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As you plan a trip to Munich for Oktoberfest, consider exploring notable beer destinations across the country. Beyond the well-known craft brew hotspots, there are lesser-known towns and regions with thriving brewing scenes waiting to be discovered. These off-the-beaten-path places offer unique flavors, local traditions, and the chance to find a new favorite. Here are seven destinations worth adding as side trips on your next journey. © Kirill Zmurciuk | Dreamstime.com -
Concord, North Carolina, just outside Charlotte, combines small-town charm with high-adrenaline attractions like NASCAR. The town also has a growing beer scene where you can visit two breweries in one stop: Cabarrus Brewing Company and High Branch Brewing Co. Both operate in restored textile buildings and offer well-crafted beers in a distinctive industrial setting. © Holly Riddle
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Cincinnati has deep brewing roots thanks to German immigrants in the 1800s. While the industry declined mid-20th century, craft brewing has returned with renewed energy. Today’s visitors can explore a mix of new breweries and historic brewery architecture, making the city a rewarding stop for beer history and contemporary craft beers alike. © Holly Riddle
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Traverse City, Michigan, draws visitors for its scenery and outdoor recreation, but it also boasts a vibrant brewery scene. With more than 20 breweries in the area, the town blends craft beer with outdoor experiences—one memorable option is a kayak pub crawl that pairs scenic waterways with local taps. © Ehrlif | Dreamstime.com
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Idaho may be famous for potatoes, but it’s also a leading producer of barley and hops. That access to fresh ingredients benefits breweries, especially in Boise, where brewers craft beers using local produce. Visit in October to experience Hoptober Freshtival and sample beers made from regionally grown ingredients. © Sergii Kateryniuk | Dreamstime.com
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Alaska’s long winters have helped foster a strong homebrewing culture that has evolved into a robust professional scene. Anchorage, in particular, is home to numerous breweries that often feature local ingredients and the craftsmanship of former homebrewers. The result is a distinct regional beer culture worth exploring. © William Ellis | Dreamstime.com
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Louisville is often associated with bourbon, but it also offers a thriving beer scene. Great Flood Brewing Company has become a local favorite, while Cumberland Brewing, founded in 2000, is expanding its distribution. The city provides a lively mix of established and emerging breweries for beer enthusiasts. © Thomaskelley | Dreamstime.com
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St. Petersburg, Florida, has quickly grown into a lively craft beer destination with nearly 20 breweries in the city and more than 60 across the Tampa Bay area. Sunny weather and waterfront views make sampling local brews a pleasant experience, and the region’s rapid growth in recent years has created a diverse and accessible beer scene. © Feng Cheng | Dreamstime.com
