The Top 30 Breweries in North Carolina Ranked

North Carolina has become one of the leading states for craft beer, with breweries spread from the mountains to the coast. The state is home to a mix of long-standing names and newer breweries that continue to shape the beer scene. Many of these spots are known for their creative styles, inviting taprooms, and strong connection to their local communities. With so many choices, it can be hard to know where to start, which is why a clear list of the best breweries in North Carolina is helpful for anyone planning a visit.

This article highlights some of the top breweries across the state, giving you a look at what makes each one stand out. From larger operations with wide recognition to smaller spots focused on fresh, small-batch brewing, you’ll find a range of options worth checking out. The goal is to give you simple, useful details so you can plan your stops with ease and enjoy the variety that North Carolina beer has to offer.

#30 – Lazy Hiker Brewing Company

Lazy Hiker Brewing Company has become a well-loved stop in western North Carolina since opening in 2015 in Franklin inside a renovated town hall and fire department. They later expanded with a second taproom in Sylva in 2019, which shares space with Mad Batter Kitchen. The brewery is known for tying its beers to the outdoor lifestyle that defines the region, making it popular with both locals and hikers passing through. Lazy Hiker runs a 15-barrel brewhouse and distributes across dozens of counties in North Carolina and Georgia. Popular beers include the Trail Mate Golden Ale and the Slack Pack IPA, along with rotating seasonals like Trail Candy Tropical IPA and Wesser Evil Porter. Guests enjoy the relaxed setting with indoor and outdoor seating, regular live music, and events that highlight the local community. It is a brewery that reflects the mountain spirit and offers a range of approachable beers.

#29 – Mother Earth Brewing

Mother Earth Brewing in Kinston, North Carolina has been serving craft beer since 2010 and is widely respected for its commitment to sustainability. The brewery operates out of a renovated downtown building where most of the original brick, wood, and steel were reused during construction. It became the first production brewery in the United States to achieve LEED Gold certification, a recognition of its focus on environmentally friendly practices. Visitors are drawn to both the quality of the beer and the welcoming atmosphere of the taproom and beer garden. Mother Earth Brewing’s lineup includes favorites such as Long Weekend IPA, a hop-forward option with juicy character, Endless River Kolsch, a light and crisp choice, and Weeping Willow Wit, a Belgian-inspired wheat beer brewed with orange peel and coriander. The brewery also supports local agriculture by sourcing ingredients and sharing spent grain with nearby farms, strengthening its connection to the community.

#28 – Sycamore Brewing

Sycamore Brewing in Charlotte, North Carolina has grown from a small taproom into one of the state’s most recognized breweries since opening in 2013. It is a family-owned operation that has built a strong following with a mix of easy-to-drink classics and hop-forward favorites. The new two-story, 21,000-square-foot taproom in South End includes a large patio with skyline views, making it a popular gathering spot for both locals and visitors. Among its most popular beers are Mountain Candy IPA, which is known for its juicy hop character, and Juiciness, a tropical fruited beer that showcases bold flavors. Sycamore has also expanded to Charlotte Douglas International Airport, giving travelers a chance to enjoy its beers on the go. With its combination of quality brews, community focus, and wide availability, Sycamore Brewing continues to stand out in North Carolina’s growing craft beer scene.

#27 – Wilmington Brewing Company

Wilmington Brewing Company has been part of the North Carolina beer community since 2012, growing from a homebrewing supply shop into a full production brewery and taproom. The brewery has earned a strong reputation for hop-forward beers, with Tropical Lightning IPA standing out as a flagship that showcases bold West Coast character. Another popular choice is Midtown Swank Double IPA, a higher strength option that appeals to IPA fans looking for a stronger profile. Beyond these favorites, the brewery also produces stouts, porters, and lighter ales to suit a wide range of tastes. The taproom offers a casual, welcoming setting and has become a community hub for new releases, events, and gatherings. With consistent quality and beers that continue to gain recognition, Wilmington Brewing Company has secured its place as a staple of Wilmington’s craft beer scene and a trusted name across North Carolina.

#26 – Flying Machine Brewing Co.

Flying Machine Brewing Company in Wilmington, North Carolina has become a popular stop thanks to its creative approach to beer and its welcoming space. The brewery features a large taproom with more than 30 taps, a second-story patio, and both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a comfortable spot for groups and events. Their lineup includes a mix of traditional and experimental styles, with favorites like Boat Soda Key Lime Cream Ale, Escape From Lager Mountain, and Big Hoppy Adventure IPA. The atmosphere often includes food trucks, music, and gatherings that highlight the community feel. Flying Machine has also expanded its reach by distributing beers across North Carolina and opening a second location in Wrightsville Beach that offers a full kitchen and bar. The mix of variety, quality, and accessibility keeps this brewery high on the list for beer fans.

#25 – Brewery Bhavana

Brewery Bhavana in Raleigh, North Carolina opened in 2017 and quickly became known for offering much more than beer. It combines a craft brewery, dim sum restaurant, flower shop, and bookstore all in one space, creating a unique destination in the city. The brewery focuses on Belgian-inspired styles with popular options such as Glean, a mango peppercorn saison, and Wilt, a cherry wood smoked quad. Alongside their core lineup, they also rotate specialty and sour beers that appeal to a wide range of tastes. The space itself is open and bright, filled with natural light and greenery, which makes it inviting for both casual drinks and longer stays. Brewery Bhavana has also expanded with a second location in Cary’s Fenton development that includes an outdoor beer garden, patio, and courtyard. Its combination of quality beer, food, and atmosphere has made it a favorite across North Carolina.

#24 – Olde Mecklenburg Brewery

Olde Mecklenburg Brewery in Charlotte, North Carolina opened in 2009 and has become one of the most recognized names in the state’s craft beer community. The brewery is dedicated to brewing German-style beer and follows the Reinheitsgebot, the traditional German purity law that limits ingredients to water, malt, hops, and yeast. Their flagship Copper Altbier is a year-round favorite, known for its smooth, malty flavor and clean finish. Beyond the beer, the brewery is also known for its large biergarten filled with old oak, pecan, and hickory trees, making it a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors. The combination of traditional brewing methods, approachable beers, and a welcoming atmosphere has helped Olde Mecklenburg Brewery become a leading stop in Charlotte.

#23 – Booneshine Brewing Company

Booneshine Brewing Company in Boone, North Carolina has been part of the local craft beer scene since 2015 and later expanded to a larger facility in East Boone in 2018. The brewery features a full-service restaurant, a tasting room, and one of the area’s largest outdoor beer gardens, which makes it a popular stop for both locals and visitors. Their beer lineup covers a wide range of styles with favorites like Boonerang Trail Ale, brewed with North Carolina wheat and heirloom rice, and Hatchet Coffee Porter, made with molasses, milk sugar, and locally roasted coffee. Other popular choices include Booneshine IPA, a West Coast inspired IPA with citrus and pine notes, and Tropicpale Ale, a lighter option with tropical flavors. The combination of a relaxed atmosphere, a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, and a thoughtful selection of beers has helped Booneshine become a go-to destination in the High Country.

#22 – Aviator Brewing Co.

Aviator Brewing Company in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina began in 2008 with a small setup inside an airplane hangar using repurposed dairy tanks. Since then, it has grown into a 23,000 square foot facility and expanded its presence with a downtown tap house, a smokehouse restaurant, and regular brewery tours. The brewery has earned attention for a wide selection of beers that appeal to different tastes. Popular choices include Devil’s Tramping Ground Tripel, a strong Belgian-style ale, HogWild IPA, which has a bold hop character, and MadBeach American Wheat, a lighter and easy-drinking option. Seasonal releases like Crackpot Pils, a Bohemian-style pilsner, and FrostNipper Winter Ale give guests even more variety throughout the year. With both its brewing operations and food venues, Aviator has become a community gathering spot that attracts locals and visitors looking for a full experience of beer, food, and atmosphere in one place.

#21 – Local Oak Brewing Co.

Local Oak Brewing Co. in Winterville, North Carolina opened in 2019 and has built a strong reputation as a welcoming neighborhood brewery. Known for its relaxed taproom and spacious outdoor beer garden shaded by a large oak tree, it has become a go-to spot for gatherings. The brewery keeps its beer list rotating, so there is often something new to try. Two popular choices that highlight their range are Jason Mimosa IPA, a citrus-forward hazy brew, and Carolina Quicksand, a juicy New England style IPA. Guests can also enjoy food trucks on site, and the dog-friendly setting makes it appealing for families and groups of friends. With its mix of community-focused events and fresh craft beer, Local Oak Brewing Co. has quickly earned its place among notable breweries in North Carolina.

#20 – Wedge Brewing Company

Wedge Brewing Company in Asheville, North Carolina has been a local favorite since opening in 2008. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, it operates in the River Arts District and recently added a downtown location in the historic Grove Arcade. The brewery focuses on approachable styles that balance tradition with creativity, making it a spot that appeals to both longtime beer fans and casual drinkers. Two of its most popular beers are Iron Rail IPA, a hop-forward English-American style IPA, and Julian Price Pilsner, a Czech-style pilsner with a crisp finish. Beyond the beer, Wedge is known for hosting food trucks, live music, and community events that bring people together.

#19 – Olde Hickory Brewery

Olde Hickory Brewery in Hickory, North Carolina was founded in 1994 and has grown from a small converted dairy system into one of the state’s most established craft breweries. Today, it operates from a renovated historic building with a 25 barrel brew house and is well known for its focus on quality and tradition. A key feature of Olde Hickory is its extensive barrel aging program, which uses barrels that once held bourbon, rum, brandy, armagnac, tequila, or Scotch whisky to add depth and character to its beers. Two popular choices from their lineup are The Event Horizon, an imperial stout aged in bourbon barrels with notes of dark chocolate and espresso, and Death by Hops IPA, a bold beer brewed with five different hop varieties. With a mix of classic styles and experimental brews, Olde Hickory Brewery has become a standout name in North Carolina craft beer.

#18 – Lesser-Known Beer Co.

Lesser Known Beer Co. in Winston Salem, North Carolina is dedicated to highlighting under-represented beer styles and brewing methods that often fly under the radar. The brewery focuses on crafting approachable beers that showcase unique ingredients and traditions while keeping the tasting experience relaxed and welcoming. Their lineup changes often, giving guests the chance to try something new with each visit. Two standout selections are LK Pils, a crisp German style pilsner, and Lunar Handshake, a Czech style dark lager brewed with Moravian pilsner malt and specialty malts for added depth. The brewery’s laid back atmosphere and focus on thoughtful brewing have made it a favorite among locals who enjoy quality beer with a bit of character. Lesser Known Beer Co. continues to grow its presence by staying true to its name and shining a light on styles not always in the spotlight.

#17 – NoDa Brewing Company

NoDa Brewing Company in Charlotte, North Carolina opened in 2011 and has since become one of the city’s most well known craft breweries. Named after the artsy NoDa neighborhood where it began, the brewery has grown to include a large production taproom on North Tryon Street as well as a location inside Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The brewery operates out of a renovated historic building that once housed the Speas Vinegar Company, connecting its modern craft focus with local history. Two of its most popular beers are Hop Drop ‘N Roll IPA, a bold West Coast style flagship with a strong hop profile, and Jam Session Pale Ale, a balanced and approachable brew with citrus and malt notes. With its creative spirit, welcoming taprooms, and wide distribution across the state, NoDa Brewing Company has secured a leading place in North Carolina’s craft beer community.

#16 – New Sarum Brewing Co.

New Sarum Brewing Company in Salisbury, North Carolina was founded in 2012 and is known for combining classic brewing traditions with creative twists. The brewery’s taproom on North Lee Street offers around a dozen draft lines that feature both year round favorites and experimental small batch beers. Two popular choices from their lineup are Hurley Park Blood Orange Wheat Ale, brewed with blood orange, lemongrass, and orange peel for a balance of sweet and tart flavors, and Old Stone House IPA, a strong IPA with citrus notes and a clean finish. The brewery also hosts events like live music, trivia nights, and food trucks, making it a lively community hub that is both family and dog friendly. New Sarum has further expanded its creativity through its Griffin Series, a collection of small batch beers that give the brewers room to test new flavor ideas alongside their core offerings.

#15 – Appalachian Mountain Brewery

Appalachian Mountain Brewery in Boone, North Carolina opened in 2013 and has become one of the most recognized breweries in the High Country. Located along Boone Creek, the brewery features a large taproom, outdoor seating, and a heated covered porch that makes it a comfortable stop year round. Known for its focus on sustainability and support for local nonprofits, the brewery has built a strong connection with its community while continuing to grow its reputation in the wider craft beer scene. Two popular beers from their lineup are Long Leaf IPA, which delivers bright citrus and pine hop notes, and Boone Creek Blonde Ale, brewed with wildflower honey and orange zest for a crisp, refreshing taste. With its combination of scenic setting, community focus, and high quality beers, Appalachian Mountain Brewery has secured its place among the top breweries in North Carolina.

#14 – Birdsong Brewing Co.

Birdsong Brewing Co. in Charlotte, North Carolina opened in 2011 with the goal of creating a small neighborhood brewery focused on fresh, unfiltered beers. Located on North Davidson Street in the Belmont NoDa area, the taproom offers around 20 to 30 taps that include year round favorites, rotating seasonals, and creative small batch releases. Two of their most popular beers are Higher Ground IPA, a hop forward West Coast style brew with citrus notes, and Jalapeño Pale Ale, which uses fresh jalapeño peppers to add flavor without overwhelming heat. The mix of quality beer, sustainability, and community focus has made Birdsong Brewing Co. a local favorite.

#13 – Salty Turtle Beer Co.

Salty Turtle Beer Co. in Surf City, North Carolina opened in 2017 and is a veteran-owned brewery known for its community focus and sustainable practices. The brewery offers a range of craft beers with both year-round and seasonal options. Two popular beers are Surf City Sunrise, a New England style IPA with tropical fruit flavors, and Alligator Bay, an American IPA with a balanced malt backbone and bold hop character. The taproom is welcoming and often hosts events, making it a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Salty Turtle Beer Co. also produces other styles including stouts, Kölsch, and seasonal seltzers, providing variety for different tastes. With its commitment to quality brewing, approachable beers, and connection to the local community, Salty Turtle Beer Co. has become a standout brewery along North Carolina’s coast.

#12 – Incendiary Brewing Company

Incendiary Brewing Company in Winston Salem, North Carolina opened in 2018 and is located in the historic Bailey Power Plant within the Innovation Quarter. The brewery combines industrial charm with modern brewing and has become known for its diverse beer selection, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers, with a rotating tap list that keeps visitors coming back. Two of their popular beers are SHIfT: BLUE, a New England style IPA with notes of peach, mango, and melon, and Porter, an American porter praised for its rich flavor and balance. The brewery also features The Coalpit, a spacious outdoor area for community events and gatherings. With additional locations in Lewisville, Raleigh, and Greensboro, Incendiary Brewing Company has expanded its presence across North Carolina while maintaining a focus on quality, innovation, and community engagement.

#11 – Hopfly Brewing Co.

HopFly Brewing Co. began in Rocky Mount, North Carolina in 2017 and has grown into a well recognized name in the state’s craft beer scene. In 2021, the brewery expanded by opening a large facility and taproom in Charlotte’s South End. HopFly has built its reputation on brewing a wide range of styles, from IPAs to lagers, while keeping quality and creativity at the center of its work. Two of their popular beers are Endless Reign, a hazy IPA with juicy hop character, and Crunchtime, a crisp lager that has become a local favorite. The Charlotte location also serves as a community gathering place, often with rotating food trucks and city views that make it a social hub as much as a brewery.

#10 – Guidon Brewing Co.

Guidon Brewing Co. in Hendersonville, North Carolina opened in 2018 and is veteran, German, American, and family owned. Located in the Historic 7th Avenue district, the brewery offers a taproom with indoor and outdoor seating, plus a loft and deck for guests. A second site, called Guidon Outpost, is connected with Elijah Mountain Gem Mine and provides a more family friendly setting. The brewery is known for a mix of German and American styles that rotate often while still keeping some classics on tap. Two popular beers are the German Pilsner, known for its clean and crisp taste, and the Guidon Schwarzbier, a smooth dark lager with light roast character. The in house kitchen, called The Chow Hall, serves food that pairs well with the beers, and the taproom hosts live music and community events that give it a welcoming atmosphere.

#9 – Southern Pines Brewing Co.

Southern Pines Brewing Co. in Southern Pines, North Carolina was founded in 2014 by three Army Green Berets and has since grown into a well respected name in the state’s craft beer community. The brewery now operates multiple locations, including a large downtown taproom on Pennsylvania Avenue that features more than 30 taps with year round, seasonal, and small batch options. Two of their popular beers are Man of Law IPA, an American style IPA with bold citrus and tropical hop character, and Delighted Devil, a Belgian style strong golden ale with a higher ABV that has become a favorite among fans of stronger brews. With a focus on community, quality brewing, and approachable beer styles, Southern Pines Brewing Co. has built a loyal following while maintaining the values it was founded on.

#8 – Green Man Brewery

Green Man Brewery in Asheville, North Carolina was founded in 1997 and is one of the state’s oldest craft breweries. It began with a focus on English style ales at its original taproom, Dirty Jack’s, and has since grown into a larger operation that includes the Green Mansion, a packaging hall and rooftop taproom with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Two of their popular beers are Wayfarer IPA, a dry hopped brew with bright citrus notes from Citra and Simcoe hops, and ESB, a traditional English style ale that is balanced with a strong malt backbone. Green Man is known for honoring classic brewing traditions while also producing seasonal releases, barrel aged options, and sour beers. With its long history, quality offerings, and well loved taprooms, Green Man Brewery continues to be a key part of North Carolina’s craft beer community.

#7 – Foothills Brewing

Foothills Brewing Company in Winston Salem, North Carolina was founded in 2005 and has grown into one of the state’s leading craft breweries. After starting with a downtown brewpub, the company later expanded production to a large 50,000 square foot facility to keep up with demand, while still keeping its original location as a gathering spot. Foothills distributes widely across the Carolinas and has earned a strong following for its consistent quality. Two of their most popular beers are Hoppyum IPA, known for its bold citrus hop character with flavors from Simcoe and Centennial hops, and People’s Porter, an English style porter with notes of chocolate, toffee, and espresso. With its mix of classic and innovative offerings, Foothills Brewing has built a reputation that continues to draw both locals and visitors.

#6 – Wicked Weed Brewing

Wicked Weed Brewing in Asheville, North Carolina was founded in 2012 and quickly became known for its creative approach to brewing. The downtown brewpub offers indoor and outdoor seating along with a beer garden, while the Funkatorium serves as a separate location dedicated to sours, barrel aged beers, and wild fermentation. Two of their most popular beers are Pernicious IPA, a hop forward West Coast style IPA, and Freak of Nature Double IPA, which is bold with strong citrus and pine flavors. Wicked Weed also produces a wide range of farmhouse ales and barrel aged sour beers that showcase their experimental side. With multiple locations and a steady focus on quality and innovation, Wicked Weed Brewing has become one of the standout names in North Carolina craft beer.

#5 – Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. has a major east coast facility in Mills River, North Carolina, just outside of Asheville. This site handles brewing, bottling, and distribution, and also features a taproom, restaurant, gardens, and guided tours that attract visitors from across the region. Two of their most popular beers are Pale Ale, the flagship that played a major role in shaping the American craft beer movement, and Torpedo Extra IPA, a hop forward beer with bold flavor that appeals to IPA fans. These efforts, combined with its classic beers and welcoming taproom, have made Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. a central part of the North Carolina craft beer scene.

#4 – Fonta Flora Brewery

Fonta Flora Brewery in Morganton, North Carolina opened in 2013 and is known for blending traditional brewing techniques with local agriculture to create unique beers. The brewery now operates from several sites, including its original Morganton location, a Charlotte taproom in Optimist Hall, and Whippoorwill Farm near Nebo, where they grow ingredients and preserve historic farm structures. Two of their popular beers are Hop Beard IPA, a West Coast style IPA that highlights bold hop character, and Irish Table Stout, a smooth and approachable stout that earned a gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival in 2014. Fonta Flora has built its reputation on creativity, sustainable practices, and a deep connection to the region, which has helped it stand out as one of the most innovative breweries in North Carolina.

#3 – Highland Brewing Company

Highland Brewing Company in Asheville, North Carolina was founded in 1994 and is recognized as the city’s first craft brewery since Prohibition. Over the years it has grown into the largest independent family owned brewery in the Southeast. The brewery sits on a 40 acre campus in East Asheville that includes a production facility, a rooftop bar, event spaces, a large outdoor Meadow, and walking trails, making it a popular community gathering place. Two of their most popular beers are Gaelic Ale, a balanced amber ale that remains their flagship, and Oatmeal Porter, a malt forward beer with chocolate and roasted flavors. Its strong community presence and consistent lineup of year round, seasonal, and small batch beers have made it a key name in North Carolina craft brewing.

#2 – Red Oak Brewery

Red Oak Brewery in Whitsett, North Carolina has been brewing since 1990 and is recognized as the state’s oldest operating brewery. They focus only on German style lagers, brewed under the 1516 Bavarian Purity Law, using just water, malted barley, hops, and yeast. Their lagers are unfiltered, unpasteurized, and preservative free, which gives them a smooth and clean flavor profile. Two of their most popular beers are Red Oak Bavarian Amber Lager, a year round amber known for its malt richness and balanced hops, and Hummin’ Bird Helles, a crisp, lighter lager with a refreshing finish. The brewery’s Lager Haus and Biergarten provide a welcoming space with outdoor seating, food trucks, and live music, making it a destination for both locals and travelers. Red Oak has earned its reputation through tradition, consistency, and dedication to classic lager brewing.

#1 – Burial Beer Co.

Burial Beer Co. is one of the most recognized breweries in Asheville, North Carolina, known for its bold creativity and wide range of beer styles. Since opening in 2013, it has grown from a small neighborhood brewery into a destination with multiple locations and a strong reputation for both quality and variety. The brewery produces everything from crisp lagers and farmhouse ales to hop-forward IPAs and barrel-aged stouts, making it appealing to many different types of beer drinkers. Two of its most popular beers are Surf Wax IPA, a hop-driven West Coast-inspired IPA, and Shadowclock Pilsner, a clean and refreshing lager that highlights their love for traditional styles. Burial has also built a loyal following through its artistic branding, rotating releases, and community-focused events, which continue to set it apart as one of the top breweries in North Carolina.

Cool Facts About North Carolina Breweries

North Carolina has become one of the leading states for craft beer, with more than 350 breweries and brewpubs. The industry generates over 2.8 billion dollars each year and provides jobs for about 18,000 people. This makes North Carolina a key hub for beer in the South.

Brewing in the state has roots going back centuries, when early settlers and indigenous communities made their own versions of beer. Today, many breweries carry on that tradition by creating unique recipes that often use local ingredients like berries, grains, and hops. This mix of history and innovation is part of what makes the state’s beer scene stand out.

FAQs About North Carolina Breweries

Which city in North Carolina is known as the state’s craft beer capital?

Asheville is often called the craft beer capital of North Carolina because it has more breweries per person than almost anywhere in the United States.

Are North Carolina breweries family friendly?

Many breweries in the state welcome families, offering outdoor seating, food trucks, and kid-friendly spaces.

Do North Carolina breweries use local ingredients?

Yes. Many breweries partner with local farms for hops, honey, fruit, and grains to create beers with a local flavor.

What types of brewery tours are available in North Carolina?

Visitors can take part in guided brewery tours, self-guided brewery trails, and even specialized beer buses in cities like Asheville and Charlotte.

Are there major beer festivals in North Carolina?

Yes. Popular events include the North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival, Brewgaloo in Raleigh, and Oktoberfest celebrations in the mountains.