Looking for the Best Breweries in Grand Rapids, MI?
I love going to all the different breweries around the city, which is why I put together this list of best breweries in Grand Rapids, MI, to help you figure out which ones to try. From the beer to the cocktails, food and atmosphere, I love spending time with friends and family at a local brewery.
Grand Rapids, MI, is known as “Beer City USA,” and rightly so because it has one of the best craft beer scenes in the country.
This city is not just for beer enthusiasts, it also offers a craft spirit and cocktail scene. Whether you’re a seasoned beer drinker or just a casual one looking to explore new flavors like me, Grand Rapids has something to offer everone.
Let’s dive into the best breweries that make this city a top destination for craft beverages.
Best Breweries in Downtown Grand Rapids
1. Founders Brewing Company
Located at 235 Cesar E. Chavez Ave SW
One of the most iconic names in craft beer in the country, Founders Brewing Company is a must-visit destination. They have been rated one of the top breweries since 2006. They opened their doors in 1997 and give their staff the opportunity to invent their own beer flavors, which i think is pretty cool.
Known for its bold and innovative brews, Founders has garnered a loyal following, including me. Their taproom offers a fantastic atmosphere where you can enjoy a wide variety of their renowned beers.
Founders Brewing Company offers a diverse food menu to complement their range of beers. From appetizers like beer cheese dip and loaded fries to sandwiches, burgers, wood-fired pizzas, and traditional pub fare like fish and chips or chicken wings, there’s something for everyone.
A recommendation I have is their signature Founders Burger featuring Angus beef, bacon, and cheese. It’s simply delicious.
Must-Try Beers:
All Day IPA: A session IPA perfect for any time of the day with a balanced flavor.
Kentucky Breakfast Stout: An imperial stout aged in bourbon barrels, offering rich chocolate and coffee flavors.
Dirty Bastard: A Scotch-style ale with robust flavors of caramel and roasted malts.
2. New Holland Brewing
Located at 417 Bridge St NW
New Holland Brewing has two locations in Michigan, it started in Holland, offers a unique blend of craft beer and spirits. They are recognized as an innovative brewery and distillery.
They offer outdoor seating, which I love in the summer months. I also love the different cans of beer you can buy. They have cool designs and names.
I went to New Holland in Grand Rapids and love the vibe of this brewery. They have a dragon sculpture as soon as you walk in. You can buy their own merchandise such as t-shirts, shot glasses, coffee mugs and much more.
When I went with my family we tried the Pickle pizza as well as the Dixie Luau pizza. They were both delicious and great to share. Their selection of beers and cocktails are delicious. They also make a fantastic whiskey sour. I also tried a seasonal sweet cocktail in a martini glass that had frosting and pop rocks around the rim. It was sweet and delicious.
New Holland Brewing Company offers a delicious menu that complements their craft beer. One standout dish is the Dragon’s Milk Beer Cheese Dip, a rich and creamy appetizer infused with their famous Dragon’s Milk Stout, served with warm pretzel bites for dipping.
A main course to try is the Beer-Battered Fish and Chips are a popular choice, featuring crispy golden-brown fish fillets served with seasoned fries and house-made tartar sauce.
They also have a Vegetarian burger made with a hearty grilled portobello mushroom topped with melted cheese, roasted red pepper aioli, and fresh greens on a toasted bun.
New Holland is definitely one of the best breweries in Grand Rapids. From its delicious beer, pizza and cocktails, It is a must try on your next trip.
Must-Try Beers:
Dragon’s Milk: A legendary bourbon barrel-aged stout with a creamy, rich flavor.
Full Circle Kolsch: A crisp and clean German-style ale perfect for summer days.
Poet Oatmeal Stout: A smooth and hearty stout with hints of chocolate and coffee.
3. Brewery Vivant
Located in a renovated funeral chapel at 925 Cherry St SE
Brewery Vivant is known for its Belgian-inspired beers and sustainable practices. The brewery offers a unique and charming atmosphere, complete with stained glass windows and communal seating in an old chapel building
Vivant is a full service brewery, making all their beers on sight and selling them around Michigan.
Brewery Vivant offers a unique and delicious food menu with a focus on Belgian-inspired cuisine. One unique dish to try if you’re advenerous is their Duck Confit Nachos, with duck confit, melted cheese, pickled vegetables, and a drizzle of tangy sauce on top of crispy tortilla chips.
Another more tame option is the Farmhand Burger, a juicy beef patty topped with bacon, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion, served with crispy fries or a side salad.
Vegetarians will love the Abbey Mac, a creamy and indulgent macaroni and cheese made with their signature beer cheese sauce. You don’t have to be a vegetarian to enjoy this dish.
Must-Try Beers:
Triomphe: A Belgian-style IPA with tropical fruit and citrus notes.
Farm Hand: A refreshing farmhouse ale with a hint of citrus and spice.
Big Red Coq: A hoppy red ale with a balanced malt profile.
4. City Built Brewing Company
Located at 820 Monroe Ave NW
City Built Brewing Company offers a diverse range of craft beers inspired by global flavors. The brewery’s taproom features an eclectic atmosphere, making it a great spot to try something new.
City Built Brewing Company offers a food menu that complements their unique beer selection, inspired by Puerto Rican flavors.
A standout dish is the Mofongo, a traditional Puerto Rican dish made with mashed plantains, garlic, pork cracklings, and a choice of protein, such as shrimp or chicken, all topped with a flavorful sauce. So delicious.
Another must-try is the Cubano Sandwich, featuring roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on toasted Cuban bread, served with crispy plantain chips. I love their Cuban sandwich, you should definitely try this one.
Vegetarians won’t be disappointed with their Veggie Tostadas, loaded with black beans, roasted vegetables, avocado, salsa, and cilantro crema on crispy corn tortillas.
Must-Try Beers:
Mango Habanero IPA: A unique IPA with a blend of mango sweetness and habanero heat.
Gran Caribe: A tropical sour ale with pineapple and passionfruit flavors.
Morning After Red: A rich red ale with hints of caramel and toffee.
5. The Mitten Brewing Company
Housed in a historic firehouse at 527 Leonard St NW
Combines craft beer with a baseball theme. This brewery opened in 2012 and offers nostalgic atmosphere with baseball memorabilia decorating the walls. It’s particularly known for its delicious pizzas, making it a great place to enjoy a game with friends or family.
Mitten Brewing Company offers a delicious food menu with a focus on gourmet pizzas and pub favorites. One must-try dish is their BBQ Chicken Pizza, featuring tender chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, red onions, and cilantro on a crispy crust, perfect for sharing or as a hearty meal.
I should know because this is one of the pizzas I tried when I went. They have a pizza flight you can get, we also hot the Westerdog pizza that has chili, cheese, hot dogs, onion and a lot of pickles. They were both delicious.
I also tried a deliicious Mango Gold, which is a sour wheat beer. Their Sangria is pretty good as well.
Another food option to try is the Brewery Burger, a juicy beef patty topped with melted cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and onion, served with a side of crispy fries. Simple and delicious.
Vegetarians will love the Margherita Pizza, showcasing fresh mozzarella, basil, tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor.
The Mitten is another one of my favorite breweries in grand rapids. They have delicious pizza, beer, and sangria. What could be better than pizza and beer?
Must-Try Beers:
Peanuts and Crackerjack Porter: A rich porter with flavors of caramel, peanuts, and crackerjack, reminiscent of a baseball game.
Triple Crown Brown: A smooth American brown ale with notes of caramel, toffee, and chocolate.
Mitten Pale Ale: A crisp pale ale featuring citrusy and piney hop notes balanced with malt flavors.
6. Jolly Pumpkin
Located at 428 Bridge St NW
This brewery has 6 locations throughout Michigan in Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Traverse City just to name a few. They specialize in sour ales, which is one of my favorite type of beers, plus you can get and barrel-aged beers.
The menu includes gourmet pizzas, salads, and other pub fare, making it a great spot for those who appreciate unique beers.
One must-try dish is their Truffle Fries, crispy fries drizzled with truffle oil and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese, a perfect appetizer to start your meal.
For the main course, the Jolly Pumpkin Burger is a standout choice, featuring a juicy beef patty topped with caramelized onions, bacon, and Gruyere cheese, served with a side of house-made pickles.
Vegetarians will love the Roasted Vegetable Flatbread, loaded with seasonal vegetables, goat cheese, and a balsamic reduction. Pair these delicious dishes with one of Jolly Pumpkin’s sour ales or farmhouse beers.
Must-Try Beers:
Bam Bière: A refreshing farmhouse ale with a light body, subtle tartness, and citrus-spice notes.
Oro de Calabaza: A Belgian-style golden ale with fruity esters, spicy yeast, and a dry finish.
La Roja: A sour ale aged in oak barrels, showcasing tart cherries, oak tannins, and a complex malt profile.
7. Atwater Brewery
Located at 201 Michigan St NW
Offers traditional and innovative beers, including their popular Vanilla Java Porter. The industrial taproom provides a welcoming and lively environment.
The menu is short, featuring Detroit-style pizza, burgers, and other hearty dishes, the food is so delicious and simple.
I love their Beer Cheese Soup, a creamy and flavorful soup made with their own beer, served with a side of warm bread for dipping.
For a hearty main course, the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich is a popular choice, featuring tender pulled pork smothered in barbecue sauce and served on a toasted bun with coleslaw and pickles.
Vegetarians will surely love the Black Bean Burger, topped with avocado, lettuce, tomato, and chipotle aioli. Be sure to also check out their rotating specials for seasonal dishes that highlight fresh, local ingredients.
Must-Try Beers:
Vanilla Java Porter: A smooth porter with flavors of vanilla, coffee, and roasted malts.
Dirty Blonde Ale: A light and easy-drinking ale with hints of wheat, citrus, and a touch of sweetness.
Atwater Lager: A classic American lager that’s crisp, clean, and refreshing, perfect for any occasion.
Best Breweries Outside of Downtown Grand Rapids
8. Harmony Brewing Company
With two locations in Grand Rapids Harmony Eastown at 1551 Lake Dr SE and Harmony Hall at 401 Stocking Ave NW
Harmony Brewing Company is known for its cozy atmosphere and innovative beers. The brewery also offers delicious wood-fired pizzas, making it another great place for pizza and beer.
A unique dish is their Harmony Pizza, a wood-fired pizza with a crispy crust topped with delicious combinations like the Fig & Pig pizza with fig jam, prosciutto, arugula, and balsamic glaze.
Try the Harmony Burger, featuring a juicy beef patty topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and house-made aioli on a toasted bun, served with a side of crispy fries.
Vegetarians will love the Veggie Wrap, packed with roasted vegetables, goat cheese, spinach, and pesto wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Must-Try Beers:
Daydream Believer: A light and refreshing cream ale.
Grapefruit Moon: A citrusy pale ale with a burst of grapefruit flavor.
Crossroads IPA: A well-balanced IPA with a blend of citrus and pine notes.
9. Graydon’s Crossing
Located at 1223 Plainfield Ave
A British pub-style brewery known for its rotating selection of craft beers from local and global breweries. The menu uses global flavors and locally sourced ingredients, appealing to those looking for a diverse culinary experience.
Graydon’s Crossing offers a diverse and delicious food menu inspired by British and European cuisine. One must-try dish is their Fish and Chips, featuring crispy beer-battered cod served with seasoned fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce for a classic pub experience.
A delicious and hearty dish Shepherd’s Pie, a comforting dish with seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and mashed potatoes baked to golden perfection.
They also have a Veggie Burger, featuring a flavorful patty made with black beans, quinoa, and vegetables, topped with lettuce, tomato, and aioli on a toasted bun.
Must-Try Beers:
Elk Brewing Dankalicious: An IPA with a bold, hoppy flavor and a smooth, slightly bitter finish.
Bell’s Two Hearted Ale: A well-balanced IPA with a prominent citrus and pine hop profile.
Graydon’s Crossing Ale: A Belgian-style ale with hints of spice, fruit, and a subtle malt sweetness.
10. Greyline Brewing Company
Located at 1727 Alpine Ave NW
It’s situated on the northwest side of the city, just a short drive from downtown Grand Rapids. Greyline Brewing is known for its diverse selection of beers, ranging from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and refreshing ales.
They often incorporate innovative ingredients and brewing techniques, creating unique and flavorful brews. The brewery also features a cozy taproom where visitors can enjoy their beers in a laid-back atmosphere.
Greyline offers a tasty food menu to accompany their craft beer selection. One delicious appetizer is their Beer Cheese Pretzel, a warm and soft pretzel served with a flavorful beer cheese dip, perfect for sharing.
For a satisfying main course, the Brewmaster’s Burger is a popular choice, featuring a juicy beef patty topped with bacon, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion on a toasted bun, served with crispy fries or a side salad.
Vegetarians can enjoy the Veggie Flatbread, loaded with roasted vegetables, goat cheese, and a balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor.
Must-Try Beers:
Citra Pale Ale: A bright and citrusy pale ale featuring Citra hops for a zesty, aromatic experience.
Midnight Oil Stout: A rich and velvety stout with flavors of dark chocolate, roasted coffee, and a hint of caramel.
Treetop Walker Double IPA: A bold and hop-forward double IPA with citrus, pine, and tropical fruit notes, balanced by a smooth malt backbone.
11. Perrin Brewing Company
Located at 5910 Comstock Park Dr NW
Another brewery just outside Grand Rapids. The brewery offers a spacious taproom where visitors can enjoy a wide range of craft beers in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. They often have live music events, trivia nights, and other fun activities.
Perrin Brewing Company features a menu of delicious pub fare that pairs perfectly with their beers. From burgers and sandwiches to appetizers like loaded fries and pretzel bites, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Must-Try Beers
No Problems Session IPA: A light and refreshing IPA with citrusy hops and a crisp finish, perfect for easy drinking.
Blackberry IPA: A fruity and aromatic IPA infused with blackberries, offering a unique twist on a classic style.
Perrin Black Ale: A smooth and robust black ale with notes of roasted malt, chocolate, and coffee, ideal for those who enjoy darker beers.
Crafting a Perfect Day in Grand Rapids
To make the most of your visit to Grand Rapids, enjoy delicious drinks and food at the best breweries in Grand Rapids. Start your day with a visit to Founders Brewing Company for a tour and tasting, followed by lunch at Perrin Brewing Company At night, head to New Holland for a unique blend of beer and spirits and pizza.
Conclusion
Grand Rapids is a great city for craft beer enthusiasts, offering an array of breweries. Whether you’re passionate about craft beer, spirits, or cocktails, or food, this city will leave you wanting to return again.
From iconic names like Founders and New Holland, you’ll be sure to find something for everyone. The craft beverage scene is rich with flavor and innovation in this town.
Plan your visit today and discover why this city is celebrated as one of the best destinations for craft beer in the country. I hope this list of 11 best breweries in Grand Rapids, MI has convinced you to check this city out.