Nebraska might not be the first state you think of when it comes to craft beer, but the Cornhusker State is home to some incredible breweries that deserve national attention. From small batch innovators to award winning powerhouses, these breweries showcase the creativity, passion, and diversity of Nebraska’s beer scene. Here’s a list of the best breweries in Nebraska, each offering something unique for craft beer enthusiasts.
Kinkaider Brewing Co. – Broken Bow, Lincoln, Omaha
Signature Beers: Devil’s Gap Jalapeño Ale, Snow Beast Winter Ale
Why It’s Special: Nestled in the heart of the Sandhills, Kinkaider is more than just a brewery, it’s a celebration of Nebraska’s rugged frontier spirit. Known for their adventurous flavor combinations, their Devil’s Gap Jalapeño Ale is a standout for those who like a little heat in their brew. In the winter, the Snow Beast Winter Ale becomes a fan favorite, warming hearts and taste buds alike.
Fun Fact: Kinkaider incorporates locally sourced ingredients, like honey and jalapeños, to create truly Nebraskan flavors.
Address: Multiple – Check their website for the location nearest to you.
Website: https://www.kinkaider.com/
Zipline Brewing Co. – Lincoln
Signature Beers: Copper Alt, Dear Old Nebraska Brew, Oatmeal Porter
Why It’s Special: Zipline Brewing is one of Nebraska’s most celebrated craft breweries, with a focus on clean, approachable beers that deliver consistent quality. Their Copper Alt, a German-style altbier, is a staple, and the Dear Old Nebraska Brew is a tribute to the state itself…a light lager perfect for game days.
Fun Fact: Zipline has made sustainability a priority by using eco-friendly practices, from brewing operations to packaging.
Address: 5740 Hidcote Dr, Lincoln, NE 68516-5555
Website: https://ziplinebrewing.com/
Boiler Brewing Company – Lincoln
Signature Beers: Mango Milkshake IPA, Vanilla Bean Stout, Rye Whiskey Barrel-Aged Barleywine
Why It’s Special: Boiler Brewing is a haven for fans of big, bold, and experimental beers. Located in the historic Grand Manse building in downtown Lincoln, the brewery creates small-batch beers with an emphasis on unique ingredients and barrel-aging. Their Mango Milkshake IPA is a fruity masterpiece, while their stouts and barleywines are highly sought after by beer connoisseurs.
Fun Fact: The Boiler Taproom offers a constantly rotating selection of beers, ensuring no two visits are the same.
Address: 129 N 10th St, Suite 8, Lincoln, NE 68508-3616
Website: http://www.boilerbrewingcompany.com/
Scriptown Brewing Company – Omaha
Signature Beers: Nut Job Brown Ale, Bob’s Blonde Ale, Harvey Street IPA
Why It’s Special: Located in Omaha’s historic Blackstone District, Scriptown Brewing pays homage to Nebraska’s brewing traditions with classic beer styles that are brewed to perfection. Their Nut Job Brown Ale offers a smooth, nutty flavor, while the Harvey Street IPA is a hop lover’s dream.
Fun Fact: Scriptown’s name is a nod to the Blackstone District’s history as a neighborhood for journalists and writers.
Address: 3924 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68131-3014
Website: http://www.scriptownbrewing.com/
Thunderhead Brewing – Kearney
Signature Beers: Golden Frau Honey Wheat, Cornstalker Dark Wheat, Prairie Peach Ale
Why It’s Special: Thunderhead Brewing has been a staple of Nebraska’s craft beer scene since 1999, making it one of the state’s oldest breweries. Known for its wheat beers, their Golden Frau Honey Wheat and Prairie Peach Ale highlight the agricultural heritage of the region with locally inspired flavors.
Fun Fact: Thunderhead also serves wood-fired pizzas that pair perfectly with their beers, making it a great spot for food and drink enthusiasts.
Address: 18 E 21st St, Kearney, NE 68847-5402
Website: https://www.thunderheadbrewing.com/
Benson Brewery – Omaha
Signature Beers: Blonde Bunny Ale, Karha-T Exotic Porter, Hop Royale IPA
Why It’s Special: This small but mighty brewery in Omaha’s Benson neighborhood focuses on crafting beers that feel approachable yet refined. The Karha-T Exotic Porter, brewed with chai spices, offers a unique twist on a traditional style, while the Blonde Bunny Ale is a smooth and refreshing choice for any occasion.
Fun Fact: Benson Brewery emphasizes community and sustainability, offering a cozy taproom with a menu of locally sourced food options.
Address: 6059 Maple Street, Omaha, NE 68104
Website: https://www.bensonbrewery.com/
Farnam House Brewing Company – Omaha
Signature Beers: Czech Pilsner, Berliner Weisse, Biere de Garde
Why It’s Special: Farnam House stands out for its focus on European inspired ales and lagers, making it a haven for fans of traditional brewing styles. Their Berliner Weisse is tart and refreshing, while the Biere de Garde offers a rich, malty profile that pays homage to French farmhouse brewing.
Fun Fact: Farnam House frequently experiments with wild and sour fermentation, making it a go-to spot for adventurous beer drinkers.
Address: 3562 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68131
Nebraska Brewing Company – Papillion
Signature Beers: Cardinal Pale Ale, Brunette Nut Brown Ale, Melange A Trois (Barrel-Aged Belgian Ale)
Why It’s Special: Nebraska Brewing Company is a pioneer in the state’s craft beer scene, known for their expertly crafted barrel-aged beers. Their Melange A Trois is an award winning Belgian ale aged in Chardonnay barrels, offering complex flavors that beer lovers rave about.
Fun Fact: Nebraska Brewing Company’s beers have won numerous national and international awards, cementing their reputation as one of the state’s finest breweries.
Address: 6950 S 108th St, La Vista, NE 68128-5701
Website: https://nebraskabrewingco.com/
Lazy Horse Brewing & Winery – Ohiowa
Signature Beers: Lazy IPA, Saddlebag Stout, Honey Wheat
Why It’s Special: Combining a brewery and winery in one scenic location, Lazy Horse offers something for everyone. Their beers, like the Saddlebag Stout and Lazy IPA, are crafted with care, and their laid back atmosphere makes it a perfect weekend escape.
Fun Fact: Lazy Horse uses hops grown on site for some of their beers, giving them a true farm to glass experience.
Address: 211 Road 20, Ohiowa, NE 68416-3005
Website: http://www.lazyhorsebrewing.com/
Why Nebraska’s Breweries Shine
Nebraska’s craft breweries excel at celebrating their local roots while exploring innovative brewing techniques. From barrel aging to incorporating local ingredients, these breweries showcase the state’s agricultural bounty and creative spirit. Whether you’re a fan of hop heavy IPAs, rich stouts, or crisp lagers, Nebraska’s beer scene has something to offer.
So next time you’re in the Cornhusker State, make sure to visit these breweries. You’ll not only enjoy amazing beer but also experience the warm hospitality and community spirit that make Nebraska a hidden gem in the craft beer world.
If we overlooked your favorite Nebraska brewery, please let us know in the comments below. We’re always looking for our next great beer.
Leave a Reply