Brews and Views: Exploring North Carolina’s Craft Beer Scene

Positive Things in North Carolina

North Carolina is quickly becoming one of the top destinations for craft beer enthusiasts in the United States. With a rich history in brewing and a landscape that supports a wide variety of ingredients, the state is home to over 300 breweries that offer a diverse array of flavors and styles. From the vibrant urban centers of Asheville and Charlotte to the charming small towns throughout the state, North Carolina’s craft breweries are not only committed to quality but also to community and sustainability. Join us as we dive into the world of North Carolina craft beer, highlighting some of the standout breweries that make this state a must-visit for any beer lover.

Exploring North Carolina’s Craft Breweries

1. Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.

Location: 100 Sierra Nevada Way, Mills River, NC 28732
Website: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., a household name in the craft beer world, has a stunning brewery located in Mills River. Known for its flagship “Pale Ale” and an array of seasonal offerings, the brewery features a beautiful taproom and outdoor spaces where visitors can enjoy tastings and tours. The focus on sustainability is evident in their operations, making it a great spot for eco-conscious beer lovers.

2. Wicked Weed Brewing

Location: 91 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
Website: Wicked Weed Brewing

Founded in 2012, Wicked Weed Brewing is known for its innovative and adventurous brewing styles. The brewery offers a wide variety of beers, from hoppy IPAs to sour ales, and is especially known for its barrel-aged and experimental brews. The Asheville location features a vibrant brewpub atmosphere, perfect for tasting a flight of their unique offerings.

3. New Belgium Brewing Company

Location: 21 Craven St, Asheville, NC 28806
Website: New Belgium Brewing Company

New Belgium Brewing Company, originally based in Fort Collins, Colorado, opened its East Coast brewery in Asheville. Known for its iconic “Fat Tire Amber Ale,” New Belgium offers a range of styles that cater to all tastes. The brewery features an extensive taproom and outdoor space, making it a great place to enjoy a refreshing brew.

4. Olde Hickory Brewery

Location: 736 2nd St NW, Hickory, NC 28601
Website: Olde Hickory Brewery

Established in 1994, Olde Hickory Brewery has been a pioneer in the North Carolina craft beer scene. Known for its “Scotch Ale” and innovative seasonal brews, the brewery emphasizes quality and craftsmanship. The cozy taproom offers a warm atmosphere for tasting their lineup of beers.

5. Duck-Rabbit Craft Brewery

Location: 451 A Glover St, Farmville, NC 27828
Website: Duck-Rabbit Craft Brewery

Duck-Rabbit is known for its dark beers, particularly its “Milk Stout” and “Brown Ale.” Located in Farmville, the brewery focuses on producing rich, flavorful beers that are often hard to find in the market. Their commitment to quality and unique styles makes them a standout in North Carolina’s craft beer scene.

6. Foothills Brewing

Location: 638 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Website: Foothills Brewing

Foothills Brewing is known for its creative and diverse beer lineup, including the popular “Hoppy Camper” and “Sexual Chocolate” Imperial Stout. With a spacious brewpub in Winston-Salem, Foothills offers a fantastic selection of house-made beers and a menu of delicious food pairings.

7. Highland Brewing Company

Location: 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Asheville, NC 28803
Website: Highland Brewing Company

As one of the oldest breweries in Asheville, Highland Brewing Company has been crafting high-quality beers since 1994. Known for its traditional Scottish ales and hoppy IPAs, the brewery’s taproom features stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a perfect spot for enjoying a pint.

3-Day Itinerary for Exploring North Carolina’s Craft Breweries

North Carolina Wines & Wineries

This itinerary will guide you through some of North Carolina’s best craft breweries, highlighting local attractions, dining options, and activities. From the vibrant beer scene in Asheville to the emerging breweries in Charlotte, you’ll experience the diverse flavors of North Carolina’s craft beer culture.

Day 1: Asheville Brewery Tour

Morning: Arrival and First Brewery Visit

Arrival: Arrive in Asheville and check into your hotel. Consider staying at The Omni Grove Park Inn or Aloft Asheville Downtown for convenient access to breweries and downtown attractions.
Brewery Visit: Start your brewery tour at Wicked Weed Brewing.
- Location: 91 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
- Experience: Sample a variety of their innovative brews, including hoppy IPAs and sour ales in their lively brewpub.
- Wicked Weed Brewing Website

Lunch: Local Dining

Location: Enjoy lunch at The Bull and Beggar, known for its seasonal dishes and excellent beer pairings.
- Location: 37 W. Trader’s Alley, Asheville, NC 28801
- The Bull and Beggar Website

Afternoon: Brewery Visits

Brewery Visit: Head to Sierra Nevada Brewing Co..
- Location: 100 Sierra Nevada Way, Mills River, NC 28732
- Experience: Tour the brewery and sample their flagship “Pale Ale” and seasonal offerings in a stunning outdoor setting.
- Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. Website
Brewery Visit: Visit Highland Brewing Company.
- Location: 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Asheville, NC 28803
- Experience: Enjoy a variety of traditional Scottish ales and IPAs while taking in breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Highland Brewing Company Website

Evening: Dinner and Entertainment

Dinner: Dine at Cúrate, a popular Spanish tapas restaurant that offers a great selection of wines and local beers.
- Location: 13 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
- Cúrate Website
Entertainment: Explore the vibrant nightlife in Asheville, visiting local bars or catching live music at The Orange Peel.
- The Orange Peel Website

Day 2: Charlotte Brewery Exploration

Morning: Travel and Brewery Visit

Travel: Drive from Asheville to Charlotte (approximately 2 hours).
Brewery Visit: Start your day at NoDa Brewing Company.
- Location: 2921 North Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28206
- Experience: Sample their “Hop, Drop ‘N Roll” IPA and enjoy the artistic atmosphere.
- NoDa Brewing Company Website

Lunch: Local Dining

Location: Enjoy lunch at The Common Market, a local favorite for sandwiches and craft beer.
- Location: 2007 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205
- The Common Market Website

Afternoon: Brewery Visits

Brewery Visit: Visit Birdsong Brewing Company.
- Location: 1016 S. Mint St, Charlotte, NC 28203
- Experience: Enjoy their “Jailbreak” IPA and discover unique brews in their friendly taproom.
- Birdsong Brewing Company Website
Brewery Visit: Head to Sycamore Brewing.
- Location: 2161 Hawkins St, Charlotte, NC 28203
- Experience: Sample their wide variety of craft beers, including seasonal selections, in a vibrant outdoor setting.
- Sycamore Brewing Website

Evening: Dinner and Nightlife

Dinner: Dine at Heist Brewery, which offers a diverse menu and an extensive beer selection.
- Location: 2909 N. Davidson St, Charlotte, NC 28205
- Heist Brewery Website
Nightlife: Explore the NoDa arts district or catch a show at The Fillmore Charlotte.
- The Fillmore Charlotte Website

Day 3: Winston-Salem and Greensboro

Morning: Travel and Brewery Visit

Travel: Drive from Charlotte to Winston-Salem (approximately 1 hour).
Brewery Visit: Start your day at Foothills Brewing.
- Location: 638 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
- Experience: Sample their “Hoppy Camper” and “Sexual Chocolate” Imperial Stout in their spacious taproom.
- Foothills Brewing Website

Lunch: Local Dining

Location: Enjoy lunch at Tavern in the Square, known for its comfortable atmosphere and hearty dishes.
- Location: 2900 W 1st St, Winston-Salem, NC 27104
- Tavern in the Square Website

Afternoon: Brewery Visits

Brewery Visit: Visit Hoots Roller Bar & Beer Co..
- Location: 1586 N Liberty St, Winston-Salem, NC 27105
- Experience: Enjoy a laid-back vibe with tasty beers and roller-skating options!
- Hoots Roller Bar Website
Travel to Greensboro: Drive to Greensboro (approximately 30 minutes).
Brewery Visit: Check out Natty Greene’s Brewing Co..
- Location: 345 S Elm St, Greensboro, NC 27401
- Experience: Sample their traditional and innovative brews in a historic setting.
- Natty Greene’s Brewing Co. Website

Evening: Final Farewell Dinner

Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Pit for Southern barbecue and local beers.
- Location: 421 S. Greene St, Greensboro, NC 27401
- The Pit Website

A Dreamy Celebration: A Guide to Weddings in North Carolina

This 3-day itinerary provides a comprehensive tour of North Carolina’s craft breweries while highlighting local flavors, attractions, and unique experiences. Enjoy your journey through the vibrant beer culture of North Carolina!

North Carolina offers a wide range of fun activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do while you’re in the Tar Heel State:

Outdoor Activities

1. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Description: This stunning national park is perfect for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Enjoy scenic drives, waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain views.
Website: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

2. Visit the Blue Ridge Parkway

Description: Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway offers stunning vistas, hiking trails, and picnic spots. Don’t miss the Linville Falls and Craggy Gardens along the way.
Website: Blue Ridge Parkway

3. Relax at the Outer Banks

Description: Enjoy the beautiful beaches, water sports, and unique attractions of the Outer Banks. Visit the historic lighthouses, go fishing, or try windsurfing.
Website: Outer Banks

Cultural Attractions

4. Discover Biltmore Estate

Description: Located in Asheville, the Biltmore Estate is America’s largest home, offering stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and a winery. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and grandeur.
Website: Biltmore Estate

5. Explore the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

Description: Located in Raleigh, this museum features fascinating exhibits on the natural world, including live animals, fossils, and interactive displays. It’s a great place for families and science enthusiasts.
Website: North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

6. Visit the North Carolina Zoo

Description: Located in Asheboro, the North Carolina Zoo is one of the largest natural habitat zoos in the world. It features diverse wildlife from North America and Africa in expansive exhibits.
Website: North Carolina Zoo

Entertainment and Events

7. Attend a Carolina Panthers Game

Activity: If you’re visiting during the NFL season, catch a game at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte and experience the excitement of professional football.
Website: Carolina Panthers

8. Experience Live Music in Asheville

Activity: Asheville is known for its vibrant music scene. Check out local venues like The Orange Peel or the Salvage Station for live performances.
Website: The Orange Peel

Culinary Experiences

9. Sample North Carolina Barbecue

Description: Don’t miss the opportunity to try authentic North Carolina barbecue, known for its vinegar-based sauces. Recommended spots include Lexington Barbecue and The Pit in Raleigh.
Website: The Pit

10. Visit Local Breweries

Activity: North Carolina is home to a thriving craft beer scene. Take a brewery tour or enjoy tastings at local favorites like Wicked Weed Brewing and Sierra Nevada.
Website: Wicked Weed Brewing

North Carolina Beers & Wineries-Boardwalk on the waters

North Carolina is a treasure trove of activities that cater to a variety of interests. Whether you’re hiking in the Smokies, exploring the vibrant culture of Asheville, or savoring delicious barbecue, you’ll find plenty of ways to make your visit enjoyable and memorable. Embrace the charm of North Carolina and enjoy all the experiences it has to offer!

North Carolina boasts a vibrant craft beer scene, hosting numerous beer festivals throughout the year that celebrate the state’s rich brewing heritage. Here are some notable beer festivals you might consider:

1. Brewgaloo

Location: Raleigh, NC
Description: As North Carolina’s largest craft beer festival, Brewgaloo features over 100 local breweries, food trucks, live music, and vendors. Held annually in April, it attracts beer enthusiasts from across the country.
Shop Local Raleigh

2. NC Beer Month

Location: Statewide
Description: Celebrated every October, NC Beer Month is a month-long event where breweries across the state host special events, releases, and tastings, highlighting North Carolina’s craft beer culture.
NC Beer

3. Triangle Oktoberfest

Location: Cary, NC
Description: North Carolina’s largest Oktoberfest, held in October, features authentic German beer, food, live music, and traditional contests. Proceeds benefit local charities.
Visit North Carolina

4. Hickory Oktoberfest

Location: Hickory, NC
Description: Celebrating its German heritage, Hickory hosts an Oktoberfest in October with beer tents, live music, and cultural events.
Visit North Carolina

5. High Country Beer Fest

Location: Boone, NC
Description: Held in the fall, this festival features craft beers from local and regional breweries, along with live music and food vendors.
HC Beer Fest

6. Olde Mecklenburg Brewery’s Mecktoberfest

Location: Charlotte, NC
Description: Celebrated in September and October, this festival offers German-style beers, food, and live entertainment.
Visit North Carolina

7. Tour de Fat

Location: Asheville, NC
Description: Hosted by New Belgium Brewing, this festival combines beer, bikes, and music, featuring a bike parade, variety show, and live entertainment.
Visit North Carolina

8. Sugar Mountain Resort’s Oktoberfest

Location: Sugar Mountain, NC
Description: A family-friendly Oktoberfest with Bavarian food, beer, live music, and activities for all ages.
Visit North Carolina

9. Kernersville Oktoberfest

Location: Kernersville, NC
Description: A community event featuring beer tastings, food, and entertainment, supporting local charities.
Visit North Carolina

10. Yiasou Greek Festival

Location: Charlotte, NC
Description: While primarily a Greek cultural festival, it features beer tastings alongside authentic Greek cuisine, live music, and dancing.
Wikipedia

These festivals offer a great opportunity to explore North Carolina’s diverse craft beer offerings and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Cheers to North Carolina’s Craft Beer Journey

North Carolina Beers & Wineries-Boardwalk on the waters

North Carolina’s craft beer scene is a testament to the state’s rich brewing heritage and commitment to quality. With a diverse array of breweries, each offering unique flavors and experiences, there is something for every palate to explore. From the bold and innovative brews of Wicked Weed to the traditional styles of Olde Hickory, North Carolina is a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts. So, raise your glass and embark on a flavorful journey through the heart of the South, where every sip tells a story of creativity and community!

Explore these breweries and immerse yourself in North Carolina’s vibrant craft beer culture with the links provided. Enjoy your beer adventure!