Cheers to American Beer

Only here for the beer? You won’t go thirsty during a trip to the US.

America is the biggest producer of craft beer in the world and will have no problem discovering unique beers no matter what state you are in.

To commemorate the upcoming UK National Beer Day, here is a thirst-quenching mix of ways to celebrate some of America’s best ales, hops and malts.

Image Library: HERE

Florida’s Paradise Coast

As an up and coming craft beer and foodie destination, Florida’s Paradise Coast has a wide array of options for those looking to explore local beer. One unique destination is the Bone Hook Brewing Company. Started by three friends, it is the only brewery in Southwest Florida that uses an in-house spectrophotometer to measure beer bitterness (IBU’s) and diacetyl, as well as microbiological analyses. Made in their on-site lab, they produce 20 different beers including a range of styles such as saison ales, American pale ales, an English golden ale and more which are served in the restaurant.

Those looking for a social hangout can also check out the newest addition to the craft beer scene on the Paradise Coast, Akrolab Brewing.

Bakersfield and Kern County Brewery Trail

Bakersfield, California is home to many craft breweries so visitors can easily explore the town by following the Bakersfield and Kern County Brewery Trail. There are 12 breweries on the trail. All make their craft beer in Bakersfield, so the area has an incredible variety of beers to taste. Some have smaller bars and tasting rooms in the centre of Bakersfield; Others based further out are larger, brewing their beer on site such as Kern River Brewing Company. www.visitcentralvalley.com

Sonora Brewing Company, Tuolumne County

In the heart of Sonora sits Sonora Brewing Company, the perfect place for visitors to treat themselves to a cold refreshment after a long day exploring Tuolumne County. They have over 12 beers on tap to try here and new beers are brewed each week. With IPAs and pale ales there is something for every taste, alongside burgers, sandwiches, salads and desserts.

For more information visit www.visittuolumne.com

The Flagstaff Brewery Trail, Arizona

As Arizona’s leading craft beer city, Flagstaff offers beer drinkers a special introduction into northern Arizona’s craft brew scene. From crisp ales to local lagers, there is something for everyone. Consisting of nine breweries, each with their own unique quirks, the trail makes for a great addition to any trip. For added fun and excitement, visitors can pick up a Flagstaff Brewery Trail Passport at the Flagstaff Visitor Centre (or print one out at home) and collect a sticker at each stop along the way. Travellers can then redeem a free pint glass with their completed passport. www.visitarizona.com

Penn Brewery, Pittsburgh

Recently awarded the best beer city in the U.S. for 2023, Pittsburgh is a must for craft beer enthusiasts. With 60+ unique, only in Pittsburgh breweries, the scene here continues to grow rapidly. Penn Brewery began brewing craft beer back in 1986, making them one of the earliest pioneers. They started out brewing classic lagers and German beer styles, and expanded their lineup to include IPAs and other contemporary styles like chocolate and pumpkin beers. Penn brews all of their beers by hand with top-tier barley and hops. As winners of nineteen Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup medals, you know their beer is good. www.visitpittsburgh.com

Aspen Brewing Company, Aspen

At a height of 7,908 feet, Aspen Brewing Company brews crisp cold beers at the foot of the Elk Mountain Range. As the only licensed brewery in Aspen, they serve a wide variety of tasty brews from limited-edition IPA’s to German style pilsners alongside pizza and other bar snacks. This summer, Aspen Snowmass welcomes the brand new Deja Vu festival, a tribute to the Snowmass Craft Beer and Chilli Pepper & Brew festivals from previous years. The festival, hosted by Two Parts, celebrates the best of craft beer with a full day of tastings from favorite breweries in the Roaring Fork Valley and beyond. 

www.aspenchamber.org  / www.gosnowmass.com

California Craft Beer Festival, Sacramento

From September 6 to 8, Sacramento will host a celebration of craft beer, the California Craft Beer Festival, two days of educational seminars led by industry leaders, networking, trade shows, and curated food and beer tastings. Brewers, retailers, distributors, craft beer lovers, and homebrewers all come together to learn more and share their knowledge. The two-day Craft Beer Summit is followed by the largest beer festival on the West Coast, featuring more than 160 California craft breweries on Capitol Mall.