CRAFT BREWS
Tap into local flavors! This theme explores the thriving world of craft beer, cider, and artisanal spirits, visiting breweries, distilleries, and unique taprooms. Traveling off-season allows for more intimate tours, direct conversations with brewers, and a chance to savor limited-edition seasonal releases.
Our Top Picks for Craft Brews
Portland, Oregon, USA: Beervana & Innovation
Portland is a legendary craft beer city, often called “Beervana,” with more breweries than almost any other city globally. Explore diverse brewpubs, innovative taprooms, and a thriving scene that pushes the boundaries of brewing styles.
Off-Season Benefits:
Autumn (Sept-Oct) offers mild weather and fewer crowds in taprooms.
Winter (Nov-Feb) provides a cozy atmosphere for indoor tastings.
Many breweries release special seasonal beers perfect for cooler weather.
Denver, Colorado, USA: Mountain Brews & Mile High Flavors
Denver boasts a robust and diverse craft beer scene, benefiting from proximity to clean mountain water and a strong brewing tradition. Discover countless breweries, from large-scale operations to small, experimental nanobreweries, often paired with food trucks.
Off-Season Benefits:
Spring (Apr-May) and Autumn (Sept-Oct) offer pleasant weather for brewery hopping.
Fewer crowds at popular taprooms and easier access to brewery tours.
Many breweries host unique off-season events or special beer releases.
Asheville, North Carolina, USA: Southern Brewing Hub
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a craft beer mecca in the Southeast, known for its creative and collaborative brewing community. Enjoy a walkable brewery trail through the South Slope district, sampling diverse and award-winning beers.
Off-Season Benefits:
Autumn (Sept-Oct) offers stunning fall foliage and comfortable weather for outdoor patios.
Winter (Dec-Feb) provides a cozy setting for indoor tastings and smaller tour groups.
Fewer overall tourists mean a more relaxed atmosphere at popular spots.
San Diego, California, USA: Hoppy Coastline
San Diego’s sunny climate and innovative spirit have fostered a world-renowned craft beer scene, particularly famous for its hoppy IPAs. Explore dozens of breweries, often with spacious tasting rooms and food options, along its vibrant coast.
Off-Season Benefits:
Spring (Mar-May) offers pleasant, mild weather ideal for outdoor patios.
Late autumn (Oct-Nov) also provides comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
Many breweries offer special releases or events outside the busy summer.
Brussels, Belgium: Historic & Modern Brewing
Brussels blends historic brewing traditions (Lambic, Gueuze, Trappist ales) with a growing craft beer movement. Explore traditional pubs (estaminets), modern taprooms, and learn about the intricate art of Belgian brewing.
Off-Season Benefits:
Autumn (Sept-Nov) and Spring (Mar-May) offer milder weather for walking between venues.
Fewer tourist groups mean more personalized service at historic pubs.
Opportunities to discover limited seasonal brews.
Melbourne, Australia: Laneway Breweries & Craft Culture
Melbourne’s famed laneways and inner-city suburbs are home to a vibrant craft brewing scene, often housed in repurposed industrial spaces. Discover innovative breweries, cideries, and distilleries, paired with excellent food.
Off-Season Benefits:
Autumn (Mar-May) and Spring (Sept-Nov) offer pleasant weather for brewery crawls.
Winter (June-Aug) provides cozy indoor tasting experiences and fewer crowds.
Easier access to tours and tasting sessions.
Munich, Germany: Bavarian Brew Traditions
While known for its large breweries, Munich and Bavaria are also home to a thriving craft beer scene, respecting tradition while innovating. Explore classic beer halls, smaller craft breweries, and learn about the Reinheitsgebot (Beer Purity Law).
Off-Season Benefits:
Late autumn (Oct-Nov) and early spring (Mar-Apr) offer fewer crowds.
Enjoy hearty Bavarian food and beer in cozy indoor settings.
Many local festivals outside Oktoberfest peak offer authentic beer experiences.
Quebec City, Canada: Microbreweries & Local Flavors
Quebec City and its surrounding region boast a rapidly growing craft beer scene, with microbreweries focusing on unique local ingredients and Franco-Canadian influences. Discover cozy brewpubs and innovative seasonal beers.
Off-Season Benefits:
Autumn (Sept-Oct) offers stunning fall foliage and seasonal brews.
Winter (Dec-Mar) provides a warm escape to cozy pubs and winter-themed beers.
Fewer crowds in the city center allow for a more relaxed exploration of breweries.
Reykjavik, Iceland: Viking Brews & Modern Tastes
Iceland’s craft beer scene has exploded, offering a surprising range of innovative beers, often incorporating local ingredients like Icelandic water, herbs, or even volcanic ash. Explore microbreweries and brewpubs in the vibrant capital.
Off-Season Benefits:
Winter (Oct-Apr) is ideal for experiencing the Northern Lights, and indoor brewery visits are a perfect complement.
Fewer tourists mean more personalized tours and discussions with brewers.
Experience unique seasonal brews crafted for the colder months.
Bristol, UK: Independent Brewing Powerhouse
Bristol has emerged as a significant hub for independent craft brewing in the UK, with a strong focus on experimental beers and sustainable practices. Its vibrant arts scene complements a diverse array of brewpubs and taprooms.
Off-Season Benefits:
Autumn (Sept-Nov) and Spring (Mar-May) offer milder weather for exploring the city’s independent food and drink scene.
Fewer crowds at popular pubs and breweries.
Many smaller, local beer festivals or taproom events occur outside peak summer.
Ready to sample the local pour? Click on any of the recommended destinations to explore detailed country guides, including essential travel tips, visa requirements, safety information, and more specific advice on the best times to visit for your craft brews adventure.