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One of our favorite ways to explore Minnesota is by finding a great brewery and turning it into a full day trip.
Sometimes it leads to a small-town hidden gem with a cozy taproom. Other times it turns into an entire weekend built around lake towns, downtown walks, hiking trails, or amazing food. That’s one of the best things about Minnesota breweries — they’re rarely just about the beer.
Over the last few years, we’ve visited breweries all over Minnesota, from Minneapolis taprooms to laid-back breweries in small towns like Dundas and Northfield. Some are perfect for a quick stop, while others are absolutely worth planning an overnight getaway around.
If you’re looking for Minnesota breweries that are worth the drive, these are some of our favorites so far.
- Fulton Beer Taproom – Minneapolis, MN
- Fulton Beer Taproom – Minneapolis, MN
- Tanzenwald Brewing Company – Northfield, MN
- Chapel Brewing – Dundas, MN
- Forager Brewing Company – Rochester, MN
- Excelsior Brewing Company – Excelsior, MN
- Reads Landing Brewing Company – Reads Landing, MN
- Reads Landing Brewing Company – Reads Landing, MN
- Tips for Planning a Minnesota Brewery Road Trip
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota Breweries
Fulton Beer Taproom – Minneapolis, MN
If you’re planning a brewery day in Minneapolis, Fulton Beer Taproom is an easy choice.
Located in the North Loop near Target Field, this brewery has the kind of atmosphere that works whether you’re heading to a Twins game, meeting friends for food and drinks, or just exploring Minneapolis for the day.
One thing we really liked about Fulton is that it’s approachable. Some breweries can feel overly serious or intimidating if you’re not deep into craft beer culture, but Fulton feels welcoming and relaxed.
The Lonely Blonde is probably their most famous beer for good reason — light, crisp, and easy to drink — and the food honestly surprised us in the best way possible. The cheese curds, smashburger, and tater tot poutine all felt like perfect brewery food.
Why it’s worth the trip:
- Great North Loop location
- Excellent food menu
- Easy stop before a Twins game
- One of the most approachable breweries in Minneapolis
While you’re there:
Walk around the North Loop, check out Target Field, or spend time exploring downtown Minneapolis.
Read more: Fulton Brewery Minneapolis: Where Great Beer Meets Great Food
Fulton Beer Taproom – Minneapolis, MN
Address:
414 N 6th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Tanzenwald Brewing Company – Northfield, MN
Tanzenwald Brewing Company feels like one of those breweries people wish they had in their hometown.
Located in downtown Northfield, this brewery mixes cozy atmosphere, European-inspired beer, and genuinely good food into one really enjoyable experience.
We tried the Tanzima and It’ll Buff, and both were smooth, balanced, and easy to drink. But honestly, the food deserves just as much attention as the beer.
The Brussels sprouts disappeared fast, and the pulled pork sandwich with fries was exactly the kind of comfort food you want at a brewery.
One of the best parts about Tanzenwald is how easy it is to turn the visit into a full day trip. Northfield itself is a fun town to walk around with local shops, restaurants, and the Cannon River nearby.
Why it’s worth the trip:
- Cozy small-town brewery atmosphere
- Great food menu
- Walkable downtown Northfield location
- Easy southern Minnesota day trip
While you’re there:
Spend time exploring downtown Northfield, the riverwalk, and nearby local shops.
Read more: Tanzenwald Brewing Company: Beer, Food & a Cozy Taproom
Address:
103 Water St N, Northfield, MN 55057
Chapel Brewing – Dundas, MN
If you love discovering smaller breweries that feel more local and low-key, Chapel Brewing is a great find.
Located near Northfield in Dundas, this brewery has a relaxed atmosphere that feels more like a neighborhood hangout than a tourist stop — and honestly, that’s part of the charm.
On our visit, we tried the Chapel IPA and a Hazy IPA, which gave a good balance between classic IPA bitterness and the smoother, juicier style that a lot of people love right now.
This isn’t a huge flashy brewery, and that’s exactly why we enjoyed it. It felt authentic, comfortable, and easy to settle into for a while.
Why it’s worth the trip:
- Relaxed small-town brewery vibe
- Great IPA selection
- Less crowded than larger breweries
- Easy add-on to a Northfield day trip
While you’re there:
Pair it with shopping and restaurants in nearby Northfield.
Read more: Chapel Brewing in Dundas, MN: A Hidden Gem Near Northfield
Address:
15 Bridge Square, Dundas, MN 55019
Forager Brewing Company – Rochester, MN
Forager Brewing Company is one of those breweries where the food is just as big of a draw as the beer.
Located in downtown Rochester, Forager has a modern but relaxed atmosphere that works for everything from casual lunches to date nights.
If you’re someone who likes breweries that feel elevated without feeling pretentious, this place really nails that balance.
The pizza is one of the standout menu items, and the overall vibe makes it easy to stay longer than you planned.
It’s also a great stop if you’re spending the weekend in Rochester or exploring southeastern Minnesota.
Why it’s worth the trip:
- Excellent food
- Trendy but comfortable atmosphere
- Great downtown Rochester location
- Fun overnight destination brewery
While you’re there:
Explore downtown Rochester, local restaurants, and nearby shops.
Read more: Forager Brewing Company in Rochester, MN
Address:
1005 6th St NW, Rochester, MN 55901
Excelsior Brewing Company – Excelsior, MN
If you’re looking for a brewery that perfectly captures the charm of a Minnesota lake town, Excelsior Brewing Company deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Just a short walk from the shores of Lake Minnetonka, this brewery has a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing after exploring downtown Excelsior. Whether you’re visiting in the summer when the patios are bustling or stopping by during the fall for a scenic drive, Excelsior Brewing is an easy place to spend an afternoon.
We especially enjoyed pairing our visit with a stroll down Water Street, browsing the local shops, and taking in the beautiful views of the lake. It’s one of those destinations where the brewery is just part of what makes the town worth visiting.
Why it’s worth the trip:
- Located in the heart of charming downtown Excelsior
- Just steps from Lake Minnetonka
- Great atmosphere for relaxing with friends
- Easy day trip from Minneapolis and St. Paul
Location
Excelsior Brewing Company
421 3rd Street
Excelsior, MN 55331
While you’re there:
Explore Excelsior Commons, walk along the Lake Minnetonka shoreline, shop the unique local boutiques, or grab a bite at one of the nearby restaurants.
Read more: Excelsior Brewing Company: A Perfect Stop on Lake Minnetonka
Reads Landing Brewing Company – Reads Landing, MN
Reads Landing Brewing Company – Reads Landing, MN
Perched along the Mississippi River in the tiny town of Reads Landing, Reads Landing Brewing Company offers one of the most scenic brewery experiences in southeastern Minnesota.
The peaceful river views and relaxed atmosphere make this brewery feel like a hidden gem that’s well worth the drive. Whether you’re stopping during a scenic drive along the Great River Road or making a day trip out of exploring the area, it’s the kind of place where you can slow down, enjoy a locally crafted beer, and take in the beauty of the river.
One of our favorite parts about visiting Reads Landing Brewing Company is that it feels different from many larger breweries. The small-town setting and riverfront location create a memorable experience that’s about much more than the beer itself.
Why it’s worth the trip:
- Beautiful Mississippi River views
- A hidden gem along the Great River Road
- Relaxed small-town atmosphere
- Perfect stop during a southeastern Minnesota road trip
Location
Reads Landing Brewing Company
70555 202nd Ave
Reads Landing, MN 55968
While you’re there:
Take a scenic drive along the Great River Road, explore nearby Lake Pepin, watch for bald eagles, or stop in nearby Wabasha to visit the National Eagle Center.
Read more: Reads Landing Brewing Company: A Scenic Brewery Along the Mississippi River
Tips for Planning a Minnesota Brewery Road Trip
A few things we’ve learned from exploring breweries around Minnesota:
Pair breweries with nearby attractions
Some of the best brewery days happen when you combine them with hiking, shopping, lake towns, or local restaurants.
Don’t rush
The breweries we remember most are usually the ones where we slowed down and stayed awhile instead of making it a quick stop.
Explore smaller towns
Some of our favorite brewery experiences in Minnesota have actually been in smaller towns rather than big cities.
Check event calendars
Many breweries host live music, trivia nights, food trucks, and seasonal events that can make your visit even better.
Final Thoughts
Minnesota has such a fun brewery scene because every brewery feels a little different.
Some are energetic and busy in the middle of downtown Minneapolis. Others feel quiet, cozy, and tucked into small towns you might not have visited otherwise.
That’s what makes brewery road trips in Minnesota so fun — you’re not just finding good beer, you’re discovering new places along the way.
And honestly, that’s the best part.
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota Breweries
What are the best breweries in Minnesota?
Some of our favorite Minnesota breweries include Fulton Beer Taproom in Minneapolis, Tanzenwald Brewing Company in Northfield, Chapel Brewing in Dundas, Forager Brewing Company in Rochester, and Excelsior Brewing Company near Lake Minnetonka. Each one has a completely different atmosphere, which makes brewery road trips around Minnesota so fun.
What brewery towns are worth visiting in Minnesota?
Northfield, Excelsior, Rochester, Duluth, and Minneapolis are all great brewery destinations in Minnesota. Many breweries are located near walkable downtown areas, hiking trails, lakes, and local restaurants, making them perfect for day trips or weekend getaways.
Are Minnesota breweries family friendly?
Many Minnesota breweries are family friendly and welcome kids, especially during daytime hours. Some breweries also offer outdoor patios, lawn games, food menus, and live music that make them fun for the whole family.
What is the oldest brewery in Minnesota?
The August Schell Brewing Company in New Ulm is the oldest brewery in Minnesota. It was founded in 1860 and is still family-owned today.
What should I pair with a Minnesota brewery trip?
One of the best ways to plan a Minnesota brewery day trip is to pair it with other local attractions like hiking trails, lake towns, shopping districts, or nearby restaurants. We especially love combining breweries with small-town exploring and Minnesota state park hikes.
Are Minnesota breweries dog friendly?
Many breweries in Minnesota allow dogs on their outdoor patios, though policies vary by location. It’s always a good idea to check the brewery’s website or social media before visiting with your dog.
When is the best time to visit Minnesota breweries?
Summer and fall are especially fun times to visit Minnesota breweries because patios, live music, and outdoor events are in full swing. Fall brewery trips are especially beautiful when the leaves start changing across Minnesota.
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