The Top 30 Breweries in Maryland Ranked

If you’re looking for some of the best breweries in Maryland, you’ve come to the right place. The state’s craft beer scene has grown a lot over the past few years, offering a great mix of flavors and styles that appeal to all kinds of beer fans. From small, cozy taprooms to larger brewpubs, Maryland has plenty of spots where you can enjoy fresh, well-made beer. Whether you live nearby or are just passing through, visiting these breweries is a fun way to get a feel for the local brewing culture.

In this article, we’ll highlight some of Maryland’s top breweries known for their quality brews and welcoming atmospheres. You’ll find a range of choices, from classic beers to more unique styles, so there’s something to match every taste. These breweries stand out not just for their drinks but also for the experiences they offer, making them worth adding to your list. Keep reading to learn more about what makes Maryland’s craft beer scene special and why these spots are must-visits for anyone interested in great beer.

#30 – Streetcar 82 Brewing Co.

Streetcar 82 Brewing Co., located in Hyattsville, Maryland, is known for its strong community focus and unique story. This deaf-owned brewery was started by Gallaudet University graduates and named after the old 82 Streetcar line that connected Washington, D.C., to College Park. Its taproom, set in a former auto repair shop, offers a warm, welcoming space for everyone to enjoy craft beer and good company. Streetcar 82 stands out not only for its beers but also for supporting the deaf community by providing job opportunities and creating an inclusive environment. Popular beers like Fancy Nancy Hazy IPA bring juicy, fruity flavors with Mosaic and Amarillo hops, while The Colonel Pilsner offers a crisp, refreshing taste. The Pitmaster Smoked Lager, made in partnership with a local BBQ joint, is also a fan favorite. The brewery often hosts events with food trucks and gatherings, making it a top spot for locals and visitors looking for great beer and a friendly vibe.

#29 – Mully’s Brewery

Mully’s Brewery, established in 2012, holds the distinction of being the first production brewery in Southern Maryland. Located in Prince Frederick, this family-run brewery is known for its commitment to handcrafted beers, each batch brewed by hand on a 15-barrel system. The brewery offers a variety of year-round selections, including the crisp and citrusy Blood Orange Blonde, the hazy and hop-forward Hazy Not Lazy IPA, and the smooth Shucker Stout. Beyond these staples, Mully’s frequently rotates specialty brews like the fruit-infused FruiTart series and the rich Welcome to Magrathea, an imperial amber aged with raspberries, vanilla beans, and chocolate. The taproom provides a relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating, making it a great spot for enjoying a pint or participating in events like trivia nights and live music sessions. Mully’s Brewery exemplifies Southern Maryland’s growing craft beer scene, offering both locals and visitors a taste of quality, small-batch brewing.

#28 – Attaboy Beer

Attaboy Beer is an independent brewery and taproom located in Frederick, Maryland, offering a diverse range of craft beers brewed on-site. The brewery’s rotating selection includes styles such as New England IPAs, cold IPAs, West Coast pilsners, and Belgian-inspired brews, along with seasonal offerings and hard seltzers. Attaboy Beer emphasizes creativity and experimentation, providing a dynamic beer experience for visitors. The taproom features a dog-friendly garage and beer garden, creating a relaxed atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beverages. Additionally, the Attaboy Barrel House, a modern event venue, specializes in small-batch barrel-aged beers and serves as a unique setting for weddings and private events. Attaboy Beer operates Tuesday through Sunday from 12 PM to 10 PM, with food trucks available daily to complement the beer selection. For more information on their current beer offerings and events, visit their official website.

#27 – Silver Branch Brewing Company

Silver Branch Brewing Company in Silver Spring, Maryland, has made a name for itself since opening in 2019. Inspired by both European and American brewing traditions, the brewery offers a solid lineup of craft beers that appeal to many tastes. Favorites like Glass Castle, a Czech-style pilsner, and Dr. Juicy, a New England IPA, showcase their range. The taproom, called Lagerhaus & Biergarten, provides a comfortable and welcoming spot to enjoy fresh beer, with easy access near the Silver Spring metro. Silver Branch also runs other locations, giving more people a chance to try their brews. Their focus on quality and a friendly atmosphere has helped the brewery grow into a popular choice for beer lovers across Maryland.

#26 – Pickett Brewing Company

Pickett Brewing Company, located in Baltimore’s Pigtown neighborhood, has quickly become a favorite spot for craft beer fans since opening in 2022. Its location just a few blocks from Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadium makes it a popular stop for people attending games or events nearby. The brewery offers a solid selection of American and European-style ales and lagers, crafted to appeal to a wide range of tastes. Pickett’s spacious taproom provides a comfortable setting to enjoy fresh beer, whether you’re with friends or meeting new people. The brewery also hosts regular events, like Bluegrass Sundays, which add to its friendly, community-driven feel. With its focus on quality and a welcoming atmosphere, Pickett Brewing Company is a great example of Baltimore’s growing craft beer scene, offering locals and visitors a place to enjoy good beer in a relaxed setting.

#25 – Hopkins Farm Brewery

Hopkins Farm Brewery, nestled in Havre de Grace, Maryland, offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Established by the Hopkins family, who have farmed the land since the 1920s, the brewery utilizes barley grown on-site to craft its beers. Their offerings include a variety of styles such as the Belgian-style Rapture, the crisp Desperado Lager, and the hazy HazerBeam IPA. The farm also experiments with hop cultivation, adding a local touch to their brewing process. Visitors can enjoy these brews in a rustic taproom constructed with reclaimed barn wood and stone from the farm, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. With a commitment to quality and community, Hopkins Farm Brewery stands as a testament to Maryland’s rich agricultural heritage and the evolving craft beer scene.

#24 – Eastern Shore Brewing

Eastern Shore Brewing, established in 2008, is the oldest continuously operating craft brewery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Located in the historic mill complex at 605 South Talbot Street in St. Michaels, the brewery offers a cozy taproom with a warm, old-world Eastern Shore ambiance. With 12 beers on tap, including award-winning options like the St. Michaels Ale, a balanced amber ale, and the Situation Critical IPA, known for its piney and citrus notes, there’s something for every beer enthusiast. The brewery also offers flights, pints, and to-go options such as crowlers and six-packs. Guests can enjoy live music every Saturday from 3–6 PM, adding to the lively atmosphere. The outdoor seating area is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for both locals and visitors to relax and enjoy quality craft beer.

#23 – Manor Hill Brewing

Manor Hill Brewing is a unique brewery located on a 54-acre working farm in Ellicott City, Maryland. Known as Howard County’s first and Maryland’s largest farm brewery, Manor Hill blends traditional brewing with a farm-to-table approach. Their lineup includes a variety of beers, like the hop-forward Manor Hill IPA and the Farm Fuzz, a Belgian-style wheat beer with peach notes. The brewery’s rustic taproom and spacious outdoor areas give visitors a relaxed place to enjoy fresh craft beer surrounded by nature. Manor Hill also supports local agriculture by offering seasonal products at their farm stand. With its combination of quality beer and a family-friendly setting, Manor Hill Brewing has become a favorite spot for those looking to enjoy Maryland’s craft beer scene with a farm twist.

#22 – Independent Brewing Company

Independent Brewing Company in Bel Air, Maryland, is well-known for its wide variety of craft beers, including many gluten-free options. Since opening in 2015, the brewery has built a strong local following with 26 taps featuring traditional styles and creative brews. Some favorites include Carpe Diem, a bold double IPA, Blue Eyed Blonde, a smooth Belgian-style blonde ale, and Cereal Killer, a rich oatmeal stout with roasted flavors. They also offer Straight Up Cider, a crisp apple cider that appeals to cider lovers. The brewery welcomes families, cyclists, and dogs, creating a friendly community space. Its location near the Ma & Pa Trail makes it a popular stop for outdoor activities. Independent Brewing Company focuses on quality and inclusivity, making it a key part of the craft beer scene in Bel Air. Whether you want classic flavors or something new, this brewery offers plenty of options to enjoy in a relaxed setting.

21 – Peabody Heights Brewery

Peabody Heights Brewery, established in 2012, is a significant presence in Baltimore’s craft beer scene. Situated on the historic grounds of Old Oriole Park V, the brewery honors the city’s rich baseball heritage. Operating as a co-op brewery, it produces and distributes beers for various local craft breweries, fostering community collaboration. Among its notable offerings are the Astrodon, a hazy IPA with tropical fruit notes; Mr. Trash Wheel’s Lost Python Ale, a session IPA supporting environmental initiatives; and Unforgivable Curses, a Belgian Tripel with aromatic malts and subtle fruit esters. The brewery’s commitment to quality and innovation has made it a staple for beer enthusiasts in the region. With a spacious taproom and a variety of events, Peabody Heights Brewery continues to be a cornerstone of Baltimore’s craft beer culture.

#20 – Brewery Fire

Brewery Fire in Taneytown, Maryland, has become a standout in the state’s craft beer scene thanks to its creative brews and community-focused vibe. Known for its pop culture-inspired names and bold flavors, the brewery offers a range of beers that appeal to both casual drinkers and craft beer enthusiasts. Their flagship, Executor IPA, is a West Coast-style IPA featuring Simcoe hops, delivering citrus and pine notes with a 7.75% ABV. Cowabunga Dude, a New England IPA, offers a hazy, juicy experience at 6.5% ABV. For those seeking something different, The Mangolorian is a 6% ABV IPA infused with mango, providing a tropical twist. The brewery’s taproom reflects its fun and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. With a commitment to quality and a knack for creative brewing, Brewery Fire continues to make its mark in Maryland’s craft beer landscape.

#19 – RAR Brewing

RAR Brewing in Cambridge, Maryland, has made a name for itself with a creative approach to brewing and a strong connection to the local community. Their flagship beer, Nanticoke Nectar, is a 7.4% ABV IPA known for its citrus and pine notes, crafted with Cascade and Citra hops. Other popular offerings include Groove City Hefeweizen, a wheat beer with hints of banana and clove; Pulp, a hazy pale ale with citrus flavors; and Bucktown Brown, a brown ale featuring notes of hazelnut and toffee. RAR also explores unique flavors with their Out of Order series, which includes fruited sours like Raspberry Gummy Dog and Strawberry Dole Whipped. With a diverse lineup that caters to various tastes, RAR Brewing continues to be a standout in Maryland’s craft beer scene.

#18 – Evolution Craft Brewing

Evolution Craft Brewing Company, based in Salisbury, Maryland, has earned a strong reputation for its well-crafted beers that appeal to a wide range of tastes. Their flagship, Lot No. 3 IPA, is a 6.8% ABV American IPA known for its bold citrus and pine flavors, balanced by a solid malt backbone. For those seeking a more robust option, Lot No. 6 Double IPA offers an 8.5% ABV with tropical fruit and citrus notes, delivering a more intense hop experience. Pine’hop’le IPA, another popular choice, infuses pineapple juice into an American IPA base, resulting in a tropical flavor profile. The brewery also offers Primal Pale Ale, a 5.0% ABV pale ale with a refreshing balance of pine and citrus aromas. For fans of darker beers, Lucky 7 Porter provides rich chocolate and coffee notes, while Rise Up Coffee Stout combines a Caribbean-style stout with locally sourced coffee for a smooth, roasted finish. With such a diverse lineup, Evolution Craft Brewing continues to be a standout in Maryland’s craft beer scene.

#17 – Saints Row Brewing

Saints Row Brewing, located in Gaithersburg, Maryland, is a family-owned brewery known for its creative beers and strong community ties. Their tap list features a variety of styles, including Rainbow Connection, a hazy IPA with tropical fruit flavors; That Irish Goodbye, a dry stout with roasted malt notes; and Free State Pilsner, a crisp German-style lager. The brewery also offers unique options like Lechismo, a horchata-inspired ale with cinnamon and vanilla, and Chee Hoo, a fruited pale ale with pineapple and coconut flavors. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse beer selection, Saints Row Brewing has become a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

#16 – Waredaca Brewing Company

Waredaca Brewing Company in Laytonsville, Maryland, stands out for its commitment to farm-to-glass brewing. Their flagship Pale Ale, a 4.4% ABV session beer, offers a smooth, balanced taste with mildly spiced flavor and aroma from East Kent Goldings hops, complemented by bready, lightly caramel malt and a hint of fruitiness from London Ale yeast . Beecher IPA, another popular choice, is a 5.8% ABV American IPA brewed with estate-grown lemon verbena, providing a crisp and light body with enough hop flavor and bitterness to satisfy hop enthusiasts . Little Dam, a 5.8% ABV American Pale Wheat beer, incorporates honey from the farm’s own bees, adding a sweet yet balanced finish . Reveille, a 7.5% ABV coffee stout, combines roasted coffee and dark grains for a simple yet delicious brew . Baymore, an 8% ABV New England IPA, is designed to be over the top in hop flavor with citra and mosaic hops, and includes oats and wheat for a full mouthfeel . By sourcing ingredients from their own farm and local partners, Waredaca Brewing Company offers a unique and authentic craft beer experience.

#15 – Brookeville Beer Farm

Brookeville Beer Farm, located in Montgomery County, Maryland, is a farm brewery that blends agriculture and brewing to create a variety of craft beers. Their flagship, Interdependence IPA, is a 7% ABV Mosaic-hopped IPA known for its grapefruit characteristics and mild bitterness . Another popular choice is Hop Envy, an 8% ABV New England-style IPA with tropical fruit aromas and a soft finish . For those who prefer lighter options, Dewpoint Pale Ale offers a 5.25% ABV with bright citrus and pine notes . The brewery also features Happenchance Whitbier, a 5.25% ABV Belgian-style wheat beer brewed with clementine, coriander, and grains of paradise . Their McDonnell’s Pub Irish Stout, at 6.4% ABV, provides chocolate and caramel malt flavors with notes of dark chocolate and coffee . Brookeville Beer Farm’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and their diverse beer selection make it a notable destination for craft beer enthusiasts.

#14 – Ten Eyck Brewing Company

Ten Eyck Brewing Company in Queenstown, Maryland, is a standout in the state’s craft beer scene, known for its wide range of styles and creative brewing. Their Taildragger IPA, a hazy IPA with Citra and Mosaic hops, offers citrus and tropical notes with a smooth finish. The brewery also features Tmavé Pivo, a Czech-style dark lager with flavors of toffee and chocolate, which earned a bronze medal at the 2023 World Beer Cup. For those who enjoy seasonal beers, Side Dish is an imperial brown ale brewed with local sweet potatoes and maple syrup, providing a unique twist. Ten Eyck’s PIE. series includes fruited sours like “PIE. Mamacita” and “PIE. Sugar Plum”, offering sweet and tart flavors. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Ten Eyck Brewing Company continues to be a favorite among Maryland beer enthusiasts.

#13 – Checkerspot Brewing Company

Checkerspot Brewing Company in Baltimore, Maryland, has made a name for itself with its small-batch, gluten-reduced beers that cater to a variety of tastes. Among their popular offerings is Juniperus IPA, a 7.4% ABV brew infused with juniper berries and Idaho7 & Mosaic hops, delivering a unique blend of pine and citrus flavors. Fancy Pants, a 7% ABV New England-style IPA, stands out with its juicy profile featuring notes of lychee, tangerine, and nectarine, thanks to the use of Citra, Cashmere, and Idaho 7 hops. For those seeking a lighter option, Hillbilly Gold is a crisp German-style pilsner that offers a clean finish. Bird Is the Word, a 5.5% ABV honey Kölsch, pays homage to Baltimore’s Orioles, brewed with local honey malt and honey from Charm City Meadworks. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Checkerspot Brewing Company continues to be a favorite among Maryland beer enthusiasts.

#12 – Idiom Brewing Co.

Idiom Brewing Co., located in Frederick, Maryland, has gained attention for its wide variety of beers that cater to different tastes. Their lineup includes Kindred Spirits, a New England IPA with tropical and berry flavors, and It’s the Berries, a fruited sour made with raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. Generational Gap, another New England IPA, offers notes of white wine, gooseberries, and peach. For those who prefer darker beers, Darkest Hour is a Schwarzbier with hints of chocolate and marshmallow, while In A Nutshell is a porter featuring chocolate malts and toasted coconut. Level Up, their hefeweizen, provides a balance of clove and banana flavors. Idiom Brewing Co. continues to be a popular spot for beer enthusiasts in Maryland.

#11 – Union Craft Brewing

Union Craft Brewing in Baltimore, Maryland, has been a key player in the state’s craft beer scene since its founding in 2011. Their flagship, Duckpin Pale Ale, is a 5.5% ABV American Pale Ale brewed with Cascade, Columbus, and Galaxy hops, offering citrus and tropical fruit aromas balanced by a solid malt backbone. Other notable beers include Divine IPA, a 6.5% ABV American IPA with Citra and Mosaic hops, and Skipjack Pilsner, a 5.1% ABV German-style lager featuring Mandarina Bavaria, Perle, and Zuper Saazer hops. Union Craft Brewing also produces Testudo Premium Lager, a 5% ABV German-style lager created in partnership with the University of Maryland Athletics, showcasing their commitment to community engagement . With a diverse lineup of beers and a focus on quality, Union Craft Brewing continues to be a favorite among Maryland beer enthusiasts.

#10 – Heavy Seas Beer

Heavy Seas Beer, based in Baltimore, Maryland, has been a cornerstone of the state’s craft beer scene since its founding in 1995. Their flagship brew, Loose Cannon IPA, is a 7.25% ABV American IPA known for its blend of Simcoe, Palisade, and Centennial hops, delivering a balance of grapefruit, pine, and floral notes. Building on this success, Heavy Seas offers a range of year-round beers, including TropiCannon, a 7.25% ABV citrus IPA with flavors of blood orange, grapefruit, mango, and lemon, and Double Cannon, a 9.5% ABV double IPA that intensifies the hop experience. Their Hazy Cannon adds a hazy twist to the lineup, catering to fans of New England-style IPAs. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Heavy Seas Beer continues to be a favorite among Maryland beer enthusiasts.

#9 – Crooked Crab Brewing Company

Crooked Crab Brewing Company in Odenton, Maryland, has quickly become a favorite among local beer enthusiasts for its creative brews and welcoming atmosphere. Founded by three Maryland natives, the brewery offers a diverse lineup of beers that cater to a wide range of tastes. Their flagship selections include Haze for Days, a 6.2% ABV hazy IPA with tropical fruit notes from Citra and Motueka hops; Crooked Cream Ale, a 5.4% ABV cream ale known for its light and refreshing profile; and High Joltage, a 5.9% ABV coffee stout featuring roasty and chocolate tones with hints of caramel. Other popular options are Chuck Brown Ale, a medium-bodied ale with flavors of fresh bread crust and caramel, and Furious George, a 5.6% ABV hefeweizen with banana and clove notes. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Crooked Crab Brewing Company continues to be a standout in Maryland’s craft beer scene.

#8 – Jailbreak Brewing Company

Jailbreak Brewing Company in Laurel, Maryland, has built a strong following with its wide range of approachable and creative beers. One of its most recognized brews is Feed The Monkey, a hefeweizen with notes of banana and clove balanced by light citrus. The Infinite, an easy-drinking amber ale, offers a smooth malt character with hints of caramel and a semi-dry finish. For those who enjoy hoppy beers, Big Punisher stands out as a bold double IPA, bringing strong citrus and tropical hop flavors over a slightly sweet malt base. Poor Righteous, their take on a West Coast IPA, leans into juicy hops with layers of lemon, lime, and subtle grass. Jailbreak’s lineup shows how they blend traditional styles with modern twists, making them a go-to spot for Maryland beer lovers. Their focus on quality and variety keeps locals and visitors coming back to see what’s on tap next.

#7 – Nepenthe Brewing Co.

Nepenthe Brewing Co. in Baltimore, Maryland, has carved out a niche with its creative and varied beer offerings. Their standout, Space Jellyfish, is a 7.1% ABV hazy IPA brewed with Galaxy, Motueka, and Simcoe hops, delivering flavors of tropical fruit, papaya, and kumquat with a soft finish . Another notable brew is Cryomancer, a 5.5% ABV West Coast IPA featuring Chinook, Cascade, Centennial, Citra, and Simcoe Cryo hops, offering notes of honeyed citrus and fresh pine . For those who enjoy a twist, Strange Beast is a 4.6% ABV rice lager infused with ginger peach green tea, providing a unique flavor profile.

#6 – Elder Pine Brewing & Blending Co.

Elder Pine Brewing & Blending Co. in Gaithersburg, Maryland, has earned a strong reputation for its thoughtful approach to brewing. Located on a former Christmas tree farm, the brewery blends traditional European techniques with modern creativity. Their lineup includes a variety of lagers, saisons, and barrel-aged beers. One standout is their Baltic porter, which offers rich, roasted flavors. They also produce a range of IPAs, including those brewed with Kveik yeast, known for its unique fermentation characteristics. Elder Pine’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their diverse offerings, making them a favorite among Maryland beer enthusiasts.

#5 – Black Flag Brewing Co.

Black Flag Brewing Co., located in Columbia, Maryland, is known for its creative and diverse range of beers. Their Flagship IPA, a 6.6% ABV American IPA, offers a balanced blend of citrus and pine flavors. For those who enjoy stouts, Glen Cocoa is a 6% ABV milk stout brewed with oats, milk sugar, and milk chocolate, providing a subtle chocolate flavor. Another popular stout is Brunch, a 7.9% ABV brew that combines roasted notes with a cold addition of Zeke’s coffee. On the lighter side, Z Morris is a 4.9% ABV blonde ale that’s easy to drink. Rainbow Road, a 5.5% ABV hazy pale ale, is packed with Simcoe and Galaxy hops, delivering a fruity profile.

#4 – Cushwa Brewing Company

Cushwa Brewing Company, located in Williamsport, Maryland, has earned a loyal following thanks to its bold, hop-forward beers and consistent creativity. Their hazy IPA, Cush, is a local favorite, brewed with Simcoe and Mosaic hops to give it a soft fruit aroma and mild bitterness, backed by a smooth malt base. Face Chop, a stronger double IPA, pushes the flavor even further with notes of pineapple and papaya that stand out without being too sweet. For something more mellow, Fog At Daybreak offers a well-balanced pale ale experience with tropical notes and a clean, dry finish. If you enjoy West Coast IPAs, Cali Cush delivers that classic crisp body, pine-heavy character, and firm, lingering bitterness. Cushwa doesn’t stick to just one style. They offer variety while keeping quality high. With a lineup that suits both new craft drinkers and long-time fans, they continue to be a standout name in Maryland’s brewery scene.

#3 – Burley Oak Brewing Company

Burley Oak Brewing Company in Berlin, Maryland, has made a name for itself by focusing on creative and flavorful craft beers. Since opening in 2011, it has become popular for its rotating selection of fruited sour beers, with unique flavors like mango apricot pineapple and watermelon that add a fresh twist to classic styles. Their Lost IPA, a hazy 7.2% ABV brew, is a favorite among hop lovers, while Sorry Chicky, a dry-hopped sour ale, offers a lighter, tangy option. Burley Oak also releases special batches through its J.R.E.A.M. series, showing a commitment to experimentation and quality. The brewery welcomes both serious beer fans and newcomers with a variety of options that suit different tastes. Known for balancing innovation with approachability, Burley Oak continues to be an important part of Maryland’s craft beer scene, drawing visitors and locals alike to enjoy their thoughtfully crafted beers.

#2 – Guinness Open Gate Brewery

Guinness Open Gate Brewery in Halethorpe, Maryland, is the only Guinness brewery in the United States and a key spot for beer lovers. Since opening in 2018, it has combined Irish brewing tradition with American craft beer creativity. Their Baltimore Blonde is a popular light ale made with Citra and Mosaic hops, offering a fresh and crisp taste. The brewery doesn’t stop there—they experiment with unique brews like Over the Moon Milk Stout, a sweet stout brewed with lactose, and Barrel-Aged Stock Ale, which blends imperial stout and barleywine aged in bourbon barrels. These creative choices help the brewery stand out while keeping true to quality. Whether you’re a longtime Guinness fan or new to craft beer, Guinness Open Gate offers a variety of drinks that appeal to many tastes, making it a favorite in Maryland’s beer scene.

#1 – Sapwood Cellars Brewery

Sapwood Cellars Brewery, located in Columbia, Maryland, is renowned for its innovative approach to brewing, blending hop-forward ales with barrel-aged mixed-fermented beers. Founded by brewing experts Michael Tonsmeire and Scott Janish in 2018, the brewery has quickly become a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts. Their flagship beer, Snip Snap, is a double IPA brewed with Citra and Galaxy hops, offering a burst of tropical fruit flavors and a smooth, creamy body. Another standout is Rings of Light, a double dry-hopped Citra pale ale known for its bright citrus and melon notes, providing a refreshing experience. For those seeking a richer profile, Pillowfort, an imperial double IPA dry-hopped with Citra and Azacca, delivers a creamy body with hints of grapefruit and stone fruit. Sapwood Cellars continues to push the boundaries of craft brewing, making it a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts in Maryland.

Maryland’s Beer Scene: History and What to Know

Maryland’s beer culture has deep roots, dating back to colonial times when English settlers brewed ales at home and in taverns. By the 1800s, Baltimore became a brewing hub thanks to German immigrants bringing lager traditions. Though Prohibition dealt a major blow, the industry slowly rebounded, and in the last two decades, it’s exploded with craft innovation.

Today, Maryland is home to over 100 breweries, ranging from farmhouse-style setups in the countryside to sleek taprooms in downtown Baltimore. The state’s beer laws have become more supportive of local production, helping independent brewers thrive. From hoppy IPAs and crisp pilsners to barrel-aged stouts and sour ales, Maryland breweries offer something for every palate.

Whether you’re chasing a limited release or just enjoying a flight in a cozy beer garden, Maryland’s beer scene is built on community, creativity, and tradition.

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FAQs About Maryland Beer

How many breweries are in Maryland?
As of 2025, Maryland has over 120 licensed breweries, and the number keeps growing.

What’s the oldest brewery in Maryland?
That would be National Brewing Company, known for Natty Boh. It was founded in the late 1800s. While the brand lives on, the craft beer resurgence really picked up in the 2000s with newer breweries.

Are Maryland breweries dog-friendly?
Many of them are, especially those with outdoor seating. Always check individual brewery policies before bringing your pup.

When is the best time to visit breweries in Maryland?
Spring and fall are great times to brewery-hop, especially with events like Maryland Craft Beer Festival in Frederick and local Oktoberfest celebrations across the state.