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11 Must-Visit Breweries In Peoria, IL & Nearby
Are you looking for the best breweries in Peoria, Il? You’ve come to the right place, as we share where you can find a brew in the city and a couple of places nearby if you feel adventurous enough for a small road trip.
Ahoy, fellow ale aficionados!
If you’re anything like us, you’ve probably hopped around the globe, sipping and sampling the best brews this world has to offer. From the pubs of Ireland to the bars of Cambodia, our love for the frothy goodness knows no bounds.
We haven’t yet had the pleasure of parking our pints in Peoria, IL.
But fear not, as we won’t lead you astray! We’ve wet our whistles in the Midwest before, and let’s just say it was nothing short of ‘ale-mazing’!
Our mission is simple – to help you dodge the duds and find the finest foam toppers.
So, if you’re planning to embark on a ‘beer pilgrimage’ in Peoria, you’ve stumbled upon the right page, my friend.
Let’s raise a toast to our mutual love of breweries and start our Peoria brewery hop together! Cheers!
Breweries In Peoria, Il
Ready to dive pint-first into Peoria’s frothy beer ocean? Slide on your beer goggles and prepare for a taste-venture as we journey into the heart of this hoppy haven, where every brewery is a bubble and brews bonanza waiting to quench your thirst.
Please note that the following sudsy selections are listed in no particular order and represent a lovingly brewed blend of personal tasting adventures and meticulous research; so while your favorite alehouse may vary, these are the breweries that have tapped into our hearts!
1. John S. Rhodell Brewery
The John S. Rhodell Brewery, the oldest operating brewery in Peoria, Il, is where malt meets history, and hop-heads unite!
This brewery is a classic example of “old school meets new wave,” specializing in a diverse array of beers that cater to every palette in the pint glass.
About the beer:
From ales to lagers and everything frothy in between, their selection is as rich as the brewery’s history.
Their popular IPA, “History on Tap,” is a hop heavyweight, bursting with flavors that make your taste buds two-step.
For our recommendation, try the “Malty by Nature,” a stout that’s as dark as a moonless night and packed with flavors that’ll make your mouth moonwalk!
About the venue:
The atmosphere? It’s like a beer garden that ran into a history museum, and they decided to make beautiful brews together!
This unique spot is pet-friendly (because they believe in beer buddies of all species).
Grab a seat at the bar or pull up a stool on their sun-soaked patio.
And the food? Let’s just say their pretzels could negotiate peace treaties!
Last call:
So why should you visit the oldest operating brewery in Peoria, Il? Not just for the beer (though that’s a darn good reason!) but the vibe, the history, and a chance to be part of a community that’s been pouring since 1998.
And hey, don’t forget to hop over to the Peoria Riverfront Museum nearby!
🍺 Attention, ale adventurers – it’s time to tap into the tasteful treasures of Champaign’s breweries, where every brew bubbles with brilliance!
2. Bearded Owl Brewing
Welcome to Bearded Owl Brewing, where the beer is hoppy, and the vibes are cool as a cucumber.
Nestled snuggly in the heart of the city, this brewery specializes in a variety of brews that would make even a teetotaler thirsty!
About the beer:
At Bearded Owl, you’re not just drinking beer; you’re tasting craft wizardry.
Their palette ranges from IPAs to Wheats, with a particular fondness for Sours.
If you’re looking to dip your beak into something popular, give Crush A Lot a whirl. A hazy, hoppy ale with Simcoe, Loral, and Citra, this brew is so full of flavor it’s almost criminal.
Or why not try Over The Garden Wall, a wild sour that’s as tart as a lemon’s pucker?
Enjoy a flight of beers, or take your favorite home as a souvenir (options include bottles, growlers, and cans).
About the venue:
The atmosphere at Bearded Owl is as warm as a fresh pretzel (which, incidentally, they serve along with Butches Pizza!).
Pets are welcome on the outside, and the indoor seating is as cozy as your favorite armchair.
With board games nights and a full bar, this isn’t just a brewery – it’s a social hub!
Last call:
If you’re looking for a place to let your hair down, share a laugh, and enjoy some seriously good brew, Bearded Owl Brewing is your place.
Swig on over to the heart of the town, where beer lovers unite under a banner of hops. It’s not just a visit; it’s an experience.
🍺 Bloom into Bloomington, where the beer is always blooming with flavor, and each brewery promises a barrel of laughs and a pint of perfection!
3. Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery & Eatery
Step aside, regular pint – there’s a new brew in town that’s shaking things up!
Enter Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery & Eatery, the crown jewel of Peoria brew pubs. This place is as crafty as a fox on a unicycle.
Specializing in beers that’ll make your taste buds do the tango, their brews can only be described as “hop-tastic!
About the beer:
From dark, mysterious stouts to zesty IPAs, they got you covered, beer lover!
Our pick is the Cherry Limeade Shenanigans, a sour Berliner Weisse that’s as refreshing as a dip in a pool on a hot Illinois summer day.
And let’s not forget their iconic Coffee Ale — a brown ale aged on coffee beans that’s as rich and comforting as your grandma’s favorite quilt.
Grab a flight and sample away, or take your favorites home in a growler or crowler!
About the venue:
Housed in an 1889 Church, the atmosphere here is as cool as the other side of the pillow.
Pet-friendly (woof-woof!), with games like corn hole and bocce ball, and a full menu of mouth-watering grub, Obed & Isaac’s is more than just a brew pub – it’s a carnival for adults!
Last call:
So why stop by? Well, if you need more than fantastic beers, a unique venue, and the chance to play bocce ball while sipping a sour, we might suggest you check your pulse!
And hey, after a couple of pints, why not check out the Peoria Riverfront Museum? It’s just a hop (or should we say stumble) away. Now that’s what we call a perfect day in Peoria!
🍺 Embark on a beery good adventure in Springfield, where the taps are always flowing, the brews are bold, and every sip is a delightful dive into local flavor!
4. Industry Brewing Co
Is your life feeling a tad ale-ing?
It’s time to stir things up at Industry Brewing Co, one of the hippest breweries in Peoria, Il. It’s as smooth as the head on your pint.
This haven for hop heads specializes in various beer types, from full-bodied stouts to crisp IPAs.
About the beer:
The star of the show, ‘No Call No Show,’ is a New England American Pale Ale that throws a citrus punch that would make a grapefruit jealous.
But don’t miss our suggestion, ‘Patio’s Poppin,’ a Raspberry Lemonade Shandy that’s as refreshing as a summer breeze in a raspberry patch.
Enjoy these beauties on flights, or grab a crowler to make your fridge the coolest kid on the block.
About the venue:
With an atmosphere as warm as a just-poured stout, Industry Brewing Co is more than just a brewery. It’s an experience.
Pull up a stool indoors or lounge in the beer garden with your four-legged friends.
Challenge your buddies to a game of axe throwing, dagz, or Nintendo while enjoying tasty eats from the bar menu or a food truck.
Last call:
So, if you’re in town, mosey on down to Industry Brewing Co, where good vibes are on tap, and each pint is a passport to hop heaven.
And once you’re sufficiently beered, don’t forget to check out Mt Hawley Bowl!
🍺 Fasten your beer goggles! We’re about to embark on a pint-size journey exploring the frothiest, most ferment-tastic breweries in Naperville, Il!
5. Bust’d Brewing
Step right up, folks, and get ready for a hop-tastic adventure!
Nestled in the heart of Peoria, Bust’d Brewing is a haven for beer enthusiasts and casual sippers alike.
This brewery is like a playground for your palate, specializing in the kind of suds that make you say, “Ale yeah!”
About the beer:
From vivacious Red Ales to smooth Wheat and Porter, Bust’d Brewing is like the United Nations of beer, offering a diverse array of flavors.
Their famous Hoptical Delusions is an IPA lover’s dream, packed with Mosaic and Simcoe hops that dance around your tastebuds like a ballet of bitterness.
And if you’re looking to boldly go where no beer drinker has gone before, don’t miss the Bust’d Bold, a coffee porter that’s as smooth as a Sinatra serenade and as rich as a Silicon Valley tech mogul.
About the venue:
Bust’d Brewing has a vibe that’s as cool and relaxed as a cucumber at a spa day.
With a blend of indoor and cozy outdoor seating options, it’s a beer-lovers paradise in every season.
They’ve got Food Trucks serving up tasty treats, a selection of other drinks for those fancying a change, and even games to keep the fun brewing.
Plus, it’s as pet-friendly as a squirrel in a Disney movie, so bring along your four-legged friends!
Last call:
In a nutshell, if you’re scouring the landscape for breweries in Peoria, Il, missing out on Bust’d Brewing would be a ‘pour’ decision.
So, come along, raise a glass, and let’s toast to good times and great beer!
Nearby, you can take a stroll by the scenic Peoria Riverfront – the ideal spot to enjoy a post-brew walk.
🍺 Southern Illinois: where our amber nectar is a brew-tiful adventure for your taste buds!
Breweries Near Peoria, Il
Looking for something a bit different, or wanting to take a short road trip for your brew?
Well, buckle up, beer buffs, because we’re about to embark on a frothy experience through the best breweries near Peoria, Il, where the beer river flows faster than the Illinois River!
6. Evergreen Farm Brewing (In Metamora)
Welcome to Evergreen Farm Brewing, the hub of hoppiness, far from your typical breweries around Peoria.
This is a beer lover’s paradise, boasting a cornucopia of crafty brews. The beers here are not just good; they are “un-beer-lievable!”
About the beer:
With an array of ales and a plethora of porters, this brewery caters to every beer aficionado’s palate.
Their standout brew is the Heritage Ale – Red Ale – Amber Ale; picture a malt biscuit diving into divine nectar with a Bloody Butcher corn accompaniment – it’s an “ale-tastic” experience!
Our top recommendation? The 1214 Milk Stout – it’s as sweet as a sunny day and as smooth as a serenade.
About the venue:
Evergreen Farm Brewing radiates a vibe as refreshing as a frosty pint on a sizzling summer day.
It possesses a unique allure, akin to your go-to brew, familiar yet invigorating.
Seating? Whether indoors or outdoors, it’s a ‘beer-rific’ place to unwind.
Food? They’ve got you covered with a smorgasbord of food trucks.
Last call:
Evergreen Farm Brewing provides more than just a tipple; it’s a medley of tastes, a gathering of beer enthusiasts, and a destination for creating ‘hopsome’ memories.
As you step into this malt paradise, you are not just a patron but a member of their brewing family.
Don’t forget to cap off your visit by stopping by the nearby Metamora Fields Golf Club. This popular hotspot, featuring immaculate golf greens and stunning vistas close to the brewery, is the ideal spot to ‘putt’ around after indulging in Evergreen’s ‘un-beer-lievable’ brews.
7. Casper Brewing Company (In Bloomington)
Strap in for a frothy journey to one of the standout breweries near Peoria, Il – Casper Brewing Company. Not only is it not far from Peoria, but Bloomington also has a fun brewery scene worth checking out.
This craft beer sanctuary wraps you in a rustic allure that invites you to recline, relish, and linger longer.
They parade a medley of beer types, with their prowess highlighted in their IPAs, Pale Ales, and Lagers.
About the beer:
Casper’s beer line-up is as profound as a poet’s ponderings.
Their Vienna Lager is a virtuoso performance for your palate – sleek, balanced, and expertly infused with a hint of malt.
Our choice, however, would be the German Pilsner. It’s a beer with a backbone, featuring hop-forward notes and a clean, crisp finish – the strong, silent type of the beer world.
Sample their spectrum with beer flights, perfect for those seeking variety without the vow.
About the venue:
Ease into the comforting cradle of their indoor seating or bask in the open air of their outdoor space.
And they are serious about snacks, serving up Butch’s Pizza, Donny B’s popcorn, and craft pretzels, rounding off your beer indulgence.
Bringing along someone who isn’t a fan of beer (blasphemy!)? No worries!
They offer wine, seltzers, and craft soda to quench all types of thirst.
Last call:
Anticipate a relaxed, rustic ambiance that encourages you to unwind and cherish their exceptional brews.
Their diverse beer assortment is as intriguing as a mystery novel, offering flavors that perform a ballet on your taste buds.
And, hey, when you need a break from beer, the nearby Historic Trails Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the pioneer era.
Just a stone’s throw away, it’s the perfect blend of cultural and craft-beer exploration.
8. Iron Spike Brewing Company (In Galesburg)
Choo-choo! All aboard the Iron Spike Brewing Company Express!
This joint has a rustic, locomotive-inspired decor that successfully marries the history of the old railway town with the charm of a modern brewery.
Specializing in a broad spectrum of brews that cater to every palate, they’ve mastered the art of brewing, ensuring every pint you pull is hop-fully delightful!
About the beer:
Full steam ahead to the beer list where the Flatback IPA reigns supreme.
It’s an American IPA brewed with Chinook, Cascade, and Comet hops, producing a citrus symphony that dances in your mouth and leaves your taste buds begging for an encore.
Want something a bit nutty? Don’t derail!
Try the Pea-Nutbuster Porter—it’s like a peanut butter cup in a glass, only less sticky and more sip-worthy.
Grab a flight, hop on board, or take a growler to go—whatever chugs your engine!
About the venue:
At Iron Spike, the atmosphere is as robust as their stout, with an inviting indoor space and a patio where even your doggo can lounge.
Games galore, a full food menu, and a diverse drink list will keep everyone’s spirits high.
Located downtown, it’s an ideal spot to unwind.
Last call:
If you’re looking for a place where good fun, great people, and exceptional beer meet, Iron Spike Brewing Company is just the ticket!
As the last stop after a day exploring the National Railroad Hall of Fame, this brewery will have you saying, “All aboard for one more round, barkeep!”
9. Buzz Bomb Brewing Co (In Springfield)
Who knew a buzz could bomb its way into your heart so swiftly?
Located in Springfield, Buzz Bomb Brewing Co is a rustic brewery that specializes in crafting an assortment of beers.
About the beer:
From stouts to sours, their beer menu is as diverse as the decor, offering a sip for every kind of taste bud.
Their Barfight Brown Ale is smoother than a Sinatra serenade and hits you with a sweet honey note that’s like a bear hug for your palate.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try Crying In The Parking Lot Before Work? This coffee milk chocolate stout is sweet, velvety, and carries a hint of barrel-aged promise.
Grab a flight of beers to savor the spectrum, or pick up a can (or five) to toast at home!
About the venue:
The venue is a blend of industrial chic and your best mate’s living room, with a book-strewn second floor for the literature-inclined.
Though food is BYOF, they host trivia and game nights for fun.
And guess what? They’re pet-friendly too!
Last call:
Buzz Bomb Brewing Co is your passport to hop-heaven. It’s a place where camaraderie is brewed, laughter is bottled, and memories are on tap.
Swing by this Springfield gem to get your buzz on!
Just don’t forget to stop by the nearby Lincoln Home National Historic Site while you are in town!
Wineries, Cideries, Taverns & More
Now that we have shared the breweries in Peoria, Il, why not tumble into the tantalizing taverns and bars that tap into the frothy fun?
10. Thyme Kitchen & Craft Beer
Roll up, roll up, to the culinary carnival that is Thyme Kitchen & Craft Beer.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill, dime-a-dozen diner, folks.
Specializing in tantalizing taste bud treats and boasting a Rolodex of 40 rotating craft beers (often locally sourced, thank you very much), this bi-level banquet of delight is the star of the show in Peoria.
Imagine stepping into a hip-happening haven with an atmosphere as cozy as grandma’s kitchen but with a chic décor that screams modern flair.
The creative cuisine runs the show here, with servings as generous as your favorite uncle at Christmas.
The Cauliflower Tenderloin’s got a fan base bigger than the Beatles, and the Fried Fish Sandwich is so tasty it might as well have its own TV show!
Why should you visit Thyme Kitchen & Craft Beer? Well, the real question is, why wouldn’t you?
Expect a symphony of flavors, a rhapsody of refreshments, and a carnival of cuisine.
So come on, what are you “wheat-ing” for?
11. Pour Bros Craft Taproom
Alrighty, beer lovers, prepare to be hoppily overwhelmed at Pour Bros Craft Taproom in Peoria Heights.
This place is no ordinary watering hole. It’s a veritable beer-utopia, specializing in a glorious ocean of brews that’ll make you feel like you’ve hit the ale jackpot!
Imagine a Willy-Wonka-like beer factory where you’re not just a spectator but the chief beer pourer! Yep, this taproom is a DIY dream – just remember, don’t drown in all that deliciousness!
Pour Bros is where good vibes overflow, just like their taps.
When you arrive, you’ll be greeted not just by a beer curator but also by the electric energy of fellow beer enthusiasts.
So come on down, and let’s get this pour party started!
If you’re in Moline, you’re in luck because they’ve got another Pour Bros Craft Taproom there, too! So whether you’re in Peoria or Moline, you’re never far from a Pour Bros pint.
Beer Events In Peoria
Hold on to your beer goggles because we aren’t just pouring it up at the breweries in Peoria, Il; it’s time to brew up a storm with froth-filled, hop-hopping beer events!
Peoria Beer Fest
Roll out the barrels and let the beer-y good times flow because the Peoria Beer Fest is not just a party, it’s a full-throttle brew-ha-ha!
Picture this: an ocean of craft beer that’ll make you want to do a backstroke!
You’ll be spoilt for choice with a smorgasbord of ales, lagers, stouts, and more. It’s like Candy Land for hops heads.
But it’s not just about the brews. There’s live music that will rock your socks – and your taste buds – off.
And let’s not forget the scrumptious snacks! Because what’s a cold one without some munchies to go with it, right?
So, prepare your palates and get ready to embark on a flavor rollercoaster that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
The Peoria Beer Fest is a malt-merry jamboree you won’t want to miss!
Peoria Beer Mile
Prepare yourself, dear beer-thusiasts, for the ultimate beer-athalon: the Peoria Beer Mile!
It’s not just a fun run; it’s a frothy festival on the fly.
Grab your running shoes, but let’s be clear – this ain’t no tip-toe through the tulips. We’re talking four laps, four beers, and a barrel full of belly laughs.
That’s right, every quarter mile, you’ll be cracking open a cold one, making it the tastiest mile you’ll ever trek.
Imagine it now- each lap is like a chapter in an epic sudsy saga where the tension builds, the anticipation bubbles up, and the refreshment flows freely. It’s a test of guts, grit, and gullet, a dizzy dash where every gulp brings you closer to the gloriously giddy finish line.
Remember, it’s not about how fast you can chug, but how well you can balance the three B’s – breathing, belching, and bumbling – while making your way ’round the track.
Tie your laces tight, put on your game face (and your beer goggles), and get ready to run like the wind, or at least, like a slightly tipsy cheetah!
Peoria Breweries Map
This isn’t your everyday street map, beer lovers; it’s a treasure map marking the golden brew-pots at the end of the rainbow!
Welcome aboard the beer-express, next stop: Hoppiness!
Where To Stay In Peoria
Now that you’re knee-deep in Peoria’s hoppy goodness, you might be thinking, “Where can I rest my weary head and dream of tomorrow’s brew-skies?”
Fear not, my beer-loving brethren! We’ve got the scoop on the coziest, frothiest corners of Peoria, where you can snooze, recharge, and get ready for another day of malt madness.
✅ Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette
- Luxury in Limelight: You’ll be living the high life at the Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette. It’s a luxurious stay that’s as smooth as the whiskey Peoria is known for. This place knows how to mix comfort with style; trust us, it’s no “mar-quette” science!
- Location, Location, Location: Situated in the heart of the city, you’ve got Peoria’s delights at your doorstep. From here, every hotspot is just a hop, skip, and jump away. Talk about being in the “pint-sized” center of it all!
- Dine Divine: With an in-house restaurant that turns every meal into a culinary carnival, your taste buds are in for a treat. Eating here is like taking your palate on a flavor roller coaster ride!
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for Pere Marquette
✅ Residence Inn by Marriott East Peoria
- Home Away From Home: The Residence Inn offers a cozy retreat that makes you feel right at home. It’s like you’ve never left your comfy couch…but with housekeeping!
- Scenic Serenity: Enjoy rooms with a view! Overlooking the serene Illinois River, it’s the perfect backdrop for your morning cuppa or evening nightcap. It’s like getting a postcard view without having to buy the postcard!
- Breakfast Bonanza: Wake up to a complimentary breakfast spread that will make you leap out of bed.
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for Residence Inn
- Budget Bonanza: Wallet-friendly and filled with fun, staying here is like hitting the jackpot of comfort without breaking the bank. It’s like buying a luxury car for the price of a scooter!
- Pool Paradise: Dive into relaxation in their indoor swimming pool. After a long day of exploring, it’s just the splash of fun you’ll need.
- Fitness Frenzy: With a state-of-the-art fitness center, you can keep your workout routine rolling, even on vacation.
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for Best Western Plus Peoria
FAQs About Peoria Brewing Companies & The City Itself
Ready to tap into the barrel of knowledge about Peoria’s brewing scene and the city itself? Let’s answer some of the common questions we know you have burning down in your soul!
What Is The Oldest Brewery In Peoria?
Is Peoria A Walkable City?
What Is Peoria, Illinois, Best Known For?
Is Peoria, Illinois, Worth Visiting?
Good To The Last Drop – Breweries In Peoria, Il
And so, dear reader, as we reach the frothy end of our boozy journey, we hope your hop-ticipation for a visit to the breweries in Peoria, Il, is at an all-time high.
Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur, a casual craft brew fan, or a curious newbie, Peoria’s brew scene is sure to wet your whistle and tickle your taste buds.
From the vibrant waterfront of East Peoria to the heart of the city itself, a wonderland of unique flavors, friendly faces, and fantastic memories await.
Don your beer goggles, sharpen your taste buds, and get ready to embark on an ale-mazing adventure.
Oh, and remember, in Peoria, every hour is beer-o’clock, and every drop is good to the last. Cheers to that!
Looking for more breweries in Illinois? How about checking out the incredible places to grab a pint in Champaign?
