Wisconsin breweries stand out for both the quality and creativity they put into each pint. From big names known across the state to lesser-known spots, these breweries bring local flavors and brewing traditions worth the trip. Discover the best places to grab a beer and experience what Wisconsin’s brewery scene is all about.
Whether you’re into classic lagers, hoppy Indian pale ales, known as IPAs, or small-batch brews with a twist, Wisconsin’s breweries have something for every taste. This article pulls together popular spots you may have already heard of, plus a few hidden gems that only the locals know.
From taprooms overlooking rivers to historic buildings filled with character, these breweries bring a lot more than just beer to the table. So, whether you’re planning a road trip or looking for a new go-to, here are the Wisconsin breweries that are totally worth the stop.
Gathering Place Brewing Company — Milwaukee
Milwaukee’s Gathering Place Brewing Company stands out with its commitment to community and its adventurous beer approach. Known for experimenting with a wide range of ingredients, this brewery pushes the envelope with seasonal, small-batch brews that reflect the flavors of the Midwest. Their welcoming taproom is a perfect spot to sample unique offerings, from farmhouse ales to creative IPAs while connecting with the local community. Pair their brews with this cheesy garlic pull-apart bread for a great beer-and-snack combo to enjoy at home.
Must-try brews:
- Saison: A refreshing farmhouse ale with fruity notes.
- Unity IPA: Hoppy and aromatic, this IPA is both balanced and complex.
3 Sheeps Brewing — Sheboygan
The 3 Sheeps Brewing Company brings a creative edge to Wisconsin’s beer scene. Located in Sheboygan, 3 Sheeps is known for crafting beers that blend classic styles with unconventional ingredients. The brewery’s laid-back taproom offers visitors a welcoming space to enjoy beers on tap or try exclusive brews. Their innovative spirit has made 3 Sheeps a standout, with popular releases like Chaos Pattern, a hazy IPA and Fresh Coast, a juicy pale ale, that bring something new to the table each season.
Must-try brews:
- Chaos Pattern: A hazy IPA with notes of tropical fruit.
- Fresh Coast: A pale ale with a juicy, citrusy flavor.
New Glarus Brewing Company — New Glarus
No Wisconsin brewery list is complete without the New Glarus Brewing Company. Known for its famous Spotted Cow ale, this brewery embodies Wisconsin’s love for local craft beer. Located in the Swiss-inspired town of New Glarus, the brewery offers scenic views, plenty of outdoor seating and a brew lineup that honors traditional techniques with a modern twist. If you’re a fan of Spotted Cow, try making this Wisconsin beer cheese soup — it’s a great way to bring the brewery experience home. Their brewery-only releases mean there’s always something new and exclusive for visitors to try, making each visit special.
Must-try brews:
- Spotted Cow: Creamy, light-bodied and only available in Wisconsin.
- Two Women Lager: Crisp and refreshing, brewed in collaboration with a German brewery.
Lakefront Brewery — Milwaukee
Lakefront Brewery in Milwaukee has been serving up quality brews since 1987. Known for its fun, guided tours that mix humor with history, Lakefront is a fan favorite. The brewery’s setting along the Milwaukee River provides a unique backdrop for beer tasting, and its commitment to sustainability and organic brewing practices has earned it a loyal following. If you’re inspired to pair their beers with something at home, try out this beer cheese dip. Lakefront’s variety of styles — from lagers to stouts — means there’s something for everyone here.
Must-try brews:
- Riverwest Stein Amber Lager: Smooth and malty with a slightly sweet finish.
- New Grist: A gluten-free beer that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
PetSkull Brewing Company — Manitowoc
Located in Manitowoc, PetSkull Brewing Company is a local gem that’s earned a loyal following for its diverse beer offerings and laid-back atmosphere. Set in a 100-year-old building, PetSkull’s taproom feels historic yet lively, with a window view of the brewing area and a spacious outdoor patio equipped with fire pits. Beyond beer, PetSkull serves up Cajun and Creole-inspired dishes that complement their brews and give visitors a little taste of New Orleans right in Wisconsin.
Must-try brews:
- Nutser Brown Ale: A rich, nutty brown ale with a smooth, malty finish.
- Frank Porter: A robust porter with hints of chocolate and coffee.
- Cajun Triple: A bold, Belgian-style ale with a spicy twist to match their menu’s Cajun flavors.
Young Blood Beer Company — Madison
Young Blood Beer Company in Madison is known for pushing boundaries with its experimental, small-batch brews. The rotating taps offer something new each visit, and the brewery’s edgy, artistic vibe makes it a standout in the local scene. With bold flavors and unconventional recipes, Young Blood is where locals go to discover new favorites and enjoy a relaxed, welcoming space.
Must-try brews:
- Pinball Wizard: A juicy IPA with a bright citrus aroma and a smooth, hoppy finish.
- Funky Fresh: A rotating sour series that’s tart, fruity and full of surprises.
- Madison Made: A clean and crisp pilsner, perfect for those who prefer a lighter brew.
Ale Asylum — Madison
Ale Asylum in Madison is where hop lovers can rejoice. Known for its bold IPAs, this brewery takes a no-nonsense approach to crafting strong, full-flavored beers. Ale Asylum’s dedication to quality ingredients and attention to brewing techniques make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Madison’s beer scene. Their spacious taproom and outdoor patio create a relaxing environment where you can enjoy their popular brews.
Must-try brews:
- Hopalicious: A classic American pale ale with a strong hop character.
- Bedlam!: A Belgian IPA with a spicy, fruity twist.
Potosi Brewery — Potosi
Potosi Brewery is a true gem, with roots tracing back to 1852. Located in the small town of Potosi, this brewery combines history with a mission to support community efforts. As a nonprofit brewery, Potosi donates all its profits to charity and has restored its original brewery building to include a museum dedicated to beer and brewing history. Potosi’s brews often draw inspiration from historical recipes, creating a unique experience for beer lovers.
Must-try brews:
- Snake Hollow IPA: Hoppy with a malty backbone, perfect for IPA fans.
- Good Old Potosi: A smooth lager with a hint of caramel malt.
Central Waters Brewing Co. — Amherst
Central Waters Brewing Co. in Amherst is known for its commitment to sustainability and impressive barrel-aged beers. As one of Wisconsin’s first breweries to adopt a fully sustainable brewing process, Central Waters is serious about minimizing its environmental footprint. Their barrel-aged series, which includes rich stouts and porters, has become a favorite among beer connoisseurs and makes the brewery a worthwhile stop.
Must-try brews:
- Mudpuppy Porter: A robust porter with chocolate and roasted malt flavors.
- Bourbon Barrel Stout: A decadent, barrel-aged stout with vanilla and oak notes.
Hinterland Brewery — Green Bay
Hinterland Brewery, located just steps from Lambeau Field, brings an artisanal touch to Green Bay’s beer scene. With a focus on quality and locally sourced ingredients, Hinterland’s selection often includes seasonal brews that pair well with food from its in-house kitchen.
The brewery’s modern space is as popular with Packers fans as it is with beer lovers. It makes a perfect stop before or after a game to tailgate like a champ.
Must-try brews:
- Packerland Pilsner: A crisp, light beer ideal for game day.
- Luna Coffee Stout: Brewed with locally roasted coffee, perfect for stout fans.
Lazy Monk Brewing — Eau Claire
Lazy Monk Brewing in Eau Claire transports visitors to Central Europe with its traditional Czech and German-inspired brews. Founded by a Czech native, Lazy Monk takes pride in its authentic recipes and brewing methods, offering everything from Bohemian pilsners to rich German bocks. The brewery’s cozy taproom and outdoor beer garden are perfect for enjoying these classic styles in a relaxing atmosphere.
Must-try brews:
- Bohemian Pilsner: Crisp and refreshing with a touch of bitterness.
- Dunkelweizen: A dark wheat beer with hints of caramel and spice.
Karben4 Brewing — Madison
Karben4 Brewing has made a name for itself in Madison with its flavorful and approachable beers. Known for creative brews like Fantasy Factory, a hop-forward IPA, Karben4 balances bold flavors with drinkability. The laid-back taproom and outdoor patio make it easy to spend an afternoon sampling a range of unique brews.
Must-try brews:
- Fantasy Factory: A hoppy IPA with citrus and pine notes.
- NightCall: A robust porter with a smooth, coffee-infused finish.
Now, go take that trip
Wisconsin breweries aren’t just about the beer — they’re about getting to know the places and people that make each stop interesting. Whether you’re after a crisp lager or a punchy IPA, there’s something here to make the trip worthwhile. So, grab a friend, hit the road and see what these breweries have on tap.
Sara Nelson is the creator of Real Balanced, a food blog that showcases easy and balanced recipes. Since 2017, she has shared these recipes with thousands of blog readers and social media followers. Sara lives in Wisconsin with her family.