Dark and complex or light and smooth. Adults-only or perfect for the kids. Hoppy IPAs or tart ciders. In Charlotte, there’s a brewery for every palate and occasion. We know it can be hard to keep up with all of the options popping up around town, so we’ve rounded them up by neighborhood for easy exploring. Happy brewery hopping!

LOWER SOUTH END

Lower Left Brewing Co.
4528 Nations Crossing Rd.

New to the neighborhood, Lower Left Brewing Co. opened its doors in summer 2019. Expect to see many of co-owner Alex Shoenthal’s award-winning home-brew recipes on tap, plus options like the Juicy McJuiceface New England IPA and newly added Coconut Vanilla Blonde Ale. Plus, don’t forget their full event calendar that includes yoga, run club, food trucks and more.

Brewers at 4001 Yancey
4001-A Yancey Rd.

This joint craft beer venture from Southern Tier and Victory Brewing opened in 2018. Beer-lovers can enjoy new offerings from both beer brands, a massive taproom and expansive outdoor area including a covered patio. A full chef-driven menu also boasts sharables like a pretzel with beer cheese and brewers wings, handheld burgers and sandwiches, salads, pizzas and entrees.

Olde Mecklenburg Brewery
4150 Yancey Rd.

Step into a traditional brauhaus classic OMB brews; favorites include the the Copper, Capt Jack or the Hornet’s Nest. Then venture on to a seasonal pour in the biergarten (currently in the spotlight is Mecktoberfest.) Experience one of Charlotte’s best brewery tours for yourself Saturdays & Sundays at 2, 3 and 4 PM. Registration is not required and no purchase is necessary to hop aboard the 40 minute tour.

Sugar Creek Brewing Company
215 Southside Dr.

Established in 2014, Sugar Creek Brewing pours Belgian-inspired ales including their White Ale, Saison, Belgian Dubbel and Pale Ale plus seasonal rotations in a spacious taproom and newly expanded patio. View all options here. A scoop favorite is the pink-hued Raspberry White Ale.

From beer specials to trivia to live music and fitness classes, there’s something for everyone at Sugar Creek. Keep up to date with their online events calendar.

Thirsty Nomad Brewing
4402 Stuart Andrew Blvd A.

Thirsty Nomad is all about creating a great space to enjoy great beer. Since 2016, they’ve been serving Saisons, Pale Ales, a Chocolate Stout and more in their laid-back taproom and patio. You can even view over 150 past beer recipes in a public Google doc folder. Don’t miss trivia on Thursday and Saturday nights.

Red Clay Ciderworks
245 Clanton Rd.

If cider is more your style, Charlotte’s first cidery has just the thing. There’s the Cherry Bobbin’ Trails made with Michigan cherries, the Nor’Easter infused with cranberry, the Hoppin’ Good Thyme and classics South End Sweet and Queen City Commons. While the cider takes center stage, Red Clay also serves up local beers and wine on rotation. Go behind the scenes with a free cider tour Thursday at 6:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m. You can also stop in for trivia every Thursday at 7 p.m. and brunch on Sundays.

GoodRoad CiderWorks
117 Southside Dr.

Another cidery serving a tasty beer alternative is GoodRoad CiderWorks. Since 2014, they’ve been crafting classic ciders made from pressed apples, including the Newtown Pippin, in which peach and pear complement the apple flavor, and the ginger-infused Waymaker. Be sure to try the Avogardo’s Trail made with avocado blossom honey. Try a flight to find your favorite flavor.

NODA

Protagonist Clubhouse
3123 N Davidson St.

In the heart of NoDa, newcomer Protagonist Clubhouse offers a bright and modern atmosphere with a mid-century vibe. Expect unique, small-batch brews, specialty beer cocktails and wine and cider options. Perfect for cool weather sipping, their patio seats offer the perfect spot for people-watching.

Free Will Craft + Vine
3701 N Davidson St.

A new neighborhood hangout has joined the neighborhood home to popular breweries Divine Barrel and Bold Missy. In addition to pour-your-own brews, wine and cider, expect plenty of activity options including board games, a multi-sport visual simulator, flat screens and a space to host live music.

Birdsong Brewing Co.
1016 N Davidson St.

Since opening in 2011, many Charlotteans have found their favorite brews at Birdsong Brewing. Try the Higher Ground IPA and Jalapeño Pale Ale, and don’t miss THURSday THURSdays, where they release a new small batch beer for customers each week. Keep up with their other events with their online calendar.

Bold Missy Brewery
610 Anderson St.

With brews inspired by legendary females, Bold Missy Brewery pours great beer with a side of girl power. Favorites include the Rocket Ride American IPA inspired by Sally Ride, Git Yer Gun Golden Ale inspired by Annie Oakley, Solo Flight English Brown Ale inspired by Amelia Earhart. Stick around to order from their food menu, which includes gourmet hot dogs, flatbreads, pretzels and more.

Divine Barrel Brewing
3701 N Davidson St.

A newer brewery in town, Divine Barrel focuses on crafting wild and sour small-batch beers. Take your taste buds on an adventure with the Zest Intentions Sour Belgian Wit and Mild Mild West, the first beer released from their two barrel pilot system.

Free Range Brewing
2320 N Davidson St.

In 2015, two brothers set out to open a family-friendly brewpub. With their designated kid’s area, art gallery feel among picnic tables and corn hole, they’ve definitely accomplished their mission. Here you’ll find brews inspired by what’s in season, whether its a cucumber brew with basil and ginger or Farmhouse #2, a Carolina farmhouse aged on local, organic, fresh muscadine grapes.

Heist Brewery
2909 N Davidson St.

Heist Brewery is a thriving local hub for local brews, outdoor patio sitters and even brunch-goers. Enjoy 10 handcrafted brews by the glass, flight or pitcher. Picks include the Citraquench’l IPA and Big Pick’n bold and tart sour.

NoDa Brewing Company
2921 N Tryon St.

Since 2011, NoDa Brewing Company has seen their tried and true favorites catapult them into a second taproom location and canned beers found in local grocery stores. Try the award winning Hop Drop ‘N Roll IPA, along with the popular Jam Session and Coco Loco. To keep fans on their toes, the NoDa team roles out a new small batch beer each Tuesday in their Nodable series.

Salud Cerveceria
3306-C N Davidson St.

The taproom upstairs at Salud is a perfect escape to enjoy local art, games, music and of course, funky craft brews. Try the El Taco King IPA hopped with Lemondrop and Amarillo or the Pina Y Leche Sour Berliner with Pineapple and Milk Sugar. If you’re not into beer, be sure to try their nitro coffee and tea.

PLAZA MIDWOOD

Pilot Brewing
1331 Central Ave.

This brand new nano brewery offers experiential and small batch beers, sometimes featuring collaborations with local businesses and home-brewers. First time? opt for the cafe latte stout, a chocolate milk stout made with locally roasted Smelly Cat coffee. Find their current tap list here.

Catawba Brewing
933 Louise Ave.

Well-known for a variety of ales and IPAs, Charlotte’s Catawba Brewing location boasts a huge taproom with ample seating and a patio with an Uptown view. Food trucks frequent the parking lot, making it a one-stop-shop for a day of beer tasting.

Legion Brewing
1906 Commonwealth Ave.

Legion’s original location, which opened in 2016, is still home to favorites like Carolina Sparkle Party and Naughty By Nectar IPA. Plus, an evolving food menu and Sunday brunch features.

Resident Culture Brewing Company
2101 Central Ave.

Perfect for a sunny afternoon, Resident Culture’s open taproom and expansive outdoor space is a beer drinker’s paradise. Try the Boy Dance Party IPA or the Lo-Fi Lager. Keep up with the brewery’s food truck schedule on Instagram.

SOUTH END

Suffolk Punch Brewing
2911 Griffith St.

Conveniently located along the rail trail at New Bern Station, Hyde Brewing and Suffolk Punch offer the perfect fusion of chef-driven small plates, a robust beer menu, cocktails and handcrafted coffee concoctions. Grab a spot on the shaded patio or inside the industrial-style taproom to enjoy a Kool Party Witte brewed with Orange Peel, Coriander and Elderflower.

Sycamore Brewing
2161 Hawkins St.

Plan an afternoon filled with a few of our favorite things: live music and local brews. Sycamore Brewing, which opened its doors in late 2014, has seamlessly integrated into the Charlotte beer scene with its live music events and seasonal varieties that keep their huge patio packed each weekend. Favorite brews include the Southern Girl Blonde and the Countryside IPA. Also don’t miss the new line of Wild Blossom ciders.

Triple C Brewing Company
2900 Griffith St.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy live music, catch the game or soak up some beautiful Carolina weather, Triple C has got you covered. Located steps away from the New Bern light rail station, this brewery offers plenty of homebrewed options in a laid-back atmosphere with a patio. Fido can join too!

Lenny Boy Brewing Co.
2224 Hawkins St.

Try something different at Lenny Boy Brewing Company. Taste organic kombucha, gluten free wild ales, gluten-reduced beers, sours and traditional craft beer in his Southend favorite.

Unknown Brewery
1327 S. Mint St.

The newly renovated Unknown Brewery has something for everyone. Enjoy live music from the open taproom downstairs, or sip the ginger wheat or featherlight beers with an Uptown view from their rooftop bar and patio. Hungry? Order a pizza from Passport Dough & Co.

The Wooden Robot Brewery
1440 S Tryon St #110

Inspired by Belgian farmhouse brewing traditions, Wooden Robot brewery opened its doors in Summer 2015 to a thirsty crowd. Since then, Wooden Robot has built up a strong following with the help of favorite beers including the Good Morning Vietnam, a Coffee Vanilla Blonde Ale. Plus, stick around for a bite from their Gastropub food menu. Wooden Robot’s second location opened in NoDa in summer 2019.

SOUTHPARK

Legion Brewing SouthPark
5610 Carnegie Blvd.

The first brewery in SouthPark offers an award-winning beer selection, a full food menu, stunning taproom and multiple spaces for your private events. Menu picks include the wood oven baked pizzas, meatloaf with Legion BBQ sauce, duck fat chicken wings  and the brewer’s grain bowl with grilled trout.

UPTOWN

Heist Brewery and Barrel Arts
1030 Woodward Ave.

Just outside of Uptown next to Camp North End, heist Brewery’s second location offers ample space for enjoying a full line-up of Heist and guest taps. They’re also expected to start a barrel aging program at this location.

WESLEY HEIGHTS

Town Brewing
800 Grandin Rd.

Wesley Heights’ first brewery offers a large variety of beers, from IPAs to to sours, and a menu sourced by local and regional farmers. We can’t wait to try the pimento cheese toast, flatbreads and brussels sprout salad.

WEST END

Blue Blaze Brewing
528 S. Turner Ave.

Founded by two home-brewers, Blue Blaze is located in the 100-year old Savona Mill along the Stewart Creek Greenway. Between sipping on one of their five flagship beers or a seasonal specialty, enjoy regular live music and rocking chairs on the patio.

AND BEYOND 

Middle James Brewing
400 N Polk St. Unit B, Pineville

Pineville’s first brewery boasts prime game viewing spots with big screens at every turn, a variety of beer and cider offerings. You wont go hungry with their elevated bar food offerings and even a kids menu.

Armored Cow
8821 JW Clay Blvd Suite 1

University’s brewery offers both regular and gluten-free beer, plus regular events like music bingo, live bands and food trucks.

Twenty-Six Acres Brewing Co.
7285 W Winds Blvd NW, Concord

Even when this Concord brewery isn’t hosting Food Truck Friday, it’s sure to be packed with patrons (plus their kids and dogs!). Try the 26 Union Street oatmeal stout or Corban Avenue Honey Blonde for a taste of their popular classics.

High Branch Brewing Co. 
325 McGill Ave NW, Concord

Established in 2015, High Branch Brewing Co. features beers like the Smooth Hazy IPA and Little Man Tate Gose, plus a rotating display of local art. Come back on Thursdays for yoga and a beer.

Cabarrus Brewing Co. 
329 McGill Ave NW, Concord

When founders of Cabarrus Brewing Co. set out to invest in and with their community, they may not have imagined what the future would hold. Today, visit the brewery to enjoy the Cabarrus Cotton Blonde Ale, Reed’s Gold Ale or the Vanilla Coffee Blonde.

Ass Clown Brewing Co. 
10620 Bailey Rd E., Cornelius

Since 2011, Ass Clown Brewing has grown from a garage brewery with a playful name to a fully operational taproom, still with a funny name. As you may expect, you’ll never get bored with the beer options at this brewery, stay up-to-date with their beer list online.

Eleven Lakes Brewing 
10228 Bailey Rd #201, Cornelius

Named for the 11 major lakes along the Catawba Basin, this Cornelius brewery crafts a variety of year-round and seasonal small batches. Fall favorites include the Festbier Lager.

D9 Brewing Co. 
11138 Treynorth Dr., Cornelius

In 2014, two engineers and a doctor joined forces to start a brewery. Today, beer-lovers can enjoy year-round classics like the Swell Rider Tangerine Session IPA, Brown Sugar Brown Cow Mocha Brown Ale and more.

Primal Brewery 
16432 Old Statesville Rd., Huntersville

Starter by two home-brewers, Primal Brewery has expanded rapidly since opening its doors in 2014. Favorite year-round brews include the Lemon Haze Pale Ale and Lucille Red Ale. Stay in-the-know with their live music and events calendar.

Ghostface Brewing 
427 E Statesville Ave., Mooresville

In Mooresville, choose from up to 20 unique beers, meads and ciders to fit your unique style. A trip to Ghostface Brewing isn’t complete without taking a bite of one of their signature pizzas.

Legal Remedy Brewing Co. 
129 Oakland Ave., Rock Hill, SC

South of Charlotte, Legal Remedy Brewing is a go-to for a full food menu, regular live music and weekly events. Try one of “the usual suspects” available year-round, or something new from the seasonal, barrel-aged or four series.

Dreamchasers Brewery 
115 E North Main St., Waxhaw

In downtown Waxhaw, grab a pint of the Yard Breather or Foodbridge IPA at Dreamchasers Brewery. This time of year, sip on the Waxtoberfest, their take on an Oktoberfest/marzen style beer. Make note of their weekly events, including trivia, an open mic night and music bingo.