Craft Beer Capital: Discovering Illinois' Rich Brewery Scene Positive News

Craft Beer Capital: Discovering Illinois’ Rich Brewery Scene

Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Illinois boasts a craft beer scene that’s as dynamic and diverse as its vibrant cities and picturesque landscapes. From Chicago’s bustling beer culture to the charming breweries of downstate Illinois, the state’s craft beer offerings are a testament to its rich brewing heritage and innovative spirit. Whether you’re a connoisseur of hop-forward IPAs, smooth stouts, or crisp lagers, Illinois’ breweries have something to tantalize every palate. Join us as we explore the best of Illinois craft beers and breweries, highlighting the unique flavors and local favorites that make this state a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts.

Craft Breweries in Illinois

1. Revolution Brewing

Location: 3340 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Overview: Revolution Brewing is one of Chicago’s largest and most popular craft breweries. Known for its bold flavors and creative brews, it offers a variety of year-round and seasonal beers.
Must-Try Beers: Anti-Hero IPA, Eugene Porter, and the seasonal Death Star Imperial Stout.
Revolution Brewing Website

2. Half Acre Beer Company

Location: 4257 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Overview: Half Acre is renowned for its innovative beers and distinctive packaging. The brewery’s taproom is a great place to sample a range of their bold and flavorful offerings.
Must-Try Beers: Daisy Cutter Pale Ale, GoneAway IPA, and the Big Hugs Imperial Stout.
Half Acre Beer Company Website

3. Goose Island Beer Co.

Location: 1800 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Overview: A pioneer in Chicago’s craft beer movement, Goose Island is famous for its Bourbon County Brand Stout and a wide range of other beers. It’s a staple in the city’s craft beer scene.
Must-Try Beers: Bourbon County Brand Stout, 312 Urban Wheat Ale, and the Matilda Belgian Ale.
Goose Island Beer Co. Website

4. Off Color Brewing

Location: 1460 N Kingsbury St, Chicago, IL 60642
Overview: Off Color Brewing is known for its quirky and experimental beers. The brewery’s approach to brewing is both inventive and engaging, making it a favorite among beer enthusiasts.
Must-Try Beers: Dinosaur Juice IPA, Troublesome Gose, and the Apex Predator Farmhouse Ale.
Off Color Brewing Website

5. 3 Floyds Brewing Co.

Location: 9750 Indiana Pkwy, Munster, IN 46321 (just over the border from Illinois)
Overview: While technically in Indiana, 3 Floyds Brewing is a favorite among Illinois beer lovers for its bold and experimental brews. Known for its aggressive flavors and creative labels, it’s worth the short drive from Chicago.
Must-Try Beers: Dark Lord Imperial Stout, Alpha King Pale Ale, and the Gumballhead Wheat Beer.
3 Floyds Brewing Co. Website

Attractions and Dining

While exploring Illinois’ craft beer scene, take time to enjoy the state’s rich culture and cuisine. In Chicago, indulge in deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s, or savor a gourmet meal at Alinea. For a more laid-back experience, explore local neighborhoods like Logan Square and Wicker Park, where you can find a range of eclectic eateries and vibrant bars.

3-Day Itinerary for Exploring Craft Breweries in Illinois

Discover the diverse and exciting craft beer scene in Illinois with this 3-day itinerary that takes you through Chicago’s bustling beer culture and beyond. From iconic breweries to local gems, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Illinois’ craft beer offerings.

Day 1: Chicago Craft Beer Kickoff

Morning: Arrival and Brewery Visit

Arrival: Arrive in Chicago and check into a centrally located hotel such as the The Robey or The Langham.
Brewery Visit: Start your tour at Revolution Brewing.
- Location: 3340 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
- Experience: Take a brewery tour and sample flagship beers like Anti-Hero IPA and Eugene Porter.
- Revolution Brewing Website

Lunch: Local Dining

Location: Enjoy a meal at Lula Cafe, known for its creative and locally sourced dishes.
- Location: 2537 N Kedzie Blvd, Chicago, IL 60647

Afternoon: Explore More Breweries

Brewery Visit: Head to Half Acre Beer Company.
- Location: 4257 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
- Experience: Sample beers like Daisy Cutter Pale Ale and Big Hugs Imperial Stout.
- Half Acre Beer Company Website

Evening: Dinner and Nightlife

Dinner: Dine at The Publican, offering a great selection of meats and craft beers.
- Location: 837 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
Nightlife: Check out The Aviary for craft cocktails or explore Chicago’s vibrant nightlife in areas like Wicker Park or Logan Square.

Day 2: Dive Deeper into Chicago’s Beer Scene

Morning: Brewery Visit

Brewery Visit: Visit Goose Island Beer Co. for a classic Chicago craft beer experience.
- Location: 1800 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
- Experience: Try Bourbon County Brand Stout and 312 Urban Wheat Ale.
- Goose Island Beer Co. Website

Lunch: Local Dining

Location: Enjoy a deep-dish pizza lunch at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria.
- Location: 439 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654

Afternoon: Unique and Experimental Brews

Brewery Visit: Head to Off Color Brewing.
- Location: 1460 N Kingsbury St, Chicago, IL 60642
- Experience: Sample Dinosaur Juice IPA and Troublesome Gose.
- Off Color Brewing Website

Evening: Dinner and Relaxation

Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Girl & The Goat, known for its adventurous menu and excellent beer pairings.
- Location: 809 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607

Optional Evening Activity: Take a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk or visit a local brewery taproom for a nightcap.

Day 3: Explore Nearby Breweries and Attractions

Morning: Travel to Munster, IN

Travel: Drive from Chicago to Munster, Indiana (about 1 hour).
Brewery Visit: Visit 3 Floyds Brewing Co..
- Location: 9750 Indiana Pkwy, Munster, IN 46321
- Experience: Enjoy bold and experimental beers like Dark Lord Imperial Stout and Alpha King Pale Ale.
- 3 Floyds Brewing Co. Website

Lunch: Local Dining

Location: Have lunch at The Stray Dog Bar & Grill, known for its great food and casual atmosphere.
- Location: 1142 N 8th St, Munster, IN 46321

Afternoon: Return to Chicago

Travel: Drive back to Chicago in the afternoon.

Evening: Final Dinner and Departure

Dinner: For your final meal, dine at Avec, offering excellent small plates and a great selection of craft beers.
- Location: 615 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60661

Departure: If time allows, visit a local brewery or taproom for a farewell drink before departing.

Additional Tips

Plan Ahead: Check brewery hours and book tours or tastings in advance where required.
Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for traveling to breweries outside Chicago.
Local Events: Look out for any local beer festivals or special brewery events happening during your visit.

This itinerary provides a well-rounded exploration of Illinois’ craft beer scene, combining iconic breweries with local dining and attractions for a memorable experience. Cheers to discovering the best of Illinois craft beers.

Illinois offers a vibrant mix of sports, entertainment, and fun activities, particularly in and around Chicago. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, an art lover, or someone who enjoys exploring new and exciting attractions, Illinois has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some fun things and sports activities you can enjoy while visiting:

Sports and Entertainment in Illinois

1. Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field

Location: 1060 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613
Experience: Catch a Chicago Cubs game at the iconic Wrigley Field, one of Major League Baseball’s oldest and most beloved ballparks. The atmosphere at Wrigley is electric, with passionate fans and a historic setting.
Chicago Cubs Tickets

2. Chicago Bulls at United Center

Location: 1901 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60612
Experience: Watch the Chicago Bulls, a storied NBA franchise, play at the United Center. Known for its exciting basketball games and enthusiastic crowds, it’s a must-visit for sports fans.
Chicago Bulls Schedule

3. Chicago Blackhawks Hockey

Location: 1901 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60612
Experience: Also at the United Center, the Chicago Blackhawks offer thrilling NHL action. The team’s passionate fan base and competitive play make for a memorable hockey experience.
Chicago Blackhawks Schedule

4. Soldier Field: Chicago Bears

Location: 1410 S Museum Campus Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
Experience: Home to the Chicago Bears, Soldier Field is a great venue for NFL games. The stadium also hosts concerts and other events throughout the year.
Chicago Bears Tickets

5. Illinois State Fair

Location: 801 E Sangamon Ave, Springfield, IL 62702
Experience: If you’re visiting in August, don’t miss the Illinois State Fair in Springfield. It features carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, and a variety of food vendors.
Illinois State Fair Website

Fun Things to Do

1. Explore Millennium Park

Location: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602
Experience: Millennium Park is a must-visit attraction in downtown Chicago, featuring the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as “The Bean”), the Crown Fountain, and beautiful green spaces. The park often hosts free concerts and events.

2. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago

Location: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
Experience: Home to an impressive collection of artworks, including Grant Wood’s “American Gothic” and a vast selection of Impressionist paintings. The Art Institute is a cultural treasure trove.
Art Institute of Chicago Website

3. Take a Chicago Architecture River Cruise

Experience: Enjoy a boat tour along the Chicago River to explore the city’s stunning architecture. Learn about Chicago’s rich architectural history and see iconic buildings up close.
Chicago Architecture Foundation Cruises

4. Explore Navy Pier

Location: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Experience: Navy Pier is a lively destination with a Ferris wheel, an IMAX theater, various restaurants, and seasonal events. It’s a great place for family-friendly fun and entertainment.

5. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry

Location: 5700 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637
Experience: This museum offers interactive exhibits and fascinating displays on science and technology. Highlights include a full-size replica of a World War II submarine and a fascinating coal mine exhibit.
Museum of Science and Industry Website

6. Enjoy the Lincoln Park Zoo

Location: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Experience: A free zoo located in Lincoln Park, it features a variety of animals and beautiful landscapes. It’s a great spot for families and animal lovers.
Lincoln Park Zoo Website

7. Visit the Field Museum

Location: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
Experience: Home to Sue, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton ever discovered, the Field Museum offers a range of exhibits on natural history and cultures.
Field Museum Website

Dining and Nightlife

1. Explore Chicago’s Food Scene

Location: Chicago is renowned for its food, including deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, and world-class fine dining. Try iconic spots like Giordano’s or Lou Malnati’s for deep-dish pizza, or experience a Michelin-starred restaurant like Alinea.
Giordano’s Website
Lou Malnati’s Website
Alinea Website

2. Experience the Chicago Blues Scene

Location: Chicago has a rich blues heritage. Check out legendary venues like Buddy Guy’s Legends or Kingston Mines for live music and a taste of the city’s musical history.
Buddy Guy’s Legends Website
Kingston Mines Website

3. Enjoy Craft Beer Bars

Location: Chicago offers numerous craft beer bars where you can sample local brews. Some favorites include The Owl, The Hopleaf Bar, and The Craft Beer Bar & Grill.
The Owl Website
Hopleaf Bar Website

This comprehensive guide provides a snapshot of the exciting sports, entertainment, and fun activities you can enjoy while visiting Illinois. From catching a game to exploring world-class museums and enjoying local cuisine, Illinois offers something for everyone.

Illinois’ craft beer scene offers a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences, reflecting the state’s dedication to brewing excellence and innovation. From the pioneering spirit of Goose Island to the creative brews of Off Color and the beloved offerings of Revolution Brewing, the breweries of Illinois showcase the best of what the craft beer world has to offer. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this state’s craft beer culture promises to deliver exceptional brews and memorable experiences. Cheers to exploring Illinois’ dynamic beer scene and discovering the unique flavors that make it a true craft beer destination.

1905 Brewing Company

121 N Chestnut

Assumption, IL 62510

Craft Beer Capital: Discovering Illinois’ Rich Brewery Scene