Sipping Through Wisconsin: A Journey into the Badger State’s Craft Beer Scene

Wisconsin Wines & Wineries-Vineyard

Hey there, fellow beer enthusiast! If you’re looking to explore a state with a rich brewing heritage and a vibrant craft beer scene, Wisconsin should be at the top of your list. Known for its dairy farms and cheese, the Badger State also boasts a plethora of breweries, each offering unique flavors and experiences. Let’s dive into some must-visit breweries, fun activities, and notable beer festivals that make Wisconsin a haven for beer lovers.

Must-Visit Breweries in Wisconsin

1. New Glarus Brewing Company – New Glarus

Nestled in the charming Swiss-inspired village of New Glarus, this brewery is renowned for its flagship beer, Spotted Cow. While their beers are only distributed within Wisconsin, the quality and variety make it worth the trip.

• Must-Try: Spotted Cow – A farmhouse ale that’s become a Wisconsin staple.

• Ambiance: The brewery offers self-guided tours, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace and enjoy panoramic views of the countryside.

• Website: newglarusbrewing.com

2. Lakefront Brewery – Milwaukee

Situated along the Milwaukee River, Lakefront Brewery is known for its entertaining tours and diverse beer selection. The brewery has a rich history and a commitment to sustainability.

• Must-Try: Riverwest Stein – An amber lager with a balanced malt profile.

• Ambiance: The lively atmosphere is complemented by a beer hall serving local favorites like cheese curds and fish fry.

• Website: lakefrontbrewery.com

3. Leinenkugel’s Brewery – Chippewa Falls

With over 150 years of brewing history, Leinenkugel’s offers a blend of tradition and innovation. The Leinie Lodge is a welcoming space for visitors to sample beers and learn about the brewery’s heritage.

• Must-Try: Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy – A refreshing wheat beer with natural lemonade flavor.

• Ambiance: The brewery tour provides insights into their brewing process and family history.

• Website: leinie.com

4. Central Waters Brewing Company – Amherst

Known for their commitment to sustainability and barrel-aged beers, Central Waters has garnered a loyal following.

• Must-Try: Barrel-Aged Stout – A rich and complex stout aged in bourbon barrels.

• Ambiance: The taproom offers a cozy setting with views of the brewing operations.

• Website: centralwaters.com

5. Ale Asylum – Madison

Ale Asylum prides itself on brewing unfiltered and unapologetic ales. Their dedication to quality and consistency has made them a favorite among locals.

• Must-Try: Hopalicious – A pale ale with a bright hop character.

• Ambiance: The modern taproom and outdoor patio provide a relaxed environment to enjoy their brews.

• Website: aleasylum.com

Fun Activities and Places to See

Positive Things in Wisconsin-Rivers bend in the fall

While brewery hopping is a delight, Wisconsin offers a plethora of activities to enhance your visit:

• Explore Door County: Often referred to as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” Door County boasts charming villages, scenic shoreline, and numerous wineries and breweries.

• Visit the Wisconsin Dells: Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” it’s a great destination for family fun and adventure.

• Tour the State Capitol in Madison: This architectural marvel offers free tours and provides insight into the state’s history and government.

• Experience the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee: Dive into the history of this iconic motorcycle brand and its cultural impact.

• Hike in Devil’s Lake State Park: With stunning bluffs and clear waters, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Notable Beer Festivals

Timing your visit with a local beer festival can elevate your experience. Here are some festivals to consider:

1. Wisconsin Beer Lovers Festival – Glendale

• When: Annually in June.

• Where: Bayshore Town Center, Glendale, WI.

• What to Expect: This premier event features more than 60 craft breweries from across the state, local restaurants, and live music. It’s a celebration of Wisconsin’s rich brewing culture.

• Website: wibrewersguild.com/WIBLF

2. Great Taste of the Midwest – Madison

• When: Annually in August.

• Where: Olin Park, Madison, WI.

• What to Expect: One of the oldest and largest beer festivals in the U.S., it showcases over 1,000 beers from more than 150 breweries, primarily from the Midwest.

• Website: greattaste.org

3. Milwaukee Brewfest – Milwaukee

• When: Annually in July.

• Where: McKinley Park, Milwaukee, WI.

• What to Expect: Enjoy unlimited samples from over 100 breweries, live music, and a beautiful lakefront setting.

• Website: milwaukeebrewfest.com

Planning Your Visit

• Transportation: While Milwaukee and Madison offer solid public transportation options, renting a car is your best bet for visiting smaller breweries in towns like New Glarus, Amherst, and Chippewa Falls. Wisconsin’s scenic highways make for a great road trip, especially in the fall when the leaves are changing.

• Accommodation: Whether you prefer a modern hotel in downtown Milwaukee, a cozy B&B in Door County, or a lakeside cabin near the Dells, Wisconsin offers a variety of lodging options to suit your travel style. If you’re planning to attend a major beer festival, book accommodations early, as they tend to sell out quickly.

• Local Cuisine: Wisconsin is just as famous for its food as it is for its beer, and no visit is complete without indulging in some local specialties. Be sure to try:

  • Cheese Curds (preferably deep-fried and paired with a crisp lager)
  • Bratwurst (Milwaukee’s German heritage shines through in its sausages)
  • Fish Fry (a Friday night tradition across the state)
  • Butter Burgers (a Wisconsin-born delight, best enjoyed with a cold craft beer)
  • Kringle (a Danish pastry popular in Racine)

Why Wisconsin’s Craft Beer Scene Stands Out

Weddings in Wisconsin-outside venue

Wisconsin is often associated with brewing history thanks to legacy brands like Miller, Schlitz, and Pabst. But today, the state’s craft beer scene is thriving in its own right. Breweries here embrace a mix of tradition and innovation, brewing everything from classic German-style lagers to bold IPAs, barrel-aged stouts, and experimental farmhouse ales.

What truly makes Wisconsin special is the sense of community surrounding craft beer. Brewery taprooms are gathering places where locals and visitors alike come together over a pint. Many breweries are family-owned and deeply connected to their towns, supporting local farmers, hosting events, and giving back to their communities.

Another standout feature? The state’s love for beer festivals. Unlike some states where beer events are limited to the summer months, Wisconsin celebrates beer all year round, from summer lakefront fests to winter barrel-aged beer tastings.

Final Cheers to Wisconsin’s Craft Beer Scene!

Whether you’re sipping a Spotted Cow in the rolling hills of New Glarus, enjoying a crisp Summer Shandy in Chippewa Falls, or exploring Milwaukee’s dynamic beer culture, Wisconsin offers a truly unforgettable craft beer experience. With its rich brewing history, welcoming taprooms, and stunning landscapes, it’s the perfect place for beer lovers to explore.

So, pack your bags, grab your beer-tasting notebook, and get ready to experience the best of Wisconsin’s craft beer scene—one delicious pint at a time.

Ready to start your Wisconsin beer adventure? Plan your trip around a festival, visit some of the state’s legendary breweries, and most importantly—enjoy every sip! 🍻