasonal festivals. Some also offer scenic beer gardens and weekend tours.
Are New York breweries kid- or pet-friendly?
A lot of upstate breweries with outdoor space welcome both kids and dogs. City breweries may be more limited, so check ahead.s the salty, creamy combo. Many breweries have food trucks or nearby spots to grab these classics, so you can eat and sip like a true New Yorker. Try one of these pairings at your next brewery visit and let us know how it goes!
You guys totally screwed the pooch here. Ummm….Rohrbach Brewing in Rochester…hello! It blows away all these others except maybe Brooklyn. And as far as I know it started it all (or was one of the first craft brewers in the state, or at least in western NY). I do know that it is the 142nd brewery in the country…now there are over 10,000
100%! Rhorbachs is one of New York’s oldest craft breweries. Nearly 35 years old. Their everyday pours as well as their small batch and seasonal brews are some of the best I’ve had and I’ve had my share from all over the state. 😉 I think you might rerank your list or expand it.
Wow. A brewery like Industrial Arts, a man who helped shape craft beer in NY and has helped countless other breweries and has been in solid operation emphasizing stewardship and community and not even honorable mention.
So many left out! Having sold , managed, licensed and enjoyed NY Craft beers for 40+ years. I’m certain th FX Matt’s brewery ( and others) deserves recognition here as they launched Saranac in 1990s when crafts were just getting traction. 100s of brand extensions over the last 30 years. Their craft support at state level helped all of these breweries in your artical in state legislature. Tough to ignore their historic tap room having survived prohibition and endured the time trials so many others have failed. Hard to pick just 30!!!
Missing two great ones- Upward Brewey in Livingston Manor and Industrial Arts in Beacon. Totally worth the visits!
No Marlowe Artisanal Ales? What a miss! Check them out and correct your mistake. Well I respect many of the breweries on this list. Marlowe is blazing a path and that should be recognized.
Flawed list. Fiden’s is top 5…as soon as I saw that you lost me. Would love to get a better understanding of how you calibrate. Also Beer Tree is higher.
Sorry, Root & Branch should he #1. 24???
Treehouse in Saratoga #1
I’m guessing you have never heard of the West End Brewery in Utica NY and the great line of Saranac beers they brew?
OMG, best NE IPA in NY is Knucklehead Craft Brewing in Webster NY with their Tainted Haze. No comparison