Craft Beer Lovers' Guide: Indianapolis' Best Breweries And Stores

where to buy craft beer in indianapolis

If you're a craft beer enthusiast in Indianapolis, you're in luck! The city boasts a thriving craft beer scene with numerous options for beer lovers. From local breweries to specialty shops, there are plenty of places to buy and enjoy unique, locally brewed beers. Whether you're looking for a cozy taproom experience or a well-stocked bottle shop, Indianapolis has something for every beer enthusiast.

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Local Breweries: Visit breweries like Sun King, Oaken Ale, and The Sunlight Supply Co. for fresh craft beer

If you're a craft beer enthusiast in Indianapolis, you're in luck! The city boasts a thriving craft beer scene with numerous local breweries offering unique and delicious brews. Here's a guide to some of the top breweries you should visit:

Sun King Brewery: Located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, Sun King is a pioneer in the city's craft beer movement. This brewery offers a wide range of beers, from their signature Sun King American Lager to more experimental and complex brews like the Sun King Imperial Stout. Their taproom is a cozy space where you can enjoy their beers on draft and even participate in their weekly beer-tasting events. Sun King also has a strong focus on sustainability, using renewable energy sources and local ingredients, making it an eco-conscious choice for beer lovers.

Oaken Ale House & Brewery: This brewery and restaurant is a favorite among locals for its cozy atmosphere and exceptional beer selection. Oaken Ale offers a variety of house-made beers, including their popular Oaken Ale, a well-balanced amber ale. They also feature seasonal brews and collaborate with local artists, adding unique flavors and ingredients to their beer. The restaurant serves delicious food pairings to complement their beers, making it a perfect spot for a casual evening or a group gathering.

The Sunlight Supply Co.: As the name suggests, this brewery is all about bringing sunlight and joy to your beer experience. They offer a diverse range of beers, from fruity and refreshing to bold and robust. Their most popular brew, the Sunlight Supply IPA, is a local favorite with its bright, citrusy notes. The brewery has a taproom and a beer garden, providing ample space to relax and enjoy their brews. They also organize beer-tasting flights and educational sessions, allowing visitors to explore different beer styles and flavors.

These local breweries offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Indianapolis' craft beer culture. Each brewery has its own distinct character and beer styles, ensuring there's something for every taste. Whether you're a local or just visiting, exploring these breweries will provide an unforgettable experience and a chance to support the city's thriving craft beer community.

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Beer Stores: Explore specialty beer stores like The Beer Den and The Beverage Company for a wide selection

If you're a craft beer enthusiast in Indianapolis, you're in luck! The city boasts a thriving craft beer scene, and there are numerous specialty beer stores where you can explore and indulge in a wide variety of unique and locally brewed beers. Here's a guide to help you navigate the best beer stores in the area:

The Beer Den: This is a popular destination for beer lovers in Indianapolis. Located in the heart of the city, The Beer Den offers an extensive selection of craft beers from local and national breweries. With a focus on providing a unique and diverse beer experience, they stock a range of styles, including IPAs, stouts, sours, and fruity beers. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through their extensive inventory, helping you discover new favorites. They also offer growlers and beer-related merchandise, making it a one-stop shop for all your craft beer needs.

The Beverage Company: Another excellent option for beer enthusiasts is The Beverage Company, which has multiple locations across Indianapolis. This store takes pride in offering a vast array of craft beers, with a particular emphasis on local and regional producers. You can find limited-edition releases, unique collaborations, and hard-to-find brews here. The Beverage Company also provides a tasting room where you can sample different beers and even participate in beer-tasting events. Their friendly staff is always ready to share their expertise and ensure you have a memorable beer-buying experience.

These specialty beer stores offer a more curated and personalized shopping experience compared to traditional supermarkets or convenience stores. Here's why you should explore these options: Firstly, they provide a vast selection, ensuring you can find beers that cater to various tastes and preferences. From small, independent breweries to well-known craft beer brands, these stores offer a comprehensive range. Secondly, the knowledgeable staff can offer valuable insights, helping you understand the nuances of different beer styles, brewing techniques, and regional variations. They can also provide recommendations based on your individual preferences.

Additionally, visiting these specialty stores allows you to support local breweries and contribute to the growth of the craft beer community in Indianapolis. By purchasing from these stores, you're directly supporting the artisans and brewers who put their passion into creating these unique beverages. So, whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or just starting your journey into the world of craft beer, exploring The Beer Den and The Beverage Company will undoubtedly enhance your beer-drinking experience.

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Farmers Markets: Check out weekly farmers markets for local microbrews and unique beer offerings

If you're a craft beer enthusiast in Indianapolis, exploring the city's vibrant farmers markets is a fantastic way to discover unique and locally brewed beers. These markets offer a chance to support local farmers and producers while enjoying a variety of beer options that you might not find elsewhere. Here's a guide to help you navigate the beer offerings at these markets:

Market Schedule: Farmers markets in Indianapolis typically operate on a weekly basis, often on Saturdays or Sundays. It's a good idea to check the market's schedule in advance to ensure you don't miss out on the beer offerings. Markets like the Indy Farmers Market, located in the heart of the city, offer a wide range of local produce and, surprisingly, a selection of craft beers.

Local Microbreweries: Many farmers markets feature local microbreweries and breweries that set up stalls to sell their unique creations. These breweries often have a passion for experimenting with flavors and ingredients, resulting in small-batch, handcrafted beers. You might find limited-edition releases, experimental brews, or even beers infused with local produce, such as fruits or herbs. For instance, you could visit the Short North Market, where breweries like Sun King Brewing Company and The Sunlight Supply Company often participate, offering their signature beers.

Beer Selection: The variety of beers available at farmers markets can be impressive. You can expect to find a range of styles, from crisp and refreshing lagers to robust, hop-forward IPAs and rich stouts. Some markets might even host beer-tasting events or beer-themed workshops, providing an opportunity to learn about the brewing process and the unique characteristics of each beer. For a truly local experience, look for beers that are exclusive to the market or have limited distribution.

Engage with the Breweries: Farmers markets provide a great platform for direct interaction with the brewers. You can ask questions about their brewing process, ingredients, and inspiration behind their beer creations. Many breweries also offer samples, allowing you to taste their beers before making a purchase. This personal connection can enhance your appreciation for the craft and provide insights into the local beer culture.

Supporting Local Businesses: By purchasing craft beer at farmers markets, you're not only supporting local microbreweries but also contributing to the community's economic growth. This approach aligns with the farmers market's philosophy of promoting local produce and businesses. It's a win-win situation, as you get to enjoy unique beers while fostering a sustainable and vibrant local economy.

Remember, each farmers market is unique, and the beer offerings may vary from week to week. Plan your visits accordingly, and don't be afraid to explore different markets to discover hidden gems in the Indianapolis craft beer scene. Happy beer hunting!

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Bars and Pubs: Enjoy craft beer at popular bars like The Blue Circle Brewing Company and The Post

If you're a craft beer enthusiast in Indianapolis, you're in for a treat! The city boasts a thriving craft beer scene with numerous bars and pubs offering a wide variety of local brews. Here's a guide to some of the top spots to satisfy your beer cravings:

The Blue Circle Brewing Company: Located in the heart of downtown, this brewery and taproom is a favorite among locals. With an extensive menu, it showcases their own brews, including IPAs, stouts, and seasonal specials. The Blue Circle offers a cozy atmosphere, often hosting live music events and beer-tasting sessions, making it an ideal place to socialize and indulge in some of the best craft beers Indianapolis has to offer. Their friendly staff can guide you through their ever-changing selection, ensuring you find your new favorite brew.

The Post: This historic pub, situated in the vibrant Fountain Square neighborhood, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. It has become a go-to destination for beer lovers, featuring an impressive list of local and regional craft beers on tap. The Post offers a unique, rustic-chic ambiance with exposed brick walls and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Their menu also includes delicious pub fare, perfect for pairing with your chosen beer. Whether you're a fan of pale ales or prefer something darker, The Post's diverse beer selection will keep you coming back for more.

Both of these establishments are renowned for their commitment to showcasing the best of Indiana's craft beer scene. From unique, small-batch brews to traditional styles, you'll find a diverse range of flavors and aromas to explore. These bars and pubs not only provide an exceptional drinking experience but also contribute to the local community by supporting small, independent breweries.

When visiting these venues, you can expect friendly service, knowledgeable staff, and a vibrant atmosphere. Many of these bars also organize events, such as beer-tasting workshops, brewery takeovers, and live music, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to look forward to. So, whether you're a resident or just visiting Indianapolis, make sure to include these craft beer hotspots on your itinerary!

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Online Retailers: Order craft beer online from platforms like Drizly and BeerAdvocate for convenient delivery

If you're a craft beer enthusiast in Indianapolis, you're in luck! The city has a thriving craft beer scene, and there are numerous online platforms that make it incredibly convenient to access a wide variety of beers. Two popular options for ordering craft beer online are Drizly and BeerAdvocate.

Drizly is a well-known online retailer that partners with local stores to offer a vast selection of craft beers. It's an excellent choice for those who want the convenience of online ordering without compromising on the quality of their beer. Here's how it works: simply download the Drizly app or visit their website, browse their extensive inventory, and select the beers you desire. You can filter by style, brewery, or even specific beer brands. Once you've made your choices, provide your delivery address, and Drizly will connect you with a nearby store that can fulfill your order. The store will then deliver the beers directly to your doorstep, often within a short time frame.

BeerAdvocate, on the other hand, is a unique platform that goes beyond just selling beer. It's a comprehensive resource for beer enthusiasts, offering a vast database of beer reviews, ratings, and information. While you can purchase beer through their website, it's more of a marketplace where independent retailers and specialty stores list their products. This platform is ideal for those who want to explore and discover new beers, as you can read detailed reviews and ratings to guide your choices. You can filter by style, brewery, and even specific attributes like bitterness or alcohol content. Once you've found the perfect beer, you can order it directly through BeerAdvocate, and they will connect you with a retailer who will then deliver it to your location.

Both Drizly and BeerAdvocate provide a seamless and efficient way to access craft beers in Indianapolis. With just a few clicks or taps on your device, you can have a wide variety of beers delivered to your home or office. These platforms often offer convenient delivery options, allowing you to choose a time that suits you best. Whether you're a busy professional or simply prefer the convenience of online shopping, these online retailers are a great way to explore and enjoy the diverse craft beer scene that Indianapolis has to offer.

Frequently asked questions

Indianapolis has a thriving craft beer scene with several local breweries. Some popular spots include Sun King Brewing Company, which offers a wide range of unique and seasonal beers, and The Nook, known for its cozy atmosphere and a variety of local and regional brews. You can also check out the list of breweries on the Indianapolis Beer Trail, which provides a map and information on various breweries and taprooms across the city.

Yes, there are a few specialty beer stores that cater to the craft beer enthusiast. One notable example is The Beer Nut, a local chain with multiple locations in Indianapolis. They offer a vast selection of craft beers, including local, regional, and international brands, as well as a variety of beer-related merchandise and accessories.

Online beer shopping is an option for Indianapolis residents. Many local breweries and specialty stores offer online ordering and delivery or pickup services. Websites like Indiana Beer Market or local brewery websites often provide an online store where you can browse and purchase a variety of craft beers, sometimes with the added benefit of subscription services or exclusive online offerings.

Indianapolis hosts several beer festivals and events throughout the year, providing an opportunity to sample a wide range of craft beers. The Indianapolis Beer Week is a popular annual event featuring various brewery takeovers, special releases, and tasting events. Additionally, the Indianapolis Craft Beer Festival is a great way to explore local brews and meet the brewers behind them.

Supporting local breweries is a great way to contribute to the city's craft beer culture. You can start by visiting brewery taprooms and restaurants, as many local businesses rely on foot traffic. Buying directly from breweries, whether through their online stores or at their taprooms, ensures that your money goes directly to the producers. Additionally, consider joining local beer clubs or societies that promote and support the craft beer community in Indianapolis.

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