We Asked, You Answered: 19 of the best breweries in Michigan

Get a taste of Michigan with our readers’ favorite state breweries. 

Recently, we asked a question to our followers on Facebook: What’s the best brewery in Michigan?

Many Michiganders answered the call. This story highlights breweries that got the most love, but you can see the full comments here (plus add any favorites you think we missed).

Bell’s Brewery 

Locations: 355 E Kalamazoo Ave, Kalamazoo and 8938 Krum Ave, Galesburg

Bell’s Brewery is one of the oldest and largest craft breweries in the United States. Bell’s is known for its wide range of beers, from traditional styles such as lagers and porters, to unique seasonal beers like the highly popular Oberon wheat ale. Bell’s has won numerous awards over the years and is widely recognized as one of the leading craft breweries in the United States.

We suggest trying: Bell’s Two Hearted Ale

Google Review: “Upon arrival I was assaulted by a variety of libations beyond my frail imagining. The beers, meads, and fermented joys of this establishment are on par with nectars of Olympus.”—AC

(Photo via Bell’s Brewery)

Short’s Brewing Co. 

Locations: 211 Industrial Park Drive, Elk Rapids and 121 N Bridge St, Bellaire

Short’s is one of the largest craft breweries in Michigan and distributes its products both within and outside of the state. Short’s is well known for its creative and innovative flavors, like the higher-ABV and very fruity Soft Parade fruit ale, which appeals to a wide range of beer drinkers.

We suggest trying: Soft Parade Fruit Ale

Google Review: “What can I say about Short’s Brewing that you don’t already know. It’s been one of my favorite breweries for almost two decades. This place doesn’t have all the exotic flavors that you might have had or heard of, but there are twenty five or so options. And it’s certainly a nice little spot along the highway to grab a pint.”—CR

(Photo via Short’s Brewing Company)

HOMES Brewery 

Location: 2321 Jackson Ave, Ann Arbor

HOMES Brewery specializes in hoppy and sour beers. The craft brewery also features a “HOMES Campus,” which is a creative community of businesses that are centered around HOMES. 

We suggest trying: Paradox of Plenty IPA

Google Review: “Had a great time here! Sat at the bar and tried a variety of beers, enjoyed them all. We also ordered a few different dishes to snack on and were impressed with the flavors and quality of everything…not your typical pub grub by any means! Everything we ordered came out quickly as well. Interacted with numerous staff members during the course of our visit and all were friendly and engaging. Looking forward to a repeat the next time we’re in AA!”—MW

Keweenaw Brewing Co.

Location: 408 Shelden Ave, Houghton, MI 49931

Keweenaw Brewing, located on the Keweenaw Peninsula, offers a wide selection of beers everyday. No worries if you’re unable to make it to the Upper Peninsula, because Keweenaw Brewing distributes its specialty ales and other beers across Michigan and Wisconsin. 

We suggest trying: Red Ridge Citrus Ale

Google Review: “What truly sets Keweenaw Brewing Company apart is their dedication to crafting delicious local beers. As a fan of craft beer, I was thrilled to sample their diverse selection of brews, each one bursting with flavor and character. From crisp, refreshing lagers to rich, robust stouts, there was something for every palate to enjoy.”—Brandon P. 

Odd Side Ales 

Location: 41 Washington Ave STE 160, Grand Haven

Odd Side Ales began as a microbrewery but quickly expanded. Ever since, it’s become a favorite destination for craft beer lovers in the area and across the country. The brewery produces a wide variety of ales, hard seltzers, barrel-aged beers, and other specialty and seasonal beers.

We suggest trying: Bean Flicker Blonde 

Google Review: “So obsessed with the beer and atmosphere that we had our wedding rehearsal dinner here!”—Alanna K. 

New Holland Brewing 

Locations: 417 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids/ 66 E 8th St, Holland / 64 W. Michigan Ave., Battle Creek/ 201 Culver St., Saugatuck/ 253 Center St., South Haven

New Holland Brewing is a widely recognized leader in the craft brewing and distilling industry. It produces and sells beers and spirits across the United States and around the world. The company has multiple locations in Michigan, and even its own spirits lounge.

We suggest trying: Dragons Milk 

Google Review: “Really solid brewery and able to handle very large crowds. It does get really busy so get there early. Their Dragon’s Milk line is really smooth for high ABV. Enjoyed all the beers I had and would go back.”—Cliff R. 

(Photo via New Holland Brewing Company)

Old Nation Brewing 

Location: 500 Grand River Ave, Williamston

Old Nation Brewing works is deeply rooted in a German style of brewing, pumping out both year-round and seasonal beers. Old Nation has won numerous awards for its beers, and prides itself on creating high-quality brews.

We suggest trying: M-43 IPA

Google Review: “The beer was fresh and so was the food; both were fantastic. Glad I was able to make it out here for the first time as I’m a big fan of M-43 but I was also impressed with Boreal and their beer cheese pretzel combo, and the mac n cheese tasted homemade. They were incredibly fast in the kitchen as well. Great experience!”—Logan W. 

Black Rocks Brewery 

Location: 424 N 3rd St, Marquette

Black Rocks Brewery has become a local favorite for its wide variety of craft beer styles, ranging from IPAs to ales, lagers, and more. The brewery also hosts live music, making it a popular destination for music-lovers who want to take in a show, beer in hand.

We suggest trying: 51K IPA

Google Review: “The best brewery in Marquette. Absolutely wonderful and friendly staff as well as the regular clientele. Service was fast and they have multiple bars to keep the beers flowing. Constant live music indoor and outdoor seating space upstairs and downstairs there’s always a place for you. They’re standing beers are amazing and they have excellent seasonal rotations. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.”—Joseph S. 

Ore Dock Brewing Co. 

Location: 114 W Spring St, Marquette

Ore Dock Brewing focuses on traditional brewing methods and premium ingredients. It’s less focused on creating innovative flavors and more focused on creating a signature style with favorites you can come back to. Ore Dock has a wide variety of beers to choose from—plus hard seltzers. 

We suggest trying: Berserker IPA

Google Review: “We visited the Ore Dock Brewery on our wedding day in September of 2022. It was the perfect place to bring a snack and have a drink while out and about taking pictures in Marquette. The staff was super friendly and opened up the upstairs for us which we had to ourselves making for some really cool wedding day pictures. The beer was amazing! I am a huge IPA fan and my husband likes stout and wheat beer. Must visit spot if you are in the area.”—Anja T.

Dark Horse Brewery 

Location: 11 S Kalamazoo Ave, Marshall

Once the subject of a History Channel show, Dark Horse Brewery rotates seasonal taps and keeps its classics around year-round. The Marshall-based craft brewery produces 18 different beers, specializing in stouts, ales and IPAs.

We suggest trying: Reserve Special Black Ale

Google Review:

Greenbush Brewing 

Location: 5885 Sawyer Rd, Sawyer

Greenbush Brewing specializes in small-batch beers. Its flagship offerings include ales, stouts, and IPAs.

We suggest trying: 400 Divine Rabbits Pale Wheat Ale

Google Review: “Always has been one of my favorites stops. I had (again) the Reserve Special Black Ale. One of my favorite beers. For lunch we had the brisket sandwich and the Gobbler. Both good.”—John C.

Right Brain Brewery 

Location: 225 E Sixteenth St, Traverse City

If you’re looking to try something new, Right Brain Brewery loves to experiment with unconventional ingredients. It brews with unique styles and materials, like whole pig parts. Its unique take on beer may not be for everyone, but it also has some home run hits. 

We suggest trying: Thai Peanut Butter Brown Ale 

Google Review: “Their beers were all top notch, and oddly enough I think the Thai Peanut beer was my favorite. The place has a lot of local art for sale, but all the pinball machines available for play are a really draw. It’s just a fun place to spend time.”—Mateo G. 

Original Gravity Brewing Co. 

Location: 440 County St, Milan

Known for its great beer, Original Gravity is a family-friendly microbrewery. From classic styles to experimental brews, it has a wide range of beers to choose from. 

We suggest trying: Primordial Porter

Google Review: “Great brewery! Their ciders are some of my favorites, not too sweet with good flavor. They have a decent food menu too with sandwiches and light bites.”—Carrie H.

Hop Lot Brewing Co. 

Location: 658 S W Bay Shore Dr, Suttons Bay

Hop Lot focuses on traditional ales. 

Besides the brewery, Hop Lot also has a beer garden perfect for embracing Up North’s outdoors. The beer garden has campfires, picnic tables, outdoors games, igloos you can eat in, and much more. 

We suggest trying: Uncle Green Guy IPA

Google Review: “This is one of our favorite breweries. The beer garden is amazing. They have fire pits, plenty of tables, conversation areas, a stage and wild hops growing. The food is good! The beer is good too. It’s a fun day trip from Traverse City. We like to stop into town and visit the beach when we’re there.”—Amber C.

Brew Detroit 

Location: 1401 Abbott St., Detroit 

Brew Detroit creates artistic craft beers. It has 12 original beers (eight core, four seasonal) to choose from and is one of the most sought-after beer brands in the region. 

We suggest trying: Cerveza Delray Mexican-Style Lager 

Google Review: “Yet another great craft beer place! We went there for dinner and the smash burger plus the (spicy) chicken sandwich did not disappoint. Great fries too! And the beers are also very good – lots of them on tap with a nice variety of IPAs, lagers and stouts, so everybody should find something they like.”—Stefan S. 

(Photo via Bre Detroit)

Drafting Table Brewing Co. 

Location: 49438 Pontiac Trail, Wixom 

Drafting Table Brewing is a microbrewery that serves 16 beers and two hard ciders. 

This drafting table chooses not to have a kitchen, so the owners encourage visitors to bring food from local dining spots or grab a bite from visiting food trucks. 

We suggest trying: Rezolute IPA

Google Review: “I have nothing but great things to say about my experience here. First, our server was extremely attentive and sweet. The last time we were there was a year ago and he recognized us. We did the beer flights—I chose all the fruity beers. Husband chose the porters and some others. My favorites were the strawberry and cider, but their coffee beer was phenomenal! We played darts, drank beer, and had a wonderful evening.”—AG

(Photo via Drafting Table Brewing Company)

Dog and Pony Show Brewing 

Location: 14661 W Eleven Mile Rd, Oak Park

Dog and Pony Show Brewing offers many craft beers and an open environment perfect for socializing. It doesn’t have a kitchen but often has plenty of food trucks present. 

We suggest trying: Coconut Prophet Porter

Google Review: “Their beer was great! The atmosphere is awesome. Although Dog and Pony is a newer brewery I’m confident it’s here to stay. I can’t wait to go back and try some more delicious beer!!!”—Troy K. 

Homegrown Brewing Co. 

Location: 28 N Washington St., Oxford

Homegrown brews its beers in small batches using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Homegrown has six year-round beers and seasonal, as well as experimental, beer collections throughout the year. 

We suggest trying: Oxford Ale 

Google Review: “My hubs and I go to Homegrown quite a bit and always have a fabulous time! The owners are super nice, staff are friendly, and the food & beer are great! I love the specials! Always something new to enjoy. Plus, they have live music every week and their patio is dog friendly!”—Kate W. 

Dragonmead Brewery 

Location: 14600 E 11 Mile Rd., Warren

Founded in 1997, Dragonmead is a microbrewery. Dragonmead offers 40 different styles of beers. Besides beer, it also makes its own wine, vodka, and flavored vodka. 

We suggest trying: Final Absolution Trippel 

Google Review: “Of course the main attraction is their AMAZING beer! Tried a flight and was blown away by Sin Eater and the Strabery Rhubarb. Final Absolution and Lancelots Cream Ale always great! I really want to visit on one of their D&D nights!”—Troy K.