Discover Parks & Wildlife contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of the Amazon links (or other affiliate links), we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See our disclosure policy for more information.
23 Best Breweries In Kansas City, MO Too Good To Miss
We’ve spent our entire lives in the Kansas City Metro, and boy, do we have a tale to brew for you about the best breweries in Kansas City, Mo.
Picture us not just as lifelong residents but also as your trusty bar-hopping buddies who’ve had their fair share of local suds.
In a previous life, John worked within Boulevard Brewery and a couple of other local hop havens, tinkering with audio, video, and other networking marvels.
That was a gig that really quenched our thirst for knowledge about the nitty-gritty of the brewing business.
And we don’t just adore a good brewery visit; we practically live for it. Exploring international brewing havens on our travels has become an intoxicating hobby we can’t get enough of.
Combining that passion with our love for home, we’ve made it our mission to visit every brewery in Kansas City at least once a season, again and again.
So, join us for a pint (or two), and let’s dive into the rich brew culture that Kansas City has to offer.
Our Personal Top Picks: Best Breweries In Kansas City, Mo
Ready to start this frothy adventure into the best breweries that Kansas City has to offer? Let’s pour into this hopsy-daisy ride around our home city, shall we?
Included in our list below are breweries only located in Kansas City, Mo. We excluded Kansas City, Kansas, and North Kansas City from this list. However, there are plenty of great options in those cities, as well as the wider Kansas City Metro. So, if you think we missed one of your favorites, that might be why.
Let’s get straight into it, shall we?
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. Alma Mader Brewing
Quench your thirst for the extraordinary at Alma Mader Brewing.
This brewery, born from the frothy brainchild of Nick Mader in 2017, specializes in creating tantalizingly balanced lagers and hop-forward ales that make your taste buds do a joyful jig.
Give a big cheer to their highly recommended Premiant Pilsner, brewed with a dose of Czech hops and Bohemian Pilsner malt, truly “serving to reward” your palate.
Their sleek and modern taproom is all about the brewer’s touch and attention to detail, from the choice of traditional barrel-aged treats to the innovative half-and-full pours.
So, when it comes to the breweries in Kansas City, Alma Mader is a frothy force to be reckoned with, a bridge between tradition and innovation.
🍺 Grab your pint glasses because we’re diving into the frothy, buoyant world of Branson, Missouri’s finest breweries!
2. City Barrel Brewing Company
Get ready to embark on a flavor expedition that will set your taste buds tingling. City Barrel Brewing Company, one of the prime Kansas City, MO, breweries with food, is a paradise for food and beer connoisseurs alike.
They serve up an innovative blend of hoppy, wild, and sour beers crafted with care that add a zing to your palate.
Their Rad AF brew is like a tropical party in your mouth, bursting with juicy mango and papaya flavors that’ll have you coming back for more.
But it’s not just about the brews. The food menu, crafted by Chef Benjamin Wood, features dishes inspired by local farmers, marrying the freshest ingredients with culinary creativity.
The ambiance, too, is a showstopper, with an open concept design, reclaimed wood from the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, and custom Missouri white oak furnishings.
🍺 Spending some time in the Midwest? Prepare to raise a pint as we explore the hop-filled havens of Des Moines’ incredible breweries.
3. Vine Street Brewing Co.
Nestled in the heart of the Historic Jazz District, Vine Street Brewing Co. serves as a testament to community, friendship, and the art of craft brewing.
It’s the brainchild of three buddies – Woodie, Kemet, and Elliot – who decided to add a little hop to the step of craft breweries in Kansas City, Mo.
Their star player, Jazzman Black Lager, is a brew that’ll make you sing. Dark but not brooding, it dances with roast malt, nuts, cola, and a hint of hop bitterness. It’s as smooth as a jazz solo and as refreshing as a city night.
As the first black-owned brewery in Missouri, Vine Street is a beacon of diversity and unity, housed in a 150-year-old limestone building that resonates with history.
🍺 Get ready to hop into the brewing traditions of Weston, Missouri, because, in this town, every hour is beer o’clock.
4. BKS Artisan Ales
Tucked away in the heart of the Brookside neighborhood, BKS Artisan Ales crafts an enchanting symphony of hops and malts.
This Kansas City, Mo, brewery is a hophead’s paradise–and don’t you worry, it has more than IPA to quench your thirst. Their beer menu changes faster than a chameleon on a rainbow, boasting a tempting array of Pilsners, stouts, and some whimsical brews that’ll make you “taste the rainbow.”
But don’t forget to try their most popular beer, Counterculture.
Swing by their snug taproom, where every sip of their small-batch, artisanal beers tastes like a love letter to craft brewing.
And when the sun decides to play nice, the patio’s the place to be.
Parking might be a challenge, but all good things in life require a bit of effort, right?
🍺 Sneak a peek into Columbia Missouri’s brewing magic for an epic ale trail that promises barrels of laughs and loads of lagers.
5. Red Sash Brewing
All aboard the hop train at Red Sash Brewing, where every pint tells a military tale right in the heart of the Waldo area.
It’s your local watering hole with a dash of history and a whole lot of coziness.
Each brew is a badge of honor, showcasing a diverse selection of beers that could make even the pickiest ale aficionado salute. Their Who Ate the Charms is a cherry pie sour ale that will march your taste buds straight to dessert heaven.
But it isn’t just about the brews here. It’s a community stronghold where vets get a 20% salute and inscribe their mark on the wall.
So, if you’re looking to enlist in a beer-tasting adventure, rally the troops and head down to Red Sash Brewing, where every sip honors the brave.
Other Kansas City Breweries
Now that we’ve shared our personal favorites that we can’t get enough of let’s talk about the other great Kansas City breweries you should try.
6. Rochester Brewing and Roasting Company
Hold on to your hats, beer buffs, and coffee connoisseurs. We’re grinding up a fresh batch of news on one of the most distinctive breweries in Kansas City – the Rochester Brewing and Roasting Company.
Nestled in the dynamic Westside neighborhood, this little gem is a double delight, frothing up a storm with its craft beers and brewing beans to perfection.
Light beers or dark roasts, they’ve got you covered. And their Orange Creamsicle IPA? It’s like a summer day packed into a pint – sweet, orangy, and smoother than a velvet Elvis.
But it isn’t just about the drinks here. They’re pumping a full-bodied blend of community spirit with regular events to unite the locals.
So, come for the beer, stay for the atmosphere, and leave with a caffeine buzz and your heart full of Kansas City camaraderie.
7. Boulevard Brewing Company
Get ready to hop into history with Boulevard Brewing Company, Kansas City’s own beer master since 1989, crafting ales and lagers that’ll make your taste buds tango.
Sip the Belgian-style farmhouse ale, famously known as Tank 7, and experience a fruity explosion followed by a peppery kick to wrap it up.
Their Beer Hall and Rec Deck is a paradise for beer aficionados. Hosting private events and tours, it’s the yeast you can do to have a brewski with them.
From humble beginnings in an old brick building to being one of the largest specialty brewers in the Midwest, this Boulevard brewery continues to ferment success.
They’ve truly brewed their way into Kansas City’s heart.
8. Casual Animal Brewing Co
Casual Animal Brewing Co. is where beer magic bubbles in every mini-batch, fresh as morning dew and noble as a monarch’s tiara.
The brainchild of the dynamic duo Kyle and Lara, this spot is every beer connoisseur’s dream as they navigate through the labyrinth of breweries in KC.
But this ain’t your average beer factory! It’s a bubbly paradise where a chill atmosphere marries a wild symphony of tastes.
With brews that’ll unleash your inner beast and the Shuttlecock Lager serving up a zesty lime embrace, your palate is in for an exhilarating adventure.
Oh, and remember to glimpse at the creative ale murals, all handcrafted by Kyle himself.
Complimentary curb parking and local foodie pop-ups? That’s like the icing on the beer cake. And, if you fancy a bash, don’t hesitate to reserve their taproom, which features spectacular catering from King G Deli.
9. Brewery Emperial
Tucked away in the artistic heartbeat of Kansas City, the Crossroads Arts District, Brewery Emperial is where craft ale fantasies come to frolic.
Opening its doors in December 2016, this rustic and industrial dreamland is the brainchild of industry veterans who’ve brewed up a storm.
Boasting a beer garden and an open kitchen, it’s not just about the brew here – it’s a full sensory experience.
You’ll fall head over hops for their Milk Stout, a silky symphony of roasted barley, lactose sugar, and classic East Kent Goldings hops.
So, if you’re in town, waltz on down to Oak Street. It’s not just a brewery; it’s Emperial.
10. Kansas City Bier Company
You’ve got thirst; they’ve got a remedy!
Dive into the hoppy oasis of breweries in Kansas City, Mo, where the Kansas City Bier Company stands tall, pouring a frothy salute to German brewing tradition.
Imagine sipping on a Dunkel – a Munich-style brown lager that’s as smooth as a velvet glove, packed with a punch of sinfully caramelized malts.
This isn’t just a brewery; it’s labeled as one of the kid-friendly breweries in Kansas City, where every pint echoes with laughter and camaraderie.
Established in 2014, they’ve been reviving German lagers and ales right in the heart of Kansas City.
11. Strange Days Brewing Co.
At Strange Days Brewing Co., the “ball” is always in your court with its diverse and dynamic beer lineup.
Want to try something a bit tart yet sweet? Go for Georgia on My Mind, a German-style wheat ale that’s brewed with peaches, sea salt, and coriander to celebrate the birth of little Georgia – what a peachy tribute!
Since opening its doors in 2018, this brewery has not only become a taproom titan but also a soccer fan sanctuary.
Even amidst the pandemic, they adapted, kicked off a canning campaign, and welcomed a new managing partner, Trevor Schlam, who brought a decade of experience from the East Coast.
So, why not cheer on your favorite team with a cold one in hand at this community-friendly Kansas City craft beer brewery that promises good times and innovative brews? Goal!
12. Double Shift Brewing Company
If you find yourself wandering the artistic heart of Kansas City, follow the aroma of malt and hops that will lead you to the watering hole of the Crossroads Art District: Double Shift Brewing Company.
These Kansas City craft brewers are the love child of a pack of eclectic beer enthusiasts who juggle their various passions like a flaming double act at the circus.
By day, they’re mad scientists of brewing, churning out small batches of magic potion like the juicy, tropical fruit-infused Tessellation IPA.
By night, they morph into musicians, video game nerds, and tattoo aficionados, living a dual existence as vibrant as their brews.
Established in 2015, this troop of entrepreneurial dare-devils has created a laid-back haven where the beer tastes of bold adventures and the atmosphere vibrates with authenticity.
Their mantra? Work hard, brew harder, and always keep it real!
13. Torn Label Brewing Co.
Torn Label Brewing Co. is serving up a storm, creating an ale tale you won’t forget.
Nestled in the heart of the Crossroads Arts District, this cozy gem is more than just another stop on the brewery trail.
Established by a quartet of beer artists in 2014, they’ve been pouring passion into each pint, dishing out unique, bold flavors that are as diverse as their creators.
Their Alpha Pale Ale? Think of a hoppy symphony in a glass, light in color but not in character.
In 2021, they uncorked the Torn Label Public House, fusing food and froth in a larger space with a scratch kitchen.
They’re not just brewers – they’re culinary wizards, stirring local ingredients into their beer cauldron.
From craft beer newbies to seasoned ale aficionados, Torn Label Brewing Co. is one of the breweries in Kansas City with food that pushes boundaries and tickles taste buds.
14. Stockyards Brewing Co.
Prepare for a hoppy escapade at Stockyards Brewing Co., a craft brewery nestled in Kansas City’s historic Stockyards District.
This beer hub, brimming with rustic charm, is a playground for history buffs and beer aficionados alike.
A sip of their Cerveza Royale is like a sweet whisper from the past, crafted with Chilean malted barley and German Perle hops, with an endnote of traditional flaked corn.
To add rhythm to your sips, Stockyards turns into one of the finest breweries in Kansas City with live music on Sundays (and some Thursdays!).
The melodies enliven the atmosphere, making your beer-tasting experience even more enjoyable and memorable.
This place isn’t just about brewing stellar beers behind a 65-year-old meat locker door; it’s also about preserving Kansas City’s rich history and contributing to the community.
15. Border Brewing Company
Dive into the deep end of the beer pool with the Border Brewing Company, a cozy corner in the bustling Crossroads Arts District that’s been brewing up a storm since 2015.
With the mind of a scientist and the heart of an artist, owner Eric Martens is their very own craft beer maestro, orchestrating a medley of flavors to create symphonies in a pint glass.
The star of the show? The Shiftie IPA – like a citrusy spice rack in a forest, it balances bitterness with a malt backbone that would make a chiropractor jealous.
With a taproom as welcoming as Grandma’s kitchen and beers that are as complex as they are approachable, this brewery is a local sensation.
16. Nimble Brewing
Situated in the heart of the Crossroads Arts District, Nimble Brewing is the hidden gem among craft breweries in Kansas City, MO.
This family-owned nanobrewery might be small in size, but it’s big on flavor, and with over 26 years of brewing experience under its belt, they’ve become ace at the brewing game.
They focus on small-batch brewing, masterfully crafting a rotating selection of beers that’s as dynamic and diverse as the district they call home.
Stop by their intimate taproom and let your taste buds explode with delight as you sip on Cherry Bomb, a sour ale that bursts with tartness and finishes with a cherry on top.
17. River Bluff Brewing at River Market
Picture this: you’re navigating the robust beer landscape, and your course is set for River Bluff Brewing.
This beacon of brewmanship is lit by co-founders Chris Lanman and Edison Derr and founding master brewer Joel Cummings, whose pedigree includes a stint at renowned Boulevard Brewing.
Their Speedliner IPA is as juicy and delicious as a ripe peach from the Garden of Eden and twice as sinful.
They’ve racked up silver medals at the Great American Beer Festival not once but twice!
And talk about location…they’ve got two!
Their crew is tight-knit, like a family, serving up brews with a side of community spirit.
So, steer your vessel towards River Bluff Brewing next time you feel adventurous. And prepare to have your taste buds blown out of the water.
18. Granite City Food & Brewery
If you’re looking for a brewpub bursting with character, hop on over to Granite City Food & Brewery.
Established in 1999 and spreading the love with 18 locations, these folks have a hands-on approach that would make a baker blush.
They’ve rustled up a unique brewing system, cheekily dubbed the Fermentus Interuptus, ensuring their ales and lagers are as fresh as a daisy. Their standout is The Duke, a Pale Ale which boasts bold malt character that dances with hoppy flavors and ends on a high note with a defining bitterness.
But it’s not all about the brews. They’ve whipped up a storm in the kitchen, too, with chefs churning out made-from-scratch dishes that have earned them national nods.
Service with a smile is their motto, and they have the hardware to prove it – accolades for Best Restaurant, Best Brunch, Best Patio, and more.
19. Martin City Brewing Company
Martin City Brewing Company, a family-owned jewel founded in 2014, is a haven of hearty and heavenly hops.
The Hard Way IPA waves a magic wand over your taste buds with its citrusy charm while the toasted malt whispers a smooth sonnet.
From a lively ambiance to plates as diverse as their beer menu, this place is a carnival of flavors.
And the best part? They’re not just about hops and barley but also about heart, with a firm foot in community contributions.
This Martin City brewery is the ticket for a taste of bigger, bolder local beers.
20. Green Room Burgers & Beer
Buddies, burgers, and brews, oh my!
Let’s introduce our final brewery, Green Room Burgers & Beer, a laid-back lair where craft beers and lip-smacking burgers reign supreme.
Steeped in tradition yet brimming with innovation, this family-owned brewpub marries time-honored brewing techniques and small-batch passion.
Papa Louie’s Stout? It’s a local legend, and it’s brewed right here in their humble brewery.
Kansas City’s oldest locally-owned brewery isn’t just about ales and lagers, friends—it’s about a casual, friendly environment that feels like home.
Bars & More Around Kansas City
Are you ready to raise your glasses and dip into the world of Kansas City’s other top watering holes (that aren’t breweries per se but definitely serve beer!)?
From the bubbling brews to the clinking cocktail glasses, we’re about to add some sparkle to your nights out in the city of fountains.
21. King G
One of the hippest hangouts in town is none other than King G of Kansas City!
This modern incarnation of the classic bar and deli, nestled in the vibrant East Crossroads area, is the brainchild of brewer, beer purchaser, and certified cicerone Eric Flanagan.
King G is a flavorful fusion of beer expertise and culinary craftsmanship – serving up divine deli delights by day and potent potables by night.
And if you’re hankering for a private parley, the “Pit Bar” is all yours for the booking.
The venue’s design is a love letter to the local Crossroads culture, with street art and a breathtaking mural of King Gambrinus, the legendary beer baron. This towering tribute, crafted by local muralist Sebastian Coolidge, is a sight to behold as you sip on your craft beer, natural wine, or bespoke cocktail.
If you fancy a breath of fresh air, head for the garage doors that roll up to reveal views of the Kansas City skyline.
Despite a construction hiccup (the building collapsed weeks into construction but was soon resurrected), King G rose like a phoenix from the ashes, thanks to Flanagan’s 15 years of hospitality experience.
The venue’s commitment to the local community shines through its partnerships with local businesses like Grinders, HIGHTIDES Coffee, and Blackhole Bakery.
So, next time you’re in Kansas City, be sure to swing by King G – where every visit is a royal treat!
22. Beer Kitchen
Prepare for a flavor fiesta at Kansas City’s original gastropub, cleverly nestled in the historic heart of Westport.
This is no ordinary joint: it’s a veritable cornucopia of craft beers and scrumptious bites. They’ve got you covered from sunup to sundown and even a special weekend brunch.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the 100% American beer burger. Stuffed with Kansas City-style burnt ends and slathered in homemade BBQ sauce, it’s a party in your mouth.
23. Old Imperial Brewery (Closed But Famous Bldg Not To Miss)
Feast your eyes on the grand ghost of brews past, the Imperial Brewery Kansas City.
Although it’s closed for public meanderings, this historical behemoth can still quench your thirst for a good story.
Erected in 1901 by a hodgepodge of St. Louis investors and local tipple connoisseurs, this Victorian-Romanesque Revival beauty was once the paragon of innovation.
Brewing was quite literally an uphill task, with grain hoisted to the top of the tall brewhouse and gravity lending a helping hand in the process.
Two lager-style legends, the Mayflower and Imperial Seal, were concocted here before financial woes in 1905 led to its auctioning to Kansas City’s Breweries Company.
The Prohibition era was no party either, leading to its transformation into a flour mill and a new moniker – the Boulevard Mill.
Despite suffering through fires, vandalism, and the vagaries of time, the brewery’s leftovers still stand tall, awaiting a new lease on life.
And hey, despite its current dormancy, the Old Imperial Brewery continues to ferment inspiration for the new brew enthusiasts of Kansas City.
Kansas City Breweries Map
Take a look at our homemade Kansas City Breweries Map!
It’s like a treasure map, but instead of “X marks the spot,” it’s “Ale marks the spot,” guiding you to the golden liquid treasures hidden in the heart of Kansas City.
Where To Stay In Kansas City, Mo
Had your share of brewskies and are ready to lay your head down? Here are a couple of suggestions for you.
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for this Hotel
✅ Residence Inn by Marriott Kansas City Downtown/Convention Center
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for this Hotel
✅ 21c Museum Hotel Kansas City
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for this Hotel
FAQs About Kansas City, Mo, Breweries
Here’s our fun and foamy FAQs section to guide you through the best breweries in Kansas City.
This will be your beer-illiant roadmap, serving up answers to your bubbling queries faster than a bartender can pour a pint!
How many breweries are in Kansas City, Missouri?
Breweries have found a well-loved home in Kansas City, Missouri, with 20 exciting establishments currently in operation. When you cast the net wider, the Kansas City Metro Area is abuzz with over 50 breweries. Keep in mind that the brewery landscape is ever-evolving!
Which state has the oldest brewery?
The title of the oldest brewery in the United States belongs to Yuengling Brewery, located in Pennsylvania. It has been continuously brewing since its establishment in 1829, sharing its rich beer heritage with generations of beer lovers. And they have a great FREE brewery tour, which we just enjoyed recently!
What is the most popular beer in Kansas City?
The crown for the most sought-after beer in Kansas City goes to Boulevard Brewing Company’s “Tank 7.” This farmhouse ale has gained a loyal following for its complex flavors, combining fruity notes with a gratifying hoppy bitterness. Its popularity extends beyond KC, making waves in the national craft beer scene.
🍺 Interested in hearing even more about breweries in Missouri? Why not check out the fantastic breweries in Branson you can visit while also catching a show and exploring Silver Dollar City?
