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$23.99 (as of October 29, 2024 14:22 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Get ready to toast and raise your glass because International Beer Day is just around the corner on August 2! To help you celebrate, we dive into America’s rich craft beer culture and explore the top U.S. cities for beer lovers in 2024. From the bustling breweries of Asheville, NC, to the lively bar scene in Pensacola, FL, and the vibrant beer-tasting tours in Las Vegas, NV, there’s no shortage of spots to enjoy a cold one. Each city made the cut based on an impressive mix of breweries per capita, bars, beer-tasting tours, and the average cost of a beer. So, whether you’re planning to visit Portland, ME, or Greenville, SC, this article uncovers the best destinations to fully immerse yourself in the craft beer experience. Cheers to great beers and even greater adventures! Have you ever wondered about the best places to get a taste of America’s vibrant craft beer culture? With International Beer Day just around the corner on August 2, there’s no better time to explore the rich tapestry of craft beers that the United States has to offer. From bustling city bars to charming small-town breweries, America’s beer scene is nothing short of spectacular. So grab a pint and join us as we journey through the top 15 U.S. cities for beer lovers in 2024, along with a few honorable mentions that are worth noting!
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What is International Beer Day?
International Beer Day is celebrated annually on the first Friday of August, and this year it falls on August 2. This global celebration aims to unite beer enthusiasts worldwide, toast to the many dedicated individuals behind each brew, and appreciate the delicious craft beer options available. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or a casual sipper, International Beer Day is an excellent opportunity to explore new brews and support local breweries.
Criteria for Ranking
To determine the best cities for beer lovers, several key factors were considered:
- Breweries per capita: Number of breweries relative to the city’s population.
- Bars per capita: Number of bars relative to the city’s population.
- Beer-tasting tours offered: Availability and variety of beer-tasting experiences.
- Average cost of a beer: How much you’ll spend on average for a pint.
These criteria ensure a diverse and inclusive list that highlights cities with thriving beer cultures for various preferences and budgets.
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Top 15 U.S. Cities for Beer Lovers in 2024
1. Asheville, NC
Asheville tops our list with the highest number of breweries per capita. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville has become a beer mecca with an impressive array of breweries.
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Highlight Breweries:
- Highland Brewing
- Burial Beer Co.
- DSSOLVR
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Notable Bars:
- The Whale
- Foggy Mountain Brewpub
Additionally, the Jackson County Ale Trail is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts looking to explore a variety of local brews in a scenic setting.
2. Pensacola, FL
Known for having the most bars per capita, Pensacola is a fantastic destination for those looking to enjoy a diverse selection of craft beers in a lively atmosphere.
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Notable Spots:
- Odd Colony Brewery
- McGuire’s Irish Pub
- Pensacola Bay Brewing
- Gary’s Brewery & Biergarten
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Beer-Tasting Tours:
- On Tap Brew Tours
This Gulf Coast city combines beer with beautiful beaches and southern hospitality.
3. Las Vegas, NV
While Las Vegas is famous for its casinos, the city’s craft beer scene is also thriving, particularly near the Arts District’s Brewery Row.
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Highlight Breweries:
- Able Baker Brewing
- Beer Zombies
- Tenaya Creek Brewery
- BrewDog
- Aces and Ales
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Beer-Tasting Tours:
- 15 available tours
What better place to immerse yourself in a bustling beer scene than the city that never sleeps?
4. Portland, ME
Often considered a hidden gem in the craft beer world, Portland, ME almost matches Asheville in breweries per capita.
- Notable Breweries:
- Allagash Brewing Co.
- Belleflower Brewing
- Bissell Brothers Brewing
- Geary Brewing Company
Portland’s coastal charm and innovative breweries make it a must-visit destination for any serious beer enthusiast.
5. Greenville, SC
Close on the heels of Asheville, Greenville boasts a noteworthy beer scene with several outstanding breweries.
- Key Breweries:
- The Southern Growl
- Fireforge Crafted Beer
- Liability Brewery
Combining small-town charm with top-notch craft beer offerings, Greenville is a great spot for a beer-centric getaway.
6. Lancaster, PA
Lancaster offers a thriving bar scene and some of the most affordable beer prices around. Its nearly 30 breweries make it a hotspot for beer lovers.
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Highlight Breweries:
- Mad Chef Craft Brewing
- Spring House Brewing Company
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Brewery Trail:
- Lancaster Brew Trail
Known for its rich history and Amish culture, Lancaster also has a modern side that’s perfect for craft beer enthusiasts.
7. Pittsburgh, PA
As a larger city, Pittsburgh offers a plethora of bars and a substantial number of quality breweries.
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Notable Breweries:
- Dancing Gnome Brewery
- Old Thunder Brewing Co.
- Grist House
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Brewery Guide:
- Pittsburgh Brewers Guild
With a robust industrial history, Pittsburgh’s beer scene has evolved into a vibrant and creative community.
8. Cincinnati, OH
With a strong German influence and legendary Oktoberfest celebrations, Cincinnati is a prime destination for beer lovers.
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Top Breweries:
- Rhinegeist
- Taft’s Brewing Co.
- Braxton
- Madtree
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Beer-Tasting Tours:
- Brewery Heritage Trail
Cincinnati offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stellar craft beers.
9. New Orleans, LA
Known for its vibrant Mardi Gras celebrations, New Orleans also has a burgeoning craft beer scene.
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Key Spots:
- Brieux Carré Brewing Co.
- The Courtyard Brewery
- Parleaux Beer Lab
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Beer-Tasting Tours:
- Craft Beer and French Quarter Bike Tour
Combining the city’s festive atmosphere with an up-and-coming beer scene makes New Orleans a unique destination.
10. Portland, OR
Portland, Oregon, is renowned for its well-rounded and diverse beer culture, earning it a spot on this list.
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Top Breweries:
- Breakside
- Occidental Brewing
- Little Beast Brewing
- Upright Brewing
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Active Beer Tours:
- Numerous tours available
With a variety of breweries and a strong community emphasis on craft beer, Portland, OR, is a must-visit for any beer lover.
Honorable Mentions
The following cities might not have made the top 10, but they’re still definitely worth a visit for their thriving craft beer scenes:
- Rochester, NY
- Buffalo, NY
- St. Petersburg, FL
- Charleston, SC
- Bend, OR
- Denver, CO
- Harrisburg, PA
Conclusion
International Beer Day is the perfect occasion to venture out and explore these amazing cities known for their rich craft beer cultures. Whether you’re visiting Asheville for its unparalleled number of breweries or sipping a cold one in Pensacola’s vibrant bar scene, there’s a perfect pint waiting for you. Cheers to the brewers who keep our glasses filled and to the beer lovers who appreciate every sip!
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