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11 Best Breweries In Iowa City & Nearby Too Good To Miss
Looking for some incredible breweries in Iowa City to check out? We’ve got you covered as we discuss your options, including a few nearby that are worth the drive!
After hopping around the globe, we’ve brewed up an un-ale-ievable love for Iowa City’s bustling beer scene.
IPA’s might not be our pint of beer, but when it comes to sours, gose, and a variety of other ales – we’re all in!
Despite the ‘sour’ taste, our experiences in Iowa have been nothing but sweet.
So whether you’re planning a brewtiful adventure or creating your own frothy tour, rest easy. We’ve ale-ways got your back!
Let us guide you through the foam-ous breweries of Iowa City, one delightful, hop-lightful, delicious pint at a time.
You can barley contain your excitement, right? Us too!
Breweries In Iowa City, IA
Welcome to Iowa City, where the barley meets the road in our quest for the perfect pint!
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. Big Grove Brewery & Taproom
Most Popular Beer: Easy Eddy IPA
Highest Rated Beer: Richard the Whale: Golden Ticket (2022)
Get ready, craft beer lovers, because today we’re heading out to Big Grove Brewery & Taproom – the crown jewel of the best breweries in Iowa City.
For those who dare to walk on the hop side of life, there’s the Easy Eddy IPA.
This beer is an anomaly for non-IPA folks, but even we can’t deny its smooth, tropical notes. It’s the kind of brew that leaves you in a state of “hoppiness,” and if you’re an IPA lover, it’s one you simply can’t miss.
What makes Big Grove truly special?
Well, did you know that they harvest local Iowa honey for some of their beer concoctions?
Not only does this add a unique, homegrown flavor, but it also supports local beekeepers and sustainability.
Their secret in choosing what beer to brew?
Listen to the land and the locals.
Big Grove leans heavily into the seasonality of ingredients, allowing nature’s bounty to inspire its brew lineup. Moreover, they’ve established a deep connection with their community, brewing beers that resonate with local taste buds and constantly adapting to cater to the evolving preferences of their loyal patrons.
Big Grove Brewery & Taproom is located in the heart of Iowa City, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic University of Iowa. It is the perfect place to unwind after a campus tour.
For those venturing further afield, you can find their second location in Des Moines, another beer-loving city that welcomes their craft with open arms.
2. ReUnion Brewery
Most Popular Beer: Tank Puncher IPA
Highest Rated Beer: Imperial Banshee 2021
Nestled near downtown Iowa City and now with a second location in the Coralville area of Iowa City, ReUnion Brewery is a must-visit on any serious beer lover’s itinerary.
While we usually shy away from IPAs, there’s no denying the popularity of ReUnion’s Tank Puncher IPA.
A well-balanced brew with a punch of hoppy flavors, it certainly lives up to its name.
It’s got a reputation for knocking the socks off IPA aficionados while also charming the occasional IPA taster.
Here’s a delightful nugget about ReUnion that underscores its unique approach: the brewery’s name is a nod to the joyous gatherings of friends and families.
This community-centric spirit drives their beer production, too, as they aim to craft brews that spark conversation, foster camaraderie, and create memories.
They’re dedicated to keeping their brew list exciting and dynamic, guided by the changing seasons and their patrons’ palates.
3. Backpocket Brewing
Most Popular Beer: Slingshot Dunkel
Highest Rated Beer: Wake the F Up Iowa Imperial Stout
If you’ve been brewing plans to explore Iowa City’s craft beer scene, you must add Backpocket Brewing to your list!
Known for its dynamic range of beers, it’s become a treasured staple in the Coralville area of Iowa City.
Their Slingshot Dunkel deserves a special mention.
This traditional German-style dark lager slides right into our wheelhouse. Its robust, malty flavor and hint of caramel always hit the bullseye for us.
Backpocket Brewing is all about nostalgia. Their name comes from the idea of a ‘back pocket’ beer, that go-to brew you always want within arm’s reach, just like a trusty keepsake in your back pocket.
Backpocket’s approach to brewing is a heartwarming blend of tradition and innovation.
They respect the craft, drawing inspiration from the timeless brewing methods of old-world Germany. However, they’re not shy about adding their own twist, often experimenting with flavors to produce something uniquely “Backpocket.”
Whether you’re sampling the Slingshot Dunkel or exploring the diverse beer menu, Backpocket Brewing ensures an un-beer-lievable experience.
4. Field Day Brewing Co
Most Popular Beer: Juice Belly IPA
Highest Rated Beer: No Powertools Field Day IPA
This remarkable brewery swung open its doors on August 1st, 2023 and has been the buzz of the community even before the dust settled.
What’s the special feature here? They boast duckpin bowling!
Yes, it’s true; it’s a fusion of frothy beer and bowling – a timeless combination offered with a distinctive spin.
Their brewing philosophy revolves around a creative playfulness, harkening back to those carefree “field days” of our youth.
Have you heard about their Juice Belly IPA?
The chatter about this refreshingly citrusy IPA is non-stop, tantalizing the taste buds and leaving you ready for the next sip.
So whether you’re on the hunt for an exciting new IPA or seeking a day of amusement, Field Day Brewing Company should be on your radar.
Breweries Near Iowa City
From quaint craft spots to bustling beer hubs, join us as we hop around, tasting the best beers the breweries near Iowa City (on the outskirts of Iowa City, if you will) have to offer.
5. Contrary Brewing Co
Most Popular Beer: Pollinator Honey Beer
Highest Rated Beer: Raspberry Chocolate City Imperial Milk Stout
Let us guide you to a delightful spot on the beer map – Contrary Brewing Co., located in the scenic city of Muscatine, just a short drive from Iowa City.
Their Pollinator Honey Beer is a buzz-worthy brew creating quite a hum in the craft beer community.
Infused with locally sourced honey, this beer has a subtle sweetness that balances perfectly with its light, floral notes – making it a favorite of those who visit.
Here’s a fun fact: Contrary Brewing Co. isn’t named such by accident.
They take pride in their unconventional approach, constantly pushing boundaries and experimenting with diverse flavors.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Muscatine, Contrary Brewing Co. is conveniently located near the Mississippi Riverfront, making it a perfect pitstop after a stroll along the scenic riverwalk.
As of now, their beer magic happens solely in Muscatine, making it a unique destination for all craft beer explorers.
6. Kalona Brewing Company
Most Popular Beer: Sucha Much IPA
Highest Rated Beer: Forgiveness Brown Ale
Now we’re pointing our compass south of Iowa City, towards the charming town of Kalona.
Here, you’ll find the Kalona Brewing Company, a place where tradition and innovation flow together as smoothly as their craft beers.
One standout from their lineup is the Sucha Much IPA.
Now, as confessed non-IPA enthusiasts, we approached this brew with caution.
But, it surprised us with its balanced flavors and bold character. This beer just goes to show, there’s always room for “Sucha Much” more exploration!
Kalona Brewing Company embraces organic practices in its brewing process, a testament to its commitment to quality and environmental responsibility.
When it comes to brewing decisions, Kalona places a strong emphasis on seasonality and local availability of ingredients.
Their brewmasters artistically blend tradition with their creative inspirations, resulting in beers that reflect the Iowa seasons’ rhythm and the local community’s character.
Situated in downtown Kalona, the brewery is a hop and a skip away from the Kalona Historical Village. So if you are in the area, this beautiful tourist spot offers a glimpse into the town’s rich past.
7. Millstream Brewing Co
Most Popular Beer: Back Road Oatmeal Stout
Highest Rated Beer: Deuce Deuce Resolution Juice Double IPA
All aboard the beer tour bus as we head to the historic Amana Colonies, home of Iowa’s oldest operational brewery, Millstream Brewing Co!
We’re swapping our usual sour and gose preferences to taste their Back Road Oatmeal Stout.
This rich, creamy brew boasts a delightful blend of roasted malt and chocolate flavors that even the most discerning ale enthusiasts will appreciate.
It’s a pint of pure comfort – consider it a cozy, knitted sweater, but in beer form!
Established in 1985, the Millstream Brewery continues the rich brewing tradition of the Amana Colonies, which dates back to the 19th century when German immigrants first settled in the area.
Much like these early settlers, the brewers at Millstream respect the old-world brewing techniques. Yet, they also listen to the voice of their patrons and the beat of the modern brewing scene.
By honoring tradition and embracing change, they strike a harmonious balance in their beer selection.
Nestled amidst the seven villages of the Amana Colonies, the brewery is near the Amana Woolen Mill, a historic mill known for its quality woven goods.
After savoring a Back Road Oatmeal Stout, why not enjoy a leisurely walk to the mill?
8. House Divided Brewery
Most Popular Beer: Back In Black IPA
Highest Rated Beer: L182 Whole Latte Love Blonde Stout
If you’re ready for more beer-ventures near Iowa City, let’s head to the friendly town of Ely, home to House Divided Brewery.
This small-town brewery is known for crafting beers with big-time flavors, and there’s one, in particular, we can’t ignore, the Back In Black IPA.
This brew boasts a melody of flavors that will make you sing!
With its perfect balance of roasted malt and hoppy bitterness, it’s like a classic rock anthem in beer form, making a striking impression that’s hard to forget.
Speaking of unforgettable, did you know that House Divided Brewery is a local passion project that started in a garage? Now, that’s humble beginnings!
Choosing what beer to brew at House Divided is a mix of honoring traditional brewing methods and embracing the brewers’ creative sparks.
They brew what they love, experimenting with a variety of styles and flavors, resulting in a brew list as diverse as the musical tastes of a classic rock band.
9. Clock House Brewing
Most Popular Beer: Witch Slap IPA
Highest Rated Beer: Guilty Pleasure Imperial Stout
Cedar Rapids is the next stop on our beer journey beyond Iowa City, where Clock House Brewing makes its home.
Based on our brewery rating, this is the best of the breweries near Iowa City, so if you can only head out to see one…this is it!
A beloved cornerstone in the local beer scene, this place offers an assortment of brews that make your visit worthwhile.
One noteworthy mention is the Witch Slap IPA.
We’re the first to admit that we often sidestep IPAs, but this brew cast a spell on us.
Its unique blend of hops produces a bewitching citrus and pine aroma that pairs perfectly with its crisp, bitter flavor.
Here’s an interesting tick-tock on the Clock House: it’s actually housed in the historic Black’s Building, seamlessly blending a taste of history with every pint.
Positioned in the bustling heart of Cedar Rapids, Clock House Brewing is conveniently close to the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, making it an ideal spot to unwind after an afternoon of cultural exploration.
While we didn’t include any breweries in Davenport on this list, they have a handful and aren’t too far away from Iowa City. We have a whole list of them!
Wineries, Cideries, Taverns, & More
From the sweet allure of local cideries to the rustic charm of traditional taverns, let’s take this flavorful journey beyond the breweries.
10. Reds Alehouse
First up, we’re setting our sights on an Iowa City favorite – Reds Alehouse.
This spot is not just a beer lover’s paradise; it’s a hub for anyone who appreciates a quality drink and a great atmosphere.
What is the best time to visit Reds?
We’d suggest an early evening during the week.
The ambiance is just right, the crowd is lively but not too packed, and you can catch the beautiful Iowa sunset from their spacious patio.
So why does Reds make our breweries in Iowa City list when it isn’t a brewery? Because it serves beer…and a lot of it!
With over 150 varieties on rotation, they’ve got one of the most extensive beer menus in the state.
Whether you’re a stout aficionado, a sour enthusiast like us, or an IPA adventurer, there’s a pint with your name on it.
Reds Alehouse is more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s a cornerstone of the local community, a meeting place for friends old and new.
So next time you’re in Iowa City, why not drop by?
11. Wilson’s Ciderhouse (Wilson’s Orchard & Farm)
Are you ready to explore beyond the land of ales and lagers?
If so, let’s venture to Wilson’s Ciderhouse, where the apples do the talking and the ciders do the walking!
Wilson’s hard ciders are something to write home about.
They’re delightfully crisp and refreshing and come in a variety of flavors. With a range that spans from sweet to tart, there’s a cider to match every palate.
We think you can guess when you should visit. Autumn, without a doubt!
During the harvest season, you’ll see the orchard’s full splendor and might even get a peek at the cider-making process.
Here’s an apple for your thoughts: Did you know Wilson’s is committed to sustainable farming practices?
They use a blend of modern and traditional methods to ensure their apples are not just delicious but also kind to Mother Nature.
Wilson’s Ciderhouse and nearby Orchard & Farm is a charming getaway that offers a refreshing change of pace from your usual brewery stops. And if you are traveling with someone who always says, “I don’t like beer!” then this ciderhouse is a must!
Whether you’re a hard cider connoisseur or a newbie eager to explore, you’re in for a treat.
Beer Events In Iowa City
Please put on your beer goggles as we dive into the frothy fun of beer events in Iowa City, where every sip is a celebration, and every pint tells a story.
Northside Oktoberfest
Get your lederhosen ready because it’s time for the Northside Oktoberfest!
A beloved Iowa City tradition, this event transforms the Northside neighborhood into a Bavarian wonderland right here in the heartland of America.
For one glorious day in October, beer lovers unite in a spectacle of foamy fun and friendly frivolity.
With over 500 beers available from local and international breweries, you’ll be hopping from one beer stand to another faster than you can say “Prost!”
But don’t worry; they’re not all about the suds – the Northside Oktoberfest is family-friendly!
While the adults indulge in their brews, there’s a “SodaFest” for the kiddos.
Plus, the bratwurst-eating contest is a sight you won’t want to miss!
BrrrFest
Winter blues? Never heard of them!
Iowa City’s BrrrFest is here to brew up some winter cheer.
This annual January event celebrates winter beers, showcasing a wide array of stouts, porters, barrel-aged goodies, and more.
Featuring breweries from across the Midwest, BrrrFest brings the heat, er… the cold, to the Coralville Marriott Hotel and Conference Center.
And the best part?
Proceeds from the event go towards local community activities and the Iowa Brewer’s Guild, making your beer consumption a civic duty!
After a day of winter beer wonder, you can walk off the chill at the nearby Iowa River Landing, a beautiful riverside area.
Iowa Craft Beer Bash
Nothing says summer in Iowa like a cold craft beer under the warm Amana sun.
Welcome to the Iowa Craft Beer Bash, an annual celebration where the state’s best brews take center stage.
Ales, lagers, stouts, and of course, our favored sours and goses all come together in a beer lover’s paradise.
It’s like Coachella for craft beer – but without the questionable fashion choices. With the warm weather and a cold beer in hand, it’s a recipe for summer perfection.
The Bash takes place in the historic Amana Colonies. Amid half-timbered houses and rolling farmlands, you’ll be sipping and savoring brews in a setting straight out of a postcard.
Iowa City Breweries Map
This interactive map is your trusty compass to navigate through the frothy seas of local brews, leading you to some of the finest breweries in and around the charismatic Iowa City.
Where To Stay In Iowa City, IA
Fluff up your pillows as we find the perfect spot to rest your head after spending your evening at the best breweries in Iowa City.
Luxury: Hilton Garden Inn Downtown
- Location, Location, Location: Nestled in the bustling downtown area, the Hilton Garden Inn is mere steps away from a plethora of restaurants, shops, and attractions. Exploring the city has never been easier!
- Amenities Galore: After a day of brewery hopping, unwind in the indoor pool, break a sweat in the 24-hour fitness center, or enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant.
- Exemplary Service: With Hilton’s world-renowned service, you’re guaranteed a comfortable stay. The friendly staff goes above and beyond to ensure you feel at home.
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for Hilton Garden Inn
Mid-Range: The Highlander Hotel
- Retro Vibes: The Highlander Hotel boasts a unique retro charm, making it an Instagrammable destination in itself. Get ready to step back in time!
- Indoor Pool Party: Who said pools are only for summer? The Highlander’s indoor pool is an all-season haven, complete with a poolside bar.
- Free Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty, complimentary breakfast. Because nothing says “good morning” like free bacon!
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for Highlander Hotel
Budget: Graduate Iowa City
- Campus Proximity: The Graduate is situated near the University of Iowa campus and is perfect for those looking to dive into the collegiate atmosphere. Remember, you’re only as old as your student spirit!
- Pet-Friendly: Traveling with your furry companion? The Graduate welcomes pets because a family vacation should include the entire family, Fido included!
- Quirky Interiors: Each room at the Graduate tells a story with playful design elements that celebrate Iowa’s heritage. It’s more than just a place to sleep; it’s an experience.
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for Graduate Iowa City
FAQs About Beer In Iowa
So, you’ve got questions brewing about beer in Iowa? Perfect, you’ve come to the right place because we’ve got the “ale-answers” to your burning beer queries!
How Many Craft Breweries Are In Iowa?
What Is The Most Common Type Of Beer In Iowa?
What County In Iowa Drinks The Most?
What Is The Oldest Craft Brewery In The US?
Good To The Last Drop – Breweries In Iowa City, Ia
And there you have it!
A heady tour through the hops and grains of Iowa City’s finest breweries.
Whether you’re an IPA avoider, a sour connoisseur, or just someone who loves a good beer joke (why don’t we ever tell secrets on the brewery floor? Because the grains always spill the hops!), remember to savor each sip.
Now, off you go, hop into the wild yeast yonder of the breweries in Iowa City, Ia.
If you are puttering around Iowa for a bit, why not check out some of the fantastic breweries in Dubuque?
