Explore the Heartland: Iowa’s Finest Breweries Await
A Toast to Iowa’s Craft Beer Scene
The Midwest might often be labeled as “flyover country,” but for craft beer enthusiasts, it’s a destination worth every sip. Iowa, tucked between the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, shines with its rich tapestry of breweries. From legendary giants to promising newcomers, Iowa’s craft beer scene is thriving and offers a slice of genuine U.S. brewing culture. Whether you’re a seasoned hophead or just embarking on your beer journey, the Hawkeye State is brimming with beer adventures waiting to be discovered.
With 127 breweries dotting its landscape, Iowa ranks 25th in the U.S. according to the Brewers Association. This state offers more than just vast cornfields; it’s a playground for beer lovers, complete with award-winning IPAs, imperial stouts, and crisp European-style lagers. As you explore the local flavor, let BreweriesNearMe.us be your trusted guide, highlighting the very best taprooms Iowa has to offer.
The Best Breweries to Visit in Iowa
Toppling Goliath Brewing Co.
Nestled in Decorah, Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. has become an iconic name in the craft beer world. This brewery, founded by Clark and Barbara Lewey in 2009, quickly rose to prominence with its outstanding hop-forward ales and renowned barrel-aged stouts. Beers like Psuedo Sue and Kentucky Brunch Brand Stout have solidified their spot on every beer aficionado’s must-try list. Toppling Goliath isn’t just a brewery; it’s a pilgrimage for anyone passionate about craft beer.
Their stouts, like Assassin and KBBS, have earned international acclaim, pulling in beer lovers from all over the globe each year. Beyond stouts, their range of pales and IPAs are equally impressive, proving that the brewery has mastered the art of American craft beer. Any visit to Iowa would be incomplete without experiencing the legacy of the T-Rex that Toppling Goliath champions.
Lua Brewing
Lua Brewing in Des Moines offers more than just top-notch beer—it’s an experience encased in camaraderie. Whether it’s their bustling Friday nights or their warm, open taproom, Lua Brewing invites everyone to partake in a beer journey that transcends typical pub culture. Founded by Scott and Whitney Selix in November 2019, the brewpub quickly became a staple in the community, hitting high notes with its eclectic beer lineup.
Lua’s accolades include a host of medals from various beer competitions, fueled by innovative brews ranging from smoothie sours to hazy IPAs. The lively atmosphere is bolstered by their reputation as one of the country’s top brewpubs, showcasing their commitment to quality, community, and craft. It’s a testament to their seamless blend of innovative brewing with warm hospitality, making it a must-visit in Iowa.
Pulpit Rock Brewing Company
Pulpit Rock Brewing Company in Decorah may share a town with the iconic Toppling Goliath, but it stands out with its unique blend of adventurous and approachable beers. This community-centered brewery opened in 2015 by four Luther College alumni, capturing the hearts of locals and visitors alike with their passion for brewing. The name itself speaks to deep roots, nodding to Norway’s Preikestolen, embodying the brewery’s ethos of connection and authenticity.
With an impressive array of medal-winning brews at the Untappd Community Awards, Pulpit Rock showcases its prowess with a diverse lineup that includes imperial stouts, American barleywines, and more. The result is a collection of exceptional, high-rated beers that have established Pulpit Rock as a cornerstone of Iowa’s vibrant craft beer community.
Big Grove Brewery
Big Grove Brewery, blossoming from simple roots in 2013, has become a beloved institution across Iowa with locations in Iowa City, Solon, Des Moines, and Cedar Rapids. Founders Doug Goettsch, Faye Swift, and Matt Swift built Big Grove on the principle of creating spaces where people can gather beyond the confines of their living rooms. While the brewery has expanded into diverse offerings like spirit-based seltzers, the heart of Big Grove still beats strongest in its craft beer lineup.
Their focus on quality ingredients and flavorful brews shines through in flagship beers like Easy Eddy IPA and the Big Grove IPA. Big Grove’s versatility is evident in its lineup, from citrusy IPAs to rich sours and crisp lagers. With a commendable record at the Untappd Community Awards, Big Grove continues to lead Iowa’s beer scene while maintaining a welcoming environment for all.
Confluence Brewing Company
In Des Moines, Confluence Brewing Company champions the notion that “good things happen when you bring people together over great beer.” Founded in 2012 by John Martin and Ken Broadhead, Confluence marries its brews with a deep connection to Iowa’s rich resources. Their flagship Des Moines IPA celebrates the city’s vibrant flavors with each pour, offering notes reminiscent of the Pacific Northwest.
Beyond the hops, Confluence threads local pride into every creation, crafting each beer as a tribute to Iowa’s agricultural bounty. With numerous awards under its belt, including honors for a variety of beer styles at the Untappd Community Awards, Confluence Brewing fosters a true sense of community among its patrons and is an essential stop for anyone exploring the state’s brewing landscape.
Field Day Brewing Company
Field Day Brewing in North Liberty provides a playful yet profound deep dive into classic Czech and German lagers. Opened in August 2023 by Joe Selix, Field Day marries fun with tradition in its expansive facility that features duckpin bowling, an outdoor beer garden, and a kid-friendly playground. Yet, the magic truly lies in their beers, crafted with authenticity and precision.
Their dedicated approach to brewing, with adherence to traditional methods and quality standards, shines in their array of lagers served from LUKR side-pull faucets. Award-winning from the start, Field Day is already gaining deserved recognition in Iowa’s lively beer scene, setting a high standard for lager enthusiasts and curious beer drinkers alike.
Adventurous Brewing
True to its name, Adventurous Brewing in Bettendorf pushes the boundaries with creative and experimental beers that have secured its spot as one of Iowa’s top-rated breweries. With a 4.18 rating on Untappd, Adventurous Brewing combines bold flavors with innovative techniques to produce standout brews like the richly complex, award-winning Barrel Aged Hooked on Filling.
This brewery’s commitment to unearthing unique flavors and providing imaginative beer experiences sets it apart. It invites every consumer to join them on a flavorful adventure, making each visit a memorable exploration of unbridled creativity and craft.
Dimensional Brewing Company
Dimensional Brewing Company in Dubuque breathes new life into a town with deep brewing roots. Founded in 2018, Dimensional has capitalized on Dubuque’s history while carving a distinct identity with its impressive selection of sours, precision IPAs, and robust stouts.
The brewery’s success is evidenced by its high ratings and accolades, showcasing a dedication to quality that pays homage to the town’s past while pushing brewing boundaries. Dimensional’s commitment to innovation and tradition ensures that what “Dubuque makes, makes Dubuque” resonates with everyone who samples their creations.
Marto Brewing Company
In Sioux City, Marto Brewing stands as a testament to dedication and passion transforming into entrepreneurial success. Erik Martin, a devoted homebrewer turned business owner, opened this brewery in 2019, offering not only critically acclaimed beers but also a menu that matches its innovative brewing practices.
With award winners like Razzle and Midnight Speciál Dark Lager, Marto marries exceptional beer with culinary delights such as the beloved Erik’s Brew Burger. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Marto Brewing invites everyone to experience its blend of flavors, making it a Sioux City standout.
Clock House Brewing
Clock House Brewing is a must-visit in Cedar Rapids, housed in a historic building transformed into a vibrant craft beer haven. Founder Todd Viall’s longstanding love for brewing manifests in an eclectic mix of beers ranging from fruited sours to Belgian styles to their renowned hazy IPA, Witch Slap®.
Opened in collaboration with Black Sheep Social Club in 2017, Clock House offers a warm atmosphere perfect for sampling their diverse offerings. With a strong presence in Iowa’s craft beer community, it continues to enchant with quality beers and a welcoming vibe, all steeped in historical charm.
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