The Top 30 Breweries in Nebraska Ranked

Nebraska’s craft beer scene has become one of the most talked about in the Midwest, offering a mix of small-town passion and big-city creativity. This article highlights the state’s top spots where quality and local pride come together. From Omaha and Lincoln to the quieter corners of the state, each brewery featured here stands out for its consistency, community focus, and care in every pour. It’s written for anyone who enjoys a laid-back atmosphere, friendly faces, and fresh local beer without any fluff or hype.

You’ll get a simple look at what makes each brewery worth a visit, including their general vibe and what regulars love most about them. The goal is to help you find reliable places to enjoy a cold pint, whether you’re planning a road trip or just exploring nearby. Nebraska may not always make national headlines for beer, but locals know its breweries are full of heart, flavor, and steady craftsmanship that keep people coming back.

#30 – Second Chapter Brewing

Second Chapter Brewing in Ogallala, Nebraska, is known for its friendly atmosphere and small-batch craft beer. It offers 15 rotating taps that keep regulars coming back to try something new. The brewery’s lineup includes easy-drinking favorites like Witty Librarian, a smooth Belgian-style Wit, and Trashy Romance, an apple cider seltzer that’s crisp and refreshing. Guests enjoy the relaxed setting with plenty of seating inside and out, along with events like trivia and music bingo that bring people together. Since it doesn’t have a full kitchen, local food trucks often stop by, or visitors bring their own meals to enjoy with a pint. The staff focuses on keeping the experience casual and welcoming, making it a go-to spot for both locals and travelers passing through.

#29 – Site-1 Brewing

Site-1 Brewing in Omaha, Nebraska, is a popular spot for craft beer fans who enjoy variety and creativity. The brewery usually offers around 16 taps, featuring both house-made beers and collaborations with other local brewers. Two drinks that often stand out are Leicht Speed Pilsner, a clean and crisp German-style lager, and Moonshot, a smooth coffee porter with roasted notes. Visitors appreciate that Site-1 also serves food, including Detroit-style pizza, which pairs well with its beer lineup. The space has a casual, welcoming vibe with a fun, space-themed design that makes it a great hangout for groups or solo guests. Staff members are known for being friendly and knowledgeable, helping visitors find the right brew for their taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick pint or a place to spend the evening, Site-1 Brewing delivers a comfortable and memorable experience.

#28 – Lost Way Brewery

Lost Way Brewery in Holdrege, Nebraska, is a well-loved local spot known for its friendly service and relaxed atmosphere. Two drinks that visitors often enjoy are Corn Husking Red, a red ale with a smooth caramel flavor, and Ye Olde Creamery, a milk stout inspired by the building’s original purpose. Guests appreciate the laid-back setting with plenty of space to sit, chat, and unwind. The brewery also serves pizza and hosts events which add to its welcoming feel. Many travelers stop in while passing through town, and locals see it as a steady hangout for good beer and conversation. With a balance of approachable flavors and small-town charm, Lost Way Brewery continues to be a popular part of Nebraska’s growing craft beer community.

#27 – Pals Brewing Company

Pals Brewing Company in North Platte, Nebraska, is well-known for its friendly vibe, craft beers, and tasty food. It sits just off I-80, making it a popular stop for both travelers and locals. They brew with a 10-barrel system and have a solid lineup of house beers, including offerings like the Jalapeño Cream Ale, which has become a crowd favorite, and Blueberry Lemon Poundcake, a fruit-wheat beer that’s lighter and fruit-forward. The space includes indoor seating plus a large outdoor beer garden area, picnic tables, yard games, and live music on weekends, which adds to the relaxed, communal feel. Because of its mix of creative brews, good food, kid and dog-friendly spaces, and live event options, people keep coming back.

#26 – Backswing Brewing Co.

Backswing Brewing Co. in Lincoln, Nebraska, with a second taproom in Omaha, is known for its approachable beer and welcoming atmosphere. The brewery focuses on balanced flavors that appeal to a wide range of drinkers. Two of their most popular beers are Backswing IPA, a smooth, hop-forward brew with light caramel notes, and Backswing Wheat, a crisp and easy-drinking option made with German wheat and American ale yeast. The taprooms are relaxed spots where guests can enjoy trivia nights, live sports, or casual get-togethers with friends. Locals appreciate the consistency and the staff’s friendly attitude, while travelers often mention it as one of the best stops for craft beer in Nebraska.

#25 – B5 Brewing

B5 Brewing in Omaha, Nebraska, is a family-owned brewery known for its friendly atmosphere and well-crafted beer. Two popular beers on tap are Raw Dog, a smooth lager-style beer with notes of chocolate and coffee, and Naked Waves, a wheat beer with a light citrus flavor. The brewery often hosts trivia nights and community events that bring locals together, adding to its comfortable, neighborhood feel. Guests also enjoy their Mug Club program, which offers perks like early access to new releases. Its location in Omaha’s Benson neighborhood makes it an easy stop for anyone exploring local shops or looking for a casual place to relax with a fresh pint.

#24 – Peg Leg Brewing Co.

Peg Leg Brewing Company in North Platte, Nebraska, is a go-to spot if you want craft beer made with care and a setting that feels just right. They keep a strong core lineup with styles that appeal to many drinkers. Two drinks people often talk about are Lincoln Lager, a clean and refreshing lager, and Irish Red, with a rich malt backbone and a smooth finish. The taproom has a friendly feel with staff who know their beer and enjoy helping folks pick what they might like. There’s an outdoor patio that’s dog-friendly when weather allows, along with pub snacks like Bavarian pretzels or pizza from nearby places for folks who want something to pair with their beer.

#23 – Thunderhead Brewing Company

Thunderhead Brewing Company in Kearney, Nebraska, is one of the state’s longest-running craft breweries and a favorite among locals. The brewery is known for its focus on wheat-style beers and consistent quality across its lineup. Two of its most recognized drinks are Golden Frau Honey Wheat, made with Nebraska Sand Hills honey for a smooth touch of sweetness, and Cornstalker Dark Wheat, a dark wheat ale brewed with local corn that has a balanced, roasted flavor. Guests appreciate the friendly staff and relaxed setting, whether they stop in for a pint or a meal. Thunderhead beers are also available in many bars and stores throughout Nebraska, which helps keep the brand connected to both locals and travelers looking for reliable, homegrown brews.

#22 – Benson Brewery

Benson Brewery in Omaha, Nebraska, is a neighborhood brewpub known for its inviting atmosphere, balanced beer lineup, and solid food choices. The brewery offers a mix of classic and creative styles, with two popular drinks being Blonde Bunny, a light and easy-drinking blonde ale, and Hazy Hare, a juicy New England IPA with a smooth finish. Seasonal brews like No Carrot All, a tart Berliner Weisse, and The Velveteen, a chocolate-forward milk stout, also draw attention from regulars. Guests appreciate the brick-walled interior, outdoor patio seating, and casual setting that fits both lunch and evening visits. The menu includes a variety of dishes that pair nicely with their beers, making it a comfortable stop for locals and visitors alike. Benson Brewery continues to stand out in Omaha’s growing craft beer scene for its consistency, friendly service, and community feel.

#21 – Upstream Brewing Company

Upstream Brewing Company in Omaha, Nebraska, is one of the city’s most established brewpubs, known for combining quality beer, good food, and a relaxed atmosphere. The brewery offers a wide range of house-made beers, with two favorites being Flagship IPA, a hop-forward American-style IPA, and Dundee Scotch Ale, a smooth, malt-rich beer with a deep flavor. They also serve O! Gold Lager, which is light and easy to drink, making it a great year-round option. Upstream keeps about fifteen beers on tap, including seasonal and cask-conditioned varieties that showcase local ingredients. The spacious taproom and patio make it a comfortable spot for casual dining or group gatherings. Consistent quality, friendly service, and a prime location in downtown Omaha have helped Upstream Brewing remain a reliable choice for craft beer lovers.

#20 – Jukes Ale Works

Jukes Ale Works in Elkhorn, Nebraska, offers a solid brewpub experience that many locals and visitors enjoy. They have 19 beers on tap, including seven core beers available all year plus seasonal and specialty varieties. Two drinks people often order are Merlin’s Cream Ale, a nod to community history, and Bad Seeds Gose, which blends sour and salty tones with fruit in some batches. The kitchen has a full menu with pub-style food that pairs well with the beer list, and there’s also a cocktail selection for those who want something different. Their rooftop patio gives a great view, and staff are known to be friendly and helpful.

#19 – Bottle Rocket Brewing Co.

Bottle Rocket Brewing Co. in Seward, Nebraska, is a community favorite known for its friendly atmosphere and balanced beer lineup. The brewery operates out of a restored historic mill, which gives the taproom a warm and comfortable feel. Two of its most popular drinks are Juicy Burst IPA, a hazy IPA with notes of peach, mango, and citrus, and Bottle Rocket Blonde, a crisp and easy-drinking blonde ale. The brewery runs a 15-barrel system that allows for a steady mix of flagship beers and seasonal releases. Guests appreciate the variety, from light lagers to darker stouts, along with rotating food trucks and local events that make it a fun gathering place. Bottle Rocket Brewing also distributes across Nebraska, helping its beers reach more craft drinkers throughout the state while keeping the small-town charm that defines the brand.

#18 – Kinkaider Brewing Co.

Kinkaider Brewing Co. in Broken Bow, Nebraska, is known for using local ingredients and Sandhills water to create distinct craft beers. Two of its most popular choices are Dan the Wiser, a smooth Kölsch-style beer, and Devil’s Gap Jalapeño Ale, which adds a mild pepper flavor without being too spicy. The brewery’s rustic setting and community-friendly atmosphere make it a favorite stop for locals and visitors. With additional taprooms in Lincoln and Omaha, Kinkaider has grown while keeping its Nebraska roots strong. The brewery often features limited releases inspired by local stories, adding personality to its lineup. Its mix of creativity, approachable flavors, and local pride continues to make Kinkaider one of the standout breweries in the state.

#17 – Lucky Bucket Brewing Company

Lucky Bucket Brewing Company in La Vista, Nebraska, is one of the state’s more established craft breweries, known for balancing flagships and experiments in its lineup. Two beers that regularly get praise are Pre-Prohibition Style Lager, which is easy to drink, clean, and malty, and Certified Evil Imperial Stout, which delivers bold roasted character. The tasting room is casual with a newly remodeled layout and plenty of seating. Lucky Bucket also offers Saturday tours, so guests can see the brewing and distilling process firsthand. Because it was founded in 2008, the brewery has had time to build a solid reputation across Nebraska for quality beers.

#16 – Heavy Brewing

Heavy Brewing in Gretna, Nebraska, has built a name for bold beers, fun vibes, and good pizza. They offer lots of rotating styles so regulars often have something new to try. Two drinks people often praise are Deez Nutz, a rich stout with chocolate and peanut butter notes, and You’re My Beer, Blue!, a fruity IPA with blueberry flavors and mild tartness. The taproom is roomy, feels casual, and includes games, TVs, and a family-friendly setting. The mix of quality brews, food, and community feel makes it a popular local spot for both casual drinkers and craft beer fans.

#15 – Vis Major Brewing Company

Vis Major Brewing Company in Omaha, Nebraska, is a neighborhood-focused craft brewery that’s known for being both creative and balanced in its beer offerings. Two of its more talked-about beers are If This Be Treason, a New England-style IPA hopped with Citra and Mosaic for tropical and citrus flavors, and The Guardian, a West Coast-style IPA made with Centennial hops for floral and crisp bitterness. Vis Major has a rotating selection that often includes sours, dark ales, and seasonal specialties, so there’s usually something new to try. The taproom is warm and inviting with a restored building setting that feels casual and comfortable. Friendly staff, consistent quality, and beers that hit different styles all help explain why visitors often make Vis Major a stop when they’re exploring Omaha’s beer scene.

#14 – Corn Coast Brewing

Corn Coast Brewing Company in Lincoln, Nebraska, is a small brewery known for its easy-drinking beers and creative approach to modern styles. Two local favorites are Citra Soaker IPA, a juicy beer that won a bronze medal at the Great American Beer Festival, and Juicy Mid-Tones, an IPA with balanced citrus and tropical hop flavors. The brewery keeps a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where customers can enjoy pints indoors or on the patio. They often host food trucks, creating a casual spot for friends to hang out. Corn Coast is also recognized for making approachable beers that appeal to both new craft drinkers and seasoned fans. Its steady growth and strong community ties have helped it stand out in Nebraska’s growing beer scene.

#13 – Scratchtown Brewing Company

Scratchtown Brewing Company in Ord, Nebraska, is one of the most respected small-town breweries in the state. Known for quality and consistency, it focuses on using simple ingredients like water from the Ogallala Aquifer to craft well-balanced beers. Two of its most talked-about offerings are Black Eye Imperial Porter, a bold beer with roasted malt flavors, and Lord of Ord, a rich stout that shows the brewery’s attention to detail. The taproom is welcoming and allows guests to bring in food from nearby spots, creating a relaxed, community-focused vibe. Set in the Nebraska Sandhills, Scratchtown has become a destination for both locals and travelers looking for great beer in a laid-back setting.

#12 – Code Beer Company

Code Beer Company in Lincoln, Nebraska, is known for its balanced lineup and laid-back atmosphere. The taproom, located in the Telegraph District, features a 15-barrel brewhouse and regularly offers around a dozen rotating beers. Two favorites among locals are Elmo IPA, a juicy, hop-forward beer with tropical fruit notes, and Munich Mindset Dunkel, a smooth, malty lager with roasted undertones. The space is simple, welcoming, and encourages guests to bring their own food when vendors are not available. Its mix of approachable styles, fresh flavors, and friendly service has made it a favorite stop for Lincoln beer fans.

#11 – Pint Nine Brewing Company

Pint Nine Brewing Company, with locations in Papillion and La Vista, Nebraska, is known for its creative beers and welcoming taprooms. Two popular drinks are OJ’s Bronco, a milkshake IPA with tropical fruit flavors of mango and orange, and Oso Cafe, a brown ale with coffee and hazelnut notes. The brewery also offers a variety of styles, including New England-style pale ales and Belgian-inspired beers, appealing to both casual drinkers and craft beer enthusiasts. Pint Nine focuses on quality brewing techniques, producing beers that are flavorful, balanced, and easy to enjoy. The taprooms are casual spaces where visitors can relax, sample a flight, or enjoy full pours. By combining inventive recipes with approachable flavors, Pint Nine Brewing Company has built a strong reputation in Nebraska’s craft beer scene.

#10 – Empyrean Brewing Company

Empyrean Brewing Company in Lincoln, Nebraska, is a landmark in Nebraska’s beer scene. Two of its most popular drinks are Long Route Peanut Butter Porter, a porter with chocolate and peanut butter flavors, and Dark Side Vanilla Porter, a beer with notes of coffee, cocoa, and vanilla. For hop lovers, options like Mind Over Mango IPA and Golden Cypher Hazy IPA provide tropical and juicy flavors. Empyrean also releases seasonal and limited-edition beers that showcase creativity and quality. The brewery’s taproom offers a welcoming environment where visitors can enjoy pints and learn about the brewing process. Empyrean beers are widely available across Nebraska, making it easy for locals and travelers to experience one of the most respected craft beer brands in the state.

#9 – Scriptown Brewing Company

Scriptown Brewing Company in Omaha’s Blackstone District is a microbrewery focused on traditional beer styles and quality local production. Two of its popular drinks are Yotus IPA, an American IPA with a crisp, dry hop flavor, and Nutjob Brown Ale, a malt-forward brown ale brewed with a blend of five barley malts. The taproom provides a welcoming space for visitors to enjoy pints, and the historic Kaufmann Room is available for private events like parties or business gatherings. Scriptown also hosts trivia nights and offers growler refills, making it a lively community spot. By combining classic brewing techniques with approachable flavors and local engagement, Scriptown Brewing Company has earned a reputation as a reliable stop for craft beer enthusiasts in Omaha.

#8 – Lumen Beer Co.

Lumen Beer Co., located in Omaha’s Little Bohemia neighborhood, is a craft brewery recognized for its creative and flavorful beers. The brewery offers a range of styles, including hazy IPAs, fruit-forward sours, and high-gravity beers. Two standout drinks are Rule of Thirds, a tart brew made with dragon fruit, prickly pear, and soursop, and Beer:30, a hop-forward IPA brewed with Galaxy, Mosaic, and Citra hops. The taproom is modern, welcoming, and ideal for enjoying a flight or a full pint with friends. Lumen Beer Co. also produces seasonal and experimental beers, giving visitors new flavors to try on each visit. With consistent quality, a friendly atmosphere, and creative brews, Lumen has quickly become a popular stop for craft beer enthusiasts exploring Omaha’s brewing scene.

#7 – Bearded Brewer Artisan Ales

Bearded Brewer Artisan Ales in Omaha, Nebraska, is a craft brewery known for its creative and flavorful beers. The brewery offers a range of styles including hazy IPAs, fruited sours, cream ales, and dark ales. Two popular drinks are The Satchel, a cream ale with peanut butter and marshmallow notes, and The Last Adventurous Ride, an imperial stout aged with toasted coconut, macadamia nuts, vanilla beans, cacao nibs, and coffee. The taproom provides a friendly, welcoming space where visitors can enjoy pints and sample seasonal or experimental brews. Bearded Brewer also hosts food trucks and community events, creating a fun and engaging environment that keeps guests coming back for new experiences.

#6 – Monolithic Brewing

Monolithic Brewing in Omaha, Nebraska, is a family-owned craft brewery known for its diverse beer offerings and welcoming atmosphere. A popular drink is Espresso Self, a German-style Kölsch brewed with Colombian coffee, vanilla, and hazelnut, offering a crisp and flavorful experience. The brewery’s rotating tap list includes New England IPAs, stouts, and shandys, providing options for a wide range of tastes. Guests can enjoy their drinks in a comfortable setting with both indoor and patio seating, often overlooking a scenic pond. Monolithic Brewing also operates a scratch kitchen serving light fare, enhancing the overall visit. With its focus on quality ingredients, approachable flavors, and a relaxed environment, the brewery has become a favorite spot for craft beer enthusiasts in Omaha.

#5 – Brickway Brewery & Distillery

Brickway Brewery & Distillery in Omaha, Nebraska, stands out as a place where craft beer and spirits come together. Their popular drinks include Omaha Stylee Juicy IPA, a bright and hoppy beer, and Epic Blackout Stout, a bold, full-bodied stout. Beyond beer, Brickway crafts award-winning whiskies, bourbons, rum, gin, and vodka, giving visitors plenty to explore. The brewery hosts tours and tastings, offering a closer look at both brewing and distilling, while The Borgata Lounge provides a cozy spot for private gatherings. Its combination of creative drinks, interactive experiences, and inviting atmosphere makes Brickway a must-visit spot for anyone looking to enjoy Omaha’s craft beverage scene.

#4 – White Elm Brewing Company

White Elm Brewing Company in Lincoln, Nebraska, is celebrated for its innovative approach to brewing, blending modern techniques with traditional styles. Their diverse beer offerings include the juicy and aromatic Skinny Legs IPA, crafted with a blend of Simcoe, Mosaic, Amarillo, and Citra hops, and the rich and creamy Fluffaluffagus, an imperial milk stout known for its dessert-like qualities. The brewery also produces a variety of other styles, such as saisons, lagers, and stouts, often with unique twists like fruit infusions or barrel aging. White Elm’s taproom provides a welcoming atmosphere for guests to enjoy their brews, and the brewery frequently hosts events like trivia nights.

#3 – Boiler Brewing Company

Boiler Brewing Company in Lincoln, Nebraska, makes craft beers that tend to be bold, experimental, and packed with flavor. One drink people often recommend is Hawaiian Trifecta, a milk stout brewed with toasted coconut, cacao nibs, and coffee. Another favorite is Koo Koo for Coconut, an oatmeal milk stout that gives creamy texture and rich coconut taste. The brewery has two taprooms, one downtown and another in Village Gardens, which lets guests try new brews often since their tap list rotates a lot. When you visit, you’ll find light food options from a partner kitchen alongside meads and ciders. Boiler Brewing’s mix of daring flavors, variety, and comfortable taprooms makes it a spot folks often include when checking out Lincoln’s craft beer scene.

#2 – Zipline Brewing Co.

Zipline Brewing Co. in Lincoln, Nebraska, has become a go-to for many beer lovers because of its wide selection and dependable quality. Two of their standout drinks are Copper Alt, a smooth Altbier known for rich malt notes and balanced hops, and Oatmeal Porter, which blends creamy oats with dark chocolate and coffee undertones. Zipline keeps a big roster of beers year-round plus seasonal and experimental varieties, including their lager-style Dear Old Nebraska Brew and juicy IPAs like Daaang!. The beer hall and Tap & Grill locations offer casual, welcoming spaces where guests can enjoy beer, food, and community events. Their beers are available in bottles, cans, and on draft throughout Nebraska, making it easy to try their beers whether you’re local or just passing through.

#1 – Kros Strain Brewing

Kros Strain Brewing Company in La Vista, Nebraska, has built a strong reputation for balance, bold flavors, and creative beer styles. Two beers that many people try when visiting are Fairy Nectar IPA, a juicy and hoppy beer that’s almost always popular, and Helles Creek, a crisp German-style lager with subtle floral hops and a clean finish. Kros Strain also offers interesting beers like Bernstein Bier, a Vienna lager with toasted malt and soft sweetness, and Gas Station Cheeseburger, a double hazy IPA loaded with Citra, Strata, Simcoe, and El Dorado hops. The brewery has a taproom with rotating drafts, limited releases, and specials like their sour program. Whether you like bold IPAs, traditional lagers, or something experimental, Kros Strain usually has something that hits.

The Heartbeat of Nebraska’s Brewing Culture

Nebraska’s beer scene has grown into one of the Midwest’s most genuine expressions of local pride. Across the state, breweries thrive on small-batch creativity, friendly taprooms, and a strong sense of community. Many craft brewers here focus on using locally sourced grains and hops, which gives their beer a distinct regional flavor that can’t be found anywhere else. The craft beer industry also plays a key role in supporting local jobs and tourism, drawing visitors from nearby states who come to experience what makes Nebraska’s beer culture so special.

The state’s brewing roots run deep, tracing back to the 1800s when names like Metz, Storz, and Krug helped shape Nebraska’s early beer identity. When Prohibition hit, many of these breweries had to adapt or shut down, but their legacy still influences today’s craft movement. Modern brewers continue to build on that history, creating spaces that celebrate tradition, innovation, and a love for local craftsmanship.

FAQs About Nebraska Breweries

What are some popular beer styles brewed in Nebraska?

Many Nebraska breweries are known for pale ales, IPAs, porters, and lagers, though you’ll also find unique seasonal brews that use local ingredients like corn or pumpkin.

Are Nebraska breweries family-friendly?

Yes, several breweries in Nebraska offer relaxed settings with outdoor seating, games, and food options, making them welcoming to families.

Do most Nebraska breweries serve food?

Some breweries have their own kitchens or partner with local food trucks, giving visitors a range of food options alongside their craft beer.

When is the best time to visit Nebraska for beer events?

Fall is often a great time to visit, as many cities host beer festivals and Oktoberfest-style events celebrating local brews.

Can you take brewery tours in Nebraska?

Yes, many breweries offer guided tours that let guests see the brewing process up close and sample fresh beers straight from the tap.