The Top 30 Breweries in Washington Ranked

Washington has built one of the strongest beer cultures in the country, shaped by skilled brewers and a community that truly values local craft. From Seattle’s busy neighborhoods to the quiet corners of the Yakima Valley, breweries here take pride in creating fresh, well-balanced beers that highlight the state’s hops and creativity. Each brewery has its own personality, whether it’s a family-run spot pouring pints in a relaxed taproom or a larger operation serving fans from all over.

This article rounds up the best breweries in Washington, focusing on quality, consistency, and the experience each place offers. You’ll find breweries known for their wide variety of styles, friendly service, and strong ties to their local areas. The goal is to help you get a clear sense of what makes each brewery special without extra fluff or filler. Whether you’re a local looking to try something new or a visitor planning a trip, this guide gives a practical look at where to find the state’s standout beers.

#30 – Icicle Brewing

Icicle Brewing Company in Leavenworth, Washington, is known for its refreshing beers made with fresh water from Icicle Creek and hops from the Yakima Valley. The brewery stands out for using local ingredients that give its beers a clean and balanced flavor. Two of its most popular choices are Dark Persuasion, a smooth German Chocolate Cake Ale, and Bootjack IPA, a bold Northwest-style IPA. The taproom has a relaxed mountain-town setting with an open view of the brewing area and a patio that’s great for enjoying a pint in warm weather. Icicle Brewing remains a favorite stop for visitors looking for quality craft beer, friendly service, and a true Washington brewing experience.

#29 – Walking Man Brewing

Walking Man Brewing in Stevenson, Washington sits right by the Columbia River Gorge and draws both locals and travelers across the I-5 corridor for its mix of good beer, scenery, and taproom vibe. Its beer garden and pavilion offer outdoor seating with views of the Gorge, which makes it popular especially when the weather is nice. Two beers people often order are the Walking Man IPA (its flagship IPA that won a World Beer Cup Gold) and Black Cherry Stout, which blends chocolate notes with cherries for a richer taste. The brewpub also makes strong ales like Homo Erectus Double IPA and seasonal releases to keep things fresh. Its pub is family-friendly, dog-friendly, and has live music sometimes. The combination of consistent award-winning brews, approachable variety, and a setting that feels welcoming makes Walking Man Brewing a go-to stop in Washington’s beer scene.

#28 – Narrows Brewing

Narrows Brewing in Tacoma is known for offering a mix of solid core beers along with creative limited releases and a scenic location right by the Narrows Marina. Their flagship Octo IPA gets a lot of praise for its crisp hop bitterness and clear balance between citrus and pine notes. Another fan favorite is the Hwy 16 Blonde Ale, which is light, easy to drink, and works well if you want something less intense. They also rotate in styles like hazy IPAs, porters, and stouts so there is variety. The taproom has a great view of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge from its back patio, and people like that you can bring your own food since the brewery only offers snacks. With rotating taps, friendly service, and that location, Narrows Brewing draws both locals and visitors looking for beer + view.

#27 – Aslan Brewing

Aslan Brewing in Bellingham, Washington, is known for being a certified organic brewery that focuses on sustainability and clean brewing practices. The brewery uses organic ingredients in most of its beers, giving each one a fresh and natural character. Two of its most popular options are Batch 15 IPA, a hazy IPA with notes of citrus and tropical fruit, and Monarch IPA, which delivers a crisp, balanced flavor with hints of grapefruit. Aslan Brewing also runs several locations, including taprooms in Seattle and its main brewpub in Bellingham. Guests enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, and steady lineup of rotating seasonal beers. The mix of creativity, quality, and eco-conscious brewing has made Aslan Brewing a standout name in Washington’s growing craft beer scene.

#26 – Rooftop Brewing

Rooftop Brewing Company in Seattle is known for its friendly atmosphere and easygoing craft beer selection that appeals to a wide range of drinkers. Two of its most popular beers are Tropical Staycation IPA, which offers bright hop flavor, and La Azotea Mexi Lager, a clean and refreshing choice. In 2025, Rooftop Brewing expanded by taking over Maritime Pacific Brewing and the Jolly Roger Taproom in Ballard, keeping many of the classic Maritime beers available alongside its own. The taproom is a casual spot that often hosts community events and local food partners. Guests appreciate the rotating lineup of beers, comfortable seating, and staff who make every visit feel welcoming. Rooftop Brewing continues to earn praise for its balance of consistency, creativity, and genuine community spirit.

#25 – Obec Brewing

Obec Brewing in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood is known for its wide range of beer styles and its relaxed, community-oriented taproom. Two popular beers from Obec are Czech Pilsner, a crisp golden lager with balanced spicy bitterness, and Porter #3, an English style porter with roasted chocolate and light coffee flavor. Their lineup also includes Belgian ales, seasonal lagers, IPAs, and farmhouses so there’s something for many tastes. The taproom is 21+ only, which helps keep a mellow atmosphere that many visitors like, especially compared to some of the busier brewpubs nearby. Fans praise Obec for being a good place to try non-IPA styles if you want a break from hops, especially malty lagers and richer ales.

#24 – Metier Brewing Company

Métier Brewing Company in Seattle is known for its strong sense of community and commitment to inclusivity while serving quality craft beer. Two of its most popular brews are Black Stripe Coconut Porter, known for its smooth blend of toasted coconut and dark chocolate, and Horizon IPA, which stands out with its bright citrus flavor and balanced hops. The brewery operates several locations, including spots in Woodinville, the Central District, and Seattle’s SODO area. Each taproom has a warm and welcoming feel that attracts locals and visitors alike. Métier Brewing also supports local artists and small food vendors through regular events, making it more than just a place to drink beer. Its focus on people, culture, and creative brewing keeps it among Washington’s standout craft breweries.

#23 – Good Society Brewery

Good Society Brewery & Public House in Seattle is known for being community-focused and doing well across many beer styles. Two popular beers are First to Fall, a Belgian-style ale that won multiple awards, and Love Is Love, a Vienna Lager that gets praised for its balance of malt sweetness and hop support. It operates a main pub in West Seattle, plus a taproom on Upper Queen Anne, making it easy for people across the city to visit. Many patrons like the indoor space and the outdoor patio plus the friendly, inclusive vibe. The rotating beer list, strong core offerings, and mission of giving back help it stand out in Seattle’s craft beer scene.

#22 – Skookum Brewery

Skookum Brewery in Arlington, Washington is known for its bold beers, strong hop profiles, and a big range of seasonal brews. Two of its most popular picks are Jackass IPA, loved for its citrus, pine, and tropical hop notes, and Amber’s Hot Friend, an amber ale praised for caramel malt and mild citrus balance. Their taproom offers over a dozen beers on tap, including core styles and rotating specialty brews. The brewery is local-ingredient focused, sourcing much of its grain from Washington state. The space is rustic but lively, with indoor seating, outdoor patio, and a tasting room beside the brewhouse. Many people go there for the beer variety, welcoming atmosphere, and the chance to try something new alongside reliable favorites.

#21 – Pike Brewing Company

Pike Brewing Company in Seattle is a long-standing favorite among locals and visitors because of its consistent beers, strong presence around Pike Place Market, and mix of core and seasonal offerings. Two of its most popular beers are Pike IPA, which balances fruity and tropical hop notes with a clean malt base, and Pike Kilt Lifter, a Scotch-style ale with rich malt character and mild smokiness. Their barrel-aged stout “Long Dark” is another beer people watch for when it’s released. Pike Brewing also operates restaurants like The Pike Pub and Tankard & Tun, where people can enjoy a meal with their beer. The brewery’s historic location and beer museum add to the experience. All this helps Pike Brewing stay near the top of Washington’s craft beer scene.

#20 – Dirty Couch Brewing

Dirty Couch Brewing in Seattle is known for its focus on wild ales, barrel-aged sours, and creative flavor blends that stand out in the Washington craft beer scene. Two of its most popular beers are Rampant Sour Red, a tart ale with oak and fruit notes, and Resolute Sour Ale, which is aged in wine barrels for added depth. The brewery takes a patient approach, allowing each beer to mature and develop before release. Its Magnolia taproom has a relaxed and welcoming feel, with food trucks often parked outside and a space that’s open to families and dogs. Dirty Couch Brewing attracts both locals and travelers who want to try something unique, offering a beer lineup that combines careful craftsmanship with experimentation.

#19 – Odd Otter Brewing

Odd Otter Brewing in Tacoma is known for its creative approach to craft beer and its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Two of its most popular beers are Ottermelon Hefeweizen, a light wheat beer with a hint of watermelon, and Notteronsense IPA, a well-balanced IPA with a clean hop finish. The brewery’s downtown taproom is known for being inclusive and lively, often hosting events like trivia nights and karaoke that draw a loyal local crowd. Guests enjoy the rotating tap list, which includes both classic and experimental brews. Odd Otter Brewing stands out for making beer that is flavorful yet approachable, while also building a space where everyone feels comfortable. Its mix of community spirit and creativity keeps it a local favorite in Tacoma’s growing beer scene.

#18 – Hellbent Brewing Company

Hellbent Brewing Company in Seattle is known for its wide range of craft beers, relaxed atmosphere, and strong local following. Two of its most popular beers are Seattle Sunshine Hazy Pale Ale, which has bright citrus notes with a smooth finish, and Dang! Citra IPA, a hop-forward favorite that balances fruit flavor with a clean malt base. The taproom features two levels, including an outdoor patio and an upstairs area where guests can play games or relax with friends. Food trucks visit regularly, adding to the casual, community feel of the place. Hellbent Brewing continues to earn praise for producing consistent, easy-to-enjoy beers and keeping a welcoming space that reflects Seattle’s laid-back beer culture.

#17 – Iron Horse Brewery

Iron Horse Brewery in Ellensburg, Washington is known for its strong lineup of malt-forward beers and hop-heavy ales that appeal to a wide range of beer lovers. Two of its most popular beers are Quilter’s Irish Death, a rich, dark, smooth ale often called “beer candy,” and High Five Hefe, a lighter wheat ale flavored with ginger and honey that refreshes on warm days. Along with core offerings like Send It Pale and Mel’s Magic IPA, it also does seasonal releases like PB & Death and Mocha Death that push flavor boundaries. The brewery has built a reputation for bold flavor and consistency while staying true to craft values. Between its recognizable dark ale staples and its adventurous limited-release beers, Iron Horse Brewery has earned its spot among Washington’s top craft breweries.

#16 – 7 Seas Brewing

7 Seas Brewing in Gig Harbor and Tacoma, Washington, is known for its wide selection of craft beers and strong commitment to sustainability. The brewery was one of the first in the state to can its beer, helping keep freshness and reduce packaging waste. Two of its most popular beers are Rude Parrot IPA, which features tropical and citrus hop notes, and 253 Pilsner, a crisp, refreshing lager made with local malts and hops. Both taprooms are family and dog friendly, with open seating and patios that make them easygoing spots to enjoy a pint. 7 Seas Brewing continues to be a standout in Washington for its mix of reliable favorites, seasonal releases, and approachable atmosphere that welcomes both casual drinkers and craft beer fans.

#15 – Silver City Brewery

Silver City Brewery in Bremerton is known for its consistent craft quality and strong community presence in Washington’s beer scene. The brewery is popular for well-balanced brews like Tropic Haze IPA, known for its smooth fruit-forward hop flavor, and Ridgetop Red Ale, which offers a rich, malty taste that appeals to many beer fans. Visitors often highlight the relaxed taproom atmosphere and the wide variety of beers on rotation. Silver City has earned a loyal following by keeping its recipes fresh and creative while maintaining an approachable style that works for both new and seasoned craft drinkers. Its commitment to quality and local roots makes it a standout name among Washington breweries.

#14 – Black Raven Brewing

Black Raven Brewing in Redmond and Woodinville, Washington is a favorite among beer lovers for its bold flavor variety, creative beers, and welcoming taprooms. Two of its most popular beers are Trickster IPA, praised for its citrus and pine hop profile, and Coco Jones Coconut Porter, which blends rich chocolate tones with toasted coconut. The brewery offers a wide range of styles including strong Scotch ales, barrel-aged stouts, pilsners, and fruit sours. Visitors often mention its all-ages Woodinville location and the original Redmond space that has a more adult-oriented vibe. Black Raven Brewing also wins awards regularly and puts effort into special releases and seasonal brews that keep things interesting. Many people go there hoping to try something familiar or something new and unusual. It stays a standout in Washington’s brewing scene because it balances consistent core brews with adventurous limited ones.

#13 – Machine House Brewery

Machine House Brewery in Seattle is known for its focus on English-style ales, especially its cask-conditioned beers served through hand pumps at cellar temperature for a smoother flavor. Two of its most popular beers are Best Bitter, made with British Crystal malts and First Gold hops, and Dark Mild, a lighter ale with roasted malt notes and balanced sweetness. The taproom has a laid-back feel where guests can bring outside food and enjoy freshly poured cask ales. Fans love that the brewery offers authentic English-style beers that are flavorful yet easy to drink. Machine House stands out in Washington’s craft beer scene by sticking to its roots while giving locals and visitors a true taste of traditional brewing craftsmanship.

#12 – Great Notion Brewing

Great Notion Brewing, originally from Portland, Oregon, has become a favorite in Seattle for its creative approach to craft beer. The brewery is best known for its juicy hazy IPAs and fruit-forward sours that appeal to both casual drinkers and beer fans. Two of its most popular brews are Juice Invader Hazy IPA, known for its smooth tropical hop flavors, and Blueberry Muffin, a tart ale with a rich blueberry aroma. The Seattle taprooms in Ballard and Georgetown offer a casual space with rotating taps and seasonal releases that keep the menu fresh. Fans appreciate how Great Notion keeps its beers unique while maintaining quality across every batch. Its mix of bold flavor, fun atmosphere, and inventive brewing has made it one of the standout names in the Pacific Northwest beer scene.

#11 – Lucky Envelope Brewing

Lucky Envelope Brewing in Ballard, Seattle is known for brewing beers inspired by cultural stories and using both traditional and creative ingredients. Two of its most popular beers are ENIAC Mosaic IPA, a hop-forward beer praised for pine and citrus notes, and Raspberry Sour Ale, which balances tart fruit flavor with bright acidity. The brewery offers a wide set of styles including lagers, sours, IPAs, seasonal stouts, and unusual adjunct brews like those with tea or fruit. The tasting room is welcoming, often crowded by people who enjoy variety and experimentation, plus indoor and outdoor seating. Fans love the quality of both the core and special releases, and that Lucky Envelope keeps things fresh and interesting. They also give attention to appearance, branding, and stories behind each beer, which adds to the experience. Lucky Envelope stands out in Seattle’s craft beer scene for being bold without over-complication.

#10 – Bale Breaker Brewing Company

Bale Breaker Brewing Company in Yakima, Washington, is a family-owned brewery surrounded by hop fields, which gives it direct access to some of the best hops in the state. The brewery is well known for its fresh, hop-forward beers that reflect the Yakima Valley’s rich brewing culture. Two of its most popular beers are Topcutter IPA, recognized for its bold aroma and balanced bitterness, and Field 41 Pale Ale, which offers a smooth blend of citrus and pine notes. Visitors enjoy both the Yakima taproom and the Ballard, Seattle location, where they can relax and enjoy a wide range of seasonal and year-round options. Bale Breaker continues to earn respect for its consistent quality, locally sourced ingredients, and deep connection to the hop-growing community.

#9 – Fair Isle Brewing

Fair Isle Brewing in Ballard, Seattle is known for its thoughtful lagers and farmhouse-style beers that use wild and mixed yeasts and bacteria to highlight Pacific Northwest ingredients. Two of their most popular beers are Madame R. Galle Saison, a dry and balanced saison inspired by Belgian and French farmhouse ales, and Eugene, a farmhouse IPA that blends hoppy punch with saison character. Their taproom is all-ages and includes a full kitchen, often serving fresh seafood-inspired dishes alongside their beer. Fair Isle is also known for special beers like Salacia, brewed with sugar kelp and local hops, and for beers made with Washington wine grapes, which showcase regional flavors in creative ways. Fair Isle Brewing stands out for quality, creativity, and a strong connection to local farming and brewing traditions.

#8 – Elysian Brewing

Elysian Brewing in Seattle is one of Washington’s most recognized craft breweries, known for mixing creativity with consistency in its beer lineup. Two of its most popular brews are Space Dust IPA, praised for its bold hop character and balanced bitterness, and Contact Haze, a hazy IPA with soft tropical fruit notes like guava and citrus. The brewery also creates seasonal releases that showcase unique ingredients and fun themes, including its well-known pumpkin beers. Visitors can enjoy its beers at several Seattle locations, including Capitol Hill and Elysian Fields near the stadiums. Fans appreciate Elysian for keeping its beers approachable while still experimenting with new styles and flavors.

#7 – Urban Family Brewing Company

Urban Family Brewing Company, located in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood, is known for its innovative and approachable craft beers. Two of its most popular offerings are Guava Dawn, a wild ale fermented with Brettanomyces, Saccharomyces, and Lactobacillus, and Tropic Heart, a fruited sour ale featuring mango and passionfruit. The brewery’s taproom offers 16 rotating taps, providing a diverse selection of beers that showcase complex yeast strains and unique hop profiles. Urban Family Brewing is also expanding with a new waterfront location set to open in early 2026, which will offer craft cocktails, local wines, coffee, and an in-house food menu. This expansion reflects the brewery’s commitment to innovation and community engagement.

#6 – Stoup Brewing

Stoup Brewing, located in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood, is known for its well-balanced beers and welcoming atmosphere. Two of its most popular offerings are Citra IPA, a bright and citrusy American IPA, and Mosaic Pale Ale, a hop-forward beer with a classic American Pale Ale malt bill. The brewery offers a diverse selection of beers, including lagers, IPAs, and sours, catering to a wide range of palates. Stoup Brewing’s Ballard taproom features a spacious beer garden with fire-pit seating and covered areas, making it a great spot for both sunny and rainy days. The Capitol Hill location provides a family-friendly environment with food trucks on-site, offering a variety of dining options. With its commitment to quality and community, Stoup Brewing continues to be a favorite among Seattle’s craft beer enthusiasts.

#5 – Reuben’s Brews

Reuben’s Brews, a family-owned brewery in Seattle, is celebrated for its diverse beer offerings and community-focused atmosphere. Two of its most popular beers are Crikey IPA, a West Coast IPA known for its bold hop character, and Pilsner, a bright and balanced lager that showcases the brewery’s commitment to quality. The brewery operates multiple taprooms, including locations in Ballard and downtown Seattle, offering a range of beers on tap, including seasonal releases, ciders, and hard seltzers. Reuben’s Brews is also known for its involvement in the community, hosting events like trivia nights and partnering with local food trucks to provide a welcoming environment for visitors.

#4 – Cloudburst Brewing

Cloudburst Brewing in Seattle’s Belltown and Ballard neighborhoods is known for its creative and hop-forward beers that attract both casual drinkers and craft beer enthusiasts. Two of its most popular offerings are Aqua Seafoam Shame, a wet hop IPA with bright tropical notes, and Sticky Marmalade IPA, a hazy IPA celebrated for its juicy, fruit-forward profile. Cloudburst Brewing emphasizes quality in each batch and regularly offers seasonal and limited-edition beers alongside its core lineup. Guests appreciate the friendly atmosphere, inventive beer styles, and the chance to try a wide variety of flavors, from hop-heavy IPAs to unique sours. Cloudburst has earned its place as a standout brewery in Seattle, combining approachability with innovation to appeal to a wide audience.

#3 – Georgetown Brewing Company

Georgetown Brewing Company in Seattle is known for producing consistently high-quality, approachable beers that appeal to a wide range of craft beer drinkers. Two of its most popular beers are Manny’s Pale Ale, a smooth and balanced pale ale with mild hop notes, and Bodhizafa IPA, a silky IPA with citrus-forward hops and a slightly creamy texture. The brewery’s tasting room and beer garden provide a relaxed space for guests to enjoy pints, growlers, cans, and kegs, while the brewery also distributes widely across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and Japan. Fans appreciate Georgetown Brewing for its focus on drinkability, flavor balance, and reliable quality across both core and seasonal offerings.

#2 – Holy Mountain Brewing

Holy Mountain Brewing in Seattle’s Interbay and Phinney Ridge neighborhoods is known for its innovative beers that attract craft beer enthusiasts looking for bold flavors. Two of its most popular offerings are Dreamer Deceiver, a New England-style IPA with a hazy appearance and juicy hop profile, and Five of Swords Double Dry-Hopped, an American IPA with strong, well-balanced hop character. The brewery focuses on quality and creativity, often experimenting with wild yeast, oak, and unique hop combinations to create distinctive beers. Holy Mountain operates two taprooms, one 21+ location in Interbay and an all-ages taproom in Phinney Ridge, both providing welcoming spaces to enjoy fresh beer. Visitors appreciate the variety of styles available, from traditional saisons to experimental wild ales, making it a destination for those seeking both classic and adventurous flavors.

#1 – Fremont Brewing

Fremont Brewing in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood is celebrated for crafting beers that highlight the best of the Pacific Northwest. Two of its most popular offerings are Universale Pale Ale, a perfectly balanced pale ale with Northwest hops and smooth malt character, and Lush IPA, a juicy, aromatic IPA that has become a favorite among locals. The brewery’s Urban Beer Garden locations provide spacious, inviting areas for friends to gather, enjoy a flight of beers, and relax in a lively yet approachable setting. Fremont Brewing is also known for its commitment to sustainability, including eco-friendly brewing practices and careful sourcing of local ingredients. Fans appreciate the brewery for its consistent quality, creative beer selection, and welcoming atmosphere that encourages both casual visitors and seasoned craft beer enthusiasts to stay longer. With a combination of flavor, community focus, and innovative brewing, Fremont Brewing remains a standout in Seattle’s craft beer scene.

Washington Brewing: Little-Known Facts That Make It Unique

Washington has one of the most important hop growing regions in the country. The Yakima Valley’s rich soil and dry climate make it ideal for growing hops, and many breweries in the state use these locally sourced ingredients in their recipes. Brewers often visit the farms to choose fresh hops, helping them create beers that reflect the flavor of the region. This connection between farmers and brewers has shaped Washington’s strong craft beer culture.

The state also played a key role in reviving the modern brewpub concept after Prohibition. One of the first to reopen was in Yakima, sparking interest in local brewing again. Over time, brewery districts formed in cities like Seattle and Spokane, where people can visit several breweries within walking distance. This setup helps small brewers share their work with both locals and visitors while supporting nearby farms and suppliers.

FAQs About Washington Breweries

What is a fresh hop beer and why is it popular in Washington?

Fresh hop beer uses hops straight from the farm before they are dried. Since Washington has many hop farms nearby, brewers can use fresh hops right after harvest, giving their beer a bright, grassy flavor.

Where do most Washington breweries get their hops?

Many breweries use hops grown within the state, especially from Yakima. The short distance between farms and breweries helps keep ingredients fresh and high quality.

How did hop farming begin in Washington?

Hop farming started in the 1800s when early settlers realized the climate was perfect for the crop. Over time, farmers improved their methods and created new hop varieties that became favorites for brewers around the world.

Why are some Washington neighborhoods known for breweries?

Certain neighborhoods have several breweries close together, which makes it easy for people to visit more than one in an afternoon. These areas often become lively spots where locals and tourists gather to enjoy craft beer.

How do craft breweries help Washington’s local farms?

Many breweries use grains and hops grown in the state, helping local farmers stay in business. This partnership keeps the brewing community closely tied to agriculture.