Uncover the Best Breweries in Missouri for Craft Beer Lovers

Missouri, a state with a rich history of brewing, has recently seen a resurgence in the craft beer scene. With a diverse landscape and an abundance of local ingredients, it’s no wonder that beer enthusiasts are flocking to the Show-Me State to uncover the best brews it has to offer.

From iconic, world-renowned breweries to hidden gems tucked away in picturesque settings, Missouri is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be explored.

So, grab your favorite beer mug and let’s embark on a journey to uncover the best breweries in Missouri for craft beer lovers.

Key Takeaways

  • Explore Missouri’s top craft breweries, from iconic Anheuser-Busch to cozy Mother’s Brewing Co.
  • Savour the best of St. Louis at 4 Hands Brewing Co., Perennial Artisan Ales and Side Project Brewing.
  • Discover hidden gems like Piney River Brewery, White River Brewery and Diametric in Lee’s Summit!

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Missouri’s Top Craft Breweries

Missouri is home to some of the finest craft breweries in the country, each boasting its unique take on classic and innovative beer styles. Some notable breweries in Missouri include:

  • Anheuser-Busch Brewery
  • Boulevard Brewing Company
  • Schlafly Beer
  • Urban Chestnut Brewing Company
  • Perennial Artisan Ales

Beer lovers can find a wide range of options and creative flavor combinations that cater to every palate in Missouri.

Experience the family-friendly atmosphere and diverse beer selection at Mother’s Brewing Company, or visit Logboat Brewing Company for a laid-back session in a rustic taproom, complemented by creative brews.

Next, we’ll examine what sets each of these top Missouri craft breweries apart.

Anheuser-Busch Brewery

The Anheuser-Busch Brewery is a household name, known for brewing some of the most popular beers in the world, including Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, and Corona. Founded in the 1850s by Eberhard Anheuser and Adolphus Busch, this iconic brewery has a rich history that began in St. Louis, Missouri.

A visit to Anheuser-Busch Brewery is not complete without experiencing one of their historic tours, where you can learn about the brewing process, from milling to beechwood aging, and even catch a glimpse of the famous Clydesdales stables, a National Historic Landmark.

Anheuser-Busch Brewery remains committed to quality, sourcing almost all of their ingredients from U.S. farms to ensure top-notch brews. With a wide range of offerings, from their signature brews to the more experimental abbey ale, there’s something for everyone at this historic brewing powerhouse.

So, whether you’re a casual beer drinker or a dedicated connoisseur, a visit to Anheuser-Busch Brewery is a must for anyone seeking to explore the best breweries in Missouri.

Boulevard Brewing Company

Located in the heart of Kansas City, Boulevard Brewing Company is the Midwest’s largest craft brewery and the city’s first craft brewery.

Established in 1989 by John McDonald, Boulevard Brewing Company has since grown into a beloved local favorite, offering a scenic taproom and a variety of delicious beers.

Fans of this brewing company can’t get enough of their Boulevard Unfiltered Wheat Beer and Boulevard Pale Ale, two of their most popular brews.

The taproom at Boulevard Brewing Company offers an immersive experience with its expansive windows that provide a peek into the craft beer production process.

With a diverse selection of beers on tap, including Space Camper Cosmic IPA, Tank 7 Farmhouse Ale, and Hibiscus Gose, as well as exclusive test beers only available in the beer hall, Boulevard Brewing Company has something for every beer lover’s palate.

Therefore, Boulevard Brewing Company is a must-visit if you’re in Kansas City and interested in the local craft beer scene.

Mother’s Brewing Company

Nestled in Springfield, Missouri, Mother’s Brewing Company is a cozy craft brewery that creates its beer with a special ingredient: a mother’s love. Offering a homely taproom and a wide selection of beers for the whole family to enjoy, Mother’s Brewing Company is the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon with loved ones.

With beers like Towhead, Spring Batch, and London’s Burning on tap, there’s a brew for everyone at this family-friendly brewery.

Beyond brewing great beer, Mother’s Brewing Company focuses on fostering a hospitable setting for all family members. With plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, a playground, and lots of outdoor space, it’s the ideal spot for a picnic or a leisurely day out.

Try their award-winning MILF – an Imperial Stout brewed with raisins and cocoa nibs. It is then aged in rum, sherry, bourbon, brandy, and whiskey barrels to create a complex and flavorful experience..

Mother’s Brewing Company promises excellent beer, a friendly ambiance, and an unforgettable time for the entire family.

Logboat Brewing Company

Logboat Brewing Company, located in Columbia, Missouri, is an award-winning brewpub that offers a laidback, rustic taproom and a spacious patio for guests to enjoy.

Founded in 2014 by Judson Ball, Tyson Hunt, and Andrew Sharp, Logboat Brewing Company has quickly become a respected business in Columbia and across Missouri, offering delicious snacks and a wide range of craft beers.

At Logboat Brewing Company, you’ll find unique brews like:

  • The Lookout: an American pale ale with a rich caramel body and citrus notes
  • The Mamoot: with its jam, chocolate, and coffee notes
  • The Shiphead: brewed with Peruvian ginger

In addition to their creative beer offerings, Logboat Brewing Company also hosts events with food trucks, providing guests with a variety of dining options to pair with their brews.

If you’re in the mood for a laidback atmosphere, great beer, and tasty food, be sure to add Logboat Brewing Company to your list of must-visit Missouri breweries.

Savoring St. Louis: Must-Visit Breweries

Venturing further into Missouri, the thriving craft beer culture of St. Louis features notable breweries such as 4 Hands Brewing Co., Perennial Artisan Ales, and Side Project Brewing. These breweries not only offer exceptional craft beers but also provide unique experiences for visitors to savor the best that St. Louis has to offer.

Next, we’ll examine what distinguishes these St. Louis breweries in the city’s vibrant beer scene.

4 Hands Brewing Co.

4 Hands Brewing Co., nestled in the LaSalle Park area of St. Louis, is a stylish brewery offering an impressive selection of year-round brews, seasonal beers, and barrel-aged selections.

Founded in 2011 by Kevin Lemp, 4 Hands Brewing Co. has grown to become the biggest craft brewery in the area, with a chic taproom, huge windows overlooking the brewing facility, and a diverse selection of house brews.

One notable feature of 4 Hands Brewing Co. is their commitment to using local ingredients in their beers, resulting in unique flavors that truly represent the essence of St. Louis.

Not only does 4 Hands Brewing Co. offer exceptional craft beers, but they also provide a lively atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. With a spacious taproom, arcade games, and delicious food from Hi-Pointe Drive-In, there’s always something to entertain guests at this popular St. Louis brewery.

If you’re seeking a day brimming with delightful brews and enjoyment, don’t miss out on 4 Hands Brewing Co. during your St. Louis brewery tour.

Perennial Artisan Ales

For those seeking a more eclectic experience, Perennial Artisan Ales is a small-batch craft brewery located in the Patch neighborhood of South St. Louis.

Founded in 2011 by Phil and Emily Wymore, Perennial Artisan Ales quickly gained a reputation for its bold, farmhouse Belgian-style ales with unique flavors and ingredients.

Their handcrafted approach to brewing, using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, wild yeasts, and spices, sets them apart from other breweries and offers a truly distinctive experience for craft beer enthusiasts.

Perennial Artisan Ales is not only about the beer; the brewery also boasts a great tasting room, games, and a pup-friendly patio, making it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy their eclectic collection of ales.

From their Belgian-style Saison de Lis made with chamomile flowers to their Rye barrel-aged Mexican Chocolate Stout, there’s a brew for every palate at this innovative St. Louis brewery.

Visit Perennial Artisan Ales for a craft beer journey that puts a premium on quality and inventive brewing, including their exceptional seasonal brews.

Side Project Brewing

Another St. Louis gem, Side Project Brewing, is a unique brewery that focuses exclusively on small-batch, 100% barrel-aged beers. Founded by Cory King, the head brewer at Perennial Artisan Ales, Side Project Brewing began as a ‘gypsy brewery’ within Perennial Artisan Ales before opening its doors in 2014.

With a dedication to creating exceptional and innovative barrel-aged brews, Side Project Brewing offers an exclusive experience for those looking to explore the cutting edge of craft beer.

Visiting Side Project Brewing’s tasting room, The Cellar, is a must for any beer enthusiast exploring St. Louis. With a diverse selection of saisons, wild ales, and spirit barrel-aged ales, there’s something to please even the most discerning palate. In St. Louis and looking for a distinct brewery experience?

Don’t miss Side Project Brewing and their unique barrel-aged creations.

Kansas City’s Craft Beer Scene

Moving on to Kansas City, the craft beer scene continues to thrive with breweries like Kansas City Bier Company, Cinder Block Brewery, and Big Rip Brewing Company. Each of these breweries offers a distinct experience, with a focus on quality brews and a welcoming atmosphere for beer lovers to enjoy.

Next, we’ll delve into what distinguishes these Kansas City breweries in the local craft beer landscape.

Kansas City Bier Company

Kansas City Bier Company, established in 2013 by Steve Holle, is a brewery that focuses on crafting authentic German beer styles with traditional ingredients. Their commitment to authenticity has earned them a loyal following, and their lively biergarten atmosphere makes for a perfect gathering spot for friends and family.

With flagship beers like:

  • Dunkel
  • Helles
  • Hefeweizen
  • Pure Pils
  • Mandarina IPL

Kansas City Bier Company offers a taste of Germany right in the heart of Kansas City.

In addition to their delicious brews, Kansas City Bier Company offers:

  • A welcoming environment for visitors to enjoy
  • A spacious outdoor biergarten
  • Live music
  • A selection of sausages and pretzels to snack on

This brewery provides a cozy atmosphere for beer lovers to unwind and enjoy authentic German brews. Kansas City Bier Company is a must-visit for those in Kansas City seeking to enjoy authentic German brews.

Cinder Block Brewery

Cinder Block Brewery, located in Kansas City, Missouri, started as a small homebrewing operation in owner Bryce Schaffter’s cinder-block basement and has since grown into a 15bbl facility dedicated to crafting unique and high-quality artisan beers. Ranked as the third highest-rated brewery in Missouri, Cinder Block Brewery offers a diverse selection of craft beers, such as:

  • Block IPA
  • Great White Brett Sour/Wild Beer
  • Juicy Pils
  • Unwind IPA

The taproom at Cinder Block Brewery is a welcoming space for beer lovers to enjoy their brews. With a main taproom area, an event space, and a large outdoor patio, there’s plenty of room for guests to relax and savor their favorite beers.

The brewery also hosts a variety of events and activities, such as trivia nights, game nights, and live music, ensuring there’s always something fun happening at Cinder Block Brewery. In Kansas City and in search of a hospitable brewery serving top-notch craft beers? Look no further than Cinder Block Brewery.

Big Rip Brewing Company

Another popular spot in Kansas City’s craft beer scene is Big Rip Brewing Company, located in North Kansas City. Founded by Josh Collins and Kipp Feldt, Big Rip Brewing Company is known for its high-quality beers and friendly atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for beer lovers in the area.

With signature beers like their 237 Milk Stout and Pennywise Sweet Tater Ale, Big Rip Brewing Company offers a diverse selection of brews to please any palate.

In addition to their delicious beers, Big Rip Brewing Company also offers brewery tours for those interested in learning more about the brewing process and the history of the brewery.

These tours are informative, engaging, and a great way to get an insider’s look at one of Kansas City’s most popular breweries. Whether you’re a local or merely visiting, don’t forget to include Big Rip Brewing Company in your Kansas City brewery itinerary.

Missouri Breweries with Great Food

For those looking to satisfy their hunger while exploring Missouri’s craft beer scene, there are several breweries that serve up delicious food alongside their brews.

Martin City Brewing Company and Public House Brewing Company are two such establishments, offering a variety of tasty options to complement their craft beers. Now, let’s focus on these Missouri breweries and what sets their food menus apart.

Martin City Brewing Company

Martin City Brewing Company is the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy craft beers, delicious stone-fired pizzas, and live music events. With a variety of signature craft beers, such as their Abbey Belgian Ale and a rum barrel-aged stout, Martin City Brewing Company offers an impressive selection of brews to enjoy alongside their mouthwatering food offerings.

Their stone-fired pizzas are made with marinara sauce and 100% whole milk mozzarella cheese, offering a delicious and satisfying meal to pair with their award-winning beers.

With a selection of classic and adventurous toppings like fig, prosciutto, and caramelized onion, there’s a pizza for everyone at Martin City Brewing Company. And if pizza isn’t your thing, their menu also includes sandwiches, salads, wings, burgers, and more.

If you find yourself in Missouri and crave a brewery with a diverse food menu, make a stop at Martin City Brewing Company.

Public House Brewing Company

Located in Rolla, Public House Brewing Company is the city’s first brewpub, offering a range of session beers, specialty brews, and tasty food options. Renowned for their:

  • Cream Ale
  • Elusive IPA
  • Revelation Stout
  • Hide and Seek Hefeweizen
  • Frisco Amber Lager

Public House Brewing Company offers a variety of craft brews, ensuring there’s a brew for everyone to enjoy.

In addition to their fantastic beer offerings, Public House Brewing Company also serves up a variety of delicious food options, including:

  • Brick oven pizzas
  • Appetizers
  • Specialty burgers
  • Paninis
  • Sandwiches
  • Flatbreads
  • Mexican Street Corn Dip
  • Salads
  • Pasta dishes

This ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For a brewery in Missouri that excels in both food and drink offerings, pay a visit to Public House Brewing Company.

Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Missouri Breweries

While Missouri is home to many well-known breweries, there are also a number of hidden gems that are well worth a visit.

Piney River Brewing Company, White River Brewing Co., and Diametric Brewing Company are three lesser-known breweries that offer unique and high-quality craft beers, making them perfect destinations for those looking to explore the lesser-traveled paths of Missouri’s craft beer scene.

Next, we’ll examine why these hidden gems are well worth your time.

Piney River Brewing Company

Located in Bucyrus, Missouri, Piney River Brewing Company is a craft brewery that offers a picturesque setting and award-winning beers.

Founded by Brian and Joleen Durham in 2010 as a homebrewing operation, Piney River Brewing Company has since expanded to a 12,000 square foot barn to accommodate their growing distribution. With a focus on celebrating the Ozarks, Piney River Brewing Company offers unique brews, including:

  • Float Trip Ale
  • Old Tom Porter
  • Black Walnut Wheat
  • Crankbait Cream Ale (seasonal)

All of these beers have won gold medals.

In addition to their award-winning beers, Piney River Brewing Company also offers a beautiful setting for visitors to enjoy. Surrounded by a picturesque cow pasture, this brewery provides a serene and inviting atmosphere to relax and savor their exceptional brews.

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path brewery experience in Missouri, be sure to add Piney River Brewing Company to your list of must-visit destinations.

White River Brewing Co.

White River Brewing Company is a small-batch brewery located in Springfield, Missouri. It specializes in European-style beers with a local twist to make them unique.

With a focus on crafting unique and flavorful brews, White River Brewing Company offers a diverse selection of craft beers that include:

  • IPAs
  • Stouts
  • Ales
  • and more

Inspired by the brewing traditions of Belgium and Germany, their beers provide a unique and delicious taste of Europe in the heart of Missouri.

The cozy atmosphere at White River Brewing Co. is perfect for visitors looking to relax and enjoy their European-style brews. With a welcoming taproom and a diverse selection of beers, this lesser-known Missouri brewery is an excellent choice for craft beer enthusiasts seeking a unique and intimate experience.

If you’re in Springfield and looking to explore the hidden gems of Missouri’s craft beer scene, be sure to stop by White River Brewing Co.

Diametric Brewing Company

Diametric Brewing Company, a craft beer brewery located in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, offers a variety of craft beers in a welcoming environment. Founded in 2018 by Devin and Adam Walter, Diametric Brewing Company has quickly gained a reputation for offering perfect-rated beers and a friendly atmosphere for beer lovers to enjoy.

With a diverse selection of brews like Coastal Crispy Lager and It Walks in the Soup Pale Ale, Diametric Brewing Company is sure to have something for every palate.

In addition to their exceptional craft beers, Diametric Brewing Company also provides a welcoming atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. With a diverse selection of beers on tap and a friendly staff, this lesser-known Missouri brewery is a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the state’s hidden gems.

In Lee’s Summit and seeking a friendly brewery with a diverse beer selection? Don’t miss Diametric Brewing Company.

Summary

Missouri’s craft beer scene is a treasure trove of flavors and experiences, offering something for everyone, from iconic breweries like Anheuser-Busch Brewery and Boulevard Brewing Company to hidden gems like Piney River Brewing Company, White River Brewing Co., and Diametric Brewing Company.

With a diverse landscape and an abundance of local ingredients, it’s no wonder that beer enthusiasts are flocking to the Show-Me State to uncover the best brews it has to offer.

Whether you’re a casual beer drinker or a dedicated connoisseur, a visit to any of these Missouri breweries is sure to satisfy your thirst for quality craft beer and provide you with a memorable experience.

So, grab your favorite beer mug and embark on a journey to uncover the best breweries in Missouri for craft beer lovers. Cheers!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the number one beer in Missouri?

Barrel-Aged Abraxas from Perennial Artisan Ales is the number one beer in Missouri.

How many breweries are in Missouri?

Missouri is home to over 160 craft breweries, making it a great destination for beer lovers.

What is Missouri’s oldest brewery?

Missouri’s oldest brewery is the Royal Brewing Company of Weston, founded in 1842 by John Georgian.

Is Missouri known for beer?

Yes, Missouri is well-known for its beer. It was home to the first national beer brand — Budweiser, and it has been ranked as the fifth best state for beer lovers. With 12 microbreweries/brew pubs in St. Louis alone, there’s a lot of great beer to be enjoyed!

Anheuser-Busch Brewery offers some of the most popular beers, such as Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, and Corona.