The Top 30 Breweries in Michigan Ranked

Michigan has become one of the top states in the country for craft beer. With a mix of long-running breweries and smaller, up and coming spots, the state offers a wide range of places to enjoy a fresh, well-made beer. You’ll find breweries in just about every corner of Michigan, from busy cities like Grand Rapids and Detroit to quieter towns that have built tight knit brewing communities. No matter where you go, chances are there’s a local spot pouring something worth trying.

This article rounds up some of the best breweries in Michigan based on quality, consistency, and overall vibe. We’re not just listing the biggest names. We’re focusing on the ones that have built a strong reputation for doing things right. Whether you like something light and easy or prefer bold, complex flavors, there’s a good chance you’ll find a place here that fits your style. These breweries stand out for more than just what’s in the glass. They offer good service, a welcoming space, and a reason to come back.

#30 – Big Lake Brewing

Big Lake Brewing in Holland, Michigan, has made a name for itself with a strong lineup of hazy IPAs and a welcoming taproom atmosphere. Known for creative flavor combinations, their beers like Cotton Candy Haze, Mango Haze, and Blood Orange Haze have become local favorites. These brews often feature real fruit and are brewed with Citra and Mosaic hops, giving them a juicy, easy-drinking profile. The brewery also offers a variety of other options, including the Michigan Amber, a smooth amber ale made with Cascade, Centennial, and Chinook hops. Big Lake Brewing started as a small operation and has grown into a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The spacious taproom includes a large bar and outdoor seating, providing a comfortable place to enjoy their wide selection of beers. Whether you’re a fan of hazy IPAs or looking to try something new, Big Lake Brewing offers a range of options that showcase their commitment to quality and creativity.

#29 – Lake Superior Brewing Co.

Lake Superior Brewing Company, located in Grand Marais, Michigan, is a longstanding presence in the Upper Peninsula’s craft beer community. Established in 1995, it was among the first brewpubs in the region and continues to serve a variety of house-made beers. The brewery operates within the Dunes Saloon, a cozy venue featuring whiskey barrel tables, wood parquet ceilings, and knotty pine walls, creating a welcoming atmosphere for patrons. Their beer selection includes options like the Hematite Stout, Granite Brown, and Steelhead Red IPA, each brewed on-site with locally sourced hops . For those seeking non-alcoholic choices, the brewery also offers house-made root beer and cream soda . Situated near Grand Marais Harbor Beach, it’s a convenient stop for visitors exploring the area. The combination of handcrafted beers and a relaxed setting makes Lake Superior Brewing Company a notable destination for both locals and travelers.

#28 – Hop Lot Brewing Co.

Hop Lot Brewing Co. in Suttons Bay, Michigan, stands out for its inviting outdoor setting and diverse beer selection. The brewery’s expansive beer garden, surrounded by nature, offers a relaxed atmosphere for visitors. Among their popular beers are “Uncle Green Guy,” a session IPA with tropical and citrus notes, and “90 MPH Backwards,” a hazy IPA known for its balanced bitterness and stone fruit flavors. Other notable options include “Night Bite,” an IPA with dank, citrus, and pine characteristics, and “Not Soury ‘Bout That,” a kettle sour featuring mango and passion fruit flavors . Hop Lot’s commitment to quality and its unique setting make it a noteworthy destination for beer enthusiasts exploring Michigan’s craft beer scene.

#27 – Ferndale Project

Ferndale Project in Ferndale, Michigan, is known for its experimental brewing style and strong community focus. As part of Eastern Market Brewing Co., it offers hop-forward IPAs and creative fruited sours, with a unique A/B testing program that lets customers help shape new beers and food options. The taproom features a relaxed indoor space and a popular outdoor biergarten, making it a great place to enjoy fresh brews. Favorites like Solo Copper, a double New England IPA, and Love + Mercy, a hazy IPA, showcase their skill with hops. Beyond beer, Ferndale Project hosts events such as trivia nights and book clubs, turning it into a lively local spot. Whether you’re into craft beer or just looking for a welcoming place to meet friends, Ferndale Project combines quality drinks with a friendly atmosphere.

#26 – City Built Brewing Co.

City Built Brewing Co. in Grand Rapids, Michigan, offers a unique fusion of craft beer and cultural cuisine. Founded by Edwin Collazo, the brewery celebrates diversity through its beer styles and food offerings. Their beer selection includes the crisp Prague Underground Czech Pilsner, the hop-forward Mi Gente West Coast IPA, and the easy-drinking Alemañia Mexican Lager. The brewery’s food menu features Puerto Rican-inspired dishes, such as the popular Bori Balls!, which are rice croquettes filled with spiced ground beef and bacon, served with a creamy sofrito sauce. City Built Brewing Co. has become a staple in the Grand Rapids craft beer scene, known for its inclusive atmosphere and commitment to quality.

#25 – Barrel + Beam

Barrel + Beam in Marquette, Michigan, focuses on farmhouse ales, barrel-aged beers, ciders, and meads. They combine traditional brewing techniques with modern flavors to create unique drinks like Sahti, a rye and juniper ale, and Spooky Kriek, a tart cherry lambic-style beer. The brewery uses local Michigan ingredients, including fruits like cranberries, peaches, and blueberries, especially in their seasonal and limited releases. Their barrel-aging process helps develop deep, complex flavors that set their beers apart. The tasting room is located in a renovated 1930s log cabin, offering a cozy and rustic setting with an outdoor beer garden. While they don’t have a full kitchen, Barrel + Beam often hosts pop-up kitchens, including the Northwoods Test Kitchen, which features creative dishes made with local produce. Whether you’re experienced with craft beer or just starting out, Barrel + Beam delivers a distinct and welcoming experience in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

#24 – Old Nation Brewing Co.

Old Nation Brewing Co., located in Williamston, Michigan, is renowned for its innovative approach to brewing, particularly in hazy IPAs. Their flagship beer, M-43, is a New England IPA that has garnered widespread acclaim for its hop profile and smooth mouthfeel. Building on this success, Old Nation has expanded its lineup to include various iterations such as Boss Tweed, a double IPA with a robust citrus and tropical fruit character, and B-43, a brut IPA offering a crisp and dry finish. The brewery also experiments with adjuncts, producing flavored versions like Tart Strawberry M-43 and Orange Creamsicle M-43, which add unique twists to the original recipe. Beyond IPAs, Old Nation crafts a diverse range of styles, including the German-style pilsner Technische and the Mexican-style lager Tranquilas, showcasing their versatility and commitment to quality brewing.

#23 – Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales

Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, founded in 2004 by Ron Jeffries in Dexter, Michigan, is celebrated for pioneering wild, oak-aged brewing in the U.S. Utilizing traditional Belgian methods of open fermentation and barrel-aging, the brewery crafts beers with complex, earthy flavors derived from wild yeast and bacteria naturally present in the air and wood. Their year-round offerings include Oro de Calabaza, a strong golden ale, and La Roja, a Flanders-style red ale aged in bourbon barrels. Additionally, they produce non-sour beers like Brumo, a hazy IPA brewed with pineapple, and Blanca, a Belgian-style witbier. Jolly Pumpkin operates multiple locations across Michigan, including Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Traverse City, each offering a selection of their distinctive beers. The brewery’s commitment to traditional brewing techniques and innovative flavors has earned it recognition among craft beer enthusiasts.

#22 – Eastern Market Brewing Co.

Eastern Market Brewing Co. (EMBC) in Detroit, Michigan, is a community-focused brewery located in the heart of the historic Eastern Market district. Founded by three friends, EMBC blends tradition with innovation, offering a diverse range of beers that cater to various tastes. Their flagship New England IPA, Elephant Juice, is known for its bold hop profile and smooth mouthfeel. Other popular offerings include Jumbo Juice, a double IPA with tropical fruit notes, and Market Day, a session IPA that’s both refreshing and flavorful. In addition to their core lineup, EMBC frequently releases seasonal and experimental brews, such as the Pączki series, which draws inspiration from the traditional Polish pastry. The brewery’s taproom features a spacious indoor area and an inviting outdoor biergarten, providing a welcoming space for patrons to enjoy their beers. With a commitment to quality and community, EMBC continues to be a staple in Detroit’s craft beer scene.

#21 – Witch’s Hat Brewing Company

Witch’s Hat Brewing Company, established in 2011 in South Lyon, Michigan, is a microbrewery known for its commitment to quality, community, and sustainability. The brewery offers a diverse range of beers, including flagship options like Train Hopper, a hop-forward American IPA, and Defloured, a juicy New England-style IPA. They also produce unique seasonal and specialty beers such as Big Doedish, a double IPA, and Blueberry Lemonade Gose, a tart and fruity sour ale. Witch’s Hat emphasizes local ingredients and environmental responsibility, implementing composting programs to reduce waste. Their 38-seat pub provides a cozy atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their craft beers, and the brewery has contributed over $250,000 to local charities through events like “Fury for a Feast.” Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or a community supporter, Witch’s Hat Brewing Company offers a welcoming space to enjoy quality brews and connect with others.

#20 – Austin Brothers Beer Company

Austin Brothers Beer Company in Alpena, Michigan, is known for its strong presence in the state’s craft beer scene. This family-owned brewery offers a variety of beers made with local ingredients, focusing on quality and freshness. Popular choices include a hazy IPA brewed with Michigan-grown hops and a gluten-reduced apple ale that adds a unique twist to the lineup. The brewery takes pride in supporting local farms and using sustainable practices throughout production. Their commitment to community and innovation helps them stand out among Michigan breweries. With a welcoming taproom and a growing fan base, Austin Brothers Beer Company continues to be a popular spot for craft beer lovers looking for fresh, flavorful options.

#19 – Atwater Brewery

Atwater Brewery, established in 1997 in Detroit’s historic Rivertown district, is renowned for its commitment to brewing traditional German-style lagers and innovative ales. Housed in a 1919 factory warehouse, the brewery utilizes a Kasper Schultz brew house imported from Germany, ensuring authentic brewing techniques and flavors. Atwater’s beer selection includes classics like the Munich-style Helles Lager and the German-style Pilsner, both crafted with imported German malt and hops. The brewery also offers a variety of specialty ales, such as the Detroit Hustles Harder Imperial IPA and the Dirty Blonde American Pale Wheat Beer. Visitors can enjoy these offerings in Atwater’s cozy taproom or on its exclusive rooftop Biergarten. The brewery also provides private spaces and brewery tours by appointment, allowing guests to experience the brewing process firsthand. With a focus on quality and tradition, Atwater Brewery continues to be a staple in Detroit’s craft beer scene.

#18 – Keweenaw Brewing Company

Keweenaw Brewing Company (KBC), located in Houghton, Michigan, offers a diverse selection of craft beers that cater to a variety of palates. Their year-round offerings include the Widow Maker Black Ale, a light-bodied dark ale with malt flavors and a hint of smoky molasses; Pick Axe Blonde Ale, a refreshing single-malt blonde ale; and Red Ridge Citrus Ale, a blood orange-infused blonde ale with a subtle citrus finish. Seasonal selections such as Hefe Royale, a classic Hefeweizen with hints of clove and banana, and Wequetong Cherry Wheat, a cherry-infused wheat ale, provide unique flavors that celebrate the local ingredients of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. For those seeking a more robust experience, the Point Trail Rye IPA offers a spicy crispness, while the Borealis Broo blends amber ale with cold-brewed coffee for a rich, caramel malt flavor. Whether visiting their taproom or enjoying their beers elsewhere, KBC provides a taste of the Keweenaw Peninsula in every sip

#17 – Stormcloud Brewing Company

Stormcloud Brewing Company in Frankfort, Michigan, is known for its Belgian-inspired ales that stand out in the craft beer scene. Their Rainmaker Ale is a Belgian-style pale ale with balanced malt and hop flavors and a hint of spice from their house yeast. The Whiled Away IPA blends hops with cold fermentation, creating a unique taste that combines traditional IPA bitterness with Belgian yeast character. Birdwalker Blonde offers a lighter option with a smooth body and fruity notes typical of Belgian blondes. They also offer seasonal beers like Sunrunnr Ale, which has bright flavors of candied orange peel. Stormcloud’s focus on quality and creative brewing makes it a popular spot for those who appreciate complex, flavorful beers. Whether you prefer lighter blondes or hop-forward IPAs with a twist, Stormcloud Brewing Company provides a well-rounded lineup to enjoy.

#16 – Watermark Brewing Co.

Watermark Brewing Co., located in Stevensville, Michigan, is a popular destination for craft beer enthusiasts. The brewery offers a diverse selection of beers, including the King Prawn IPA, a New England-style IPA with a 7.3% ABV, and the Murky Depths, a hazy IPA with a 7.5% ABV. For those who prefer darker brews, the Pipestone Porter provides a traditional taste with a hint of smoked malt. Seasonal offerings like the Margarita Melon Heads, a tart gose, and the Bert’s Breakfast Stout, an imperial stout brewed with cacao, vanilla, and orange peel, showcase the brewery’s creativity and commitment to quality. Watermark Brewing Co. also hosts various events, including live music and themed days, enhancing the community experience. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Watermark Brewing Co. offers a welcoming atmosphere and a range of beers to suit every palate.

#15 – Griffin Claw Brewing Company

Griffin Claw Brewing Company, located in Birmingham and Rochester Hills, Michigan, offers a diverse selection of craft beers that cater to a variety of tastes. Their flagship beer, Norm’s Raggedy Ass IPA, is a well-balanced American IPA brewed with a blend of American hops, providing a classic hoppy profile. For those seeking a lighter option, Mr. Blue Sky is an American pale wheat ale brewed with grapefruit peel, offering a refreshing citrus flavor. El Rojo, an American amber ale, provides a malt-forward taste with caramel and roasted malt notes. Seasonal offerings like Screamin’ Pumpkin, an amber ale brewed with roasted pumpkin and spices, and 3 Scrooges, a winter warmer brewed with orange, honey, and clove, showcase the brewery’s creativity. In addition to their beer selection, Griffin Claw also produces spirits such as vodka, whiskey, and rum, expanding their offerings to cater to a wider audience.

#14 – Seedz Brewery

Seedz Brewery, located in Union Pier, Michigan, stands out for its commitment to traditional European brewing techniques and a focus on quality. Their mantra, “foam is sexy,” reflects their dedication to the art of pouring, ensuring each beer is served with a perfect head to enhance aroma and flavor. The brewery specializes in lagers and ales, using slow pour methods that result in a creamy, smooth texture. Notably, Seedz offers the unique Mliko pour, a glass of beer served with a thick foam head, providing a soft mouthfeel and a refreshing drinking experience. Their beer selection includes styles like Helles Lagers, Altbiers, Vienna Lagers, and Czech Pilsners, all brewed true to style with locally sourced ingredients. While they don’t offer flights due to the slow pour process, the attentive staff provides samples to help guests choose their preferred brew. For those seeking a relaxed atmosphere and expertly crafted beers, Seedz Brewery offers a distinctive experience in the Michigan craft beer scene.

#13 – Arvon Brewing Co.

Arvon Brewing Co., located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has made a name for itself with a diverse lineup of hazy IPAs and fruited sours. Their New England-style IPAs, such as Jurassic Haze, Voyager, and DeTour Reef, are known for their juicy hop profiles and smooth mouthfeel. The brewery also offers a variety of fruited sours, including Grandma’s Sour House, Catching Rays, and Fruit Puff, which are packed with fruit flavors and creamy textures. In addition to these, Arvon produces imperial stouts like The Murder, a blend of their favorite barrel-aged beers, and Rye Reaper: Oreo, a rye imperial stout brewed with Oreos. Their innovative approach to brewing and commitment to quality have earned them a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of hop-forward IPAs, fruity sours, or rich stouts, Arvon Brewing Co. offers a selection that caters to a variety of palates.

#12 – The Mitten Brewing Company

The Mitten Brewing Company, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, offers a diverse selection of craft beers that cater to a variety of tastes. Their lineup includes the Peanuts and Crackerjack porter, brewed with real roasted peanuts and peanut butter, providing a rich and nutty flavor profile. For those seeking a lighter option, the Mango Gold fruit beer is a kettle-soured wheat ale made with real mango, offering a tart and refreshing tropical taste. The Fogout New England IPA is a hazy brew dry-hopped with Citra, Mosaic, and Huell Melon hops, delivering juicy tropical fruit aromatics and flavors. Additionally, the Dock’s No-No double IPA features erratic hop flavors and aromas that are out of this world. For fans of darker beers, the Black Betsy coffee stout offers a rich, roasted flavor complemented by a smooth mouthfeel. The Mitten Brewing Company also offers a variety of seasonal and rotating beers, ensuring there’s always something new to try. Their commitment to quality and innovation makes them a standout in Michigan’s craft beer scene.

#11 – Right Brain Brewery

Right Brain Brewery, located in Traverse City, Michigan, is celebrated for its inventive approach to brewing. With over 30 beers on tap, the brewery offers a diverse range of styles, from traditional pale ales and IPAs to creative drink like the Thai Peanut Brown Ale, brewed with real peanut butter, coconut oil, and Thai chili peppers. Their commitment to using whole, natural ingredients ensures that each beer delivers a unique and authentic flavor experience. Notable offerings include the CEO Stout, an American stout brewed with locally roasted espresso beans, and the Northern Hawk Owl, a red ale featuring caramel and toffee notes. In addition to their extensive beer selection, Right Brain Brewery also serves hard seltzers, ciders, and meads, catering to a variety of preferences. The brewery’s inviting atmosphere, complete with board games and a nice community, makes it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

#10 – Wax Wings Brewing Company

Wax Wings Brewing Company, situated in Kalamazoo, Michigan, is a standout in the local craft beer scene, known for its innovative and diverse beer offerings. Their lineup includes a range of styles, from hazy IPAs to fruited sours, each crafted with a focus on bold flavors and quality ingredients. Flagship beers like Pulled Into Nazareth, a 7.2% ABV American IPA, showcase juicy, citrus-forward profiles that appeal to IPA enthusiasts. For those seeking a more adventurous taste, the Condor Valley series offers a variety of fruited sours, such as Stuffed French Toast, Royal Jelly, and Crisp, each infused with unique combinations of fruits, spices, and lactose to create creamy, dessert-like experiences. The brewery also produces high-ABV stouts like Up In the Early, conditioned on chocolate, maple syrup, coffee, and hazelnut, delivering rich and warming flavors. Wax Wings Brewing Company continues to push the boundaries of craft brewing, offering a dynamic selection that caters to a wide range of palates.

#9 – Speciation Artisan Ales

Speciation Artisan Ales, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is renowned for its innovative approach to brewing, blending wild and lab-cultured microbes to craft unique beers that reflect nature’s creativity and diversity. Their lineup includes a variety of styles, such as oak-aged sours, wild ales, and saisons, often featuring local ingredients and experimental flavors. Flagship offerings like Incipient, a foeder-aged sour golden ale, and Genetic Drift, a rustic IPA, showcase their commitment to quality and experimentation. The brewery also offers a selection of fruited sours, barrel-aged beers, and collaborations, providing a diverse tasting experience for visitors. Speciation’s taproom, housed in a 100+ year-old auto shop, offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, complete with events like trivia nights and live music, making it a popular destination for craft beer enthusiasts.

#8 – HOMES Brewery

HOMES Brewery in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a standout in the craft beer scene, known for its innovative brews and inviting atmosphere. The brewery offers a diverse selection of beers, including the flagship Same Same Different, a New England-style IPA brewed with Simcoe, Citra, and Mosaic hops, delivering bright citrus and tropical fruit flavors. Other notable offerings include Intersect, an American IPA with notes of grapefruit and tangerine, and King Cold Brew, an imperial cream ale infused with cold brew coffee, providing a rich and smooth taste. For those seeking a refreshing lager, Mojar, a Mexican lager brewed with maize and blended with lime and yuzu, offers a crisp and light profile. The brewery also features a variety of fruited sours, such as Big Sherb, a raspberry-lime sour, and Metaform, a passionfruit-infused IPA sour, catering to a range of palates. HOMES Brewery’s commitment to quality and creativity makes it a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts in the Ann Arbor area.

#7 – Odd Side Ales

Odd Side Ales, based in Grand Haven, Michigan, is a brewery known for its bold and innovative craft beers. Their lineup includes a variety of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, catering to a wide range of palates. Flagship beers like Bean Flicker, a light coffee-infused blonde ale, and Citra Pale Ale, brewed exclusively with Citra hops, showcase their commitment to quality and creativity. For those seeking a more adventurous taste, the Mayan Mocha Stout blends Dutch chocolate coffee, cinnamon, nutmeg, and habaneros, offering a unique flavor profile. In addition to these, Odd Side Ales produces a variety of barrel-aged beers, such as the Hazel’s Nuts imperial stout aged in bourbon barrels, providing rich flavors of vanilla, oak, whiskey, chocolate, and espresso. The brewery also offers a selection of fruited sours, including the Strawberry Daiquiri Dank Juice, a juicy IPA with strawberry and lime, and the Pineapple IPA, delivering a tropical twist. With a diverse and ever-evolving beer selection, Odd Side Ales continues to be a standout in Michigan’s craft beer scene.

#6 – Brewery Vivant

Brewery Vivant, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is known for its Belgian-inspired ales and commitment to sustainability. Their flagship beer, Farm Hand, is a 5.5% ABV farmhouse ale that’s light-bodied and mildly sweet, offering a rustic tartness that’s approachable for many palates. Another standout is Big Red Coq, a hoppy red ale with a bold flavor profile. For those interested in seasonal offerings, Ski Patrol is a Belgian-style witbier available in winter, providing a refreshing option during colder months. The brewery also produces Wizard Burial Ground, a bourbon barrel-aged quadrupel with rich, complex flavors. Beyond their beer selection, Brewery Vivant operates in a refurbished funeral chapel, creating a unique atmosphere that blends history with modern brewing. Their dedication to quality and community engagement makes them a notable destination in Michigan’s craft beer scene.

#5 – Short’s Brewing Company

Short’s Brewing Company, based in Bellaire, Michigan, is known for its creative and diverse beer selection. Their lineup includes Huma Lupa Licious, a 7.7% ABV IPA with a strong hop profile, and Soft Parade, a 7.5% ABV fruit ale brewed with strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. For those seeking a lighter option, Local’s Light is a 5.2% ABV American lager that’s crisp and easy to drink. Bellaire Brown, a 7% ABV brown ale, offers flavors of chocolate, toasted malt, caramel, and coffee. The brewery also produces Space Rock, a 5% ABV gluten-reduced pale ale with floral and citrus notes. Short’s Brewing Company continues to push the boundaries of craft brewing, offering a dynamic selection that caters to a wide range of palates.

#4 – Blackrocks Brewery

Blackrocks Brewery in Marquette, Michigan, stands out in the state’s craft beer scene with its approachable and well-crafted lineup. Their flagship 51K IPA, a 7% ABV American IPA, offers a balanced blend of earthy grapefruit, apricot, and piney hop flavors, making it a favorite among hop enthusiasts. For those seeking a lighter option, Grand Rabbits Cream Ale at 5.5% ABV provides a refreshing, dry-hopped experience, ideal for various occasions. Mykiss IPA, another staple at 7.5% ABV, delivers a punchy hop profile with Citra, Simcoe, and Mosaic hops. Seasonal offerings like Honey Lav, a 5.2% ABV wheat ale brewed with Michigan honey and lavender, showcase the brewery’s commitment to local ingredients. Limited releases such as Razzle Rabbits, a raspberry cream ale, and Six Sprocket, a black ale, add variety to their menu. With a cozy taproom and a diverse beer selection, Blackrocks Brewery continues to be a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts in Michigan.

#3 – New Holland Brewing Company

New Holland Brewing Company, based in Holland, Michigan, is a prominent figure in the state’s craft beer scene, known for its diverse and innovative offerings. Their flagship Dragon’s Milk Bourbon Barrel-Aged Stout, with an 11% ABV, features rich notes of roasted malt, coffee, chocolate, vanilla, and oak, resulting from a three-month aging process in bourbon barrels. For those seeking a lighter option, Dragon’s Milk White, a 6% ABV white stout, offers a unique twist with its golden color and familiar stout flavors. Another standout is the Tangerine Space Machine, a 6.8% ABV hazy IPA that combines tangerine with tropical fruit notes from Galaxy and Citra hops, providing a refreshing experience for both seasoned and new craft beer enthusiasts. The Poet, a 5.8% ABV oatmeal stout, delivers a creamy mouthfeel with rich, roasty malt character. Seasonal offerings like Ichabod, a 4.5% ABV pumpkin ale with cinnamon and nutmeg, and Cabin Fever, a 6.5% ABV brown ale with rye, roast, and raisin notes, showcase the brewery’s commitment to variety and quality. With a wide range of beers and a dedication to craftsmanship, New Holland Brewing Company continues to be a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts.

#2 – Founders Brewing Co.

Founders Brewing Co. in Grand Rapids has built a strong reputation for producing bold, high-quality beers that appeal to a wide range of tastes. One of the most popular options is All Day IPA, a low-ABV session ale that’s crisp and balanced, making it easy to enjoy any time. For those who enjoy darker styles, Breakfast Stout offers rich flavors of chocolate and coffee with a smooth finish. The brewery also makes Centennial IPA, a hop-forward beer with a floral, citrusy profile. Dirty Bastard, a Scotch Ale, delivers layered malt notes with hints of smoke. Fans of barrel-aged beers often seek out KBS, a strong stout aged in bourbon barrels that brings out deep coffee and cocoa flavors. Founders keeps its lineup fresh with seasonal and limited releases while staying true to its core favorites, making it a regular stop for both locals and visitors in Michigan.

#1 – Bell’s Brewery

Bell’s Brewery, located in Kalamazoo, Michigan, is renowned for its diverse and high-quality beer offerings that cater to a wide range of palates. Their flagship beer, Two Hearted Ale, is a 7% ABV American IPA brewed exclusively with Centennial hops, delivering a balanced profile of pine and grapefruit aromas. This beer has consistently been recognized among the best in the United States. For those seeking a lighter option, Light Hearted IPA offers a 4% ABV with citrus and pine notes, keeping the character of its stronger counterpart. Oberon Ale, a seasonal wheat beer available from March through September, features a bright orange color and a citrusy, smooth taste, making it a summer favorite. Bell’s also offers a variety of other styles, including the rich and malty Amber Ale, the robust Kalamazoo Stout, and the hop-forward Hopslam Ale, a 10% ABV Double IPA. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Bell’s Brewery continues to be a staple in the craft beer community, offering something for every beer enthusiast.

Michigan Beer Scene: Big Lakes, Bold Beers, and Local Pride

Michigan has become a powerhouse in the craft beer world, with a reputation built on quality, variety, and passion. Brewing has long been part of the state’s identity—especially in cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids, which both had active beer cultures before Prohibition. But it’s the last 25 years that really put Michigan on the craft beer map.

With over 400 breweries, Michigan is one of the top beer-producing states in the country. The variety is huge: you’ll find Belgian-style ales, juicy IPAs, dark stouts, wild-fermented sours, crisp lagers, and everything in between. Grand Rapids earned the nickname “Beer City USA” for good reason, but towns like Kalamazoo, Ann Arbor, Traverse City, and Marquette are just as dedicated to good beer.

What sets Michigan apart is its focus on quality ingredients, small-town hospitality, and deep local pride. Many breweries use water from the Great Lakes region and partner with local farms and producers. Whether you’re visiting a lakeside taproom or grabbing a pint in a downtown beer hall, Michigan’s beer scene feels connected to the community.

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FAQs About Michigan Beer

How many breweries are in Michigan?
Michigan has more than 400 breweries and ranks consistently in the top five U.S. states for craft beer production.

What is Beer City USA?
That’s Grand Rapids, thanks to its dense cluster of breweries, beer bars, and beer-related events throughout the year.

Which Michigan brewery is the most well-known?
Bell’s Brewery in Kalamazoo is legendary, especially for Two Hearted Ale and Oberon. Founders Brewing in Grand Rapids is also nationally recognized.

Are there beer trails in Michigan?
Yes—there are several, including the Lake Michigan Shore Wine & Beer Trail, the Upper Peninsula Ale Trail, and the Grand Rapids Beer City Ale Trail.

Do Michigan breweries serve food or allow pets?
Many offer food or partner with food trucks. Outdoor patios often welcome dogs, but indoor policies vary by location.