Beer Explorer

What are the best breweries near Anchorage, Alaska? Whether you’re traveling or this is your home, how do you find the breweries that offer top craft beer near Anchorage, Alaska so you can know which ones are the most worthwhile to check out? We’ve compiled a list of the top-rated breweries in Alaska, based upon the ratings of actual fellow beer-lovers on Untapped. We hope this brewery guide will aid you in your brewery exploration of The Last Frontier so that you can maximize your beer and brewery enjoyment. Happy beer exploring!

#5 Midnight Sun Brewing Co – 3.81 average Untapped rating

Midnight Sun Brewing Co. is a well-established craft brewery located in Anchorage, Alaska. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Midnight Sun Brewing Co. is situated at 8111 Dimond Hook Dr, Anchorage, AK 99507, in the Dimond Industrial area of Anchorage.

2. **Founding:** Midnight Sun Brewing Co. was founded in 1995 by Mark Staples and Barb Miller. The brewery has since become one of the most respected and iconic craft breweries in Alaska, known for its innovative beers and commitment to quality.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Midnight Sun Brewing Co. is dedicated to brewing bold and adventurous beers that push the boundaries of traditional brewing styles. They strive to use high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques to create unique and flavorful beers that reflect the spirit of the Last Frontier.

4. **Beer Selection:** The brewery offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of ales, lagers, stouts, porters, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their creative and experimental approach to brewing, with each beer showcasing the skill and artistry of the brewers. From hop-forward IPAs to rich and decadent barrel-aged stouts, there’s something for every beer lover at Midnight Sun Brewing Co.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The taproom at Midnight Sun Brewing Co. provides a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy a selection of craft beers. With a rustic and industrial design, it’s the perfect place to hang out with friends or meet other beer enthusiasts. Visitors can sample beers directly from the source and often have the opportunity to chat with the brewers and learn more about the brewing process.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer on-site at their taproom, Midnight Sun Brewing Co. distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Alaska and select locations outside the state. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, Midnight Sun Brewing Co. is a beloved fixture in the Alaskan craft beer scene, known for its innovative beers, welcoming taproom, and commitment to quality. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Alaska, it’s definitely worth stopping by their brewery for a taste of their exceptional brews.

#4 49th State Brewing – 3.82 average Untapped rating

49th State Brewing is a prominent craft brewery and restaurant with locations in both Anchorage and Healy, Alaska. Here’s an overview:

1. **Locations:**

• 49th State Brewing Anchorage: Located at 717 W 3rd Ave, Anchorage, AK 99514, in downtown Anchorage.
• 49th State Brewing Denali: Situated at 248.4 Parks Hwy, Healy, AK 99743, near Denali National Park.

2. **Founding:** 49th State Brewing was founded by David McCarthy and Jason Motyka. The Anchorage location opened its doors in 2010, followed by the Denali location in 2017. The brewery’s name pays homage to Alaska’s status as the 49th state admitted to the United States.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** 49th State Brewing is dedicated to crafting high-quality, handcrafted beers that reflect the rugged spirit and natural beauty of Alaska. They aim to incorporate locally sourced ingredients and traditional brewing techniques to create unique and flavorful beers that capture the essence of the Last Frontier.

4. **Beer Selection:** Both locations offer a diverse selection of beers, including a variety of ales, lagers, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their innovative and adventurous approach to brewing, with each beer inspired by the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Alaska. From crisp and refreshing pilsners to robust and complex stouts, there’s something for every taste at 49th State Brewing.

5. **Taproom and Restaurant Experience:** The 49th State Brewing locations feature spacious and inviting taprooms and restaurants, providing guests with a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere to enjoy craft beer and delicious food. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients and innovative cuisine, their menus offer a diverse selection of dishes inspired by Alaskan flavors and traditions. Whether you’re dining in Anchorage or enjoying a meal after exploring Denali National Park, 49th State Brewing provides a memorable and immersive culinary experience.

6. **Distribution:** While 49th State Brewing primarily serves beer on-site at their taprooms and restaurants, they also distribute select beers to bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Alaska. This allows fans of their beer to enjoy it at their favorite local establishments and helps to spread the brewery’s reputation throughout the state.

Overall, 49th State Brewing is a beloved destination for both locals and visitors to Alaska, known for their exceptional beers, delicious food, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring the urban streets of Anchorage or the wilds of Denali, a visit to 49th State Brewing is sure to be a memorable experience.

#3 Girdwood Brewing Company – 3.87 average Untapped rating

Girdwood Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery located in the picturesque town of Girdwood, Alaska. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Girdwood Brewing Company is situated at 2700 Alyeska Hwy, Girdwood, AK 99587, nestled within the stunning Chugach Mountains and surrounded by pristine wilderness.

2. **Founding:** Girdwood Brewing Company was founded by Brett and Rachel Larson in 2017. The Larson family’s love for craft beer and their deep connection to the Girdwood community inspired them to establish their own brewery.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Girdwood Brewing Company is dedicated to brewing high-quality, handcrafted beers that celebrate the spirit and beauty of Alaska. They take pride in using locally sourced ingredients, including pure Alaskan water, to create beers that reflect the unique flavors and character of the Last Frontier.

4. **Beer Selection:** The brewery offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of ales, lagers, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their commitment to innovation and creativity, with each beer showcasing the passion and expertise of the brewers. From crisp and refreshing pilsners to bold and flavorful IPAs, there’s something for every palate at Girdwood Brewing Company.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The taproom at Girdwood Brewing Company provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy a selection of craft beers. With a cozy and rustic ambiance, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of outdoor adventure or socialize with friends and fellow beer enthusiasts. Visitors can sample beers directly from the source and often have the opportunity to chat with the brewers and learn more about the brewing process.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer on-site at their taproom, Girdwood Brewing Company distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Alaska. They also participate in local events and festivals, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, Girdwood Brewing Company is a beloved destination for both locals and visitors to Alaska, known for their exceptional beers, friendly atmosphere, and commitment to community. Whether you’re exploring the Chugach Mountains or simply passing through Girdwood, it’s definitely worth stopping by their brewery for a taste of their Alaskan-inspired brews.

#2 Bleeding Heart Brewery – 3.96 average Untapped rating

Bleeding Heart Brewery is a craft brewery located in Palmer, Alaska. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Bleeding Heart Brewery is situated at 16013 Outer Springer Loop, Palmer, AK 99645, in the scenic Matanuska-Susitna Valley.

2. **Founding:** Bleeding Heart Brewery was founded by Stefan and Ursula Marty in 2012. The Marty family’s passion for craft beer and their desire to contribute to the local brewing community inspired them to start their own brewery.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Bleeding Heart Brewery is dedicated to producing high-quality, handcrafted beers using traditional brewing methods and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. They take pride in brewing beers that reflect the unique character of the Alaskan wilderness and the surrounding landscape.

4. **Beer Selection:** The brewery offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of ales, lagers, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their commitment to quality and consistency, with each beer showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the brewers. With a focus on using local ingredients, their beers often feature unique flavors and characteristics that are distinctively Alaskan.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The taproom at Bleeding Heart Brewery provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy a selection of craft beers. With a rustic and cozy ambiance, it’s the perfect place to relax with friends or meet other beer enthusiasts. Visitors can sample beers directly from the source and often have the opportunity to chat with the brewers and learn more about the brewing process.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer on-site at their taproom, Bleeding Heart Brewery distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Alaska. They also participate in local beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, Bleeding Heart Brewery is a beloved fixture in the Alaskan craft beer scene, known for their dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Alaska, it’s definitely worth stopping by their brewery for a taste of their exceptional beers.

#1 Anchorage Brewing Company – 4.13 average Untapped rating

Anchorage Brewing Company is a renowned craft brewery located in Anchorage, Alaska. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Anchorage Brewing Company is situated at 148 W 91st Ave, Anchorage, AK 99515, in the South Anchorage neighborhood.

2. **Founding:** Anchorage Brewing Company was founded by Gabe Fletcher in 2010. Gabe’s vision was to create a brewery that specializes in brewing bold and innovative beers, with a focus on barrel-aging and fermentation techniques.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Anchorage Brewing Company is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing styles and techniques. They specialize in brewing barrel-aged and wild-fermented beers, often incorporating unique ingredients such as Brettanomyces yeast, fruit, and spices. Their beers are known for their complexity, depth of flavor, and ability to age gracefully over time.

4. **Beer Selection:** The brewery offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of barrel-aged stouts, sour ales, Belgian-style ales, and experimental brews. They are known for their adventurous and creative approach to brewing, with each beer showcasing the unique character of the Alaskan terroir. With a rotating lineup of seasonal and limited-release beers, there’s always something new and exciting to try at Anchorage Brewing Company.

5. **Taproom Experience:** While Anchorage Brewing Company doesn’t have a traditional taproom, they often host special events and tastings at their brewery, allowing guests to sample their latest releases and interact with the brewers. Additionally, their beers can be found at various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Alaska and select locations outside the state.

6. **Distribution:** Anchorage Brewing Company distributes its beers to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Alaska and select locations outside the state. They also have a strong online presence, allowing beer enthusiasts to purchase their beers directly from the brewery and have them shipped to their doorstep.

Overall, Anchorage Brewing Company is a highly regarded brewery in the craft beer community, known for their adventurous and innovative approach to brewing. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Alaska, it’s definitely worth seeking out their beers for a unique and unforgettable drinking experience.