Chicago's Best Craft Beer Spots: A Guide To Local Brews

If you're a craft beer enthusiast in Chicago, you're in for a treat! The city boasts a thriving craft beer scene with numerous options for beer lovers. Whether you're a local or a visitor, finding the best places to buy craft beer in Chicago is essential. From cozy taprooms to specialty shops, the city offers a diverse range of venues where you can explore unique and innovative brews. In this guide, we'll explore the top spots to discover and purchase craft beer, ensuring you have an unforgettable beer-tasting experience in the Windy City.

Local Breweries: Explore Chicago's craft beer scene at breweries like Goose Island and Revolution Brewing

If you're a craft beer enthusiast in Chicago, you're in for a real treat. The city boasts a thriving craft beer scene with numerous local breweries offering unique and diverse brews. Here's a guide to help you explore and discover some of the best places to buy and enjoy craft beer in Chicago.

Goose Island: One of the most iconic and well-known breweries in Chicago, Goose Island has been a pioneer in the craft beer movement. Located in the West Loop, their taproom offers a vibrant atmosphere and an extensive selection of their award-winning beers. From their famous Goose Island IPA to the seasonal brews, you can indulge in a variety of flavors. The taproom also hosts regular events, including beer-tasting sessions and live music, making it a popular spot for beer lovers. You can purchase their beers at their taproom, as well as through various retailers and restaurants across the city.

Revolution Brewing: Another local favorite, Revolution Brewing, is a craft beer enthusiast's paradise. With multiple locations across Chicago, including the iconic Fulton Market location, they offer a wide range of beers, from their popular 312 Urban Wheat Ale to their experimental and limited-edition brews. Revolution Brewing is known for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement. They often collaborate with local artists and charities, making each beer purchase a contribution to a good cause. Their taproom provides a cozy space to enjoy a pint and socialize with fellow beer enthusiasts.

Both Goose Island and Revolution Brewing offer tours and tasting experiences, providing an opportunity to learn about the brewing process and sample their unique creations. These breweries also engage with the community by hosting events, such as beer festivals, food pairings, and educational workshops, allowing beer lovers to connect and celebrate their shared passion.

Exploring these local breweries is a great way to support Chicago's craft beer industry and discover new, exciting flavors. Whether you're a local or a visitor, immersing yourself in the city's craft beer scene will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. So, grab a friend, head to one of these breweries, and embark on a journey through Chicago's diverse and delicious craft beer landscape.

Specialty Stores: Find unique craft beers at stores like The Beer Store and The Beverage People

If you're a craft beer enthusiast in Chicago, specialty stores are your go-to destinations for discovering unique and diverse beer offerings. These stores cater to the city's thriving craft beer culture, providing a wide range of options that you might not find in your average grocery or convenience store.

One popular spot is The Beer Store, located in the heart of Chicago. This store boasts an impressive selection of craft beers from local and regional breweries. With shelves stacked high and a knowledgeable staff, you're guaranteed to find something new to try. From hop-forward IPAs to fruity sours, The Beer Store offers a comprehensive exploration of the craft beer world. They often host events and tasting sessions, allowing you to engage with the community and learn about different beer styles.

Another gem is The Beverage People, a family-owned business with multiple locations across Chicago. This store takes pride in its extensive collection of craft beers, ciders, and even hard-to-find specialty drinks. The Beverage People's staff is passionate about beer and happy to offer recommendations tailored to your taste. They frequently update their inventory, ensuring that you'll always discover something new. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this store provides a welcoming environment to explore and expand your beer horizons.

Both of these specialty stores offer more than just beer; they provide an experience. You can engage with the community, learn from experts, and connect with fellow beer enthusiasts. The staff's expertise and passion make these stores invaluable resources for anyone looking to delve deeper into the craft beer scene.

In addition to these stores, Chicago's craft beer culture is thriving with local breweries and taprooms. Exploring these venues can further enhance your beer-buying experience, allowing you to support local businesses and enjoy fresh, locally brewed beers. So, whether you're a resident or a visitor, make sure to check out these specialty stores and immerse yourself in Chicago's vibrant craft beer community.

Grocery Stores: Many Chicago grocery stores offer craft beer selections, including Whole Foods and Trader Joe's

If you're a craft beer enthusiast in Chicago, you're in luck! The city boasts a thriving craft beer scene, and many grocery stores have embraced this trend, offering a wide variety of craft beers to their customers. Here's a guide to help you navigate the grocery store aisles for your next craft beer purchase.

One popular option is Whole Foods Market, a well-known grocery chain with several locations across Chicago. Their beer section is carefully curated, featuring a range of local and national craft beers. You can find unique and limited-edition releases from Chicago-based breweries like Goose Island, Half Acre, and Revolution. Whole Foods often has a dedicated craft beer aisle, making it easy to browse and discover new favorites. Look out for their weekly specials and promotions, which can offer great deals on craft beer packs or mixed cases.

Trader Joe's, another beloved grocery store in Chicago, also contributes to the city's craft beer culture. They have a smaller but equally impressive selection of craft beers, often featuring unique collaborations and seasonal releases. Trader Joe's is known for its affordable prices and convenient locations, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quick craft beer fix. Keep an eye out for their exclusive beer offerings, which can be a great way to support local breweries and try something new.

In addition to these popular chains, other grocery stores like Jewel-Osco, Mariano's, and Aldi also carry craft beers. While their selections may vary, you can often find a few local craft beers on their shelves. These stores might not have the extensive range of a specialty shop, but they can be a convenient option for grabbing a quick six-pack or a few bottles for a casual gathering.

When visiting these grocery stores, be sure to explore the different brands and styles available. Many stores provide tasting notes or descriptions to help you choose, ensuring you find a beer that suits your taste. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or a curious newcomer, Chicago's grocery stores offer a convenient gateway to the city's vibrant craft beer community.

Online Retailers: Order craft beers online from platforms like Drizly and BeerAdvocate

If you're a craft beer enthusiast in Chicago, you're in luck! The city is brimming with incredible breweries and a thriving craft beer culture. But what if you're craving a specific brew that's not available locally or you simply want the convenience of having your favorite beers delivered to your doorstep? Online retailers have got you covered, offering a vast selection of craft beers from various breweries across the country.

Two popular platforms to explore are Drizly and BeerAdvocate. These online retailers have become go-to destinations for beer lovers seeking a diverse range of craft beers. Here's how they work and why they might be your new best friends for beer shopping.

Drizly: This platform is a game-changer for those who want to buy beer online and have it delivered right to their door. Drizly partners with local stores and breweries, allowing you to browse their extensive inventory and place orders with just a few clicks. The process is straightforward: you search for your desired craft beer, select the store or brewery that carries it, and then provide your delivery address. Drizly ensures that your order is prepared and delivered by a local courier, often within an hour. This service is especially useful for those who want to support local businesses while enjoying a wide variety of craft beers.

BeerAdvocate: This website is a treasure trove for beer enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive database of beers from around the world. It provides detailed information, reviews, and ratings, making it an invaluable resource for finding and learning about craft beers. BeerAdvocate also has an online store where you can purchase beers directly. You can filter and search for specific styles, breweries, or even individual beers, making it easy to discover new favorites. The platform often features limited-edition releases and exclusive collaborations, giving you access to beers that might not be readily available in your local stores.

Both Drizly and BeerAdvocate offer convenient and secure payment options, ensuring a seamless shopping experience. With these platforms, you can explore the vast world of craft beers, support local breweries, and enjoy the convenience of having your favorite brews delivered to your home or office. So, whether you're a Chicago resident or just visiting, these online retailers are a great way to expand your beer horizons and discover the best craft beers the city has to offer.

Craft Beer Festivals: Attend Chicago's craft beer festivals for a wide variety of local and regional beers

If you're a craft beer enthusiast in Chicago, attending craft beer festivals is an excellent way to explore the diverse and vibrant beer scene the city has to offer. These festivals bring together numerous local and regional breweries, providing an opportunity to sample a wide range of unique and innovative beers. Here's a guide to help you navigate and make the most of your craft beer festival experience in Chicago.

Chicago's craft beer festivals are renowned for their variety and quality. These events often feature a vast selection of beers, from classic lagers and pale ales to more experimental and limited-edition brews. You can expect to find traditional styles from established breweries alongside innovative creations from up-and-coming crafters. The festivals typically showcase a mix of well-known and lesser-known breweries, ensuring there's something for every beer lover's taste.

Attending these festivals is a great way to discover new favorite beers and support local businesses. Many of the breweries participating in these events are based in Chicago or nearby regions, and by attending, you're directly contributing to their success. You'll have the chance to meet the brewers, learn about their brewing processes, and even purchase unique merchandise or limited-edition releases that you might not find elsewhere.

When planning your festival visits, it's a good idea to check the event schedules and locations in advance. Chicago hosts several craft beer festivals throughout the year, each with its own theme and participating breweries. Some festivals focus on a specific style or region, while others offer a comprehensive overview of the city's diverse beer landscape. Online platforms and local beer-focused websites can provide you with detailed information, including dates, venues, and ticket prices.

During the festival, take your time to sample different beers and engage with the brewers. Many events offer tasting sessions or workshops where you can learn about beer styles, brewing techniques, and food pairings. Some festivals also feature live music and entertainment, creating a fun and festive atmosphere. Remember to drink responsibly and enjoy the experience, as these festivals are a celebration of the art and passion behind craft beer.

By attending Chicago's craft beer festivals, you'll not only expand your beer knowledge but also contribute to the thriving local craft beer culture. It's an opportunity to connect with like-minded enthusiasts and create memorable experiences. So, mark your calendars, grab your tasting glasses, and head out to these festivals to explore the best of Chicago's craft beer scene!

Frequently asked questions