Charlotte's Top 10 Must-Visit Craft Breweries This Year

NoDa Brewing Company is a staple in Charlotte's craft beer scene, known for its creativity and community engagement. With a wide range of beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, there's something for every palate. The brewery often hosts events and live music, creating a fun and inviting atmosphere for visitors.

Their flagship beer, the Hop, Drop ‘n Roll IPA, has gained a loyal following, and for good reason. It balances tropical and citrus flavors beautifully, making it a perfect choice for warm days. Don't miss the chance to enjoy their rotating seasonal brews, which showcase unique ingredients and innovative brewing techniques.

Whether you're a craft beer novice or a seasoned enthusiast, NoDa Brewing Company offers a welcoming environment to enjoy a pint with friends. The vibrant murals and outdoor patio further enhance the experience, making it a must-visit destination in Charlotte.

Sycamore Brewing has quickly established itself as one of Charlotte's premier craft breweries, combining traditional brewing methods with modern flavors. Their spacious taproom and outdoor beer garden provide the perfect setting to sip on a cold brew while soaking up the sun. The brewery is known for its friendly staff, who are always eager to help you find your new favorite beer.

Their flagship beer, the Southern Girl Blonde Ale, is a refreshing choice with its light body and subtle citrus notes. However, it's their rotating seasonal releases that often steal the show, featuring unique ingredients like peach or jalapeño. This commitment to innovation keeps locals coming back for more.

In addition to their excellent beers, Sycamore hosts food trucks and live music events, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. This makes it not just a brewery, but a social hub where friends and family can gather to enjoy great company and even better beer.

Founded in 1994, Olde Hickory Brewery is one of the pioneers of the craft beer movement in North Carolina. Located just outside of Charlotte, it’s a bit of a drive but well worth it for the experience. The brewery is known for its rich, flavorful beers that reflect the traditional brewing styles of Europe, making it a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts.

Their popular oatmeal stout, the Irish Walker, has a smooth, creamy texture with notes of chocolate and coffee. It's a comforting choice on a chilly day. Olde Hickory also offers a variety of other styles, including IPAs and Belgian ales, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

The brewery's rustic charm, complete with wooden beams and cozy seating areas, invites visitors to linger and savor their drinks. With a commitment to quality and tradition, Olde Hickory Brewery is a must-visit for anyone wanting to delve deeper into Charlotte's craft beer culture.

Birdsong Brewing is known for its adventurous approach to brewing, often experimenting with unique ingredients and styles. Located in a repurposed warehouse, the brewery has a laid-back vibe that encourages guests to relax and enjoy their time. With a variety of beers on tap, you’re sure to find something that excites your taste buds.

Their Jalapeño Pale Ale is a standout, combining a refreshing pale ale base with a spicy kick that surprises and delights. Additionally, Birdsong frequently rotates its seasonal offerings, pushing the boundaries of flavor with each new batch. This spirit of innovation makes every visit feel fresh and exciting.

With regular events like trivia nights and tap takeovers, Birdsong Brewing fosters a sense of community among beer lovers. It’s a great place to meet fellow craft beer enthusiasts and share your latest favorites, creating lasting memories with each visit.

Legion Brewing has garnered attention for its commitment to quality and community. With a spacious taproom and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the ideal spot to enjoy a craft beer with friends. The brewery prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients, which can be tasted in every sip of their delicious brews.

The Juicy Jay IPA is a fan favorite, boasting a tropical fruit profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. Legion also offers a variety of other styles, including barrel-aged options that appeal to adventurous drinkers. Their attention to detail in brewing ensures that every beer is crafted with care.

In addition to great beer, Legion Brewing often hosts community events, including fundraisers and local artist showcases. This dedication to connecting with the community makes it not just a brewery, but a beloved gathering spot for Charlotte residents.

Free Range Brewing stands out for its unique focus on farm-to-glass brewing, emphasizing the use of local ingredients. The brewery’s cozy and inviting space makes it a great place to relax with a cold beer after a long day. With a rotating selection of brews, there's always something new and exciting to try.

Their Farmhouse Saison, made with locally sourced grains and hops, showcases the brewery’s commitment to quality and sustainability. It's a delightful choice that captures the essence of the region’s agricultural bounty. Free Range's inventive brews often highlight seasonal ingredients, making each visit a unique experience.

Beyond their impressive beer offerings, Free Range Brewing also hosts events like yoga classes and food pairings, encouraging guests to engage with the community. This connection to both the land and the people makes Free Range a refreshing addition to Charlotte's craft brewery scene.

Unknown Brewing is aptly named, as it invites guests to explore the uncharted territories of craft beer. This brewery is known for its bold flavors and creative combinations, ensuring that each beer offers something unexpected. The industrial-chic atmosphere, complete with colorful artwork, makes it a fun place to hang out with friends.

Their flagship beer, the American IPA, is a perfect representation of their adventurous spirit, featuring a blend of hops that provides a delightful bitterness balanced with fruity notes. Additionally, Unknown Brewing regularly introduces experimental brews that keep patrons coming back for the thrill of discovery.

With a strong emphasis on community involvement, Unknown Brewing often collaborates with local artists and musicians, making it a vibrant spot for socializing. It's a place where craft beer enthusiasts can come together to celebrate creativity and, of course, great beer.

Wooden Robot Brewery is a unique establishment that seamlessly combines the art of brewing with a scientific approach. Their taproom, with its sleek design and inviting ambiance, provides the perfect backdrop for sampling innovative craft beers. Known for their commitment to quality, Wooden Robot focuses on producing small-batch beers that highlight the best ingredients.

Their flagship brew, the Ghostblonde, is a light, crisp beer that has become a staple for many locals. However, it's their seasonal and experimental brews that truly showcase their creativity, often featuring unusual ingredients that surprise and delight. This dedication to innovation sets Wooden Robot apart in the competitive Charlotte craft beer scene.

Regular events, such as beer tastings and educational sessions, help to foster a deeper appreciation for craft beer among visitors. Wooden Robot Brewery is not just a place to drink; it’s a space to learn and engage with the craft beer community, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to expand their palate.