Illinois is packed with breweries that offer an exciting variety of craft beers, from hop-forward IPAs to rich, barrel-aged stouts and crisp sours. Whether you’re drawn to well known Chicago breweries or keen to explore lesser known spots around the state, here are ten places you shouldn’t miss for a fresh pint of some of Illinois’ best brews.
Revolution Brewing – Chicago, IL
- Why You’ll Love It: Revolution Brewing, Illinois’ largest independently owned brewery, is known for its bold and unique flavors that make each pint memorable.
- Must-Try Beers: Anti-Hero IPA is a hop lover’s dream, while their Straight Jacket, a barrel-aged barleywine, is rich and intense.
- Atmosphere: The Logan Square brewpub offers a lively, warm setting that’s perfect for a night out with friends over great food and fantastic beer.
Half Acre Beer Company – Chicago, IL
- Why You’ll Love It: Since opening in 2006, Half Acre has become a Chicago classic for quality and creativity, especially when it comes to IPAs.
- Must-Try Beers: The beloved Daisy Cutter pale ale offers floral and citrus notes, while Big Hugs, an imperial stout, packs bold flavors.
- Atmosphere: Their Lincoln Avenue taproom is cozy and welcoming, with a bit of a rustic vibe that adds to the charm of enjoying a pint or two.
Goose Island Beer Co. – Chicago, IL
- Why You’ll Love It: As one of the original Chicago craft breweries, Goose Island remains an icon. They’ve expanded nationally but continue to craft standout beers.
- Must-Try Beers: The Bourbon County Stout, a bold, barrel-aged imperial stout, is widely popular. Their 312 Urban Wheat is a refreshing go-to, and their popular IPA.
- Atmosphere: The original Fulton Street location is both industrial and inviting, making it a great spot to relax and explore their wide selection of brews.
Lagunitas Brewing Company – Chicago, IL
- Why You’ll Love It: Originally from California, Lagunitas brought its signature bold beers to Chicago in 2014, and it’s been a crowd-pleaser ever since.
- Must-Try Beers: The classic Lagunitas IPA and the distinctive Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’ Ale are top choices.
- Atmosphere: Lagunitas’ expansive, fun-loving taproom offers a quirky and relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for groups or solo adventurers looking to sample something different.
Triptych Brewing – Savoy, IL
- Why You’ll Love It: This lesser-known gem near Champaign has a reputation for small-batch creativity and quality, making it a favorite in Central Illinois.
- Must-Try Beers: The Dank Meme, a juicy IPA, is a hit among fans of hazy beers, while Wake Up Neo, a coffee stout, delivers robust flavors.
- Atmosphere: Triptych’s taproom has a friendly, laid-back vibe, perfect for sipping flights and discovering new flavors in a relaxed setting.
Maplewood Brewery & Distillery – Chicago, IL
- Why You’ll Love It: Combining a brewery and distillery under one roof, Maplewood is all about adventurous flavors in both their beers and spirits.
- Must-Try Beers: Son of Juice IPA is known for its tropical aroma, while Fat Pug, a creamy oatmeal stout, is smooth and delicious.
- Atmosphere: Maplewood’s “Lounge” has a cozy, vintage feel, creating a relaxed, welcoming space to try a mix of brews and spirits.
Penrose Brewing Company – Geneva, IL
- Why You’ll Love It: Penrose specializes in Belgian-inspired ales and sours, making them a standout for unique beer styles just outside of Chicago.
- Must-Try Beers: Goofy Boots, a hazy IPA, is a crowd favorite, while their Session Sour is refreshing and ideal for adventurous palates.
- Atmosphere: The taproom is spacious and rustic, often featuring food trucks and events, making it a great spot for beer lovers in the community.
Alter Brewing Company – Downers Grove, IL
- Why You’ll Love It: Alter Brewing is known for crafting approachable yet inventive beers in the Chicago suburbs, with a wide selection for all types of beer drinkers.
- Must-Try Beers: The Hopular Kid IPA is smooth and accessible, while Heavy Squeeze, a citrusy wheat ale, is perfect for easy drinking.
- Atmosphere: Alter’s taproom has a sleek and modern look, providing a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying flights and exploring a variety of flavors.
Sketchbook Brewing Co. – Evanston, IL
- Why You’ll Love It: This Evanston based brewery is committed to community, creativity, and sustainability, with a wide range of innovative beer styles.
- Must-Try Beers: Orange Door IPA offers a fruity hop profile, while Night Game, a Vienna lager, is smooth and satisfying.
- Atmosphere: Sketchbook’s intimate, cozy taproom is perfect for kicking back with a pint and meeting fellow beer lovers. They also have a second location in Skokie.
Pollyanna Brewing Company – Lemont, IL
- Why You’ll Love It: With multiple locations around the Chicago area, Pollyanna is all about high-quality, approachable brews that are both creative and easy to enjoy.
- Must-Try Beers: Lexical Gap IPA is a go-to for hop fans, while The Full Lemonty, a lemon-infused cream ale, is refreshingly unique.
- Atmosphere: Each Pollyanna location is friendly and casual, offering a laid-back environment that makes it easy to unwind and enjoy their latest brews.
These Illinois breweries have carved out a name for themselves with their top-notch brews and unique atmospheres. Whether you’re a fan of big, bold flavors or prefer something lighter, you’re sure to find something to love. So, grab some friends, map out your route, and get ready to explore the best of Illinois beer!
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