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  • Writer's pictureJ&L

Traverse City, Michigan: Top 6 Craft Breweries

Updated: Mar 8


Traverse City Breweries

Top Traverse City Breweries


Traverse City is a northern Michigan city home to the ultimate trifecta of Noms, Brews, & Views. With delicious wineries, breweries, breathtaking peninsulas, tropical waters, and magnificent beaches, this Midwest city has much to offer for any vacation. Below outlines six Traverse City breweries we believe to be a must-visit.


Recommended Brew: The North Porter [Porter 7.0% ABV]


One of the coolest breweries in the area, located alongside the scenic M-22 with an awesome beer garden and patio. Located among the North Woods with firepits, igloos, and live music, Hop Lot is fun any time of year. We recommend trying The North Porter. With deep roasts and hits of chocolate, this porter will keep you feeling cozy next to the bonfire.


Traverse City Breweries

J&L Recommended: Amazing atmosphere


Traverse City Breweries

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Recommended Brew: Jungle Fungus [IPA 5.3% ABV]


If you are looking for a brewery that will give you the classic "up north" feel, Lake Ann is the place to go! Specializing in American ales, meads, ciders, and wines, Lake Ann has an option for everyone. Grab a burger or pizza from the neighboring Stone Oven restaurant and head over to Lake Ann's outdoor beer garden where they host regular summer concerts. There is no better place up north to enjoy great beer and live music! Try their flagship IPA, Jungle Fungus, made with Mosaic and Simcoe hops and citrus notes.

Traverse City Breweries

J&L Recommended: Classic "up north" experience


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Recommended Brew: Big Bad Apple [Cider 6.9% ABV]


Big Bad Apple is a semi-dry cider made with, of course, Michigan cherries. A one-of-a-kind Michigan cider perfectly paired with any outdoor activity. Cherry Republic is not just a microbrewery, but also a winery, bakery and overall Michigan cherry shop born from the cherry orchards of Leelanau County. A quaint little village in Glen Arbor, stop at the Great Hall to sample over 200 types of cherry products or the Public House for brews and cherry-inspired meals. Much more than a microbrewery, Cherry Republic is fun for the whole family!


Traverse City Breweries

Tip: Check out the Olympic sized pit spitting arena!


Traverse City Breweries

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Recommended Brew: A Division of Magnitude [Sour 6.6% ABV]


Jolly Pumpkin is one of our favorites! With several locations throughout Michigan, each has their own charm and character. The Traverse City Jolly Pumpkin on Old Mission Peninsula is a beautiful restaurant with "up north" character, outdoor dining, and views of the magnificent Grand Traverse Bay. Don't just take our word for it, this brewery was rated the 4th best brewery in the nation in USA Today's 2018 brewpub rankings! Try their popular sour, A Division of Magnitude, with grapefruit, white grape, peach and papaya!


Traverse City Breweries

Awards: rated the 4th best brewery in the nation!