Craft Breweries, Distilleries, and Wineries That Put Michigan on the Map
Nestled in the heart of Grand Rapids, just west of Detroit, Founders Brewing Co. serves as a cornerstone of Michigan’s craft beer scene. About a three-hour drive west of Detroit, this bustling brewery invites visitors into a spacious taproom where the rich aroma of hops fills the air. Founders is renowned for its bold, full-bodied brews like All Day IPA and the robust KBS barrel-aged stout. The brewery’s commitment to quality and innovation stands out through its frequent releases and deep ties to the local community. Visiting in the fall offers a cozy experience as the brewery’s large fireplace crackles, making it the perfect spot to sample beer flights and soak in the industrious yet welcoming vibe.
A short trip north of Traverse City, on the Old Mission Peninsula that juts into the pristine waters of Lake Michigan, Chateau Grand Traverse awaits wine lovers with its unique terroir and Old World-style winemaking. Around 15 minutes from downtown Traverse City, this vineyard benefits from a microclimate shaped by the lake’s moderating presence, allowing for the cultivation of Riesling and Pinot Noir grapes that rival those of Germany and Burgundy. Touring the estate reveals a historic winery building that resembles a European château, with sweeping views of the vineyards and water beyond. Springtime, when the vines burst into fresh green, or autumn, during harvest, offers the most vivid sensory experiences, as visitors sip crisp, award-winning wines while watching seasonal light shift across the landscape.
Down in Ann Arbor, an hour west of Detroit, Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales operates a lively brewery and pub that has helped put Michigan’s sour beer scene on the map. The brewery’s unique approach involves mixed fermentation and aging in oak barrels, producing complex, tart flavors that challenge and delight palates. The cozy pub in downtown Ann Arbor offers a rustic ambiance that pairs perfectly with their food menu, which often features locally sourced ingredients. Visiting in the summer allows guests to enjoy the outdoor patio, where the buzz of the college town mingles with the earthy scents of brewing, making it an ideal spot to experience innovation and community in one glass.
Just southwest of Detroit, in the city of Plymouth, the Michigan Distilling Company has carved out a niche in the fast-growing craft spirits market. This urban distillery, about a 40-minute drive from downtown Detroit, is known for its small-batch vodkas and gins that highlight the purity of Michigan-grown grains and botanicals. Guests can tour the sleek production floor, watching the copper stills in action, and learn about the art and science of distilling firsthand. The tasting bar offers a refined environment to sample spirits neat or in expertly crafted cocktails. Visiting during winter brings a special warmth to the experience, as the hearty spirits offer a perfect contrast to the chilly Detroit evenings.
In the scenic town of Marquette, about six hours north of Detroit on the shores of Lake Superior, Ore Dock Brewing Company captures the spirit of the Upper Peninsula through its inventive brews and strong ties to local culture. Situated in a renovated warehouse near the waterfront, the brewery offers panoramic views of the lake and the neighboring old ore docks that speak to the region’s industrial past. Their beers often use regional ingredients and pay homage to Marquette’s mining heritage. Summer visits provide the best chance to pair a crisp pale ale with a sunset over the lake, while winter offers a cozy refuge from the brisk, snow-filled nights outside.
East of Lansing, in the town of Mason, the Red Cedar Spirits distillery has embraced Michigan’s agricultural bounty by crafting a variety of whiskeys and liqueurs from local grains and fruits. About 30 minutes south of Lansing, this distillery combines traditional methods with modern sensibility, producing spirits that balance smoothness with rich flavor profiles. The tasting room, located in a historic building, invites visitors to explore the nuances between their rye, bourbon, and fruit-infused offerings. Harvest season enhances the visit, as the surrounding farmland bursts with color and the distillery sometimes hosts seasonal events celebrating Michigan’s crop diversity.
Down in the coastal village of Saugatuck, roughly two and a half hours west of Detroit, Round Barn Winery offers a stunning blend of architecture and winemaking excellence. The winery is named after its iconic round barn, a rare and eye-catching structure that stands as a testament to Michigan’s agricultural history. Nestled amid rolling vineyards, Round Barn produces a range of wines that showcase the climate and soil of Lake Michigan’s shore. Visitors can wander through the tasting room and outdoor patios, which overlook the gently sloping vineyards, and enjoy live music during warmer months. The late summer to early fall period is especially magical here, as the vines turn brilliant shades of amber and crimson under warm sunlight.
Together, these places illustrate just how deeply craft beverage culture has taken root across Michigan’s diverse landscapes. From the energetic brewery scenes in Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor, to the serene vineyards on the shores of Lake Michigan, and the rugged spirit of the Upper Peninsula, Michigan offers a rich, authentic experience for anyone eager to taste the state’s creativity and passion poured into every glass. Whether you seek hoppy ales, barrel-aged spirits, or crisp, cool wines, these destinations provide more than just drinks—they offer stories, settings, and seasonal backdrops that make every sip memorable.