The Top 30 Breweries in Kentucky

Kentucky is mostly known for its bourbon, but over the years, its craft beer scene has grown into something worth paying attention to. All across the state, you’ll find breweries putting out fresh, well-made beer with a focus on local ingredients and good company. From small-town taprooms to popular stops in bigger cities, there’s a strong sense of community that makes each place feel unique. It’s not about flashy setups or big names. It’s about honest, quality beer and the people behind it.

In this article, we’ve put together a list of some of the best breweries in Kentucky. These places have earned their spot by keeping things simple and doing things right. We looked at the beer, of course, but also the atmosphere and the overall experience. Whether you’re a long-time craft beer fan or just looking for a relaxed place to spend an afternoon, there’s likely a brewery in Kentucky that fits the bill. This guide is meant to help you find those spots without the fluff. Just good beer, welcoming spaces, and local pride that runs deep.

#30 – Hopkinsville Brewing Company

Hopkinsville Brewing Company, established in 2016, is the first craft brewery in Hopkinsville and Christian County, Kentucky. Located at 102 East 5th Street, the brewery offers a variety of craft beers brewed on-site in their 5-barrel nano-brewery. Their lineup includes popular selections like the “Martha Ann’s Amber Red Ale,” a caramel malty, easy-drinking amber ale, and “Jeffers Bend Hefeweizen,” a traditional wheat beer with notes of banana and clove. The brewery provides a family-friendly environment with an outdoor patio and community room, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. They also partner with local food trucks and restaurants to offer a variety of food options to accompany their beers. Hopkinsville Brewing Company is a testament to the growing craft beer scene in rural Kentucky, offering quality brews and a welcoming atmosphere.

#29 – Scout & Scholar Brewing Co.

Scout & Scholar Brewing Co. brings a fresh take on craft beer to Bardstown, Kentucky, a town best known for its bourbon heritage. Located in the heart of downtown, this brewery offers a welcoming space where locals and visitors can enjoy a rotating lineup of house-made beers. The atmosphere is relaxed and community-focused, making it a popular stop for both beer fans and those new to the scene. Two standout options include “Treading Paper,” a West Coast IPA with notes of grapefruit and pine, and “Mercy Me,” an American IPA with hints of pineapple and lime. Both showcase the brewery’s attention to flavor and balance. With its mix of traditional styles and creative brews, Scout & Scholar has become a key part of Bardstown’s growing craft beer presence. It’s a great place to unwind, try something new, and enjoy a taste of local brewing.

#28 – Alexandria Brewing Company

Alexandria Brewing Company, located just south of Cincinnati in Alexandria, Kentucky, offers a welcoming space for craft beer enthusiasts. Known for its rotating selection of beers, the brewery caters to a variety of tastes. Among their popular offerings are “All Up In Your Berliner,” a Berliner-style wheat beer that’s slightly tart and crisp with bursts of citrus, and “’Till the Battle is Won,” a West Coast-style IPA featuring piney, grassy notes with a hint of caramel. The brewery’s relaxed atmosphere and commitment to quality make it a standout in the Northern Kentucky beer scene. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Alexandria Brewing Company provides a comfortable setting to enjoy a well-crafted pint.

#27 – Dreaming Creek Brewery

Dreaming Creek Brewery, located in Richmond, Kentucky, is known as the city’s first and only microbrewery, making it a popular stop for craft beer lovers in the area. The brewery offers a cozy and inviting taproom where visitors can enjoy a variety of well-crafted beers. One of their popular brews is the “Natural Bridge IPA,” an American-style IPA known for its balanced hop flavor with citrus and floral notes. Another favorite is the “Kentucky Common,” a traditional beer style that features a smooth, semi-dry finish and highlights local brewing heritage. Dreaming Creek Brewery stands out for its commitment to combining classic beer styles with fresh, local ingredients. Whether you’re a local or just passing through Richmond, this brewery offers a welcoming atmosphere and a solid selection of beers. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy quality craft beer without any fuss.

#26 – Henderson Brewing Co.

Henderson Brewing Co., established in 2017, is Henderson, Kentucky’s first craft brewery, offering a diverse selection of beers in a welcoming taproom. Their lineup includes a variety of styles, from crisp lagers to bold IPAs. Two standout options are the “Bright Spot 2.0 IPA,” an American IPA with a balanced hop profile, and the “Bridgeview ESB,” an Extra Special Bitter that offers a malt-forward flavor. The brewery’s commitment to quality and variety makes it a popular destination for craft beer enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Henderson Brewing Co. provides a comfortable space to enjoy a well-crafted pint. Their rotating selection ensures there’s always something new to try, making each visit a unique experience. With a focus on community and craftsmanship, Henderson Brewing Co. continues to be a cornerstone of the local craft beer scene.

#25 – Noble Funk Brewing Company

Noble Funk Brewing Company, nestled in Louisville’s historic SoBro neighborhood, offers a unique blend of traditional brewing and modern flair. Their “Mr. American” IPA showcases a balanced hop profile with Cascade and Centennial hops, delivering a crisp, citrus-forward taste. For those seeking a darker brew, the “Balto” Baltic Porter provides rich notes of dark chocolate and roasted malt, making it a standout choice. The brewery’s commitment to quality and variety ensures a memorable experience for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or new to the scene, Noble Funk Brewing Company offers a welcoming atmosphere and a diverse selection of beers to enjoy.

#24 – Bircus Brewing Co.

Bircus Brewing Co. in Ludlow, Kentucky, offers a unique fusion of craft beer and circus entertainment. Located in the historic Ludlow Theatre, the brewery provides a vibrant atmosphere where guests can enjoy a variety of house-made beers while watching live performances. Among their popular offerings is the “Showman IPA,” a balanced American IPA with earthy and fruity hop notes. Another favorite is the “Lagoon,” a Scotch Ale brewed with six types of grain, delivering a malty and smooth flavor profile. Bircus Brewing Co. stands out not only for its diverse beer selection but also for its commitment to community engagement, hosting events and performances that add to the lively experience. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Bircus Brewing Co. offers a memorable outing combining quality craft beer with the thrill of live entertainment.

#23 – Darkness Brewing

Darkness Brewing, located in Bellevue, Kentucky, is a neighborhood brewery and taproom known for its focus on dark and experimental beer styles. Their “Mayan Sacrifice” is a golden coffee stout that combines ancho and pasilla chilis, cocoa nibs from Maverick Chocolate, coffee, and lactose, creating a smooth and spicy flavor profile. Another popular choice is “Man on the Moo,” a milk stout that features a blend of roasted malts and lactose, resulting in a rich and creamy mouthfeel with a light body. The brewery offers a rotating selection of beers, ensuring a unique experience for each visit. With a laid-back atmosphere and a commitment to quality, Darkness Brewing provides a welcoming space for craft beer enthusiasts to enjoy innovative brews.

#22 – Flywheel Brewing

Flywheel Brewing, situated in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, is a community-focused microbrewery that has become a local favorite since its opening in 2017. The brewery offers a rotating selection of house-made beers, ensuring there’s always something new to try. Among their popular offerings is the “Malterior Motive,” a malted amber ale with a balanced flavor profile, and “Hey Porter,” an American-style porter known for its smooth and rich taste. Flywheel Brewing’s commitment to quality and variety makes it a standout in the Elizabethtown craft beer scene. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the brewery provides a welcoming atmosphere to enjoy a well-crafted pint. With its dedication to community and craftsmanship, Flywheel Brewing continues to be a cornerstone of the local craft beer scene.

#21 – Hofbrauhaus Newport

Hofbräuhaus Newport, located at 200 E 3rd St in Newport, Kentucky, offers an authentic Bavarian experience with its on-site brewery and traditional German cuisine. As the first Hofbräuhaus in North America, it brings a taste of Munich to the region. The brewery’s flagship beers include the “Original Lager,” a crisp and clean German lager, and the “Hefe Weizen,” a wheat beer known for its sweet notes of banana and clove. These beers are brewed on-site daily using traditional methods and ingredients. In addition to the regular offerings, Hofbräuhaus Newport features seasonal selections such as the “Maibock,” a malty and sweet bock bier celebrating the arrival of spring. The brewery also offers a variety of flavored biers, including options like the “Hopfen Weizen,” a hoppy wheat beer with citrus and orange zest notes. With its diverse beer selection and festive atmosphere, Hofbräuhaus Newport provides a unique destination for beer enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of Bavarian culture.

#20 – Dam Brewhaus

Dam Brewhaus, located in Benton, Kentucky, is the only brewery in Marshall County, offering a unique blend of craft beer and community atmosphere. Housed in a renovated home, the brewery features 22 taps, serving both house-made beers and guest selections. Their popular brews include the “Haus Hazy IPA,” known for its juicy and tropical flavors, and the “Dam Dirty Blonde,” a light and crisp blonde ale that’s perfect for casual sipping. In addition to their beer offerings, Dam Brewhaus provides a full kitchen with a menu that includes burgers, sandwiches, and other comfort foods, making it a great spot for a meal with your pint. The brewery also hosts events like live music and trivia nights, creating a lively and welcoming environment for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a friendly place to relax, Dam Brewhaus offers a memorable experience in the heart of Benton.

#19 – Mirror Twin Brewing

Mirror Twin Brewing in Lexington, Kentucky, is a standout in the local craft beer scene, known for its innovative approach and vibrant atmosphere. The brewery operates two adjacent taprooms: the original 725 National Ave location offers a traditional brewery experience, while the 723 National Ave location provides a cocktail lounge vibe, catering to a diverse crowd. Their flagship beers include the “Red Blooded American” red ale, a malt-forward brew with caramel notes, and “Wheezing the Juice,” a smoothie-style sour featuring blood orange and tangerine flavors. Mirror Twin also introduces creativity through their “Twin Drafts,” where they take a base beer and create a variant by adding a different ingredient, offering a unique tasting experience. The brewery’s collaboration with Rolling Oven Pizzeria, known for its wood-fired pizzas, enhances the visit, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

#18 – Apocalypse Brew Works

Apocalypse Brew Works, situated in Louisville, Kentucky, stands out with its bold, post-apocalyptic theme and a diverse selection of beers. Since opening in 2012, the brewery has become a local favorite, offering a variety of house-made brews in a relaxed, community-focused setting. Among their popular offerings is the “Apollo IPA,” a 6.8% ABV American IPA known for its tropical fruit and citrus flavors, balanced by a floral hop profile. Another favorite is the “Atomic Amber,” a 5.3% ABV amber ale that delivers a smooth, malt-forward taste with a hint of caramel sweetness. Apocalypse Brew Works also embraces local history with “Oertel’s 1912,” a Kentucky Common ale brewed using traditional methods, offering a crisp and slightly caramel flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or new to the scene, Apocalypse Brew Works provides a welcoming environment to enjoy quality beers.

#17 – Dry Ground Brewing Co.

Dry Ground Brewing Co., established in 2014, is Paducah’s first craft brewery, located in the historic Coke Plant. The brewery offers a variety of house-made beers and guest selections in a relaxed, community-focused setting. Their popular brews include the “Paducah Proud,” a 4.9% ABV blonde ale known for its light and crisp profile, and the “Della Barnes,” a 6% ABV hazy IPA brewed with Citra and Mosaic hops, delivering tropical fruit flavors. Dry Ground Brewing Co. also embraces local history with the “Cobb,” a Kentucky Common ale named after Paducah native Irvin S. Cobb, offering a creamy mouthfeel with subtle caramel notes. The brewery hosts events like trivia nights and live music, creating a lively atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or new to the scene, Dry Ground Brewing Co. provides a welcoming environment to enjoy quality beers.

#16 – 3rd Turn Brewing

3rd Turn Brewing, established in 2015, is a standout in Louisville’s craft beer scene, offering a unique blend of traditional brewing and innovative flavors. Housed in a beautifully restored 1878 church in Jeffersontown, the brewery provides a warm, inviting atmosphere for beer enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Their flagship beers include the “Space Grass Hazy IPA,” a soft and flavorful IPA with a hefty mouthfeel and mild bitterness, and the “Swooly,” a Kölsch brewed with mango, pineapple, orange, and jalapeño, delivering a crisp and clean taste with a touch of heat. These offerings showcase 3rd Turn’s commitment to quality and creativity, making it a must-visit destination for craft beer lovers in the region.

#15 – Butchertown Brewing

Butchertown Brewing, located in Louisville, Kentucky, is a small-batch craft brewery known for pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles. Nestled in the Mellwood Art Center, the brewery offers a unique and inviting atmosphere for beer enthusiasts. Their popular brews include the “Butchertown Juice,” a 6.5% ABV New England IPA featuring Citra, Mosaic, and El Dorado hops, delivering a balanced, hoppy experience with a touch of sweetness. Another favorite is the “The G.O.A.T.,” an 8.5% ABV doppelbock that offers a sweet and boozy profile with delicate chocolate and roasty notes. Butchertown Brewing is also known for its creative sours, such as the “Banana Pastry Smoothie Style Sour,” which combines sweet banana flavors with a tart finish, and the “Pumpkin Pie Sour,” which captures the essence of pumpkin pie in a refreshing beer form. Whether you’re a fan of bold IPAs, rich stouts, or inventive sours, Butchertown Brewing offers a diverse selection to satisfy every palate.

#14 – Monnik Beer Co.

Monnik Beer Co., located in the Schnitzelburg neighborhood of Louisville, Kentucky, is a brewery and restaurant known for its commitment to quality and community. The brewery offers a curated selection of 20 beers on tap, featuring a mix of flagships, rotating seasonals, and one-off brews. Their flagship beers include the “IPA,” a 7% ABV American IPA featuring Centennial, Cascade, and Mosaic hops, delivering a traditional and well-balanced flavor profile. Another popular choice is the “Hauck’s American Pilsner,” a 5% ABV clean and immensely drinkable lager named after local legend George Haucks. Monnik Beer Co. also embraces creativity with seasonal offerings like the “Path of Totality,” a 6.5% ABV coffee IPA brewed in collaboration with Sunergos Coffee, and the “His Dark Materials,” a 5.6% ABV lactose-sweetened stout with rich flavors of dark fruits and bittersweet chocolate.

#13 – Gravely Brewing Co.

Gravely Brewing Co., located in Louisville’s Highlands neighborhood, is a standout in the city’s craft beer scene. Their taproom offers a diverse lineup of beers, including the “Debaser,” a 7% ABV New England IPA known for its tropical fruit and bubblegum aromas, and the “Power Chord,” a 7.1% ABV West Coast IPA with a bold hop aroma and a dry finish. Gravely Brewing also offers seasonal and experimental brews, keeping its selection fresh and exciting. The brewery hosts events like trivia nights and live music, creating a lively atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or new to the scene, Gravely Brewing Co. provides a welcoming environment to enjoy quality beers. Their focus on creativity and community has made them a favorite spot in Louisville’s growing craft beer scene.

#12 – Goodwood Brewing

Goodwood Brewing Co., located in Louisville’s NuLu district, is renowned for its innovative approach to brewing, incorporating wood-aging techniques that impart unique flavors to their beers. Their flagship “Louisville Lager,” brewed with 100% Kentucky-grown grains and aged on white ash wood, offers a crisp, light-bodied profile with a subtle sweetness, making it a standout in the American lager category. Another popular offering is the “Bourbon Barrel Stout,” an 8% ABV stout aged in bourbon barrels, delivering rich notes of oak, chocolate, and vanilla, reflecting Kentucky’s bourbon heritage. Goodwood Brewing Co. maintains a diverse selection of beers, including seasonal releases and experimental brews, ensuring there’s something for every palate.

#11 – Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.

Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co., situated in Lexington, Kentucky, is a unique establishment that combines brewing and distilling under one roof, making it a distinctive stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Their flagship beer, Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale, is an Irish Red Ale aged for at least six weeks in freshly decanted bourbon barrels, imparting subtle flavors of vanilla and oak. Another popular offering is the Kentucky Vanilla Barrel Cream Ale, a cold-conditioned cream ale brewed with a hint of flaked corn and bourbon vanilla beans, aged in freshly decanted Kentucky bourbon barrels for a minimum of two months. This combination of brewing and distilling allows for a diverse range of products, including Town Branch Bourbon and Pearse Lyons Reserve malt whiskey, all crafted with the same commitment to quality and tradition. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or a whiskey connoisseur, Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. offers a unique experience that celebrates the rich heritage of Kentucky’s craft beverage industry.

#10 – Falls City Brewing Co.

Falls City Brewing Co., located in Louisville’s Phoenix Hill neighborhood, is a historic brewery that has been revitalized to offer a modern craft beer experience. Their taproom, which opened in 2018, serves as a hub for both locals and visitors to enjoy a diverse selection of beers. Among their popular offerings are the “Hipster Repellant,” a 7% ABV West Coast IPA known for its piney, resinous, and grapefruit flavors, and the “Sun Streak,” a 7% ABV American IPA brewed with Pale and Honey Malt, featuring notes of tangerine, tropical fruit, coconut, and apricot. Falls City Brewing Co. prides itself on producing well-balanced and highly drinkable beers, often with innovative twists on traditional styles.

#9 – Mile Wide Beer Co.

Mile Wide Beer Co., located in Louisville’s Highlands neighborhood at 636 Barret Avenue, is a brewery that blends tradition with innovation. Housed in a building that once served as a biscuit factory and Louisville’s first brewpub, the taproom offers a spacious and welcoming environment for beer enthusiasts. Among their popular offerings is the “Brabble,” a 4.9% ABV blonde ale known for its clean, simple, and easy-drinking profile, making it a favorite for those seeking a light and refreshing beer. Another standout is the “McPoyle,” a 6.5% ABV milk stout that delivers rich chocolate flavors with a smooth, slightly sweet finish, appealing to fans of darker beers. Mile Wide Beer Co. also features a variety of other styles, including hazy IPAs, pale ales, and barrel-aged brews, ensuring there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Mile Wide Beer Co. provides a unique and enjoyable craft beer experience in the heart of Louisville.

#8 – Blue Stallion Brewing Company

Blue Stallion Brewing Company, established in 2013 in Lexington, Kentucky, is celebrated for its authentic German-style lagers and ales. Their flagship beer, the Munich Dunkel, is a rich, amber lager brewed with Munich malts and noble hops, offering a bready taste with hints of caramel. Another popular choice is the Hefeweizen, a traditional wheat beer with strong banana and subtle clove flavors, brewed with 55% wheat and a classic German yeast strain. The brewery also offers a variety of other styles, including hazy IPAs, sours, and barrel-aged beers, providing a diverse selection for craft beer enthusiasts.

#7 – Atrium Brewing

Atrium Brewing, established in September 2020 in Louisville’s Shelby Park neighborhood, has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With a commitment to innovation and quality, Atrium offers a diverse range of beers that cater to various palates. Their taproom, located at 1154 Logan Street, provides a welcoming atmosphere for beer enthusiasts to enjoy their creations. Among their popular offerings is the “Steep Hill,” a 6.5% ABV American IPA brewed exclusively with Citra hops, delivering bright, piney, and floral notes. Another standout is the “Berry Berry Boy,” a 6.5% ABV fruited sour featuring a blend of blackberry and raspberry, offering a tart and refreshing taste. Atrium Brewing also frequently collaborates with other local breweries, resulting in unique and experimental brews that keep their lineup exciting and ever-evolving.

#6 – Fabled Brew Works

Fabled Brew Works, located in Erlanger, Kentucky, offers a distinctive experience that blends imaginative storytelling with craft brewing. Their taproom, adorned with fantasy-inspired décor, creates an immersive environment where patrons can enjoy a diverse selection of beers and meads. Among their popular offerings is the “Paul Bunyan,” a 5% ABV American lager known for its clean, crisp profile with subtle citrus notes. Another standout is the “Blood Moon Wheat,” a 4.9% ABV wheat ale brewed with blood oranges, delivering a refreshing and slightly tart flavor. These selections, along with a rotating lineup of seasonal and experimental brews, showcase Fabled Brew Works’ commitment to quality and innovation.

#5 – Braxton Brewing Company

Braxton Brewing Company, established in Covington, Kentucky, offers a diverse range of craft beers that appeal to a broad audience. Their flagship beer, Storm Golden Cream Ale, is a light and crisp brew with subtle malt and corn flavors, making it a popular choice for those seeking a refreshing, easy-drinking beer. Another standout is the Tropic Flare New England IPA, known for its hazy appearance and tropical fruit notes, providing a juicy and aromatic experience for IPA enthusiasts. Braxton Brewing Company continues to innovate and expand its offerings, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.

#4 – Country Boy Brewing

Country Boy Brewing, founded in 2012 in Lexington, Kentucky, has become a cornerstone of the local craft beer scene. Known for its approachable and flavorful beers, the brewery offers a variety of styles that cater to a wide range of palates. Among their popular offerings is the “Cougar Bait,” a 5% ABV American Blonde Ale that delivers a crisp and clean taste with subtle malt sweetness, making it a refreshing choice for many. Another standout is the “Shotgun Wedding,” a 6% ABV Vanilla Brown Ale, which combines rich malt flavors with a hint of vanilla, creating a smooth and satisfying brew. These flagship beers, along with seasonal and experimental releases, showcase Country Boy Brewing’s commitment to quality and innovation in the craft beer industry.

#3 – Ethereal Brewing

Ethereal Brewing, nestled in Lexington’s Distillery District at 1224 Manchester Street, is a standout in Kentucky’s craft beer scene. Known for its innovative approach and diverse offerings, the brewery has become a local favorite. Among its popular selections is the “Muffin Man,” a 6.5% ABV blueberry muffin sour that has garnered attention for its unique flavor profile. Another favorite is the “Vanilla Lambda,” a 5.7% ABV oatmeal stout that combines roasted coffee notes with a touch of sweetness. Ethereal Brewing continues to push the boundaries of craft brewing, offering a rotating selection of beers that cater to a wide range of palates.

#2 – Against The Grain Brewery

Against The Grain Brewery in Louisville, Kentucky, is known for its creative and bold approach to craft beer. Located at 401 E Main Street, adjacent to Slugger Field, this brewer-owned establishment offers a unique experience for beer enthusiasts. Among their standout offerings is “Citra Ass Down,” a Double IPA brewed with Citra hops, delivering intense citrus, tropical, and floral flavors. Another popular choice is “Bo & Luke,” an imperial smoked stout aged in bourbon barrels, providing rich, smoky notes with a smooth finish. With a commitment to innovation and quality, Against The Grain Brewery continues to be a staple in Louisville’s vibrant craft beer scene.

#1 – West Sixth Brewing

West Sixth Brewing, established in 2012 in Lexington, Kentucky, has become a cornerstone of the state’s craft beer scene. Housed in a historic building known as the Bread Box, the brewery is committed to producing high-quality beers while fostering community engagement and sustainability. Their flagship beer, the West Sixth IPA, is a 7% ABV India Pale Ale that showcases bold citrus and pine flavors, balanced by a sturdy malt backbone, making it a favorite among hop enthusiasts. Another popular offering is the Pay It Forward Cocoa Porter, a 6.5% ABV American Porter brewed with cacao nibs, delivering rich chocolate notes and a smooth finish . West Sixth Brewing’s dedication to quality and community involvement has solidified its reputation as a leading craft brewery in Kentucky.