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The Top 30 Breweries in Arkansas Ranked

top 30 breweries in arkansas

Arkansas might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of craft beer, but the state has quietly built a strong and growing brewery scene. From small taprooms in the hills to larger operations in the heart of the city, local brewers are putting their own stamp on traditional and modern styles. Each spot brings something different to the table, whether it’s a creative lineup of beers or a laid-back space that brings the community together.

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This article rounds up the best breweries in Arkansas, based on local support, quality of beer, and overall experience. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just passing through, these breweries are worth checking out. Arkansas brewers continue to grow their reputation across the region, thanks to fresh ideas, solid craftsmanship, and a clear passion for the process. If you’re into trying something new or just want to enjoy a well-made beer, this list can point you in the right direction.

#30 – Native Dog Brewing

Native Dog Brewing, established in 2021 in Camden, has quickly made a name for itself in southern Arkansas. The brewery offers a relaxed, dog-friendly atmosphere right by the Ouachita River, where locals and visitors can enjoy fresh craft beer in a casual setting. Known for balancing classic styles with creative twists, Native Dog features a rotating tap list that appeals to a wide range of tastes. Two standout options include “Bat Outta Hell,” a smooth American-style stout with chocolate and coffee notes, and “Daffodil Blond,” a light-bodied blonde ale with a clean finish and subtle fruity character. Along with regular food trucks and house-made sodas and seltzers, the brewery keeps things approachable while still giving beer fans something to look forward to. Native Dog’s laid-back vibe and steady local following help cement its spot as one of the best breweries in the state.

#29 – Southern Tail Brewing

Southern Tail Brewing opened in 2024 in Little Rock’s Hanger Hill neighborhood and has already built a strong local following. The 11,000-square-foot taproom offers a laid-back space with high ceilings, a fireplace, and plenty of room to relax both indoors and outside. The pet-friendly patio is a big draw, making it a go-to spot for dog owners. Southern Tail runs its own brewing system and keeps a steady rotation of house-made beers on tap. Two local favorites include a hop-forward IPA with a clean, bitter finish and a smooth stout that leans on roasted malt character. In addition to the beer, the brewery stands out for hosting regular live music, cornhole games, and community events like pet adoption days. The mix of welcoming space, consistent beer quality, and strong support from locals helps Southern Tail stand out in the growing Arkansas craft beer scene.

#28 – Eureka Springs Brewery

Eureka Springs Brewery, established in 2019 near downtown Eureka Springs on a scenic five-acre site, is a charming stop for craft beer enthusiasts and families alike. This small-batch brewery features a laid-back indoor space and a spacious outdoor area complete with yard games, board games, and even a nine-hole disc golf course winding through pine trees. Local favorites include the Cyclops IPA, built on Centennial hops with a piney kick, and the Ace Pale Ale, a crisp, approachable choice that appeals to a broad crowd. Guests often bring outside food or grab a bite from visiting food trucks while they relax under the trees. With its dog-friendly vibe, rustic games, and steady tap list, Eureka Springs Brewery delivers a solid, community-first experience that’s earned praise from locals and visitors.

#27 – Hawk Moth Brewery

Hawk Moth Brewery & Beer Parlor opened in 2018 in Rogers and later moved its production to Bentonville while keeping its focus on small-batch, barrel-aged beers. Known for blending traditional styles with experimental twists, Hawk Moth has built a reputation among serious beer fans in Arkansas. Two standout brews include Maison de Trois, a Belgian-style tripel with a mix of fruity and spicy notes, and Mango Obscurity, a hazy double IPA with strong tropical flavors and a smooth finish. The taproom offers a relaxed, industrial-style setting with a rotating beer list, wine, and cocktails, plus some of the state’s few house-made non-alcoholic beers. They regularly host new release nights and keep a limited menu of spirits and snacks to round out the visit. With its creative brewing approach and solid community support, Hawk Moth has secured its spot as one of the top breweries in Northwest Arkansas.

#26 – Goat Lab Brewery

Goat Lab Brewery, established in 2022 in Lowell, has quickly gained attention for its focus on German-inspired lagers and laid-back atmosphere. The brewery offers a spacious, family-friendly taproom with indoor games, a large patio, and even a wood-fired pizza setup. Goat Lab puts a strong focus on quality ingredients and clean brewing methods, especially in its lagers. Two local favorites include the TUSK German Pilsner, brewed in partnership with the Arkansas Razorbacks, which has a crisp finish and light body, and the Vienna Lager, known for its smooth malt profile and easy drinkability. A portion of TUSK sales also supports Razorback student-athletes through Arkansas Edge, showing the brewery’s commitment to local causes. With regular events like cornhole nights and comedy shows, Goat Lab offers more than just good beer. It’s a relaxed, community-focused spot that stands out in the Northwest Arkansas beer scene.

#25 – West Mountain Brewing

West Mountain Brewing Co., established in 2011 on Fayetteville’s historic downtown square, has earned its place as a local favorite and college-student staple. Their crisp year-round IPA is a fan favorite, known for dry hopping that gives it a bold, west coast character. Another go-to brew is the seasonal Blood Orange IPA, praised for its bright citrus twist paired with a solid malt backbone. Beyond the beer, the brewery shares a space with Tiny Tim’s Pizza, offering a classic laid-back pizza-and-pint combo in a setting that feels like a friendly neighborhood hangout. With a cozy wood-paneled interior, outdoor seating, and a “Cheers”-style vibe where bartenders and patrons strike up easy conversation, West Mountain feels like Fayetteville’s living room. Its long history, consistent beer quality, and sense of community make it a must-visit spot for anyone touring Arkansas breweries.

#24 – Natural State Beer Company

Natural State Beer Company opened in 2019 in Rogers and has built a strong reputation for its focus on clean, German-style lagers. Located along the Razorback Greenway, the brewery offers a casual, family-friendly space with a spacious patio and easy access to the nearby trail system. Two standout beers include the Greenway Light Lager, a refreshing and easy-drinking option at just 3.6% ABV, and the Vienna Lager, known for its smooth, malty character with a balanced finish. Natural State also hosts regular events like live music, trivia nights, and food trucks, making it a popular hangout for both locals and visitors. Their attention to detail and traditional brewing methods have helped the brewery earn steady respect in the Arkansas beer scene. Whether you’re there for a ride break or a relaxed evening out, the quality and consistency of Natural State’s beer keep people coming back.

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#23 – Pridgin Family Brewing

Pridgin Family Brewing opened in 2020 in Scranton and has become a key stop on the Arkansas River Valley Brewery Trail. Set on a family farm, the brewery features a cozy taproom built with reclaimed barn wood and a wide porch that overlooks the surrounding countryside. Visitors enjoy a relaxed, small-town setting where community events and beer come together. The brewery typically keeps 11 beers on tap, with a lineup that covers a range of styles. Two favorites include Corner Post Cream Ale, which is smooth and easy to drink, and Haymaker IPA, a lighter session IPA with a balanced hop character. Weekend food trucks and events like bingo bring in regulars and new guests looking for a casual outing. With its rural charm, friendly atmosphere, and consistent beer quality, Pridgin Family Brewing continues to grow as a destination in western Arkansas.

#22 – Fort Smith Brewing

Fort Smith Brewing Company, established in 2017 at Fort Chaffee Crossing, is the city’s only full-scale brewery and a popular local gathering spot. Housed in a renovated WWII-era warehouse, the space blends historic charm with a relaxed, family-friendly setting. The brewery offers a rotating list of house-made beers with something for most tastes. Two local favorites are Trailblazer IPA, a hop-forward brew with a crisp finish, and Dat Nguyen Stout, which delivers bold roasted flavors with notes of dark chocolate and coffee. Fort Smith Brewing also pays tribute to local history through its beer names, adding a personal touch that connects with the community. Visitors can enjoy beer by the pint or flight, along with small food options, games, and occasional live music. Its unique setting, strong beer lineup, and hometown feel have helped Fort Smith Brewing stand out as a must-visit in western Arkansas.

#21 – Country Monks Brewing

Country Monks Brewing, based at Subiaco Abbey, began selling beer in 2018 and has become a unique fixture in western Arkansas. The taproom is open most Saturdays and is part of the Benedictine monastery on Abbey grounds, making the experience one-of-a-kind. Two signature beers that locals love are Peter’s Chair Pale Ale, a smooth, easy-drinking pale ale, and Abbey Amber, a balanced amber ale with gentle malt notes. While the brewery’s output remains small, cans are now available at select retailers in Fort Smith and Paris. The space is welcoming and peaceful, and proceeds from sales help support both elder care and the monastery’s boarding school. With its quiet charm, community impact, and quality core beers, Country Monks Brewing offers a special brewery visit that blends local culture, monastic tradition, and solid craft brewing.

#20 – Moody Brews

Moody Brews
Source: Moody Brews

Moody Brews opened in early 2024 in Little Rock’s historic Pettaway Square and has quickly become one of the city’s most talked-about breweries. The taproom features a cozy bar area, an upstairs seating space with a balcony, and a calm courtyard patio where dogs are welcome. Its beers reflect brewer Josiah Moody’s experience, offering a mix of technically precise and subtly flavored options. Two standout brews are Aria’s Bier, a farmhouse-style saison brewed with hibiscus and orange peel, and the Pettaway Pils, a clean, traditional pilsner with floral hop notes. Moody Brews also offers house-made ginger ale and root beer, giving non-drinkers and families something to enjoy. The brewery is located next to local shops and food trucks, creating a relaxed neighborhood vibe that feels both fresh and rooted.

#19 – Columbus House Brewery

Columbus House Brewery opened in 2015 in Fayetteville and has become a local favorite near the University of Arkansas. The taproom offers a cozy space with an inviting patio that looks out toward the nearby bike trail. Known for its relaxed, neighborhood feel, the brewery serves a rotating list of small-batch beers that appeal to both casual drinkers and beer fans. Two standout choices include Nutty Runner Brown Ale, which is smooth with roasted malt flavor, and Yellow Card Golden Ale, a light-bodied option with subtle caramel notes. Columbus House also hosts a weekly running club and often features food trucks, creating a friendly and active atmosphere. With its strong community ties, approachable beer styles, and easygoing setup, Columbus House continues to hold a steady spot in the Northwest Arkansas craft beer scene.

#18 – Crisis Brewing

Crisis Brewing opened in 2018 in Fayetteville and has become a well-loved stop on the Fayetteville Ale Trail. Tucked behind Penguin Ed’s BBQ, the taproom has a cozy, pub-like feel with a spacious outdoor area that includes fire pits and plenty of seating. The brewery focuses on small-batch beer with consistent quality and a welcoming atmosphere. Two local favorites include Averted Pale Ale, a crisp and easy-drinking session pale ale, and Bolands Red Ale, an Irish red with a smooth malt finish. Guests are welcome to bring their own food or grab something from next door, and the brewery often partners with local causes and events. With its bike-friendly setup, casual vibe, and growing community support, Crisis Brewing stands out as a solid choice for beer lovers in Northwest Arkansas.

#17 – Vino’s Brewpub

Vino’s Brewpub, established in 1993 in Little Rock, is the oldest continuously operating brewpub in Arkansas. Just a short walk from the Capitol, it has become a longtime favorite for locals and visitors looking for craft beer and live music in one spot. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, with a menu that includes pizza, calzones, and pub-style fare. Two of its most well-known beers are Pinnacle IPA, a light-bodied ale with a strong hop aroma and clean finish, and Lazy Boy Stout, a medium-bodied stout with roasted malt flavor and notes of chocolate. Vino’s also serves as a live music venue, often hosting local and touring bands in a range of styles. Its mix of reliable house-brewed beer, food, and music has helped make it a staple in the Little Rock craft beer scene for over three decades.

#16 – Prestonrose Farm & Brewing Co.

Prestonrose Farm & Brewing Co., established in 2016 near Paris, Arkansas, brings a unique farm-based approach to craft brewing. Located on a certified organic farm, the brewery grows many of its own ingredients, including hops and heirloom grains, which adds a personal and local touch to every batch. The setting is peaceful, with a screened-in deck overlooking the hillside and open space to enjoy a flight or pint. Two well-known beers from Prestonrose include Heritage American Pale Ale, brewed with single-malt craft grain for a clean and balanced flavor, and Blue Centennial Brown Ale, which uses locally malted blue barley for a rich, malty profile. The brewery also supports sustainability through local sourcing and operates a farm-to-table bistro nearby. With its commitment to organic farming and small-batch brewing, Prestonrose has earned recognition as one of Arkansas’s most thoughtful and community-centered breweries.

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#15 – Bike Rack Brewing

Bike Rack Brewing Co., established in 2014 in Bentonville, is known as the city’s first craft brewery and has built strong ties to the local cycling and outdoor community. With locations near the trails and in the 8th Street Market, the brewery offers a laid-back setting with indoor and outdoor seating that often features live music and food trucks. Bike Rack keeps a core lineup of beers that are approachable and brewed with consistency in mind. Two customer favorites include Fast IPA, a hop-forward ale with a clean finish, and Angus Chute American Stout, which delivers roasted malt flavor with a smooth body. The brewery also supports local artists and musicians through events and collaborations. Its connection to Bentonville’s active lifestyle and steady beer quality have made Bike Rack a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

#14 – Norfork Brewing Co.

Norfork Brewing Company, established in 2018 in Norfork, offers a relaxed, small-town brewery experience rooted in the Ozarks. Located near the North Fork and White Rivers, the brewery features a rustic taproom with wood furnishings, a fireplace, and a dog-friendly patio that regularly hosts live local music. The brewery’s beer lineup often includes five core options along with seasonal or limited small-batch releases. Two standout choices are Woodsman Pilsner, brewed with pawpaw yeast for a crisp and unique finish, and Black Oak Stout, a dark, smooth beer with rich notes of chocolate and coffee. Norfork Brewing also serves artisan pizza and offers non-alcoholic sodas along with beer to-go. Their commitment to eco-friendly practices and use of locally sourced ingredients reflect the values of the surrounding community.

#13 – Gravity BrewWorks

Gravity BrewWorks, established in 2013 in Big Flat, is a small-batch nanobrewery located in the Ozark Mountains of North Central Arkansas. Known for its rustic charm and rotating lineup of handcrafted beers, the brewery draws hikers, bikers, and craft beer fans looking for something off the beaten path. The taproom is cozy and laid-back, often pouring limited releases alongside occasional guest taps when their own beers sell out. Two local favorites include Kolsch From the Cold, a light German-style ale brewed with Kölsch yeast and pilsner malt, and Wham Bam Five Minute Hazy IPA, a hop-forward IPA with juicy flavors and a clean finish. Gravity BrewWorks prides itself on using traditional methods while experimenting with flavors that reflect the region. Its rural location and community-focused spirit make it a unique and rewarding stop for anyone traveling through the area.

#12 – Point Remove Brewing

Point Remove Brewing Company opened in 2020 in Morrilton and is located in a restored former Coca-Cola bottling plant. The space features a large indoor taproom, an upstairs event area, and a spacious lawn that’s pet-friendly and set up for yard games and live music. The brewery serves its own lineup of craft beer alongside local wine, making it a flexible stop for a wide range of guests. Two of its most popular beers are Petit Jean Pilsner, a clean and crisp lager named after nearby Petit Jean State Park, and Motown IPA, a bold and citrusy brew named for Morrilton’s local nickname. Regular events, including live music on the patio and food truck visits, help make it a reliable gathering place for locals and tourists. With its relaxed setting and variety of offerings, Point Remove Brewing has become a key destination on the Arkansas beer trail.

#11 – Gotahold Brewing

Gotahold Brewing opened in 2020 in Eureka Springs and has quickly earned a reputation for great beer and strong community involvement. The brewery is located in a converted house with an indoor taproom, art displays, and a spacious outdoor area known as the “beer forest,” which includes a stage, fire pit, and food truck space. Two of its standout beers are Downhill Ride IPA, which was named Best Arkansas IPA in 2024, and Devil Put Aside Pilsner, which received the same recognition for pilsner that year. Gotahold is known for hosting live music, supporting local artists, and donating a portion of beer sales to nonprofits focused on literacy and poverty relief. The space is dog-friendly and family-friendly, making it a welcoming spot for a wide range of visitors. With its mix of award-winning beers, laid-back atmosphere, and focus on giving back, Gotahold Brewing is a key part of the Northwest Arkansas beer scene.

#10 – Core Brewing & Distilling Company

Core Brewing & Distilling Company, founded in 2010 in Springdale, is one of the original names in Arkansas craft beer. Known for its wide distribution and steady lineup, Core operates a flagship taproom where guests can enjoy pints, flights, and seasonal releases in a relaxed, pet-friendly setting. The brewery keeps a strong year-round lineup, with Arkansas Red Ale standing out for its malt-forward taste and caramel notes, and Toasted Coconut Ale offering a smooth brown ale base with a hint of roasted coconut aroma. While its beverages are found statewide, the taproom continues to focus on small-batch brewing and community events.

#9 – Stone’s Throw Brewing

Stone’s Throw Brewing opened in 2013 in Little Rock’s MacArthur Park Historic District and has grown into a respected part of the Arkansas craft beer community. The brewery is known for its small-batch focus, with a cozy indoor taproom and a popular outdoor biergarten that regularly hosts food trucks and local events. Two standout beers include Amadeus Vienna Lager, a smooth and malt-forward beer with balanced bitterness, and Dirty Seven IPA, a bold brew with citrus, stone fruit, and pine notes. Stone’s Throw self-distributes in central Arkansas and maintains close ties with the community by supporting local events and rotating beer styles to match the seasons. The brewery offers guided tours and welcomes both locals and travelers with a laid-back, pet-friendly space.

#8 – New Province Brewing Company

New Province Brewing Company, established in 2016 in Rogers, Arkansas, is known for its creative and well-crafted beers. The brewery operates from a spacious facility with a modern taproom that includes seating, a pool table, and an outdoor patio where local food trucks often visit. They offer a mix of year-round favorites and seasonal brews made with attention to quality and flavor. Two popular beers are Philosopher King IPA, which features tropical fruit notes like mango and pineapple, and Fallen Queen Belgian Wheat Ale, known for its light citrus aroma and crisp finish. The brewery is active in the community, hosting events and supporting local vendors. Since new ownership took over in 2022, New Province has aimed to grow its production while keeping the same focus on quality and local engagement.

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#7 – Diamond Bear Brewing Company

Diamond Bear Brewing Company, founded in 2000, is Arkansas’s first production brewery since Prohibition. Located in North Little Rock, the brewery features a taproom, restaurant, and brewery museum. Diamond Bear uses traditional European brewing methods with only two-row malted barley, hops, yeast, and Arkansas water, without any additives. Popular beers include Southern Blonde, a pale lager with a clean finish, and BLU Golden Lager, known for its crisp and refreshing taste. The brewery also offers Victory Pale Ale, Irish Red, Presidential IPA, and Paradise Porter. As of 2024, the brewery’s property is up for sale due to the owner’s retirement plans, but the brewery may continue operating through leasing or relocation.

#6 – Bentonville Brewing Co.

Bentonville Brewing Company, established in 2015, is a well-known craft brewery located in Bentonville, Arkansas. After a short move to Rogers, the brewery returned to Bentonville in 2020, opening a modern facility near the Bentonville Municipal Airport. The brewery features a spacious taproom, a large outdoor beer garden, a children’s play area, and a dog-friendly patio, making it welcoming for families and pet owners. Bentonville Brewing offers a wide range of beers including Homewrecker IPA, a 7.5% American IPA with pine and citrus notes, and Space Goose Hazy IPA, a 6.3% New England IPA with tropical flavors like passion fruit and pineapple. Bentonville Brewing hosts events and partners with local food trucks, making it a lively community spot for craft beer lovers.

#5 – Fossil Cove Brewing

Fossil Cove Brewing Company, established in 2012 in Fayetteville, Arkansas, is a well-regarded craft brewery known for its quality beers and community focus. The brewery takes its name from a fossil-rich cove near Beaver Lake, which is also their water source. Their taproom includes a spacious indoor area, an outdoor patio, and a full espresso bar. Fossil Cove offers a wide range of beers, including La Brea Brown, a Belgian-style brown ale with notes of chocolate and spice, and IPA #3, an American IPA featuring grapefruit and citrus flavors. Other favorites are The Rat, a balanced and easy-drinking pale ale, and T-Rex Tripel, a Belgian-style tripel with sweet banana and fruit notes. Fossil Cove hosts local events such as Frost Fest, one of the South’s notable winter beer festivals, and stays active in community support.

#4 – Superior Bathhouse Brewery

Superior Bathhouse Brewery, founded in 2014, is located in Hot Springs National Park and is the only brewery in the United States operating inside a national park. What sets it apart is that it uses the park’s natural thermal spring water, which flows at 143°F, to brew every beer. This unique method, paired with the brewery’s historic setting in a former bathhouse on Bathhouse Row, draws both craft beer fans and curious visitors. Popular beers include Space Force IPA, a hazy IPA with notes of blood orange and tropical fruit, and Foul Play Stout, which blends coffee and chocolate flavors in a smooth, dark brew. The taproom features 18 beers on draft and offers full flights, including a full “beer bath” of every option available. Superior Bathhouse Brewery is a one-of-a-kind stop in Arkansas’s growing craft beer scene.

#3 – Ozark Beer Co.

Ozark Beer Company, founded in 2013 and based in Rogers, has become one of the most respected names in Arkansas craft beer. The brewery operates from a former industrial space that now houses a casual taproom with open garage doors, shared tables, and a view of the brewing tanks. Known for a strong core lineup and seasonal releases, Ozark focuses on brewing beer that reflects its motto: hard work, honest beer. Two of its most popular beers are Cream Stout, a smooth and roasty dark beer with notes of coffee and chocolate, and Double IPA, which features bold hop character with tropical and pine flavors. Another highly regarded release is BDCS, a bourbon barrel-aged stout with a strong following. Ozark Beer Co. is also a hub for community events and regularly hosts food trucks, making it a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors in Northwest Arkansas.

#2 – Flyway Brewing

Flyway Brewing, established in 2013 in the Argenta Arts District of North Little Rock, has become a favorite among Arkansas beer drinkers. Known for its approachable and creative brews, the brewery focuses on flavors that reflect the local environment and ingredients. Bluewing Berry Wheat, brewed with real blueberries, was originally a seasonal but became a year-round favorite due to its popularity. Honeybird Blonde Ale is another standout, brewed with Arkansas-sourced honey for a light and slightly sweet finish. The brewery also features a rotating selection of small-batch beers, from sours to rich stouts, giving regulars something new to try. Flyway’s taproom includes indoor seating and a dog-friendly patio, and it often partners with local food vendors. The brewery supports community and conservation causes, which helps build a strong local following. Flyway Brewing continues to stand out as one of the top craft breweries in central Arkansas.

#1 – Lost Forty Brewing

Lost Forty Brewing, founded in 2014 in Little Rock, is one of the most popular breweries in Arkansas. Named after a protected forest in the state, the brewery focuses on brewing fresh, consistent beer with attention to detail. The spacious taproom features a laid-back setting where guests can enjoy a rotating lineup of beers made onsite. Two of its most well-known beers are Bare Bones Pilsner, a crisp lager with a clean finish, and Rockhound Imperial IPA, which has a bold hop profile with tropical and citrus notes. Lost Forty also offers seasonal releases and small-batch experimental beers, including barrel-aged and wild-fermented options. The brewery stays connected to its local community through events, partnerships, and a strong presence in the state’s craft beer scene. Its focus on quality and consistency has helped make it a go-to spot for beer lovers across Arkansas.

Please drink responsibly, be fully accountable with your alcohol consumption, and show others respect.

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  1. Rapp’s Barren Brewing in Mountain Home should be on this list. They don’t can and distribute, is that why they aren’t listed?

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Brian Nagele

Written by Brian Nagele

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