The Top 30 Breweries in Montana Ranked

Montana’s craft beer scene has grown into something locals take pride in. Across the state, from small towns to bigger cities, breweries are focusing on quality, character, and community. Whether you prefer something light and easy or bold and hoppy, there’s a wide range of styles being brewed with care. Many breweries take cues from the land around them, often using local grains, hops, or mountain water to bring out fresh, clean flavors.

This list highlights some of the best breweries in Montana based on reputation, consistency, and what regulars keep coming back for. These are spots that focus on what matters: solid beer and a good experience. You’ll find everything from classic favorites to creative seasonal brews, each with its own story and approach. If you’re looking for great beer made with purpose, this guide will give you a solid place to start.

#30 – Triple Dog Brewing Company

Triple Dog Brewing Company in Havre brings a strong sense of local pride to Montana’s Hi-Line. Opened in 2014, this small but well-loved brewery has become a community favorite thanks to its friendly taproom and approachable beer lineup. They keep about eight beers on tap, with standouts like Duck Face IPA and Fresno Wheat, both known for their easy-drinking style and local ties. The space is casual and family-friendly, offering a relaxed place to enjoy a pint whether you’re a local or just passing through. With its steady quality and strong community support, Triple Dog has built a solid name in northern Montana’s craft beer scene.

#29 – Glacier Brewing Company

Glacier Brewing Company in Polson has been part of Montana’s craft beer scene since 2002. Sitting near the southern edge of Flathead Lake, it serves as both a brewery and a welcoming local hangout. The brewery offers a mix of year-round and seasonal beers, along with house-made sodas and hard seltzers. Two of their most popular options are Port Polson Pilsner, a clean and crisp lager, and Golden Grizzly Ale, a smooth Kölsch-style beer that’s easy to enjoy. The taproom has indoor seating and a large outdoor beer garden that is pet-friendly and often features live music, yard games, and food trucks during warmer months. Glacier Brewing also distributes some of its canned beers across Montana, helping it reach a broader audience. With a steady local following and a laid-back space that invites visitors to stay awhile, this brewery continues to be a trusted name in the northwest part of the state.

#28 – 2 Basset Brewery

2 Basset Brewery in White Sulphur Springs has been serving up small-town charm and fresh beer since 2016. Known for its friendly vibe and ties to the local community, the brewery features a relaxed taproom filled with small touches like popcorn at the bar and photos of the two basset hounds that inspired the name. They usually keep 12 to 16 beers on tap, often using locally grown barley, wheat, and honey from nearby farms. Two of their most well-liked beers are Stanley Stout, which has smooth chocolate and coffee notes, and Breaking Basset Farmhouse Ale, a lighter option with a dry finish and mild spice. The space draws in both locals and visitors, many of whom stop in after a day on the Smith River or at Showdown Ski Area. With a focus on Montana ingredients and a laid-back atmosphere, 2 Basset Brewery has earned its spot in the state’s craft beer lineup.

#27 – Ten Mile Creek Brewery

Ten Mile Creek Brewery in Helena has been a steady presence in the city’s downtown since 2015. Located right on Last Chance Gulch, this brewery stands out for using clean mountain water from Ten Mile Creek and Montana-grown barley in many of its beers. Their tap list changes regularly, but two of their most popular choices are Tree Knocker IPA, a bold and hoppy favorite, and You Got My Goat Oatmeal Stout, known for its smooth, roasted flavor. The taproom has a casual feel, often hosting live music, local events, and even yoga sessions that end with a pint. Ten Mile Creek is also active in the community, regularly teaming up with nonprofits and small businesses to support local causes. With its central location, relaxed vibe, and commitment to fresh ingredients, this brewery has become a popular gathering spot for both Helena locals and visitors.

#26 – Katabatic Brewing Company

Katabatic Brewing Company in Livingston has been serving the community since 2014 with a focus on quality and local flavor. Named after the strong local winds, the brewery aims to reflect the spirit of Montana through its beer and laid-back taproom. They keep four core beers on tap year-round, including an American Pale Ale, Hefeweizen, Scotch Ale, and IPA, along with rotating seasonal brews. Two of their most popular offerings are the Katabatic IPA, known for its balanced bitterness and citrus notes, and Tippy Truck Blonde, a honey ale that’s lightly sweet with a clean finish. All of their beers are vegan friendly, brewed without any animal-derived ingredients. With its strong local ties and consistent quality, Katabatic has become a trusted stop for beer lovers in southwest Montana.

#25 – Blacksmith Brewing Company

Blacksmith Brewing Company in Stevensville has been a community staple since 2008. Housed in a historic brick building that once was a blacksmith shop, it now welcomes locals and visitors to its cozy taproom and taphouse. Their core lineup includes Brickhouse Blonde, a light wheat beer with a smooth malt body, and Cutthroat IPA, their flagship brew that balances pine and citrus notes using Cascade, Mosaic, Citra, and Cashmere hops. The taproom also features Twisted Paddle Pale Ale and Montana Amber, both brewed on-site with Montana-grown ingredients. The brewery even offers house-made sodas and hop water alongside their beer. With its focus on local ingredients, comfortable setting, and steady quality, Blacksmith Brewing has earned a lasting place in the Bitterroot Valley’s craft beer scene.

#24 – Bitter Root Brewing

Bitter Root Brewing in Hamilton has been a steady presence in Montana since opening its doors in 1998. It ranks among the state’s longest-running craft breweries and has grown a loyal following thanks to its warm, family-friendly atmosphere. The brewery keeps around 11 core beers on tap at all times, rotating through nearly 40 styles each year. Two crowd favorites are Bitter Root IPA, known for its balanced hop character, and Sawtooth Ridge Golden Ale, a crisp wheat-forward brew that’s popular on warm days. The spacious taproom often features live music on Thursday and Saturday evenings, and activities like yoga and mug‑club nights add to the sense of community.

#23 – Canyon Creek Brewing Company

Canyon Creek Brewing Company in Billings opened in 2013 and has grown into a favorite spot for craft beer lovers in the area. As the first brewery in the city built from the ground up, it offers a spacious and welcoming setting with two bars, two patios, and an outdoor fireplace that makes it easy to relax with friends. The tap list usually features around a dozen core beers along with seasonal selections. Two local favorites include the Min Pin Pilsner, a crisp and refreshing German-style lager, and their Cream Ale, known for its light body and smooth finish. With a casual vibe, consistent beer, and strong community support, Canyon Creek has become a reliable part of the Billings craft beer scene.

#22 – Bonsai Brewing Project

Bonsai Brewing Project in Whitefish opened in 2014 and has built a reputation for creative, small-batch beers and a welcoming public house vibe. Their lineup features around ten taps at any given time, mixing styles like bold IPAs, barrel-aged sours, and rich porters. Two standout drinks are Due North IRA, a crisp India red ale with balanced hop flavors, and Lil Blond Honey, a light blonde ale brewed with local honey that offers a touch of sweetness. The spacious beer garden draws visitors under shady trees and often hosts live music and community events, making it a favorite spot after a day at Glacier National Park. With a casual atmosphere that welcomes families and dogs, and an evolving beer list that rewards repeat visits, Bonsai feels like a laid-back home base for craft beer fans exploring northwest Montana.

#21 – Tamarack Brewing Company

Tamarack Brewing Company opened in Lakeside in 2007 and later expanded to Missoula in 2011, offering two welcoming spaces to enjoy craft beer in western Montana. Known for a casual, family-friendly atmosphere, both locations serve a full lineup of house-made beers along with seasonal options and their own root beer. Two of their most popular beers are Hat Trick Hop IPA, which delivers a balanced hop profile with a clean finish, and Wakeboard Wit, a wheat ale with light citrus notes that’s easy to drink. The Lakeside brewpub sits near Flathead Lake and often features live music, trivia nights, and outdoor seating with scenic views. The Missoula location overlooks Caras Park and has a two-level taproom with a more sports bar-style setup, offering game-day specials and a weekend Bloody Mary bar.

#20 – Smelter City Brewing

Smelter City Brewing in Anaconda has been serving the community since 2017 from its location in the historic Electric Light Building. The brewery features a rotating lineup of craft beers, with around a dozen taps available at a time. Two of their most popular choices are Anode Amber Ale, which offers smooth malt character with light caramel notes, and Curious Cloud #1 IPA, a well-balanced brew with hints of pine and citrus. The taproom blends classic materials like brick and wood, giving it a warm and historic feel. A dog-friendly outdoor patio adds to its relaxed atmosphere, and occasional food trucks help round out the experience. The space is casual and inviting, often drawing both locals and visitors for its friendly service and approachable beer. Smelter City Brewing has grown into a reliable stop for those looking for good beer and a welcoming place to enjoy it in southwest Montana.

#19 – Angry Hank’s Microbrewery

Angry Hank’s Microbrewery has been part of the Billings beer scene since 2006 and is known for its straightforward approach to craft brewing. Located in a converted gas station, the brewery uses Yellowstone River water, barley from Great Falls, and hops from the Yakima Valley to create beers with a fresh and regional flavor. Two of their most popular offerings are Street Fight Irish Red Ale, which has a smooth caramel body with mild sweetness, and Head Trauma Pale Ale, a bold copper-colored ale with a strong hop profile and dry finish. The taproom has a laid-back, no-frills vibe that draws both regulars and travelers. It’s the kind of place where locals gather after work and visitors feel welcome. With a focus on consistent quality, local ingredients, and a relaxed setting, Angry Hank’s continues to be a reliable stop for craft beer in Montana’s largest city.

#18 – Flathead Lake Brewing Company

Flathead Lake Brewing Company, founded in 2004, has grown into a favorite in the Flathead Valley with locations in Bigfork and Woods Bay. The brewery is known for using Montana-grown ingredients and taking a sustainable approach to brewing. Their lineup includes a mix of flagship and seasonal beers, with about 16 taps available at the Bigfork location. Two standout beers are Centennial IPA, brewed with Centennial hops and known for its piney, citrus notes, and Dock Start Amber, a malt-forward ale with a smooth caramel flavor. The taproom offers scenic views of Flathead Lake and a relaxed setting that draws both locals and visitors. Guests often mention the friendly staff, rotating beer options, and the laid-back environment. With its strong ties to the region and focus on quality, Flathead Lake Brewing continues to be a go-to destination for craft beer in northwest Montana.

#17 – Harvest Moon Brewing Company

Harvest Moon Brewing Company in Belt has been brewing since 1997 and remains a trusted name in Montana’s small-town beer scene. Located southeast of Great Falls, the brewery uses water from the Madison aquifer, along with barley and wheat grown just a few miles away, giving its beers a strong local connection. Two of its most popular options are Beltian White Ale, a Belgian-style wheat beer brewed with Saaz hops, coriander, and orange peel, and Pigs Ass Porter, a smooth, dark ale with roasted malt and chocolate notes. The taproom offers a quiet, laid-back space where visitors can enjoy a pint and learn more about the brewery’s commitment to using Montana ingredients.

#16 – Beaver Creek Brewery

Beaver Creek Brewery in Wibaux has been serving eastern Montana since 2008 and is often called a “beer oasis” for travelers along the I-94 corridor. The brewery offers a solid lineup of six staple beers, with seasonal additions rotating throughout the year. Two of their most popular options are Redheaded IPA, a hoppy brew with a malty backbone, and Paddlefish Stout, a dark, full-bodied stout brewed with fresh espresso and often paired with a chocolate chip cookie. Other house beers include Rusty Beaver Wheat Ale and O’Connor’s Irish Cream Ale, both made with locally sourced ingredients when available. The taproom has a laid-back, smoke-free atmosphere, with popcorn and root beer floats available for guests. It’s also home to a connected venue called The Historic Gem, which hosts live music and events. With friendly service and a reputation for approachable beer, Beaver Creek Brewery continues to be a reliable stop in eastern Montana.

#15 – Sacred Waters Brewing Company

Sacred Waters Brewing Company in Kalispell has been part of Montana’s growing craft beer scene since opening in 2020. The brewery focuses on quality and creativity, offering around a dozen rotating taps that feature both traditional and experimental styles. Two standout options include Snow Dust Rice Lager, a crisp and light brew made with jasmine rice and Flathead-grown Hallertau Mittelfrüh hops, and Wildfire Moon, a pale wheat ale conditioned with blood orange puree that adds a subtle citrus note. With a focus on local sourcing, friendly service, and a well-balanced beer list, Sacred Waters Brewing Company has quickly built a name for itself in northwest Montana.

#14 – MAP Brewing Company

MAP Brewing Company in Bozeman has been a local favorite since opening in 2015, offering a welcoming space with scenic views of the Bridger Mountains and Glen Lake. The brewery focuses on brewing with quality ingredients and creating a laid-back atmosphere that appeals to both locals and visitors. Two of their most popular beers are Midas Crush, a West Coast-style IPA with bright citrus and tangerine notes, and Party!, a clean Mexican-style lager with a dry finish and slight corn sweetness. The taproom features indoor seating and a large patio, and it regularly hosts live music and community events. Guests often stop by after a hike, bike ride, or ski day, making it a popular year-round hangout. With consistent beer quality, great views, and friendly service, MAP Brewing Company has become a go-to stop for craft beer in southwest Montana.

#13 – Bridger Brewing

Bridger Brewing Company in Bozeman opened in 2013 and has become a central stop for craft beer fans in southwest Montana. Located at the base of the Bridger Mountains and now with a second site in Three Forks, the brewery blends a laid-back atmosphere with a rotating lineup of house-made beers. Two popular picks are Premo Pilsner, a clean and crisp German-style lager with floral hop notes, and Shoot-Out Stout, a nitro stout with rich coffee and cocoa flavors that finishes smooth. Guests enjoy the friendly service, local ingredients, and regular events that bring people together. Bridger Brewing has earned its place as a go-to craft beer destination in the Bozeman area.

#12 – Bayern Brewing, Inc.

Bayern Brewing, Inc. in Missoula is the oldest operating brewery in Montana, established in 1987. It follows traditional Bavarian brewing practices and is known for producing beer in line with the German Purity Law of 1516, using only water, barley, hops, and yeast. The brewery handles all stages of production in-house, from brewing to bottling. Two of its most popular beers are Bayern Amber, a Marzen-style lager with a smooth malt body and toasted character, and Montana Original Lager, a golden Helles-style beer with a clean finish and light hop flavor from Hallertauer and Tettnang hops. The taproom offers a relaxed setting, and there’s a German-style bistro upstairs serving food made from local ingredients.

#11 – Meadowlark Brewing Company

Meadowlark Brewing Company started in Sidney in 2014 and expanded to Billings in August 2022, bringing its Montana-inspired beer further into the state. Both locations focus on using local grains and clean Montana water in their recipes. Two popular choices are Harvester Cream Ale, a smooth ale with mild malt sweetness, and Happy Camper IPA, a citrus and pine-forward IPA made in partnership with KOA campgrounds. The Sidney taproom has a family-friendly vibe and hosts various community events, while the Billings location offers a spacious taproom with 28 taps, a kitchen, and a small-batch distillery on site. With its commitment to approachable, locally sourced brews and a growing presence in eastern Montana, Meadowlark Brewing has become a trusted stop for locals and visitors alike.

#10 – Red Lodge Ales Brewing Company

Red Lodge Ales Brewing Company in Red Lodge has been a cornerstone of Montana’s craft beer world since opening in 1998. The brewery uses local soft water, Montana-grown barley, and American Cascade hops to create clean, regionally rooted flavors. Two of their most popular beers are Bent Nail IPA, known for bright grapefruit and citrus notes, and Czechmate Pilsner, a straw-gold, Czech-style beer with a biscuit malt character and crisp finish. The taproom includes both indoor seating and a relaxed outdoor patio, along with Sam’s Tap Room & Kitchen offering simple dishes that pair well with their beers. With its solid mix of lagers and IPAs, welcoming atmosphere, and focus on local ingredients, Red Lodge Ales offers a reliable and friendly stop for anyone exploring southern Montana’s craft beer scene.

#9 – Bozeman Brewing Company

Bozeman Brewing Company, known as “The Bozone,” has been a staple of southwest Montana’s craft beer scene since it opened in 2001. As the town’s oldest operating brewery, it has a cozy tasting room in a converted warehouse near the historic Brewery District. Two standout beers are Bozone Select Amber Ale, a smooth amber with balanced malt and a clean finish, and Hopzone IPA, a bold, hop-forward ale featuring Cascade, Columbus, and Centennial hops. The brewery also boasts Montana’s largest sour barrel program, offering rotating farmhouse styles and fruited sours. The space feels friendly and unpretentious, with non‑alcoholic drinks, popcorn on tap, and a regular lineup of seasonal beers.

#8 – Blackfoot River Brewing Company

Blackfoot River Brewing Company in Helena has been part of Montana’s craft beer scene since 1998 and is well known for its focus on traditional brewing methods and local ingredients. The brewery uses water from the nearby Missouri River watershed along with Montana-grown barley and American hops to create balanced and flavorful beers. Two of their most popular offerings are Single Malt IPA, made entirely with Maris Otter malt and Northwest hops, and Blackfoot Cream Ale, a smooth, gluten-reduced beer with a crisp finish. Blackfoot also offers cask-conditioned ales served from a traditional beer engine, which adds to the experience for those looking for something different. With its long-standing presence, commitment to quality, and community support, Blackfoot River Brewing remains a favorite stop in Helena.

#7 – Draught Works Brewery

Draught Works Brewery in Missoula opened in 2011 and has since grown into a lively gathering spot with a family-friendly taproom and a large wrap-around patio. They typically have around 19 house-made beers on tap plus options like wine, hard seltzer, cider, kombucha, and root beer. Two standout beers include Scepter IPA, a bold, hop-forward brew with tropical fruit and citrus flavors, and Blood Orange Gose, a tart and refreshing sour featuring sea salt and coriander. The brewery pulls in a diverse crowd through weekly live music, trivia, and local art shows, often supporting community causes and local artists. With a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere and a strong mix of classic and experimental beers, Draught Works remains a top choice for craft beer fans in western Montana.

#6 – Imagine Nation Brewing Company

Imagine Nation Brewing Company in Missoula has been serving the community since 2015 and is known for combining quality beer with social impact. In 2025, the brewery moved into a larger production space near the airport, allowing for greater capacity and events. Two popular choices are Lupujus 5, a New England-style IPA with juicy tropical and citrus notes, and Dark Matter, an American stout featuring roasted coffee, cacao, and nut flavors. The taproom is a hub for live music, art events, workshops, and family-friendly gatherings, reflecting the brewery’s mission to create a welcoming and inclusive space.

#5 – Philipsburg Brewing Company

Philipsburg Brewing Company, founded in 2012 in a renovated 1888 bank building, has become a beloved spot in southwest Montana’s craft beer scene. The brewery uses Montana malt, local mountain spring water, and whole-cone hops to brew a clean, refreshing lineup. Two fan favorites are Haybag Hefeweizen, a smooth wheat beer with subtle yeast character, and Mountain Air West Coast IPA, a crisp, hop-forward ale with tropical and citrus notes. Visitors praise the relaxed vibe, live music on weekends, and thoughtful community focus. With its historic setting, Montana-sourced ingredients, and lively spaces, Philipsburg Brewing Company offers a genuine taste of small-town hospitality and quality brewing.

#4 – Lewis & Clark Brewing Company

Lewis & Clark Brewing Company in Helena began brewing in 2002 and has grown into one of Montana’s most recognized craft breweries. Known for using Montana-grown barley and pure local water, the brewery produces a wide range of beers that reflect the region’s style and taste. Two of their most popular offerings are Helena Haze IPA, a New England-style IPA with a soft body and juicy hop flavor, and Miner’s Gold Hefeweizen, a cloudy wheat ale with smooth citrus notes. The brewery is located in a renovated historic building and features a welcoming taproom with live music, local art, and plenty of space for events. In addition to its focus on brewing quality beer, Lewis & Clark supports sustainability by donating spent grain to local farms. With its strong community roots, variety of beer options, and laid-back atmosphere, Lewis & Clark Brewing Company remains a standout stop in Montana’s capital.

#3 – Mountains Walking Brewery

Mountains Walking Brewery in Bozeman opened in 2018 and has built a strong following by blending traditional brewing with creative techniques. The brewery often uses local ingredients and practices like open fermentation and wild yeasts to create beers that reflect the region’s environment. Two of their most popular beers are Grazing Clouds, a New England-style IPA brewed with Citra, Motueka, and Galaxy hops, and Double Grazing Clouds, a stronger version of the original that keeps the hazy texture and bold tropical flavors. The taproom features a cozy, wood-filled interior and a dog-friendly patio with mountain views, making it a relaxed spot for locals and travelers. With its focus on flavor, technique, and a sense of place, Mountains Walking Brewery has become one of Bozeman’s standout beer destinations.

#2 – KettleHouse Brewing Company

KettleHouse Brewing Company in Missoula opened in 1995 and helped shape Montana’s craft beer culture by becoming the first brewery in the state to can its beer and sell pints on-site. Known for using Montana-grown barley and fresh local water, the brewery offers a range of styles that reflect the region’s flavors. Two of their most well-known beers are Cold Smoke Scotch Ale, a smooth and dark ale with roasted malt and a hint of sweetness, and Double Haul IPA, a balanced, hop-forward beer brewed with Northwest hops and Montana malt. KettleHouse operates multiple locations, including a riverside taproom in Bonner that features the KettleHouse Amphitheater, a venue for outdoor concerts. With its long history, community-driven spaces, and consistent beer quality, KettleHouse remains one of the most recognized names in Montana brewing.

#1 – Big Sky Brewing Company

Big Sky Brewing Company in Missoula has been serving Montana since 1995 and is now the largest brewery in the state. Known for its wide distribution and consistent beer quality, Big Sky produces a lineup that appeals to a broad range of drinkers. Two of their most popular beers are Moose Drool Brown Ale, a smooth and malty ale with notes of cocoa and light coffee, and Ivan the Terrible Imperial Stout, a bold, dark beer with rich roasted flavors and hints of dried fruit. The brewery began bottling in 2003 after moving to a larger facility and now distributes across more than 20 states. Its Missoula location includes a spacious taproom and an outdoor amphitheater that hosts live music and events throughout the year. With a steady focus on quality, approachable beer styles, and community involvement, Big Sky Brewing continues to be one of the most recognized names in Montana’s craft beer industry.