The Top 30 Breweries in Ohio Ranked

Ohio has become a go-to place for craft beer lovers. With a growing number of breweries across the state, there’s no shortage of spots where you can grab a cold, well-made beer. From the bigger cities like Cleveland and Columbus to smaller towns with tight-knit brewing communities, Ohio offers a wide range of styles and flavors. Local brewers put in the work, focusing on quality and consistency, which has helped the state build a strong reputation in the craft beer scene.

This article highlights some of the best breweries in Ohio. We looked at more than just hype. These are breweries that have earned loyal followings through great beer, welcoming spaces, and a true passion for the craft. Whether you’re just getting into craft beer or you’ve been a fan for years, this list gives you solid choices worth checking out. It’s about supporting places that care about what they make and how they serve it. If you’re looking for a new favorite or just want to see what Ohio has to offer, this is a good place to start.

#30 – Terrestrial Brewing Company

Terrestrial Brewing Company in Cleveland has built a strong local following thanks to its creative lineup of rotating beers and laid-back atmosphere. This spot is known for mixing things up, often updating its taps with new styles that keep regulars coming back. While a few core options remain steady, most of the beers on the menu change often, which shows the team’s focus on staying fresh and interesting.

The brewery sits in a relaxed neighborhood near Lake Erie, and its large patios make it a favorite hangout during warm months. The casual setup, dog-friendly vibe, and views of the water give it an easygoing charm that adds to the experience. Terrestrial Brewing has gained attention not just for the setting, but also for the way it pushes boundaries with its brews. It’s a solid stop for anyone interested in local beer that’s well-made and a little outside the usual routine.

#29 – Narrow Path Brewing Co.

Narrow Path Brewing Co., located in Loveland, Ohio, is known for its small-batch craft beers that focus on quality and flavor. This five-barrel brewery has gained recognition for making approachable beers that appeal to a wide range of tastes. Their taproom features a rotating selection, including IPAs, stouts, and sours, so there’s always something new to try. Narrow Path has received recognition at competitions like the Ohio Craft Brewers Cup, reflecting their dedication to brewing excellence.

Beyond their beers, the brewery is active in the community and supports various local and global non-profits. This focus on connection and care helps create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Whether you prefer hop-forward brews or rich, smooth stouts, this brewery offers something enjoyable for every beer lover. Their balance of craft and community spirit makes Narrow Path Brewing Co. a favorite spot for locals and visitors in the Loveland area.

#28 – Little Fish Brewing Company

Little Fish Brewing Company, nestled in Athens, Ohio, is celebrated for its commitment to crafting simple, rustic beers that reflect the local community. Since its inception, the brewery has embraced a farmhouse brewing philosophy, drawing inspiration from locally sourced ingredients. Their beer lineup includes a variety of styles, such as saisons, barrel-aged sours, and hop-forward pale ales, often incorporating Ohio-grown barley and hops.

Notable offerings include the “Saison du Poisson,” a mixed-culture saison, and the “Oktoberfish,” a modern festbier brewed with German malt and hops. Beyond brewing, Little Fish is dedicated to sustainability, operating with solar power and wind credits, and maintaining 100% independent ownership. Their taprooms in Athens and Dayton provide a welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their meticulously crafted beers. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Little Fish Brewing Company offers a genuine taste of Ohio’s craft beer scene.

#27 – BrewDog

BrewDog, a prominent name in the craft beer industry, has established a significant presence in Ohio, particularly in the Columbus area. Their flagship location, DogHouse Columbus, serves as both a brewery and the world’s first craft beer hotel, offering visitors a unique experience with in-room beer taps and a brewery tour right from the hotel.

In addition to DogHouse, BrewDog operates several other venues across Ohio, including BrewDog Cleveland Outpost, BrewDog Cincinnati, and BrewDog Franklinton, each providing a diverse selection of craft beers and a nice atmosphere. Despite facing industry challenges, BrewDog continues to be a key player in Ohio’s craft beer scene, offering innovative brews and memorable experiences for beer enthusiasts.

#26 – Ill Will Brewing

Ill Will Brewing, located in Columbiana, Ohio, has quickly made a name for itself in the craft beer community. Opened in 2021, the brewery offers a unique experience that blends creativity with quality. Their taproom, situated on a serene farm across from a golf course, provides a relaxed setting for patrons to enjoy a diverse range of beers.

Known for their innovative smoothie sours, Ill Will Brewing also offers a variety of other styles, including hazy IPAs, porters, and seltzers, ensuring there’s something for every palate. The brewery’s commitment to quality and creativity has earned it a strong local following and positive reviews. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Ill Will Brewing offers a memorable stop for craft beer enthusiasts.

#25 – Weasel Boy Brewing Company

Weasel Boy Brewing Company, founded in 2006, is a key player in Zanesville’s craft beer scene. It became the first brewery to open in the city since breweries closed down in 1918, marking a big return for local beer lovers. Located on Muskingum Avenue, Weasel Boy offers a variety of hand-crafted beers that are easy to enjoy, like their Ornery Otter Blonde Ale and Mango Wheat. They focus on using fresh, local ingredients and don’t pasteurize their beers, which helps keep the flavors fresh and natural.

Besides beer, the brewery has a Rum Room—a relaxed, tiki-style lounge where visitors can enjoy rum and craft cocktails. The place also hosts live music every Saturday and has space for private events, making it a popular spot for locals to gather. Whether you live nearby or are just visiting, Weasel Boy Brewing Company offers a friendly atmosphere and great beer worth trying.

#24 – Twin Oast Brewing

Twin Oast Brewing, located on a 60-acre farm in Port Clinton, Ohio, offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation in the craft beer scene. The brewery embraces a “farm-to-fermenter” philosophy, utilizing produce grown on-site to craft beers that reflect the local terroir. Their taproom, designed with custom walnut and steel accents, provides a cozy atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their brews.

The brewery’s commitment to quality is evident in its diverse beer offerings, including year-round staples like Old Ohio Blonde Ale and seasonal releases that highlight the flavors of the region. Twin Oast Brewing has become a destination for beer enthusiasts, offering a welcoming environment and a taste of Ohio’s rich agricultural heritage.

#23 – Missing Mountain Brewing Co.

Missing Mountain Brewing Co., located in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, offers a unique blend of craft beer and scenic views along the Cuyahoga River. Established in 2018, the brewery has become a local favorite for its diverse beer selection and inviting atmosphere. The taproom features a variety of styles, including hazy IPAs, fruited ales, and traditional lagers, often with creative names and bold flavors. Popular offerings include “Mustaches and Man Buns,” a hazy double IPA, and “Prince Juice,” a fruited ale with raspberry and vanilla notes.

The brewery’s commitment to quality is evident in its rotating taps and seasonal releases, ensuring there’s always something new to try. Beyond beer, Missing Mountain provides a welcoming environment with outdoor seating, live music events, and a menu that complements its brews. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Missing Mountain Brewing Co. offers a memorable craft beer experience in the heart of Cuyahoga Falls.

#22 – Listermann Brewing Company

Listermann Brewing Company in Cincinnati started in 2008 and quickly became a key part of the city’s craft beer scene. What makes it special is its roots in homebrewing. The founders began by making homebrewing equipment back in the early ’90s before opening the brewery. This background gives them a deep understanding of the brewing process. Their taproom offers a variety of unique beers, like the award-winning “Chickow!” double brown ale, made with honey, chocolate malts, and hazelnuts. Another popular choice is the “Nutcase” peanut butter porter, known for its smooth and rich flavor. Listermann balances traditional brewing with fresh ideas, which keeps fans coming back. Whether you’re new to craft beer or a longtime fan, their welcoming space and creative lineup make it a great stop when visiting Cincinnati.

#21 – Third Eye Brewing Company

Third Eye Brewing Company, established in 2020, has quickly become a standout in the Cincinnati craft beer scene. With locations in Sharonville and Hamilton, the brewery offers a spacious and inviting atmosphere for beer enthusiasts. Their taprooms feature a wide selection of hand-crafted beers, including award-winning options like the Double Astral oatmeal stout and the Gettin’ Twisted pretzel ale, which won gold at the 2022 Ohio Cup.

The brewery’s commitment to quality and innovation has earned them recognition at prestigious competitions such as the Great American Beer Festival, where they received multiple medals in 2023. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Third Eye Brewing Company provides a memorable experience with its diverse beer offerings and welcoming environment.

#20 – Wooly Pig Farm Brewery

Wooly Pig Farm Brewery in Fresno, Ohio, is known for its focus on traditional German-style lagers made with local ingredients. Their beers are unfiltered, which gives them a fresh, full flavor. The brewery grows its own hops and uses water from a well on the farm, adding to the unique character of their brews. Some popular choices include the Zwick’lbier, a lightly hoppy pilsner with a smooth finish, and the Schwarzbier, a dark lager with rich, roasted notes.

They also offer seasonal beers like the Maple Sap Cream Ale, which has a subtle sweetness from real maple sap. Wooly Pig’s commitment to quality and local sourcing makes their beers stand out. The brewery’s connection to the farm adds a special touch, as even the spent grain is used to feed their Mangalitsa pigs. This focus on sustainability and craftsmanship makes their drinks a favorite for those who appreciate classic lagers with a local twist.

#19 – Rockmill Brewery

Rockmill Brewery, nestled in Lancaster, Ohio, is celebrated for its commitment to traditional Belgian-style ales. Drawing inspiration from the rustic charm of Wallonia, Belgium, the brewery crafts beers that reflect the region’s rich brewing heritage. A standout in their lineup is the Saison Noir, a farmhouse ale aged in whiskey barrels from Middle West Spirits. This unique brew offers earthy molasses flavors with hints of vanilla-tinged sugar cane, showcasing Rockmill’s innovative approach to classic styles.

Another notable offering is the Cerise, a cherry-infused sour ale that balances tartness with subtle sweetness, providing a refreshing experience for those seeking something different. For fans of lighter brews, the Le Cheval farmhouse ale delivers a crisp, dry finish with delicate fruity notes, embodying the essence of a session saison. Rockmill’s dedication to quality and tradition makes it a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts.

#18 – Urban Artifact

Urban Artifact in Cincinnati is well known for its fruited sour ales that bring a fresh twist to craft beer. Since opening in 2015, it has built a strong reputation by using large amounts of real fruit, which gives its beers bold, natural flavors. One of their most popular beers, Gadget, combines blackberries and raspberries to create a tart, refreshing drink that stands out. The brewery focuses on quality and creativity, making each batch carefully to keep the flavors true. They also have a Small Batch Society, a beer club that lets members try exclusive and limited beers not available to the public. This approach keeps fans coming back for new experiences. Urban Artifact’s unique style and dedication make it a favorite stop for those who enjoy sour ales and fruit-forward beers. It’s a place where beer lovers can find something different and enjoy quality craft brews in Cincinnati.

#17 – Hoppin’ Frog Brewery

Hoppin’ Frog Brewery, established in 2006 in Akron, Ohio, is renowned for its bold, high-ABV beers that have garnered national acclaim. The brewery’s flagship offering, B.O.R.I.S. The Crusher, is a Russian Imperial Stout that has received multiple awards, including a gold medal at the World Beer Cup. Another standout is D.O.R.I.S. The Destroyer, a double oatmeal stout with a robust flavor profile.

For those seeking a lighter option, the Wild Frog Wheat Ale offers a refreshing, unfiltered brew with subtle fruity notes. Hoppin’ Frog also produces seasonal favorites like the Frog’s Hollow Double Pumpkin Ale, which captures the essence of fall with its spiced pumpkin flavor. The brewery’s commitment to quality and innovation has solidified its reputation as a top-tier craft beer destination in Ohio.

#16 – Masthead Brewing Co.

Masthead Brewing Co., opened in 2017 in Cleveland, quickly earned a strong reputation for its quality beers and inviting space. Located in a historic building, the taproom features a long bar and a patio where guests can bring their dogs. The brewery is best known for its hazy IPAs and well-crafted lagers. Some favorites include the “Tire Swing” hazy pale ale and the “Self Mummification” double IPA, both praised for their smooth, balanced flavors.

They also offer a “Single Origin Coffee Stout,” made with local coffee, which adds a rich and bold twist. Masthead has won several awards, showing its commitment to quality and craft. Beyond beer, they provide cocktails, ciders, and wines to suit different tastes. This variety and attention to detail make Masthead a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy fresh, well-made brews in Cleveland.

#15 – CLAG Brewing Company

CLAG Brewing Company, located in Sandusky, Ohio, has quickly become a standout in the state’s craft beer scene. Known for its bold flavors and creative brewing, CLAG offers a diverse range of beers that cater to various palates. Their lineup includes standout IPAs like the “Mama Bui,” a Triple New England IPA with a 9.5% ABV, and the “Khantra,” an Imperial Double New England IPA with an 8% ABV. These beers are celebrated for their rich hop profiles and smooth finishes.

In addition to their IPAs, CLAG also brews other styles such as the “Tarzan’s Amber,” a Vienna Lager, and the “Yellow Moon,” a Hefeweizen, showcasing their versatility and commitment to quality brewing. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs or traditional lagers, CLAG Brewing Company offers a selection that promises to satisfy and impress.

#14 – DankHouse Brewing Company

DankHouse Brewing Company, located in Newark, Ohio, is celebrated for its innovative approach to brewing, specializing in hazy IPAs, fruited sours, and stouts. Their beer lineup includes notable selections such as “Super Fantastic,” a 7% ABV American IPA, and “Coastal Gardens,” a hazy IPA that showcases their commitment to quality and creativity. The brewery’s “Chasing Trees” series exemplifies their dedication to exploring new hop combinations, offering a range of New England-style IPAs that are both flavorful and aromatic.

In addition to their core offerings, DankHouse frequently experiments with unique ingredients and brewing techniques, resulting in limited-edition beers that attract craft beer enthusiasts. Beyond their diverse beer selection, DankHouse Brewing Company provides a welcoming atmosphere with live music and a 9-hole disc golf course, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking a distinctive craft beer experience.

#13 – Noble Beast Brewing Company

Noble Beast Brewing Company in Cleveland is known for mixing traditional European brewing with modern American styles. Since opening in 2017, it has built a strong following with its flexible brewing setup that allows for complex flavors. Some popular beers include the Murder Ballads Baltic Porter, which offers rich, smooth notes, and the Evil Motives IPA, known for its bold hop character.

The brewery also focuses on lagers, such as the Union Pils and Ember Only Rauchbier, which highlight classic brewing techniques. This balance between tradition and innovation sets Noble Beast apart. Along with great beer, they offer a full kitchen serving fresh, farm-to-table meals that pair well with their drinks. The welcoming atmosphere and variety of beer styles make it a favorite spot for locals and visitors. Whether you enjoy bold IPAs or classic lagers, this brewery provides quality brews with a thoughtful approach.

#12 – MadTree Brewing

MadTree Brewing, established in 2013 in Cincinnati, has become a cornerstone of the city’s craft beer scene. Located in the Oakley neighborhood, the brewery offers a spacious taproom and a large outdoor beer garden, creating a welcoming atmosphere for beer enthusiasts. MadTree is known for its diverse beer offerings, including flagship beers like PsycHOPathy, a citrus-forward IPA, and Happy Amber, a dry-hopped amber ale.

The brewery also produces seasonal and experimental brews, such as Holly Days, a spruce tip IPA that gained international recognition . In addition to its beer selection, MadTree features a full-service kitchen offering wood-fired pizzas and other dishes, enhancing the overall experience for visitors. With a commitment to quality and innovation, MadTree Brewing continues to be a must-visit destination for craft beer lovers in Ohio.

#11 – Branch & Bone Artisan Ales

Branch & Bone Artisan Ales in Dayton is known for blending traditional European brewing with modern American styles. Since opening in 2018, it has gained a loyal following thanks to its creative approach and use of local ingredients. The brewery offers a wide range of beers, including hazy IPAs, fruited sours, and barrel-aged stouts. One popular beer is “On A Cloud,” a hazy IPA with juicy hop flavors that many enjoy. Another favorite is “Black Razzath,” a wild ale aged with locally picked black raspberries, offering a unique tartness.

The taproom regularly rotates its beer selection, so there is always something new to try. This commitment to variety and quality makes Branch & Bone a go-to spot for both experienced beer lovers and those new to craft brewing. The brewery’s focus on fresh, flavorful beers and a welcoming atmosphere helps it stand out in Ohio’s growing craft beer scene.

#10 – Warped Wing Brewing Company

Warped Wing Brewing Company, based in Dayton, Ohio, has become a key player in the local craft beer scene since it started in 2014. The brewery is housed in a historic building, reflecting Dayton’s spirit of innovation. They have several locations around Ohio, including Springboro and Mason, making their beers easy to find. Their lineup features a variety of popular beers like Fly Light Lager, known for its crisp and refreshing taste, and Gamma Bomb, a bold American IPA with strong hop flavors. They also offer Ermal’s Belgian Style Cream Ale, which is smooth and creamy. Warped Wing frequently releases seasonal and special brews, including dessert stouts and imperial IPAs. Aside from beer, they craft hard seltzers and house-made sodas like root beer and ginger beer. This variety keeps their menu interesting and appeals to many tastes. Warped Wing’s mix of classic and innovative drinks makes it a favorite stop for beer lovers in Ohio.

#9 – Maumee Bay Brewing Company

Maumee Bay Brewing Company, Toledo’s original craft brewery since 1995, offers a strong connection to local brewing history. Located in the historic Oliver House beneath the High Level Bridge, the brewery’s 15-barrel copper brewhouse is visible to guests, making the brewing process part of the experience. Their beer selection includes flagship brews like Total Eclipse Breakfast Stout, which features local espresso for a rich flavor, and Glass Hopper IPA, known for its balanced hop notes.

They also brew Buckeye Lager, a hometown classic inspired by Toledo’s brewing history. Along with these, Maumee Bay regularly releases seasonal and specialty beers, including options like Blood Orange Imperial Witbier and Mango Jerry American Wheat. This variety means there is something for every kind of beer drinker, whether you prefer traditional lagers or more experimental styles. The brewery’s blend of tradition and creativity keeps it popular among locals and visitors looking for quality brews in Toledo.

#8 – Columbus Brewing Company

Columbus Brewing Company, started in 1988, is one of Ohio’s early craft breweries. It began in the Brewery District and has since moved to a modern facility on Harrison Road. This new space includes advanced brewing equipment and a special cellar for sour beers. Their taproom is spacious and inviting, making it a popular place to try their beers. Columbus Brewing is well known for hop-focused beers. Their Columbus IPA stands out with balanced flavors of grapefruit and pine. Another favorite is Bodhi, a double IPA that has won awards and features Citra hops.

The brewery also offers seasonal and limited-release beers, including fruity and tropical versions of Bodhi. With a focus on quality and fresh flavors, Columbus Brewing Company continues to attract craft beer fans across Ohio. Their mix of classic and experimental beers makes them a key part of the state’s growing beer scene.

#7 – Seventh Son Brewing Co.

Seventh Son Brewing Co., established in 2013, is a standout in Columbus, Ohio’s craft beer scene. Located in the historic Italian Village, the brewery is known for its innovative approach to brewing. Their flagship beer, the Scientist IPA, is a dynamic brew that changes with each batch, offering a unique experience every time.

Another popular choice is the Proliferous Double IPA, which delivers bold hop flavors and a smooth finish. Seventh Son also offers a variety of seasonal and limited-edition beers, ensuring there’s always something new to try. With a commitment to quality and creativity, Seventh Son Brewing Co. continues to be a favorite among beer enthusiasts in Ohio.

#6 – Fat Head’s Brewery

Fat Head’s Brewery, started in 2009 in North Olmsted, Ohio, quickly made a name for itself with bold and hop-forward beers. Over the years, it has grown to include a production facility in Middleburg Heights and brewpubs in Canton and Pittsburgh. Their most famous beer is Head Hunter IPA, a West Coast-style IPA that has won several top awards like gold medals at the World Beer Cup. This beer is known for its strong hop flavor and balanced bitterness.

Another popular beer is Hop Juju, an imperial IPA with a rich hop profile that appeals to those who enjoy intense flavors. For something a bit different, Bumble Berry offers a sweeter taste with honey and blueberry notes. Fat Head’s focus on quality and creative brewing keeps fans coming back. Their mix of classic and unique beers has earned them a solid spot among Ohio’s top breweries.

#5 – Hoof Hearted Brewing

Hoof Hearted Brewing, started in 2011 in Marengo, Ohio, is known for bold and hop-focused beers. Their standout double IPA, $60 Nachos, is brewed with Citra, Simcoe, and El Dorado hops, offering strong and complex flavors. Other popular beers include Konkey Dong, another double IPA with a mix of Citra, Motueka, Simcoe, and Dr. Rudi hops, and Roller Blabe, a dry-hopped double IPA featuring Mosaic, Simcoe, and Galaxy hops. The brewery is also known for its creative beer names and experimental brewing styles, which keep fans interested.

Hoof Hearted often works with other breweries on unique and limited beers, like an imperial IPA made with Vermont yeast or a Berliner Weisse with coffee, vanilla, and raspberry. They regularly introduce seasonal and specialty brews, giving visitors something new to enjoy. Their focus on quality and innovation has made Hoof Hearted Brewing a favorite among Ohio’s craft beer fans.

#4 – Land-Grant Brewing Company

Land-Grant Brewing Company, started in 2014 in Columbus, Ohio, has quickly become a favorite in the local craft beer scene. Located in the historic Franklinton area, it features a spacious taproom and a large outdoor beer garden, making it a great spot to enjoy a drink with friends. The brewery offers a variety of beers, focusing on quality and flavor. One popular beer is the Big Time Double IPA, which uses hops like Citra, Mosaic, and Nelson Sauvin to create bold notes of grapefruit and pineapple.

Another standout is the Massive Hazy IPA, made with hops such as El Dorado and Azacca, giving it juicy and citrus flavors. With a strong connection to the community and creative brews, Land-Grant Brewing Company remains a top choice in Columbus.

#3 – Jackie O’s Pub & Brewery

Jackie O’s Pub & Brewery, founded in 2005 in Athens, Ohio, is a well-known name in the local craft beer scene. The brewery focuses on using locally sourced ingredients and renewable energy, showing a strong commitment to sustainability. Their flagship beer, Mystic Mama, is a West Coast-style IPA with tropical and citrus flavors balanced by a firm bitterness. Fans also enjoy a variety of other beers, like the amber ale Firefly, raspberry wheat Razz Wheat, and honey nut brown ale Chomolungma.

Jackie O’s is also famous for its barrel-aged stouts, including the bourbon barrel-aged Dark Apparition and the honey stout Cellar Cuvée 15. These stouts are rich and flavorful, drawing attention from craft beer lovers. With its wide range of beer styles and a focus on community, Jackie O’s Pub & Brewery remains a top spot for anyone interested in Ohio’s craft beer scene.

#2 – Rhinegeist Brewery

Rhinegeist Brewery, opened in 2013 in Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, quickly became a key part of Ohio’s craft beer scene. Located in a historic building, it features a spacious taproom and a rooftop bar with great city views. Their flagship beer, Truth IPA, is a West Coast-style IPA known for strong hop flavors and balanced bitterness. Another favorite is Juicy Truth, a hazy IPA with tropical fruit notes, along with Knowledge, an imperial IPA with a richer malt taste. Besides IPAs, they offer a variety of styles, including the light and crisp Cincy Light lager and the rich Ink imperial stout.

The brewery also produces barrel-aged beers and seasonal brews, giving visitors fresh options throughout the year. Rhinegeist’s focus on quality and variety makes it a popular stop for craft beer fans in Ohio. Their mix of classic and new beers keeps people coming back to try what’s next.

#1 – Great Lakes Brewing Company

Great Lakes Brewing Company, founded in 1988 in Cleveland, Ohio, is known as the state’s first craft brewery. Started by brothers Patrick and Daniel Conway, it helped shape the craft beer scene both locally and nationally. The brewery operates from a historic building in Cleveland’s Ohio City neighborhood, where their brewpub and restaurant welcome visitors. One of their most popular beers is Dortmunder Gold Lager, an award-winning lager that has been a favorite since the beginning.

Other well-known brews include Edmund Fitzgerald Porter, a rich and smooth porter named after the famous ship, and Commodore Perry IPA, a British-style IPA with balanced hop flavors. They also offer seasonal beers like Christmas Ale and Oktoberfest, which bring unique tastes tied to the seasons. Great Lakes Brewing Company combines tradition with new ideas, making it a top choice for craft beer fans in Ohio and beyond.

Ohio Beer Scene: From Industrial Roots to Craft Excellence

Ohio has a long beer history tied to its working-class cities and immigrant communities. In the 1800s, German settlers brought brewing traditions that shaped cities like Cincinnati and Cleveland. Beer was a part of everyday life, and by the early 1900s, Ohio had hundreds of breweries. Like many states, Prohibition wiped most of them out, but the craft beer revival has more than made up for it.

Today, Ohio is one of the country’s most underrated beer states. With over 400 breweries, it offers a wide variety of styles and experiences. You’ll find farmhouse breweries in rural areas, trendy taprooms in Columbus and Cleveland, and historic brewpubs in Cincinnati. Many Ohio breweries put their own spin on traditional styles, while others focus on experimentation and barrel-aging.

Whether you’re into hop-forward IPAs, smooth porters, fruit-forward sours, or balanced lagers, you’ll find something worth drinking in Ohio. The best part? Most of these places still keep that friendly, down-to-earth vibe that Ohio is known for.

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FAQs About Ohio Beer

How many breweries are in Ohio?
Ohio has over 400 craft breweries, with new ones opening every year across both urban and rural areas.

Which Ohio city has the best beer scene?
Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati all have strong scenes, but each offers something different. Cleveland leans heavy on bold styles, Columbus is experimental, and Cincinnati has deep brewing roots.

What’s a must-try Ohio beer?
Truth IPA from Rhinegeist (Cincinnati) and Edmund Fitzgerald Porter from Great Lakes Brewing Co. (Cleveland) are two local favorites.

Are there Ohio beer trails?
Yes. Popular ones include the Cincinnati Ale Trail, Columbus Ale Trail, and Lake Erie Shores & Islands Cheers Trail.

Are Ohio breweries family-friendly?
Many are. Breweries with outdoor seating or food options often welcome families and pets. It’s always best to check ahead.