Chicago has long been known as a beer destination. It’s home to some of the most iconic breweries in the country, and the number of craft breweries in the city and across the entire state of Illinois continues to grow. So, how many breweries are in the Chicago area?
As of 2021, there are more than 130 breweries in the Chicago area, including 80+ in the city itself. This is a significant increase from recent years, when the city had fewer than 50 breweries operating.
Many of the breweries in the city are well-established, with some dating back to the 19th century. One of the oldest breweries in the area is the Goose Island Beer Company, which was founded in 1988.
The city and its surrounding suburbs boast a wide variety of breweries, ranging from small, local establishments to large-scale operations. Local favorites include Half Acre Beer Company, which opened in 2008, and Revolution Brewing, which opened in 2010.
In addition to traditional craft breweries, the area is also home to several brewpubs, tap houses, and brew-on-premise establishments. These businesses offer visitors the chance to taste and learn about craft beers in a more intimate setting.
The Chicago area also has a number of popular beer festivals and events, such as the Chicago Beer Festival and the National Craft Beer Week, both of which attract thousands of beer enthusiasts each year.
The city is also home to a number of beer-focused bars and restaurants, making it easy for visitors to sample a variety of craft brews. These establishments often feature taps from some of the city’s most popular breweries.
With its wide selection of craft breweries, beer events, and beer-focused bars and restaurants, it’s no surprise that the Chicago area has become a popular destination for beer lovers. The city’s breweries offer visitors the chance to experience a variety of craft beers, from traditional lagers to cutting-edge IPAs and sours.
The Number of Breweries in Chicago’s Surrounding Area
Chicago is home to hundreds of craft breweries, from small neighborhood brewpubs to large production breweries that span the entire region. With so many options, it can be hard to keep track of all the great beers that are being produced in the area. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of all the breweries in the Chicago area, along with their locations and specialties.
Our list includes some of the most popular breweries in the city, such as Half Acre, Revolution, and Lagunitas. There are also a few lesser-known craft breweries in the Chicago area, such as Off Color and Begyle Brewing. Each of these breweries is known for their unique beers and styles, and they all offer something different.
If you’re looking for something a bit more specialized, there are a number of breweries in the Chicago area that specialize in a particular style or flavor. For example, the Haymarket Pub & Brewery is renowned for their Belgian-style beers, while Finch’s Beer Co. is known for their hoppy ales. There are also a number of cideries, meaderies, and wineries in the Chicago area. If you’re looking for something a bit more unusual, you can even find a sake brewery in the city.
Breweries in the Chicago area come in all shapes and sizes, and they can be found in every corner of the city. From the small neighborhood brewpubs to the large-scale production breweries, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a light lager or an imperial stout, you’ll find it in the Chicago area.
| Brewery | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Half Acre | Lincoln Square | Hoppy ales and lagers |
| Revolution Brewing | Avondale | India pale ales and barrel-aged beers |
| Lagunitas Brewing | Douglas Park | Hoppy ales |
| Off Color Brewing | Logan Square | Sour ales and lagers |
| Begyle Brewing | Lincoln Square | IPAs and small-batch lagers |
| Haymarket Pub & Brewery | West Town | Belgian-style beers |
| Finch’s Beer Co. | Ravenswood | Hoppy ales |
| Kagoule Sake | Cragin | Sake and shochu |
Discovering the Top Craft Breweries in the Chicago Region
Chicago is home to many craft breweries. But with so many to choose from, it can be difficult to know which ones to visit. Fortunately, we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the top craft breweries in the Chicago region.
Each of these breweries offers something different and unique. From award-winning beers to specialty seasonal styles, there’s something for everyone. The breweries also offer a variety of events, from beer launches to brewery tours.
Here’s a look at the top craft breweries in the Chicago area:
| Brewery | Price Range | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Half Acre Beer Company | $5-10 | Offers a wide selection of beers, from IPAs to sour ales, plus a taproom with food, live music, and special events. |
| Revolution Brewing | $5-10 | Brews a variety of year-round and seasonal beers, plus a taproom with a full bar, rotating food trucks, and live music. |
| Mikerphone Brewing | $5-10 | Brews a range of craft beers, from IPAs to stouts, plus a rotating selection of guest beers and ciders. |
| Baderbrau Brewing | $5-10 | Brews craft beers, including lagers, ales, and IPAs, plus seasonal specialties, plus a taproom with occasional live music. |
| Spiteful Brewing | $5-10 | Brews a variety of craft beers, from ales to lagers, plus a taproom with guest beers, food, and live music. |
These are some of the top craft breweries in the Chicago area. Each one offers something different, so be sure to check them out and find your favorite spot.
There are over 300 breweries in the Chicago area.
Yes, there are several annual beer festivals in the Chicago area.
Yes, there are a number of micro-breweries in the Chicago area.
The breweries in the Chicago area brew a wide variety of beer styles.
The oldest brewery in the Chicago area is Goose Island, which was founded in 1988.
Yes, there are several brewpubs in the Chicago area.
Yes, there is a craft beer trail in Chicago that passes through several local breweries.
Yes, there are a number of breweries in the Chicago area that offer regular tours.
Yes, there are several breweries in the Chicago area that also serve food.
Yes, there are several breweries in the Chicago area that host live music performances.