The Top 30 Breweries in South Dakota Ranked

South Dakota has become a surprising favorite among craft beer fans, thanks to its friendly taprooms and creative brewing styles. From rustic spots in small towns to modern setups in the city, each brewery adds something special to the state’s growing beer culture. Locals and visitors alike enjoy how these breweries mix community spirit with a genuine love for good beer.

This article puts together the best breweries in South Dakota, giving you a simple look at the places people are talking about across the state. It’s written to help you get to know the brewing scene and find spots that fit your taste or travel plans. Whether you’re planning a visit or just curious about South Dakota’s beer landscape, this guide is a great way to start.

#30 – One Legged Pheasant Brewery

One-Legged Pheasant Brewery in Aberdeen, South Dakota, is a microbrewery known for its handcrafted beers and friendly atmosphere. Two popular options are Ring Neck Red, an Irish Red Ale with a balanced malt profile and smooth finish, and HOP SLAP!, a New England-style Double IPA with tropical fruit flavors and a hazy appearance. The brewery also offers other unique beers like coffee porters and barrel-aged stouts, along with growlers and crowlers for takeout. Its taproom provides a welcoming space for patrons to enjoy fresh craft beer, and the brewery hosts events and offers facility tours to enhance the community experience. One-Legged Pheasant Brewery has become a favorite in Aberdeen for those looking for creative and high-quality craft beers.

#29 – Roundhouse Brew Pub

Roundhouse Brew Pub in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, has earned a loyal following for its approachable house beers and relaxed neighborhood setting. Two of its most popular brews are Golden Spike, a smooth and balanced golden ale, and Der Zug Oktoberfest, a malty seasonal favorite with a clean finish. The brewery also offers rotating options like Sleeper Car, giving guests something new to try throughout the year. Roundhouse Brew Pub combines quality craft beer with a friendly atmosphere, making it a popular stop for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy Sioux Falls’ growing beer scene.

#28 – XIX Brewing Company

XIX Brewing Company in Vermillion, South Dakota, is known for its diverse and crowd-pleasing beer list. They offer drinkers Brekkie Time Hazy IPA, which bursts with citrus and orange flavors thanks to hops like Nectaron and Citra, and Bonfire Brown Ale, rich and smooth with chocolate and nut notes. For those who prefer lighter beer, Bluffs Blonde Ale gives a clear golden look and a fruity aroma from wheat-style yeast. The setting is casual and welcoming, with space to relax and spend time with friends. XIX Brewing has quickly become a favorite in Vermillion because it balances bold beers with approachable options and keeps its tap selections creative.

#27 – Watertown Brewing Company

Watertown Brewing Company in downtown Watertown, South Dakota, is known for its friendly atmosphere and quality craft beer. The brewery crafts a range of beers on site, with favorites like the Pelican Pale Ale and Codington Cream Ale often praised for their smooth flavor and balance. Guests appreciate the easygoing setting, good service, and menu that pairs well with their brews. It has become a go-to spot for both locals and travelers who want to enjoy fresh beer and small-town charm in one place. Watertown Brewing Company continues to stand out as a key part of South Dakota’s growing craft beer scene.

#26 – Dempsey’s Brewery Pub & Restaurant

Dempsey’s Brewery Pub & Restaurant in Watertown, South Dakota, has been serving handcrafted beer and comfort food since 1999. This family-run brewpub is known for its welcoming atmosphere and wide selection of house-made beers. Popular picks include the Battle Axe Blonde Ale and Black Bear Stout, both recognized for their rich flavor and smooth finish. Dempsey’s blends a cozy pub feel with a community spirit that keeps people coming back for more. It continues to stand as one of South Dakota’s most established brewpubs, combining good beer, great food, and friendly service in one spot.

#25 – Choteau Creek Brewing Co.

Choteau Creek Brewing Co. near Wagner, South Dakota, brings small-batch craft beer to a peaceful farm setting. The brewery sits on a family homestead and is known for its Czech, Belgian, and German-style brews. Favorites include the 54 Paces Saison, named for the short walk between the brewhouse and the owners’ home, and the Glass of Sunshine German Wheat, which has a light, refreshing taste. Guests enjoy the relaxed setting surrounded by open fields and friendly service that feels personal and genuine. The brewery also offers homemade food like flatbreads and pizzas, adding to its inviting feel. Choteau Creek Brewing Co. has become a destination for travelers who want to experience authentic South Dakota craft beer in a rural and welcoming environment.

#24 – Cohort Craft Brewery

Cohort Craft Brewery in Rapid City, South Dakota, is a family-run brewery that grew from a passion for homebrewing into one of the area’s most talked-about craft spots. Located on 5th Street, it offers a relaxed taproom where guests can enjoy a mix of creative beers and locally made mead. Popular choices include the White Wedding Milkshake IPA and the Sign o’ the Times Coconut Stout, both known for their bold flavor and smooth finish. Cohort focuses on using quality local ingredients, including South Dakota honey for its mead. With friendly service and a steady lineup of new releases, Cohort Craft Brewery continues to grow as a local favorite in the state’s craft beer scene.

#23 – Sturgis Brewing Company

Sturgis Brewing Company in Sturgis, South Dakota, has built a solid reputation for crafting flavorful and approachable beers. Fans often talk about the Red Cut Red Ale, a smooth brew with a touch of caramel and mild hop character, and the Purple Grain Blonde Ale, which blends blueberry, blackberry, and raspberry flavors for a refreshing finish. The brewery keeps a balanced lineup that appeals to both casual drinkers and craft beer fans, offering a range of styles from light and crisp to dark and malty. Each pour highlights their focus on quality and consistency, making it a go-to stop for anyone exploring South Dakota’s beer scene. With a steady rotation of seasonal releases, Sturgis Brewing Company continues to impress visitors who enjoy creative yet easy-to-drink beers.

#22 – Jacobs Brewhouse and Grocer

Jacobs Brewhouse & Grocer in Deadwood offers a wide variety of house-brewed beer alongside an interesting full tap list that mixes local and guest brews. Two of their beers that get a lot of praise are Jacobs Betty Wit, a light wheat ale with a refreshing finish, and Dubbel De Jacobs, which shows off rich malty notes typical of Belgian dubbels. Patrons like that Jac­obs has a solid rotation of styles, so there’s usually something for IPA fans and those who prefer smoother, maltier beers. The place also pairs its brews with good food and even has a grocer/bakery section, making it more than just a brewery stop. For people visiting Deadwood, it’s especially nice because you can enjoy their craft beer in a restored historic building while trying new beers and seeing guest taps from around the region.

#21 – A Homestead Brew

A Homestead Brew in Valley Springs, South Dakota, is a farm-based brewery that focuses on using its own hops and local fruit to craft its beers. Their field-to-glass approach means many of the ingredients come from their hop farm, which gives their brews a more direct flavor link to the land. Two beers people often praise are Potsdam Dunkel, a clean lager with caramel notes and smooth finish, and Front Line Lager, a Vienna-style brew with toasted malt character and mild hop aroma. The taproom is peaceful and rustic, with outdoor seating where guests can relax and enjoy beers in a farm setting. Because of their focus on local ingredients and creative sour and wild ales, A Homestead Brew draws those who like something different and grounded in place.

#20 – Woodland Republic Brewing & Blending

Woodland Republic Brewing & Blending in Rapid City is known for its creative lineup of mixed-fermentation and barrel-aged beers. Their Deep Space Juice Race IPA stands out for its juicy hop flavor and smooth finish, while the 385 Buffalo Red Ale delivers a nice blend of toasted malt and caramel notes. The brewery also offers rotating experimental releases that keep locals and visitors coming back for something new. With a focus on quality ingredients and detailed brewing methods, Woodland Republic has become a favorite stop for craft beer fans in South Dakota.

#19 – Ben’s Brewing Company

Ben’s Brewing Company in Yankton, South Dakota, is known for offering a wide mix of creative and well-balanced beers. Their West Side Park IPA is a popular choice, featuring a blend of hops like Citra and Amarillo for bright citrus notes. Another standout is the Kenny Pepper Cream Ale, which combines a smooth malt base with a touch of roasted jalapeño for a mild, flavorful kick. The brewery’s taprooms serve an impressive range of beers, from lagers to sours, giving guests plenty of options to try. Ben’s Brewing Company has become a local favorite for its friendly atmosphere and consistent quality, making it a key part of South Dakota’s growing craft beer scene.

#18 – Wooden Legs Brewing Company

Wooden Legs Brewing Company in Brookings, South Dakota, is well known for its lineup of approachable and flavorful beers. Two of their more popular ones are Split Rock Creek Pale Ale, which has layered malt and Pacific Northwest hops, and Wild Hare Cream Ale, a light beer with a crisp finish and a hint of citrus. Their Deadwood Gold Amber Ale also gets praise for its mild sweetness and smooth amber malt character. Wooden Legs keeps a mix of consistent flagship beers and rotating seasonal brews so there’s usually something fresh to try. Their taproom vibe is casual and welcoming, and the staff are good at helping folks find beers that match their taste.

#17 – Buffalo Ridge Brewing

Buffalo Ridge Brewing Project in Hartford, South Dakota, has made a name for itself by offering a wide variety of well-crafted beers in a setting that feels both welcoming and real. Their 410 Porter draws praise with its dark roasted malt, coffee, and dark chocolate tones, giving a rich finish many drinkers enjoy. Another favorite is Cattalo Cream Ale, lighter and smooth, made with local honey from Deep Creek Honey, giving just a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the palette. With about 18 beers on tap, Buffalo Ridge balances bold choices like stouts and fruit sours with beers that are more approachable. The taproom offers indoor and outdoor seating and often acts as a gathering place for both locals and visitors.

#16 – Look’s Beer Co

Look’s Beer Co in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is known for its creative approach to brewing and its wide range of beers that fit many tastes. Their Daisy Gazer Hazy IPA is popular for its juicy citrus notes and smooth hop finish, while Warm Gun IPA delivers a more classic bitterness with floral hop tones. The brewery also offers lighter options like lagers and wheat beers, giving guests plenty of choices. Located inside Look’s Marketplace, it pairs its beers with a lively setting that includes local food and community events. Look’s Beer Co has become a key part of the Sioux Falls craft beer scene for its quality, variety, and inviting atmosphere.

#15 – Dakota Shivers Brewing

Dakota Shivers Brewing in Lead, South Dakota, offers a solid selection for people who like craft beer with character. Favorites include the 5280 Pale Ale, light in color with balanced flavor, and the Whistle Blowin’ Stout, a sweeter stout brewed with coffee beans and lactose that makes for a smoother finish. Guests also speak highly of Dark Matter RyePA, which mixes rye and chocolate malt for depth, and Vertical Mile IPA, known for its hop complexity. The taproom feels inviting, cozy, and pet-friendly with both indoor and outdoor seating. It’s a place where beer lovers and travelers enjoy trying both their staple beers and new seasonal batches.

#14 – Eponymous Brewing Company

Eponymous Brewing Company in Brookings, South Dakota, is known for its inventive small-batch beers made with quality local ingredients. Their Citranym American IPA stands out for its bright hop flavor from Citra and Simcoe hops, while the Weizen Pina Colada Wheat offers a refreshing mix of wheat malt with hints of pineapple and coconut. The brewery often experiments with barrel-aged and fruit-forward beers that keep regulars coming back to try something new. With a warm, comfortable taproom and a patio for sunny days, Eponymous Brewing has become a go-to spot in Brookings for anyone who appreciates creative and well-made craft beer.

#13 – Sick N Twisted Brewing Co.

Sick N Twisted Brewing Co. in Hill City, South Dakota, is known for its bold and creative beers that appeal to adventurous drinkers. Two popular choices are Hop on Top, a double IPA with strong hop flavor and balanced bitterness, and Buzz Light Lager, a crisp and refreshing lighter beer. The brewery offers a variety of seasonal and experimental brews, giving guests new options to try regularly. Its taproom features a quirky, fun atmosphere, a beer wall for custom six-packs, and a menu of stone-baked pizzas and gourmet sandwiches. Sick N Twisted Brewing Co. has become a popular stop for both locals and visitors who enjoy unique craft beer experiences.

#12 – Spearfish Brewing Company

Spearfish Brewing Company in Spearfish, South Dakota, is known for its quality lagers and creative craft ales. Two of their standout beers are Venner Beer Premium Light Lager, a crisp lager with sweet malt and subtle herbal notes, and Copper Midge Amber Lager, an amber beer with a rich malt profile and balanced taste. The brewery uses South Dakota’s first horizontal lagering tanks and a three-stage reverse osmosis water filtration system to ensure clean, consistent beer. Their taproom offers a welcoming atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating, complemented by a gastro-pub menu. Spearfish Brewing Company is a popular stop for both locals and visitors, offering a mix of traditional and innovative beers that appeal to a wide range of tastes.

#11 – Severance Brewing Company

Severance Brewing Company in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, offers a diverse selection of craft beers with a focus on creativity and quality. Two popular choices are Love Notes, a hazy IPA with Citra and Mosaic hops giving refreshing citrus aroma and flavor, and Re-Gifted Love Notes, an experimental New England IPA enhanced with Mackinac and Michigan Copper hops for citrus, pineapple, and candy notes. The taproom provides a welcoming space for guests to enjoy innovative brews in a lively atmosphere. Severance Brewing Company has become a favorite for locals and visitors who enjoy trying unique and well-crafted beers.

#10 – Zymurcracy Beer Company

Zymurcracy Beer Company in Rapid City, South Dakota, is a veteran-owned craft brewery known for its creative and approachable beers. Two popular choices are Captain Kirsche, a Belgian Blonde Ale brewed with a mix of tart and sweet cherries for a fruity, slightly tart flavor, and Oktoberfest, a traditional Märzen-style lager with malty sweetness and a clean finish. The brewery focuses on community and the craft of brewing, offering a welcoming space for visitors to enjoy quality beer in a relaxed setting. Zymurcracy Beer Company has become a local favorite for its unique flavors and friendly atmosphere.

#9 – Dakota Point Brewing

Dakota Point Brewing in Rapid City, South Dakota, offers a variety of craft beers with options to suit different tastes. Two popular choices are Tangerine Treat, a fruited wheat beer with fresh tangerine zest for a bright citrus flavor, and Hardrocker Lite, a blonde ale with subtle peach notes that is easy to drink. The brewery also features seasonal and specialty beers, giving guests new flavors to enjoy throughout the year. Located in a historic power plant near downtown Rapid City, Dakota Point Brewing provides a welcoming taproom for both locals and visitors. Its focus on quality and community has made it a favorite destination for craft beer enthusiasts in the area.

#8 – Hay Camp Brewing Company

Hay Camp Brewing Company in Rapid City, South Dakota, is the city’s first production brewery, offering a variety of small-batch, handcrafted beers. Two popular options are Theodore Graham, a sessionable pale ale with malt-forward flavors reminiscent of sourdough and graham cracker, and Dino-Sour, a kettle-soured American sour ale with tart orange and pineapple notes and hints of mango. The brewery also rotates seasonal and specialty beers, giving guests new flavors to try throughout the year. Its taproom, co-located with The Bashful Bison Market, provides a cozy space for locals and visitors to enjoy high-quality craft beer.

#7 – Firehouse Brewing Company

Firehouse Brewing Company in Rapid City, South Dakota, is the state’s oldest operating brewery, located in a historic 1915 firehouse building. Two popular beers are Fire Engine Red, an Irish-style red ale with toasty malt and a crisp, hoppy finish, and Smoke Jumper Stout, an American stout with roasted malt flavors and a smooth, creamy body. Its downtown location includes a full-service restaurant serving American classics and BBQ, with both indoor and outdoor seating. Firehouse Brewing Company is a popular destination for locals and visitors looking for high-quality craft beer in a historic setting.

#6 – Sawyer Brewing Company

Sawyer Brewing Company in Spearfish, South Dakota, is a locally owned brewery known for its handcrafted beers and wood-fired pizzas. Two popular beers are Blood Orange Blonde Ale, a light American blonde ale brewed with real oranges for a bright citrus flavor, and Ninja Juice, a tropical American IPA with Mosaic and Citra hops offering bold hop character. Its taproom provides a cozy space for both locals and visitors, making it a popular spot to relax and enjoy quality craft beer alongside freshly made wood-fired pizzas.

#5 – Crow Peak Brewing

Crow Peak Brewing Company in Spearfish, South Dakota, is known for its high-quality handcrafted beers and commitment to the local community. Two standout options are 11th Hour IPA, an American IPA with citrus and pine notes and balanced bitterness, and Pile O’ Dirt Porter, a rich porter with roasted malt and subtle cocoa flavors. Its taproom provides indoor and outdoor seating, creating a welcoming space for friends, families, and craft beer enthusiasts to relax and enjoy unique brews. Crow Peak Brewing has earned a strong following among locals and visitors for its creative beer offerings and inviting atmosphere.

#4 – WoodGrain Brewing Co

WoodGrain Brewing Co., located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a popular spot for craft beer enthusiasts. Guests often enjoy Snobbery IPA, a session IPA with bright citrus notes and a smooth hop balance, or Milk Stout, a rich sweet stout with roasted malt and a creamy finish. The brewery also features a rotating lineup of fruited sours with flavors like Blue Raspberry, Mango Passion Fruit Lime, and Blueberry Pineapple Pomegranate. Both the downtown and East Sioux Falls locations provide a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, with the East side offering a patio and greenspace for families and pets. Known for quality beers and a welcoming environment, WoodGrain Brewing Co. has earned a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.

#3 – Remedy Brewing Company

Remedy Brewing Company in downtown Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a locally owned brewery known for its handcrafted beers and community focus. Two popular options are Worker Bee Cream Ale, a light and refreshing ale with subtle honey sweetness, and Remedy IPA, an American IPA with a balanced hop profile and moderate bitterness. The brewery also offers seasonal and rotating beers, giving visitors a variety of flavors to enjoy. Its taproom provides a lively space for patrons to relax and try different beers, and the brewery also operates Remedy Pickleball Pub, combining craft beer with recreational activities. Remedy Brewing Company has become a favorite in Sioux Falls for those looking for quality beers and a welcoming environment.

#2 – Fernson Brewing Company

Fernson Brewing Company in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a well-known craft brewery celebrated for its high-quality, handcrafted beers. Two of their popular beers are Lion’s Paw Lager, a crisp lager with subtle malt sweetness and a clean finish, and Curio Sour Ale, a tart ale with citrus flavors and a refreshing lemonade and grapefruit finish. The brewery offers two locations: Fernson Downtown, featuring 16 beers on tap and a kid- and dog-friendly patio, and the Brewery Taproom, which provides a rotating selection of Fernson beers. Both locations give visitors a relaxed environment to enjoy fresh craft beer. Fernson Brewing Company has earned a strong following for its creative beers, welcoming spaces, and active participation in the Sioux Falls community.

#1 – Lost Cabin Beer Co.

Lost Cabin Beer Co., based in Rapid City, South Dakota, is a locally owned brewery known for its handcrafted beers and welcoming taprooms. Two of their standout beers are Lord Grizzly, a Scotch Ale with rich malty flavors and a smooth finish, and SoDank, an American IPA with a piney, resinous profile from Mosaic and Hellertau Blanc hops. Both the Rapid City and Hill City locations are family- and pet-friendly, with indoor and outdoor seating, making them a comfortable spot for visitors to enjoy craft beer. Lost Cabin Beer Co. has built a strong reputation for quality brews and community involvement, making it a favorite destination for locals and tourists exploring South Dakota’s craft beer scene.

Cheers to the Heartland: Fun Facts About South Dakota’s Craft Beer Scene

South Dakota’s brewery scene might surprise you. From the Black Hills to Sioux Falls, craft beer has become a big part of local culture. Many of the state’s breweries focus on small-batch production, using locally sourced grains and hops whenever possible. The tight-knit beer community is known for collaboration, with brewers often joining forces for seasonal or charity brews. This friendly atmosphere has helped shape South Dakota into one of the Midwest’s most respected craft beer destinations.

The state also has a long history with brewing that goes back to the late 1800s. Early breweries were family-run and served nearby towns before Prohibition brought most of them to a stop. When craft brewing made a comeback decades later, South Dakota’s beer makers kept that same community spirit alive. Today, many of the breweries that define the state’s scene balance creativity with tradition, offering both experimental flavors and classic favorites.

FAQs About South Dakota Breweries

What’s the craft beer culture like in South Dakota?

The state’s craft beer culture is community-driven and laid-back, with brewers and locals alike valuing quality over quantity. Taprooms often serve as gathering spots where people connect over fresh, locally made beer.

What are some popular brewery cities in South Dakota?

Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and Spearfish are standout spots for craft beer lovers. Each city has a mix of well-known taprooms and smaller microbreweries that give visitors a real taste of local flavor.

What types of beer are most popular in South Dakota?

Pale ales, IPAs, and light lagers are common favorites, but many breweries also experiment with stouts, porters, and sours.

Are South Dakota breweries dog or family friendly?

Yes, many local breweries welcome both families and pets, especially those with outdoor patios or food partnerships.

What makes South Dakota breweries unique compared to other states?

South Dakota breweries stand out for their mix of small-town charm, creative recipes, and deep community ties that make each taproom feel personal and welcoming.