Top Breweries in Winston-Salem, NC
The brewery scene in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is rapidly getting its recognition among craft beer lovers. With each brewery offering unique twists, innovative brewing methods, and delectable flavors, experiencing Winston-Salem’s rich beer culture is truly a must.
To get you started on your beer-tasting journey through Winston-Salem, you’ll taste some of North Carolina’s best beers in the form of Chocolate Stouts, Kolsch Beers, and Hazy IPAs. These craft beers are just some of the many diverse beer offerings the craft breweries in Winston-Salem have been brewing up for devoted beer drinkers.
Winston-Salem, NC, is a charming city bursting with history and dynamic activities. The city has notions of 18th-century Moravian lifestyle with its traditional buildings and cobblestone pathways.
It’s renowned for its serene landscape with rolling hills, lush green parks, and picturesque lakes. Take a stroll along the scenic Salem Lake or explore the stunning gardens at Reynolda House. Check out the various farmer’s markets or visit the Piedmont Craftsman Fair.
There’s lots to do and see in this city, and we haven’t even started with the beer!
After enjoying all that Winston-Salem has to offer, one thing you’ll want to do after a fun day of activities – is treat yourself to a refreshing beverage or two! The city’s vibrant brewery culture is ever-expanding, with new breweries opening every year.
Take a brewery tour and witness the magic behind your favorite craft beers, or relax in the lively beer gardens and taprooms. It’s worth planning your brewery trip to combine with the annual beer festivals of Carolina Beer and Wine Festival or the Twin City RibFest, with an array of beers to taste and plenty of food options to soothe your palate!
Amongst its southern charm, rich history, stunning landscapes, throbbing brewery scene, and lively festivals, Winston-Salem is a go-to destination!
Readers Favorite: Foothills Brewing
What sets Foothills Brewing apart from other local breweries in Winston-Salem is the size of the establishment. It’s Huge! The brewery produces an industrial amount of beer, and the place itself is inviting, with a stylish beer garden, friendly staff, live music, and a merch shop. It’s one of the best Winston-Salem breweries and a great place to make friends!
Best breweries
Foothills Brewing
Foothills Brewing is the biggest name among the breweries in Winston-Salem, NC, and for good reason.
This favorite local brewery has managed to capture the palates of beer lovers across North Carolina with its iconic Sexual Chocolate Imperial Stout and its three unique locations. Each of its three spots – Foothills Tasting Room, Foothills Brewpub, and Footnotes offer fantastic vibes, all kid-friendly and perfect for adult time over craft ales.
Make sure to visit their manilla envelope factory-turned-tasting room and enjoy the view of the entire brewing and production process.
Location details
Beer recommendation: Sage Smoke Scotch Ale
Hoots Beer Co.
Hoots Beer Company, situated in the historic West End Mill Works building, features an atmosphere that’s both comforting and lively.
They are known for their ever-rotating beer selection, ranging from classic and seasonal ales to experimental mixed-fermentation sours and lagers. Whether you prefer a traditional pint or something more daring, Hoots never disappoints.
Hoots also has entertaining events, like trivia nights, live music performances, and special beer release evenings. Occasional food pop-ups and local food trucks also make a regular appearance here, so while you sip on your beer, you’ll never find yourself without a tasty side.
Location details
Beer recommendation: Wheat Pale Ale
Small Batch Beer Co.
Upon stepping into Small Batch Beer, you’re immediately greeted by an ambiance that perfectly binds together modern sleekness and cozy hospitality.
The craft brewery prides itself on creating its brews in small, careful batches, hence the name. From hazelnuts to rye, the beers at Small Batch feature ingredients that make for standout flavors.
Apart from brews, the brewery also features a full menu of satisfying pub-style snacks, small plates, meals, and outrageously tall Sundaes, making it an excellent one-stop destination.
Location details
Beer recommendation: Mr. Lemon Man IPA
Radar Brewing Company
Radar Brewing Company blends history with an innovative approach to beer production. Housed in a former storage building for NASCAR vehicles, this thriving brewery specializes in Belgium-style beers.
The unique eye-catching aesthetics of the old storage building for NASCAR vehicles features notes of its racing past. While food isn’t served in-house, food trucks are regular here, so you’re guaranteed a perfect pairing with your beer.
Join them for events like yoga, trivia night, or fun paint classes, and be sure to try their Vanish Point Stout or Beacon New England IPA for unique sips in their expansive beer garden with live music. It’s the perfect setting for a fantastic evening!
Location details
Recommended beer: Hydrophone Is Strong Belgian Pale Ale
Fiddlin Fish
Fiddlin Fish Brewing Company is one of the city’s largest breweries, set in an old tobacco warehouse, with a unique atmosphere and grand murals by a local artist.
Alongside its unique, catchy name, Fiddlin Fish offers a range of beers, like blonde ales, IPAs, stouts, and more, to enjoy inside their large communal seating area or outside on the picnic tables.
Their weekly trivia nights attract a robust crowd, and there’s always a food truck parked outside to cater to hungry patrons. If you’re looking for a place to party, the brewery has a private events room that can be booked upon request.
Location details
Recommended beer: Nightcap Chocolate Porter
Dogwood Hops & Crops
With 14 rotating taps and over 250 hand-crafted ales, Dogwood Hops & Crops stocks and sells more beer than any other brewery in Winston-Salem, making it a must-visit heaven for craft beer enthusiasts.
It’s the perfect place to relax when brewery hopping with its friendly, relaxed atmosphere and extensive selection of beers and wines.
When it comes to food, visitors can grab a bite to eat from the daily food truck parked outside or request the Farmer’s Board with a selection of cheeses, meats, bread, and antipasti, perfect for sharing with good friends. If you’re bringing kids along, the brewery has pinball machines and arcade games to enjoy.
Location details
Recommended beer: There are too many to choose from, but one of the most requested beers is Nitro Milk Stout
Incendiary Brewing Company
In the heart of downtown Winston-Salem, you’ll find Incendiary Brewing Company, founded in 2018 by two friends and craft beer enthusiasts, Brandon Branscome and John Bacon.
Incendiary Brewing Resides in the former Bailey Power Plant and blends elements of the past with the present, creating a memorable taproom and pouring delicious, refreshing brews.
Although it is one of the newest breweries in Winston-Salem to open its doors, it has amassed a huge following for its great-tasting beer and unique outdoor seating area dubbed “The Coalpit” where guests can enjoy live music.
Location details
Recommended Beer: Haven’t Talked Names Yet
Wise Man Brewing
This massive, industrial-style brewery is a must-visit. With an array of flavors and brew options, like hazy IPAs, fruity sours, and rich stouts, Wise Man Brewing is setting standards in the city’s microbrewery scene.
Housed in a restored 1947 brick building, Wise Man Brewing features an ambiance that is both modern and welcoming, with indoor and outdoor seating.
They often host live music, weekly events, and game nights and have food trucks available so visitors don’t go hungry. And, if that’s not enough, there are occasional beer festivals to amplify your visit.
Location details
Recommended beer: Luminous Capacity IPA
Expert tip
For a glimpse into the history of the city, visit the Old Salem Museums & Gardens.
This unique place offers a trip back in time to the 18th and 19th-century Moravian community, where you’ll see restored and reconstructed buildings and skilled workers demonstrating various trades such as blacksmithing or baking in a wood-fired oven.
Explore workshops, houses, and gardens, and learn about life during colonial times in this area. It’s an educational, engaging, and immersive experience for kids and adults that sets it apart from typical tourist attractions.
FAQs
Which Winston-Salem breweries offer Guided tours?
Foothills Brewing and Wise Man Brewing offer an immersive guided tour of their brewery and production process, providing insights and delightful beer-tasting experiences.
Are there any breweries in Winston-Salem that offer international or non-traditional beers?
Yes. Foothills Brewing, one of the city’s largest and best craft breweries, offers a wide variety of beers, including those inspired by styles from around the world, like German Pilsners and British IPAs.
Which flagship beers are best to try in Winston-Salem breweries?
Some of the best flagship beers to try while in Winston-Salem can be found in Foothills Brewery, like Hoppyum IPA, Torch Pilsner, and People’s Porter.
Related North Carolina Breweries
Fuel your North Carolina brewery tour with our guides on the Best Breweries in Raleigh, the Best Breweries in Charlotte, and the Best Breweries in Greensboro. Enjoy a wealth of unique flavors and experiences at every stop!
Wrapping Up
And there you have it, your comprehensive guide to the top breweries in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Dive into the city’s beer culture, taste its unique flavors, and bask in an atmosphere that’s as welcoming as it is diverse. Don’t forget to tell us about your experiences — we’d love to hear about them!
