The Top 30 Breweries in New Jersey Ranked

New Jersey’s craft beer scene has grown fast in recent years. All across the state, local breweries are finding their voice with small-batch brews and a strong sense of community. These places aren’t trying too hard. They’re just focused on brewing solid beer and creating a space where people feel welcome. From the coast to the suburbs, there’s a steady rise in places offering great beer in a down-to-earth setting.

This article highlights some of the top breweries making an impact across New Jersey. These aren’t just popular names. They’ve built a following by staying consistent and connected with their neighborhoods. You’ll come across taprooms with easygoing staff, creative beer lists, and regulars who are happy to talk about what’s on tap. Whether you’re into hop-forward styles, malty classics, or something light and crisp, you’ll find something worth your time. Use this guide as a starting point the next time you’re in the mood for local beer made with care.

#30 – Toms River Brewing

Toms River Brewing, located in Toms River, New Jersey, has become a local favorite for its wide variety of craft beers and welcoming atmosphere. Known for its commitment to quality and community, the brewery offers a diverse selection that caters to both traditional and modern beer enthusiasts. Among their popular offerings is the St. John’s Irish Red Ale, a well-balanced beer with notes of toffee and caramel, providing a smooth and enjoyable experience. Another standout is the Stick Toss Kölsch, a light and crisp ale that’s perfect for those seeking a refreshing option. With 16 beers on tap, Toms River Brewing ensures there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or new to the craft scene. The brewery also offers packaged goods, including 4-packs and growlers, making it easy for visitors to take their favorites home. Their taproom and beer garden provide a relaxed setting for friends and family to gather and enjoy quality brews in a comfortable environment.

#29 – Hidden Sands Brewing Company

Hidden Sands Brewing Company in Egg Harbor Township stands out for its clean-tasting beers and welcoming atmosphere. They use water from an 800-foot-deep aquifer, which gives their brews a crisp and refreshing quality. The taproom is spacious and cozy, with both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a great spot to relax with friends or family. One of their popular beers is the Lemon Sandy, a citrus shandy brewed with wheat and Pilsner grain, blended with fresh lemonade for a subtly sweet flavor. Another favorite is the 107′ IPA, an American IPA brewed with Pilsner wheat, spelt, and light caramel malts, hopped with Citra, Centennial, and Columbus, and brewed with New Jersey Pine Barrens needles, offering a mild interpretation of a West Coast IPA. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Hidden Sands Brewing Company offers a variety of beers that cater to different tastes, all served in a friendly and relaxed setting.

#28 – Screamin’ Hill Brewery

Screamin’ Hill Brewery in Cream Ridge, New Jersey, offers a unique farm-to-glass experience. Located on a sixth-generation family farm, the brewery grows many of its own ingredients, giving their beers a fresh, local touch. The taproom provides a relaxed setting where visitors can enjoy a variety of craft beers. One popular choice is the Desperado IPA, known for its golden-orange hue and a blend of hops that deliver a balanced flavor. Another favorite is the Rusty Farmer, an Irish Red Ale with a rich color and a smooth, approachable taste. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Screamin’ Hill Brewery offers a welcoming atmosphere and a selection of beers that reflect the care and tradition of the farm it’s built on.

#27 – Hackensack Brewing

Hackensack Brewing Company, located in Hackensack, New Jersey, is a local favorite known for its diverse beer offerings and welcoming atmosphere. The brewery features a rotating selection of craft beers, ensuring there’s always something new for visitors to enjoy. Among their popular offerings is the Musket Haze, a New England-style IPA brewed with Citra, Motueka, and Amarillo hops, delivering big notes of tropical fruit and citrus. Another favorite is the Parking Lot Pilz, a Czech pale lager made to suit all your pre-gaming needs, with a crisp and refreshing taste. Whether you’re a fan of hop-forward brews or classic lagers, Hackensack Brewing Company provides a welcoming atmosphere to enjoy quality craft beer. The brewery also offers a variety of events and live music, creating a vibrant community hub for beer enthusiasts.

#26 – Pinelands Brewing Company

Pinelands Brewing Company in Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, is known for crafting beers that reflect the local Pine Barrens area. They use pure water from the Kirkwood-Cohansey Aquifer, which helps create clean and flavorful brews. Two popular choices are the Swamp Donkey IPA, an American IPA with floral and fruity hop notes and a dry finish, and the Evan John Porter, a smooth, dark porter brewed with vanilla bean for a rich taste. Pinelands Brewing offers a rotating lineup of beers, including seasonal options, making it a great spot for those who appreciate well-made, local craft beer. Whether you’re visiting or a local, it’s a place to enjoy quality brews in a welcoming setting.

#25 – High Point Brewing Company

High Point Brewing Company, located in Butler, New Jersey, is renowned for its dedication to crafting authentic German-style beers. Established in 1996, the brewery imports traditional Bavarian ingredients, including malt, hops, and yeast, to produce a diverse range of lagers and wheat beers. Among their popular offerings is the Ramstein Double Platinum Blonde, a bock-style wheat beer with subtle notes of clove and apple, complemented by a rich malt backbone. Another favorite is the Ramstein Winter Wheat, a robust weizendoppelbock with flavors of caramel and dark fruit, making it a perfect choice for colder months. Whether you’re a connoisseur of German brews or new to the scene, High Point Brewing Company offers a welcoming atmosphere and a selection of beers that showcase their commitment to quality and tradition.

#24 – Bonesaw Brewing Co.

Bonesaw Brewing Co., located in Glassboro, New Jersey, is a family-run brewery that has quickly gained a loyal following thanks to its diverse and well-crafted beer selection. The brewery offers a rotating lineup that keeps visitors coming back to try new flavors and styles. One of their standout beers is the Swoosh IPA, which has a 7.1% alcohol content and features a well-balanced mix of floral and citrus hop flavors, making it a favorite among IPA lovers. Another popular choice is the Crimson Skull, a Vienna Lager with a smooth finish and toasted malt notes, providing a great option for those who prefer malt-forward beers. The spacious taproom is designed to welcome both casual visitors and serious craft beer fans, offering a comfortable place to relax and enjoy fresh brews. With friendly staff and a community-focused vibe, Bonesaw Brewing Co. is a must-visit for anyone interested in New Jersey’s craft beer scene.

#23 – Odd Bird Brewing

Odd Bird Brewing, nestled in Stockton, New Jersey, is a small-batch brewery that offers a refreshing take on classic beer styles. Housed in a repurposed auto body shop adjacent to the Eagle Gas Station, the brewery provides a cozy and unique setting for beer enthusiasts. Their taproom features a rotating selection of beers, including the Extra Stockton Bitter, a malt-forward amber ale, and the Catbird IPA, an American IPA known for its crisp and balanced hop profile. The brewery’s commitment to quality and community is evident in its locally sourced ingredients and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, Odd Bird Brewing offers a delightful experience for those seeking well-crafted beers in a charming setting.

#22 – Spellbound Brewing

Spellbound Brewing, based in Mount Holly, New Jersey, has built a strong reputation since opening in 2014 for its creative and flavorful craft beers. The brewery operates a 20-barrel system and offers a wide variety of styles, from IPAs to porters and Belgian-style ales. Two popular brews are the Hypnotic Hops IPA, an American IPA with a 6.5% alcohol content that delivers a bold blend of citrus and pine hop flavors balanced by a malty backbone. Another favorite is the Major Nelson, a New England-style IPA known for its juicy, hazy character and tropical hop notes. Spellbound Brewing constantly updates its selection, providing visitors with new and exciting beers to try. The spacious taproom and friendly staff create a welcoming environment for both locals and visitors. For anyone interested in craft beer in New Jersey, Spellbound Brewing stands out for its quality, variety, and community feel.

#21 – Bolero Snort Brewery

Bolero Snort Brewery, located in Carlstadt, New Jersey, has been part of the state’s craft beer community since starting as a gypsy brewery in 2013 and later opening its own taproom in 2020. The brewery is known for its creative approach to beer styles, offering a rotating lineup that ranges from classic lagers to smoothie sours and milkshake IPAs. Among their popular choices is Ragin’ Bull, a smooth amber lager that has become a staple for regulars. Another favorite is Juicy Pebbulls, a tropical IPA that delivers bright fruit flavors with a soft, hazy body. The taproom has become a welcoming gathering place, often hosting food trucks and local events, which adds to its appeal for both longtime craft beer fans and newcomers. With its mix of innovation and approachability, Bolero Snort continues to be a standout stop for anyone looking to enjoy New Jersey’s thriving beer scene.

#20 – Eight & Sand Beer Co.

Eight & Sand Beer Co., based in Woodbury, New Jersey, has become a favorite spot for craft beer lovers looking for quality and creativity. The brewery focuses on producing a variety of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Two popular choices include the Stir Crazy, a West Coast-style IPA with bright citrus and pine notes, and the Last Hurrah, a smooth, full-bodied oatmeal stout known for its creamy texture and roasted flavors. Eight & Sand is known for its friendly taproom where visitors can enjoy fresh beers in a relaxed setting. The brewery often releases limited-edition brews and seasonal offerings, keeping the lineup fresh and exciting. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual drink or to sample new styles, Eight & Sand Beer Co. offers a welcoming space that reflects New Jersey’s growing craft beer scene.

#19 – Glasstown Brewing Company

Glasstown Brewing Company, located in Millville, New Jersey, is a veteran-owned brewery that has become a staple in the local craft beer scene. Established in 2013, the brewery offers a diverse selection of beers, including the 609 IPA, a light-bodied American IPA brewed with Cascade, Simcoe, and Citra hops, delivering bold citrus and hop flavors. Another popular offering is the 856 Double IPA, a robust beer with a 8.5% ABV, known for its piney and citrusy notes. The brewery’s taproom provides a welcoming atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their craft beers. Glasstown Brewing Company also offers a variety of seasonal and specialty beers, ensuring there’s always something new to try. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, Glasstown Brewing Company offers a unique and enjoyable craft beer experience.

#18 – Oakflower Brewing Company

Oakflower Brewing Company, located in Millington, New Jersey, has quickly become a standout in the local craft beer scene. Opened in late 2022, the brewery offers a variety of styles, including hazy IPAs and farmhouse ales, all crafted with a focus on quality and creativity. Among their popular offerings is the Dew Drop, a 3.9% ABV grisette that combines earthy Saaz hops with the citrusy notes of Motueka, resulting in a refreshing and effervescent brew. Another favorite is the Gnaw, a dark lager with a 4.5% ABV, known for its smooth mouthfeel and subtle hints of coffee and caramel. The brewery’s taproom, situated near the Millington Train Station, provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. With its commitment to quality and community, Oakflower Brewing Company has become a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts in New Jersey.

#17 – Wet Ticket Brewing

Wet Ticket Brewing, located in Rahway, New Jersey, has earned a loyal following by offering creative beers in a relaxed and welcoming setting. The brewery is known for keeping its tap list fresh with styles ranging from crisp lagers to bold IPAs, which makes it a great stop for a variety of tastes. One of their most popular beers is Trolley Hopper, a hazy New England IPA that delivers juicy hop flavors and has become a fan favorite since its early release. Another standout is Pineapple Hopper, a milkshake IPA brewed with pineapple juice and Madagascar vanilla beans, giving a tropical twist to their signature style. The taproom itself has a casual, friendly vibe with plenty of seating and a rotating lineup that keeps regulars coming back. With a focus on both quality and creativity, Wet Ticket Brewing has become a steady part of New Jersey’s growing craft beer scene.

#16 – Source Farmhouse Brewery

Source Farmhouse Brewery, located in Colts Neck, New Jersey, offers a diverse selection of craft beers in a picturesque setting. Their Barnyard Mild, an English-style mild ale, features a deep chestnut hue with flavors of toasty bread crust and subtle caramel, balanced by a delicate touch of East Kent Goldings hops. Another popular choice is Saku Saku, a Japanese-style rice lager brewed with Jasmine rice, delivering a light and crisp profile with gentle back-notes of puffed rice. The brewery emphasizes a farm-to-glass approach, sourcing ingredients locally to create beers that reflect the regional terroir. Visitors can enjoy these offerings in a welcoming atmosphere, often accompanied by food trucks and live music, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, Source Farmhouse Brewery provides a delightful destination for craft beer enthusiasts.

#15 – Double Nickel Brewing Company

Double Nickel Brewing Company, located in Pennsauken, New Jersey, has become a key part of the South Jersey craft beer scene since opening in 2015. The brewery offers a wide variety of beers that appeal to many tastes. Two popular drinks are the Vienna Lager, an amber lager with a 5.3% ABV known for its smooth malt balance and clean finish, and the Weekend Warrior, a double dry-hopped hazy pale ale at 5.8% ABV, praised for its tropical fruit flavors and refreshing taste. The brewery’s spacious taproom invites visitors to relax and enjoy fresh craft beers in a friendly setting. Double Nickel focuses on quality brewing and community involvement, hosting events and collaborating with local businesses. Whether you are a local or just passing through, Double Nickel Brewing Company offers a solid lineup of beers and a welcoming environment that showcases the best of New Jersey’s growing craft beer culture.

#14 – Slack Tide Brewing Company

Slack Tide Brewing Company, founded in 2015 in Cape May County, New Jersey, has grown into a popular spot for craft beer lovers in the area. Known for its relaxed vibe and quality brews, the brewery offers a variety of styles that appeal to many tastes. Two of their standout beers are Angry Osprey, an American IPA with 6.8% ABV that delivers pine and citrus flavors, and The Ridge, a New England-style IPA with 6.6% ABV, known for its juicy and hazy character thanks to a mix of El Dorado and Vic Secret hops. Slack Tide Brewing focuses on making beers that locals and visitors can enjoy year-round, while maintaining a strong connection with the community through events and local partnerships. Their welcoming taproom is a great place to try fresh craft beers and meet fellow enthusiasts. For anyone looking to experience a solid craft beer scene in New Jersey, Slack Tide Brewing Company is worth a visit.

#13 – Twin Elephant Brewing Company

Twin Elephant Brewing Company, based in Chatham, New Jersey, has made a name for itself in the local craft beer community since opening in 2016. The brewery focuses on producing high-quality, innovative beers that suit a variety of tastes. Two popular choices are True Believer, an American IPA with 7.1% ABV featuring Citra, Mosaic, and Cascade hops that offer flavors of orange, honeydew melon, and grapefruit, and Here There Be Monsters, a 7.7% ABV American IPA brewed with Motueka, Rakau, Wakatu, and Riwaka hops, known for notes of peach, nectarine, vanilla cake, lime zest, and honey. Twin Elephant’s taproom at 13 Watchung Avenue provides a warm and welcoming place for visitors to enjoy fresh craft beers. Their focus on quality and community has helped them become a popular stop for beer lovers exploring New Jersey’s growing craft scene.

#12 – Conclave Brewing

Conclave Brewing, founded in 2015 in Flemington, New Jersey, is known for its strong presence in the local craft beer scene. The brewery focuses on creating quality, innovative beers that appeal to a variety of tastes. Two popular choices are Gravitational Waves, an American IPA with 6.8% ABV, featuring a mix of Galaxy, Citra, and Mosaic hops that bring out flavors of peach, melon, and grass. Another fan favorite is Mexican Morning, a 5.5% ABV milk stout infused with cinnamon, vanilla, cacao, coffee, and a touch of chile de arbol peppers, offering a balance of sweetness and subtle heat. Conclave Brewing’s taproom in Raritan Township provides a cozy and welcoming place for visitors to enjoy their brews. The brewery’s focus on quality and community makes it a top stop for craft beer lovers exploring New Jersey’s growing beer scene.

#11 – Brix City Brewing

Brix City Brewing, established in 2015 in Little Ferry, New Jersey, holds the distinction of being Bergen County’s first full-production craft brewery. The brewery is renowned for its commitment to producing a diverse range of high-quality beers, appealing to a variety of palates. Among its popular offerings is Gloria, a 5.5% ABV Belgian-style blonde ale that has become a staple in their lineup. Another favorite is Porter Authority, a 6.3% ABV porter known for its rich, chocolatey malt profile. Brix City Brewing operates out of a welcoming taproom at 4 Alsan Way in Little Ferry, offering a cozy atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their craft beers. The brewery’s dedication to quality brewing and community engagement makes it a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts in New Jersey.

#10 – Ghost Hawk Brewing Company

Ghost Hawk Brewing Company, established in 2019, is Clifton’s first craft brewery and a cornerstone of Passaic County’s brewing scene. Situated at 321 River Road, the brewery offers a diverse selection of beers, including the Ghost Hawk Lager, a crisp and balanced golden lager brewed in accordance with the German Beer Purity Law of 1516, and the Apex Predator, a New England-style IPA with a 6.8% ABV, featuring a blend of Citra, Mosaic, Simcoe, and Ekuanot hops that impart fruity notes of grapefruit and guava. The taproom boasts a 36-foot wooden bar and provides a welcoming atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their brews.

#9 – Tonewood Brewing

Tonewood Brewing, established in 2016 in Oaklyn, New Jersey, has earned a solid reputation in the state’s craft beer scene. Known for focusing on quality and creativity, the brewery offers a variety of beers that appeal to different tastes. Two of their popular drinks are Fuego, an American IPA with 6.2% ABV that features Citra, Simcoe, and Mosaic hops, bringing flavors of grapefruit, peach, citrus zest, and pine. Another favorite is Freshies, a 5.0% ABV American Pale Ale brewed with wheat and hopped with Simcoe, Amarillo, and Cascade, noted for its lemon-lime, pineapple, and pine resin notes. The taproom, located at 215 W Clinton Avenue, provides a friendly and comfortable space where visitors can enjoy fresh craft beers. Tonewood Brewing also hosts live music and food trucks, making it a great place to relax and connect with the community while tasting some of New Jersey’s finest brews.

#8 – Magnify Brewing Company

Magnify Brewing Company, located at 1275 Bloomfield Avenue in Fairfield, New Jersey, is a standout in the state’s craft beer scene. Since its inception in 2015, the brewery has been known for its hop-forward IPAs, fruited sours, and sweet pastry stouts, offering a diverse range of beers that cater to various palates. Their commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their rotating tap list, which features new releases every week. Magnify Brewing Company also emphasizes environmental sustainability, utilizing energy-efficient equipment and recyclable materials in their operations. Their tasting room provides a unique and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular destination for craft beer enthusiasts in northern New Jersey. Whether you’re a fan of hazy IPAs or rich stouts, Magnify Brewing Company offers a selection that promises to satisfy your beer cravings.

#7 – Carton Brewing Company

Carton Brewing Company, established in 2011, is a prominent craft brewery located at 6 East Washington Avenue in Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey. Founded by cousins Chris and Augie Carton, the brewery operates out of a renovated 1890s red brick warehouse, which houses a 15-barrel brewhouse and a bustling tasting room upstairs. Carton Brewing is renowned for its innovative and diverse beer offerings that push the boundaries of traditional brewing. Among their standout creations is “Boat Beer,” a 4.2% ABV session ale that combines the hop profile of an IPA with the drinkability of a lighter beer, making it a favorite among patrons. Another notable brew is “077XX,” a 7.8% ABV East Coast Double India Pale Ale, known for its bold hop character and balanced malt backbone. Carton Brewing’s commitment to quality and experimentation has solidified its reputation as a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts in New Jersey and beyond.

#6 – The Seed: A Living Beer Project

The Seed: A Living Beer Project, located at 807 Baltic Ave in Atlantic City, New Jersey, stands out as a distinctive brewery that emphasizes a connection to nature and local agriculture. Established in 2020, it has rapidly gained recognition for its innovative approach to brewing, focusing on saisons, mixed-culture ales, and lagers crafted with locally sourced ingredients. The brewery’s commitment to using New Jersey-grown malt and botanicals reflects its dedication to sustainability and community support. Visitors to The Seed can expect a rotating selection of beers that highlight the diversity of local flavors, often incorporating elements like wildflowers and fruits into their brews. The taproom offers a welcoming atmosphere where patrons can enjoy these unique offerings, making it a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts in the region.

#5 – Cape May Brewing Company

Cape May Brewing Company, established in 2011, is a prominent craft brewery located at 1250 Hornet Road in Rio Grande, NJ. Situated at the Cape May Airport, the brewery began with a modest 12-gallon brew system and has since expanded to become one of the largest and most acclaimed craft breweries in the region. Their flagship beer, Cape May IPA, is a West Coast-style IPA known for its floral and citrus notes, offering a well-balanced and zesty finish. Another standout brew is Coastal Evacuation, a bold and hop-forward Double IPA that has garnered a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts. The brewery’s Tasting Room is one of the largest in New Jersey, featuring a dog-friendly outdoor Beer Garden open year-round, and offers an interactive, self-guided tour for visitors.

#4 – Czig Meister Brewing

Czig Meister Brewing Company in Hackettstown, New Jersey, has been part of the state’s craft beer scene since 2016 and is well known for its wide variety of styles and welcoming atmosphere. The brewery produces more than 50 different beers each year, ranging from crisp lagers and pale ales to robust stouts and creative seasonal releases. Among their most popular options is Prospector Amber Ale, a malt-forward amber with smooth caramel notes, and Lekker, a hazy IPA brewed with Southern Passion, Citra, and Mosaic hops that delivers fruit flavors like melon and passionfruit with a soft body. The taproom, set inside a restored carriage house, blends rustic wood and brick accents that create a warm space for enjoying a pint, while the outdoor beer garden adds another inviting spot to relax. With its mix of variety, character, and consistency, Czig Meister Brewing has become a favorite in New Jersey.

#3 – Troon Brewing

Troon Brewing, established in 2016 and situated on the scenic Double Brook Farm in Hopewell, New Jersey, has garnered a dedicated following for its innovative and limited-release beers. Operating out of a historic barn, the brewery specializes in crafting high-alcohol ales, particularly hazy IPAs and stouts, that often push the boundaries of traditional brewing styles. Their beers, such as I’m to Blame for the Rain and Inspissated, are known for their bold flavors and complex profiles, often featuring unique ingredients like exotic coffees and spices. Troon Brewing’s commitment to quality and creativity has made it a standout in New Jersey’s craft beer scene. While the brewery itself does not have a public taproom, visitors can enjoy Troon’s offerings at the nearby Brick Farm Tavern, where a rotating selection of their beers is available on draft. This collaboration provides a seamless experience for beer enthusiasts seeking to explore Troon’s exceptional brews.

#2 – Icarus Brewing

Icarus Brewing, located at 2045 Route 88 in Brick, New Jersey, has been a prominent figure in the state’s craft beer scene since its establishment in 2017. As Brick’s first microbrewery, Icarus Brewing prides itself on producing a diverse range of hand-crafted ales and lagers that cater to various palates. Among their standout offerings are “Yacht Juice,” an 8% ABV New England-style IPA known for its hazy appearance and tropical fruit flavors, and “Drinking Crayons,” a 7.9% ABV Imperial New England IPA characterized by its rich, juicy profile and smooth finish. The brewery’s taproom and beer garden provide a welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy these unique brews, with the added convenience of bringing in food from local eateries or ordering directly to their tables.

#1 – Kane Brewing Company

Kane Brewing Company, established in 2011, is a prominent craft brewery located at 1750 Bloomsbury Avenue in Ocean Township, New Jersey. Founded by Michael and Erika Kane, the brewery has grown to become one of the state’s largest and most celebrated craft breweries . Kane Brewing is renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation, producing a diverse range of beers that cater to various palates. Among their standout offerings is “Head High,” a 6.6% ABV American-style IPA that has become a New Jersey classic, known for its hoppy goodness and noticeable grapefruit flavor. Another notable brew is “Overhead,” an 8.2% ABV Imperial IPA that delivers a cascade of pine, resin, and citrus hop flavors. The brewery’s tasting room offers 16 draft beers, including small-batch and limited releases, rare barrel-aged beers, and occasional hand-drawn cask beers, providing a unique and inviting atmosphere for visitors.

New Jersey Beer Scene: Small State, Big Flavor

New Jersey’s beer history goes back to the colonial era, but it wasn’t until recently that the state became a real player in the craft beer game. For a long time, outdated regulations made it hard for small breweries to thrive. But after a key law change in 2012, the number of breweries started to rise fast—and today, NJ has built a tight-knit, fast-growing beer scene.

With around 150 breweries and more opening each year, the state offers a mix of coastal brewpubs, rural taprooms, and urban beer hubs. Places like Asbury Park, Cape May, Jersey City, and Hammonton all have their own local beer identities. Many breweries focus on approachable lagers, IPAs, and sours—but you’ll also find fruit beers, farmhouse ales, and stouts that stand out.

What makes New Jersey unique is the local pride. Breweries often tie their identity to their town, county, or region—and many use local ingredients and themes. The state’s size makes it easy to hit a few breweries in a day, whether you’re at the shore, near the Pine Barrens, or just across the river from Philly or NYC.

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FAQs About New Jersey Beer

How many breweries are in New Jersey?
New Jersey has about 150 craft breweries and counting.

What law helped grow NJ’s beer scene?
A 2012 law allowed breweries to open tasting rooms and sell directly to customers, which kickstarted the current craft beer boom.

Are there brewery trails in New Jersey?
Yes. Check out the NJ Craft Beer Passport program and regional trails like the South Jersey Beer Scene and Hunterdon Beer Trail.

Do NJ breweries serve food?
Most don’t have full kitchens due to local laws, but many partner with food trucks or allow you to bring your own food.

Are NJ breweries family- or dog-friendly?
Many are, especially those with outdoor seating. But rules vary by town and setup, so check with the brewery before visiting.