With over 100 Craft Breweries in Michigan, that can only mean one thing; brew lovers live in the Mitten. Being residents of the mitten state and brew lovers ourselves, we have done a lot of beer tastings while traveling around this great Midwest state. We have compiled a Michigan brewery map that lists the must-try beers within Michigan with the hopes that every traveler can leave having tasted the most delicious brews.
Michigan Brewery Map
1. Bell's Brewery
Recommended Brew: Oberon (Wheat Beer 5.8% ABV)
Located in Kalamazoo, MI, Bell's is an iconic Michigan brewery that should be high on your list to try when visiting the mitten state. Famous nationally for their Two Hearted IPA which is named after the Two Hearted River in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and is full of pine and grapefruit aromas with Pacific Northwest hops.
However, if time only allows for one beverage, you must try Bell's Oberon. So important to Michiganders, Oberon has its own "opening day" in late March. Known as a refreshing summer drink with mild fruity aromas, Oberon can only be found on tap from late March through September. See what all of the hype is about and grab an Oberon to enjoy beachside on your next trip to Michigan!
Oberon Opening Day: Late March
Advertisement
2. Griffin Claw Brewery
Recommended Brew: Norm's Raggedy Ass IPA (American IPA 7.2% ABV)
Griffin Claw Brewery. Where do we start with our most favorite Michigan brewery of all time? Located in Birmingham, MI (Southeast MI), this brewery has the most delicious selection of brews, along with a fun and entertaining sense of humor.
Their most recognizable year-round brews are El Rojo (Red Ale), Mr. Blue Sky (Wheat), Haze Force (Hazy IPA), You Figure It Out (Coconut Vanilla Milk Stout), and Norm's Raggedy Ass (IPA). Norm's Raggedy Ass is their flagship (not to mention 2010 World Beer Cup gold medal recipient) that is a hoppy, smooth, and sweet IPA. If you happen to stop by their taproom, pair a brew with an excellent appetizer and/or entrée!
J&L Recommended: Favorite Michigan Brewery
3. Shorts Brewery
Recommended Brew: Bellaire Brown (American Brown Ale; 7% ABV)
If you have not had a Short's beer before, than you are missing out. Established in 2004, this veteran brewing company has been delighting beer enthusiasts for years. They are located in Northwest Lower Michigan in the quaint village of Bellaire.
At their pub, there is always at least 20 different beers and Starcut Ciders on tap. With a variety of experimental brews, there is something for everyone to try. One of their staple beers is the Bellaire Brown, which is a full-flavored brown ale that tastes like sweet caramel with toasted notes. It is very dark and rich in flavor, which makes it stand out uniquely from the others browns on the market.
J&L Recommended: Unique & Rotating Brews
Advertisement