There’s a reason why Seattle is known as one of America’s brewing capitals. The northwestern city is home to one of the most creative craft beer scenes, with over 70 craft breweries in Seattle alone. With over 70% of the nation’s hops grown in the Yakima Valley, the Emerald City is the perfect place to sip a pint of local suds.
Seattle’s craft beer scene is a dynamic and ever-evolving world of hops, malts, and creativity. Breweries are sprinkled throughout the city from Fremont to Ballard, Capitol Hill to Georgetown. Ballard is a beer lover’s paradise, home to renowned breweries like Reuben’s Brews, Stoup Brewing, and Peddler Brewing Company. Ballard’s Nordic-inspired ambiance adds to the charm.
Fremont Brewing Company’s outdoor beer garden is the perfect spot to enjoy a brew on a sunny Seattle day. Former mortuary-turned-brewpub Pine Box is a unique haunt for beer lovers, while Urban Family Brewing Co. is a winner for innovative and sour beers.
Ready to dive into the Emerald City’s booming beer scene? Kick back over excellent brews and classic pub fare at one of these top-notch Seattle craft breweries.
Looking for more ideas for your trip? Check out our Seattle Travel Guide and Washington State Travel Guide for more tips & recommendations on when to visit, where to go & what to do on your vacation!
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Old Stove Brewing
If you find yourself craving a delightful craft beer, look no further than Old Stove Brewing. This beloved brewery is a treasure in the heart of Pike Place Market and offers a taste of Pacific Northwest brewing excellence.
Established in 2017, Old Stove Brewing is a labor of love born from the founders’ passion for craft beer and the desire to share it with locals and visitors alike. A delightful blend of industrial chic and rustic charm greets you on arrival. Grab a seat at the sleek bar or on the outdoor patio – it’s an ideal spot for people-watching and savoring your beer while soaking in the lively Pike Place Market scene.
Old Stove Brewing takes pride in its diverse beer menu, which features a rotating selection of brews to cater to all tastes. You can expect a spectrum of styles, from crisp lagers to bold IPAs and rich stouts. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy ales, malt-forward brews, or something in between, you’ll find a beer that tickles your taste buds.
Check out their happy hour specials for discounted pints and small bites. You can take home your favorite brews by purchasing cans, bottles, or growlers to enjoy later.
The Pike Brewing Company
Head to the Pike Brewing Company for superb brews and a quintessential Seattle experience. Nestled in the heart of Downtown Seattle, the brewery is a beloved institution serving outstanding craft beers since 1989.
Founded by Charles and Rose Ann Finkel, pioneers of the craft beer movement, The Pike Brewing Company is a cornerstone of Seattle’s brewing heritage. They’ve been crafting exceptional beers for over three decades, contributing significantly to the city’s vibrant beer culture.
The Pike Brewing Company’s beer lineup is a tribute to the art of brewing. You can expect to find many styles, including the Pike Kilt Lifter Scotch Ale, Naughty Nellie Golden Artisan Ale, and Pike Space Needle Golden IPA. They also experiment with unique and limited-edition releases, so there’s always something new to discover.
Pair your brew with a delectable meal from their pub-style menu, featuring hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and Pacific Northwest-inspired dishes. Grab a table by the large windows and soak up panoramic city views at one of Seattle’s favorite restaurants.
Optimism Brewing Company
Optimism Brewing Company is more than just a brewery; it celebrates community and craft beer. If you’re searching for a cheerful atmosphere and top-notch brews, head to this spot in Seattle’s vibrant Pike/Pine neighborhood.
Established in 2015, Optimism Brewing Company is a relatively young player in Seattle’s craft beer scene, but they’ve carved out their own sunny corner in the city’s brewing landscape. Airy and open with lofty ceilings, colorful murals, and long communal tables, Optimism lives up to its name with an inviting atmosphere.
A rotating beer menu boasts a variety of styles, from classic IPAs and milky stouts to experimental and seasonal creations. Whether you prefer a crisp pilsner, a hoppy IPA, or a robust porter, Optimism has you covered.
Furry friends are welcome, too! Optimism Brewing Company is dog-friendly and even provides water bowls. Watch their event calendar; they often host live music, trivia nights, and other community gatherings.
Elysian Capitol Hill Brewery
Elysian Capitol Hill Brewery is a craft beer haven with a dash of artistic flair. If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, innovative brews, and some local history, this is the spot for you.
Nestled in the eclectic Capitol Hill neighborhood, the brewery is a dynamic fusion of craft beer and artistic expression. Elysian Brewing Company has deep roots in Seattle’s craft beer scene. It was founded in 1996 and has gained fame for its imaginative beers and vibrant brewpubs.
Exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and an industrial-chic ambiance create an urban vibe perfect for gatherings. Expect an extensive list of styles, including IPAs, stouts, sours, and lagers. They’re celebrated for their seasonal and experimental brews, so there’s always something exciting to try.
Elysian Capitol Hill Brewery offers a menu that pairs perfectly with its beers. From burgers and sandwiches to shareable plates, you’ll find various delicious options to satisfy your cravings.
Don’t miss their seasonal beer releases and special events. On a sunny Seattle day, grab a seat on the patio and soak up the neighborhood’s vibrant energy.
Fremont Brewing’s Urban Beer Garden
Join Seattle brew-lovers to celebrate craft beer and camaraderie at Fremont Brewing’s Urban Beer Garden. This beloved local gem in the lively Fremont neighborhood is a hub for craft beer enthusiasts and a favorite hangout for both locals and visitors.
You’ll find picnic tables, communal seating, and a lovely outdoor garden setting where conversations flow as easily as the beer. The brewery’s menu features everything from IPAs and pilsners to stouts and seasonal specialties.
Look for favorites like the Universale Pale Ale, Lush IPA, and barrel-aged delights from their Rusty Nail series. Local and organic ingredients are used whenever possible, ensuring that each beer is a true expression of the Pacific Northwest.
Feel free to bring your own grub or order from nearby restaurants to enjoy with your beer. Fremont Brewing is family-friendly, so bring the little ones along!
Reuben’s Brews
Beer craftsmanship meets community spirit at Reuben’s Brews. You’ll find this craft beer haven on 14th Avenue in the bustling Ballard neighborhood, making it the perfect place to experience the city’s vibrant beer culture.
Designed for camaraderie, communal tables, and a friendly vibe, Reuben’s Brews has a cozy and inviting taproom where beer lovers can feel at home. You’ll find all the classics from pilsners, blondes, IPAs, rich stouts, and experimental brews. Try the Crikey IPA and Robust Porter that showcase the Pacific Northwest’s brewing excellence.
Can’t decide? Opt for a flight and sample a variety of their beers in smaller pours. Bring your furry companion along; they’re welcome in the outdoor seating area.
Perihelion Brewery
If you love the science behind crafting beer, Perihelion Brewery is worth visiting! Nestled in Beacon Hill, the brewery offers a unique beer experience combining experimentation and a warm atmosphere.
Founded by brewer Les McAuliffe, Perihelion Brewery takes its name from the point in an object’s orbit when it’s closest to the sun. This fascination with celestial events reflects the brewery’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of beer brewing.
The brewery’s decor is reminiscent of a scientist’s laboratory, complete with periodic table-inspired artwork! The laid-back, relaxed ambiance makes you want to explore and experiment with their beer offerings.
Perihelion Brewery’s beer lineup is ever-evolving, displaying Les McAuliffe’s passion for innovation. Look for experimental brews like barrel-aged sours, IPAs with unusual hop profiles, and other creative concoctions. You can also enjoy bites from local food trucks that frequently park outside the brewery.
Given the experimental nature of their beers, opt for a flight to sample a variety of flavors and styles. Join the Perihelion Brewery team for fun trivia nights and other weekly activities!
Rooftop Brewing Company
For fantastic craft beer and even better views, Rooftop Brewing Company is one of the coolest places to go in Seattle! You’ll find Rooftop Brewing Company in the heart of Queen Anne, and, as the name suggests, it’s a rooftop oasis that offers more than just great beer.
Rooftop Brewing Company has been a fixture of the Queen Anne area since 2012. Founded by four friends with a passion for brewing, it’s become a beloved neighborhood gem known for its friendly atmosphere and delightful brews.
The rooftop deck is ideal for soaking up the sun, enjoying your favorite brew, and savoring spectacular views of Seattle’s skyline. The brewery offers a rotating selection of beers on tap, ensuring there’s always something new. The menu will delight whether you’re into refreshing ales, golden pilsners, or dark stouts. Look out for their signature brews like the Hoplandia IPA and the Kölsch-Style Ale.
Rooftop Brewing often hosts food trucks, providing tasty options to pair with your brews. Don’t miss fun activities like trivia nights and game tournaments!
Figurehead Brewing
How about an evening of great beers, live music, and good conversation with friends? Figurehead Brewing embodies the spirit of a neighborhood brewery, where good beer and good company go hand in hand.
Head to Seattle’s Interbay neighborhood to find this gem, where you can enjoy a diverse lineup of beers in the cozy taproom. Sip a smooth porter or a hoppy IPA, or ask about the seasonal and rotating selections.
Figurehead Brewing is known for its well-crafted classic styles. Look out for their beloved American Blonde Ale and robust Stout, both of which have garnered a loyal following.
Depending on the time of year, you might encounter special releases like summer ales, autumn-inspired brews, or hearty stouts in winter. It’s worth visiting throughout the year to explore the ever-changing beer menu. If you’re new to Figurehead, try a flight to sample various brews and discover your favorite.
While they don’t have a kitchen, the brewery often hosts food trucks so that you can enjoy a satisfying meal with your beer.
Urban Family Brewing Co.
Urban Family Brewing Co. is a shining star in Ballard’s beer-soaked constellation. And if you’re on the hunt for innovative craft beers in a welcoming setting, this is where you’ll find it! Set on 52nd Street, this popular brewery has been pushing the boundaries of craft beer for over 20 years.
Urban Family Brewing Co. embraces both traditional and experimental brewing methods. They’re known for their wild and mixed fermentation expertise, resulting in complex and layered flavors that truly stand out.
One of the brewery’s specialties is sour beers. If you’re a fan of tart and funky flavors, you’re in for a treat. They also excel in crafting various other beer styles, so there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or new to the scene. From barrel-aged sours to hazy IPAs and rich stouts, their selection is a playground for your taste buds.
Grab a bite from one of the food trucks that frequently don the brewery to pair with your beers.
Elliott Bay Brewery & Pub
Craft beer connoisseur or just dipping your toes into the world of microbrews? Elliott Bay Brewery & Pub is a beloved fixture that isn’t just a place for beer; it’s a one-of-a-kind experience. This West Seattle classic has been brewing excellence since 1997, making it one of the OGs (Original Gangsters) of Seattle’s craft beer scene!
Adorned with vintage beer memorabilia and low lighting, the brewery’s ambiance perfectly balances classic pub comfort and Pacific Northwest charm. Whether cozied indoors or enjoying the outdoor patio, you’ll feel right at home.
Elliott Bay Brewery takes pride in its diverse beer lineup, and its beer menu is like a journey through the craft beer landscape. Enjoy assorted styles, from IPAs to stouts, and even special seasonal releases. Pair your beer with their delicious pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and hearty salads.
If you visit on the weekend, don’t miss their brunch menu with mouthwatering options like eggs benedict and Belgian waffles. They offer growler fills so you can take some of your favorite brew home.
Big Time Brewery & Alehouse
Raise your glass to a taste of local flavor at Big Time Brewery & Alehouse. Set on University Way in the heart of the University District, it’s a stone’s throw away from the University of Washington, making it a favorite haunt for students and locals alike.
Established in 1988, Big Time Brewery pioneered Seattle’s craft beer scene. They’ve honed their craft over the years, earning a reputation for brewing excellence. The brewery exudes a laid-back and welcoming vibe. It’s a great spot to catch up with friends, watch a game on the big screen, or simply savor your beer while soaking in the college town atmosphere.
Big Time Brewery & Alehouse offers a variety of craft beers on tap, including their own creations. Pair your brew with classic pub fare like burgers, sandwiches, and hearty salads. Don’t miss their famous ‘Whoppers’ (homemade onion rings) for a crispy and satisfying snack.
Check out their happy hour specials for discounted pints and bites if you’re on a budget. They offer growler fills, allowing you to take your favorite brews home. If you’re in the mood for some brainteasers, watch their trivia nights for a fun and challenging experience.
