A Craft Beer Journey Through Texas: Brews, Sights, and Festivals

Positive Things in Texas-Cowboys Riding

Texas is famous for its big skies, barbecue, and country music, but it’s also a haven for craft beer lovers. From the funky vibes of Austin to the historic charm of San Antonio, the Lone Star State is packed with incredible breweries and unique attractions to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun adventure, here’s a 1,500-word guide to craft beer in Texas, complete with a three-day itinerary, exciting activities, and festivals to add to your calendar.

Day 1: Austin – Keepin’ It Crafty in the Capital

Austin is not just the capital of Texas—it’s the beating heart of its craft beer scene. Known for its creativity, the city’s breweries mirror its quirky, laid-back vibe.

Morning: Start at Austin Beerworks

Your first stop is Austin Beerworks, a brewery loved by locals and visitors alike. Known for their bright, Instagram-worthy cans and consistently fantastic beers, they’ve built a reputation for brewing Texas classics like Pearl Snap Pilsner and Fire Eagle IPA.

Location: 3001 Industrial Terrace, Austin, TX
What to Try: Try the seasonal offerings for a taste of their innovation or grab a cold Pearl Snap to pair with a sunny Austin morning.

Afternoon: Chill at Zilker Park and Lazarus Brewing Co.

After your brewery visit, head over to Zilker Park, Austin’s iconic green space. Take a walk, rent a kayak on Lady Bird Lake, or just relax with some great views of the city skyline.

Next up is Lazarus Brewing Co., a cozy East Austin brewery with a focus on small-batch beers. Their Belgian-style ales and hazy IPAs are standouts, and you can pair them with some of the best tacos in town.

Location: 1902 E 6th St, Austin, TX
Pro Tip: Grab a seat on their patio and soak in the friendly neighborhood vibe.

Evening: Music and Beer on Rainey Street

End your day on Rainey Street, where charming bungalow bars offer live music and plenty of craft beer options. Many spots feature rotating taps of local brews, so it’s a great way to sample beers from across the state without leaving your barstool.

Day 2: Houston – Beers and Bayou Views

Wines & Wineries in Texas- Old windmill on a ranch

Houston is a bustling, multicultural city with a craft beer scene as diverse as its population. It’s a perfect destination for those who want bold brews paired with vibrant city life.

Morning: Saint Arnold Brewing Company

Start your day at Saint Arnold Brewing Company, the oldest craft brewery in Texas. Founded in 1994, it’s a cornerstone of the state’s beer culture. Their expansive beer garden is a stunning place to sip on their popular Art Car IPA or Fancy Lawnmower Kölsch.

Location: 2000 Lyons Ave, Houston, TX
What to Try: The seasonal and limited-release beers are always worth exploring.

Afternoon: Museum District and Buffalo Bayou Brewing Co.

Take a break from beers and dive into Houston’s cultural side by exploring the Museum District. From the Houston Museum of Natural Science to the Contemporary Arts Museum, there’s something for every interest.

After soaking up some culture, head to Buffalo Bayou Brewing Co., a brewery that’s as bold as Houston itself. Their three-story facility offers great beer and stunning views of the downtown skyline.

Location: 2101 Summer St, Houston, TX
What to Try: Crush City IPA is a hoppy favorite, and their innovative stouts are worth a taste.

Evening: Explore Houston Heights

Wrap up your day in the Heights, one of Houston’s trendiest neighborhoods. Grab dinner at a local spot, many of which offer a curated selection of Texas craft beers.

Day 3: San Antonio – History Meets Hoppy Beers

San Antonio brings together history and modern craft beer in a way that’s distinctly Texan. It’s a city where you can visit the Alamo in the morning and sip on a cold pint in the afternoon.

Morning: Alamo Beer Company

Start your day at Alamo Beer Company, a brewery located near the iconic Hays Street Bridge. Their Alamo Golden Ale is a tribute to the city’s history, and the spacious outdoor beer garden is perfect for enjoying a pint.

Location: 202 Lamar St, San Antonio, TX
Pro Tip: The brewery often hosts food trucks and live music, adding to the fun atmosphere.

Afternoon: Explore The Alamo and River Walk

No trip to San Antonio is complete without a visit to The Alamo, the historic site of the legendary 1836 battle. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the San Antonio River Walk, lined with shops, restaurants, and stunning views.

For lunch, stop at one of the many eateries along the River Walk that feature local craft beers on tap.

Evening: Freetail Brewing Co.

Finish your Texas beer adventure at Freetail Brewing Co., a brewery known for its creative beer names and flavors. Their Bat Outta Helles lager is a nod to the bats that famously fly over the city at dusk.

Location: 2000 S Presa St, San Antonio, TX
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting during the fall, their Oktoberfest brew is a must-try.

Craft Beer Festivals in Texas

Texas Weddings-Rider on horse statue

If you time your visit right, you can experience one of Texas’s amazing beer festivals:

Texas Craft Brewers Festival (Austin)

When: September
What to Expect: The largest craft beer festival in Texas, featuring breweries from across the state and a friendly, laid-back vibe.
More Info: Texas Craft Brewers Festival

Untapped Festival (Dallas)

When: Fall
What to Expect: A blend of live music, food trucks, and beers from over 80 breweries. It’s the ultimate Texas party.
More Info: Untapped Festival

Big Texas Beer Fest (Dallas)

When: April
What to Expect: Over 400 beers from more than 100 breweries, plus live music and local food vendors.
More Info: Big Texas Beer Fest

Other Must-See Attractions in Texas

While you’re hopping from brewery to brewery, don’t forget to check out these Texas landmarks:

Big Bend National Park: A stunning natural escape in West Texas. (More Info)
Palo Duro Canyon: Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas.” (Learn More)
Space Center Houston: The official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. (Visit Here)

Cheers to Texas!

Texas Beer & Breweries-Looking over the city

Texas’s craft beer scene is as big and bold as the state itself. From Austin’s creative breweries to San Antonio’s historic charm and Houston’s innovative brews, you’ll find plenty to explore and enjoy. So, grab your pint glass, hit the road, and toast to the Lone Star State’s craft beer culture. Cheers!