Kansas is home to an incredible craft beer scene, with breweries serving up everything from classic ales to bold, experimental flavors. Here’s a roundup of 9 amazing breweries across the state that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a beer newbie or a craft brew aficionado, there’s something here for everyone.
Free State Brewing Company – Lawrence
Why It’s Awesome: Free State Brewing is a Kansas icon, being the state’s first legal brewery since Prohibition. Established in 1989, it’s the OG of Kansas craft beer.
Must-Try Beer: Ad Astra Ale – a balanced amber ale named after the state motto, “To the Stars.”
What Makes It Special: With over three decades under its belt, Free State has shaped the craft beer culture in Kansas. Their welcoming taproom is a staple in downtown Lawrence.
Central Standard Brewing – Wichita
Why It’s Awesome: This Wichita gem is all about experimentation. From funky wild ales to classic styles with a twist, they love pushing the boundaries.
Must-Try Beer: Peach Contrails – a tart, fruity wild ale that’s as refreshing as it sounds.
What Makes It Special: The vibe here is as creative as the beer. With a laid-back atmosphere and a passion for quality, it’s a spot where you’ll want to hang out for hours.
Tallgrass Tap House – Manhattan
Why It’s Awesome: Smack in the middle of Manhattan’s downtown, this tap house is perfect for enjoying great beer with great views from their rooftop patio.
Must-Try Beer: 8-BIT Pale Ale – approachable, flavorful, and has a nostalgic vibe that’s hard not to love.
What Makes It Special: Tallgrass offers a mix of reliable classics and rotating seasonal beers, making it a go-to for locals and visitors alike.
Limitless Brewing – Lenexa
Why It’s Awesome: Walking into Limitless Brewing feels like visiting a friend’s garage…if that friend had a knack for brewing.
Must-Try Beer: JoCo Juice – a hazy IPA that give you the juicy, tropical side of the IPA spectrum, delivering big, bold flavors with an approachable vibe.
What Makes It Special: Limitless really leans into its community focus, hosting trivia nights, food trucks, and charity events. They also allow dogs, which is always a win in my book.
Hopping Gnome Brewing Company – Wichita
Why It’s Awesome: This cozy microbrewery is all about community and local love. It’s a great spot to grab a pint and relax.
Must-Try Beer: Earl of ESB – an English-style pale ale with rich, malty flavors.
What Makes It Special: Their small batch approach means there’s always something new to try. Plus, the gnome-themed branding is irresistibly charming.
Walnut River Brewing Company – El Dorado
Why It’s Awesome: Walnut River is all about making high quality beer with no frills, just good vibes and great flavors.
Must-Try Beer: Warbeard Irish Red – a malty, caramel-forward brew that’s a crowd pleaser.
What Makes It Special: Their passion for great beer shines through in every pint. It’s a hidden gem worth seeking out.
Defiance Brewing Co. – Hays
Why It’s Awesome: This Western Kansas brewery delivers bold flavors with a side of small town hospitality.
Must-Try Beer: Awesomeness – a double IPA with a punch of hoppy goodness.
What Makes It Special: Defiance lives up to its name by creating brews that stand out, even in a competitive beer scene.
Sandhills Brewing – Hutchinson and Mission
Why It’s Awesome: With locations in Hutchinson and Mission, Sandhills is known for small batch beers that focus on flavor and quality.
Must-Try Beer: Blueberry Berliner – a tart and fruity Berliner Weisse that’s perfectly balanced.
What Makes It Special: Their approach to beer is simple: keep it small, keep it excellent.
Blind Tiger Brewery – Topeka
Why It’s Awesome: A solid mix of award winning beers, a cozy yet lively atmosphere, and some tasty food to boot.
Must-Try Beer: Maibock – an award winning German style dark lager with strong flavors.
What Makes It Special: The rustic wood paneled decor, complete with a view of the brewing tanks, screams “classic brewpub” in the best way.
Whether you’re exploring the state or looking for your new favorite brewery, these spots showcase the best of Kansas’s craft beer scene. From historic brew houses to experimental newcomers, there’s no shortage of amazing beers to try. So grab a pint, meet some locals, and toast to the Sunflower State!
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