Craft Breweries, Distilleries, and Wineries That Put Minnesota on the Map
In the heart of Minneapolis, the Surly Brewing Co. stands as a beacon for craft beer lovers seeking bold flavors and innovative brews. Located just a short drive from downtown, Surly’s expansive brewery and beer hall invite visitors to savor their flagship Furious IPA or experiment with seasonal creations. The taproom’s industrial-chic atmosphere and sprawling outdoor beer garden offer an energetic setting that pulses with the city’s creative vibe. Surly’s commitment to quality and community sets it apart, and visiting on a sunny summer afternoon when the beer garden fills with music and laughter makes for an unforgettable experience.
Heading north to Duluth, about two and a half hours from the Twin Cities, Bent Paddle Brewing Co. offers a distinctly Northern Minnesota flavor that mirrors the rugged beauty of Lake Superior’s shores. The brewery’s name and branding pay homage to the region’s canoeing heritage, and their flagship Bent Paddle Ale reflects the crisp, clean waters of the Northwoods. Visitors can enjoy the tasting room’s panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills, making it an ideal stop after hiking along the Superior Hiking Trail. Winter visits reveal the charm of cozying up with a hearty stout as snow blankets the city, showcasing the brewery’s versatility through the seasons.
Just outside Saint Paul, the Tattersall Distilling neighborhood in the Lowertown district has transformed an old warehouse into a vibrant hub of craft spirits. Tattersall’s distillery tour walks you through the artful process of creating small-batch, hand-crafted gin and vodka, with tasting sessions highlighting the botanicals that give their spirits a uniquely Minnesotan twist. The historic brick walls and rustic ambiance mix tradition with modern flair, turning every visit into a sensory exploration. Early evening visits are particularly special as the Lowertown streets come alive, offering a chance to sip a cocktail while soaking in the neighborhood’s lively arts scene.
Further south, in the rolling hills near New Ulm, the Minnesotan wine country comes into focus at the Hermann the German Winery, about two hours southwest of Minneapolis. This boutique winery offers tastings that showcase cold-hardy grape varieties suited for the state’s climate. The vineyard’s gentle slopes and scenic views create a peaceful escape, with the tasting room’s rustic charm evoking the region’s German-American heritage. Visiting in late summer during grape harvest season allows guests to witness the vineyard’s rhythms and understand the patience and skill behind every bottle.
In the town of Red Wing, perched along the Mississippi River bluffs roughly an hour southeast of the Twin Cities, the Red Wing Brewing Company offers a riverside retreat for beer enthusiasts. Their flagship brews balance traditional Midwestern craft beer styles with subtle nods to the river’s history and natural environment. The brewery’s taproom overlooks the water and nearby limestone bluffs, making it a favorite spot to unwind after exploring the nearby Barn Bluff trail, a moderate climb with rewarding views of the river valley. A spring visit here is especially delightful, as the surrounding trails bloom and the river’s currents sparkle in the sunlight.
On the western edge of the state, near Alexandria, Blacklisted Brewing Co. brings a fresh perspective to Minnesota’s craft scene. Known for their hop-forward IPAs and experimental small-batch brews, Blacklisted stands out for its community-driven approach and ever-changing lineup. The brewery’s minimalist warehouse setting lets the beer take center stage, and visitors often find themselves talking with brewers eager to share their passion. Summer evenings are perfect for enjoying their beer garden, where live music and warm breezes create a welcoming atmosphere far from the hustle of the big cities.
Nestled in the scenic bluff country near Winona, the Sugar Loaf Winery offers a different kind of immersion, blending Minnesota’s natural beauty with artisanal winemaking. Located just under two hours southeast of Minneapolis, this winery produces fruit wines and traditional grape varieties suited to the region’s cooler climate. The tasting room’s rustic wood beams and stone accents reflect the rugged local landscape, while panoramic views of the Mississippi River Valley amplify the sense of place. Autumn visits here are magical, as the surrounding hills blaze with fall colors, creating a perfect backdrop for sipping a glass of rich, locally inspired wine.
Together, these craft breweries, distilleries, and wineries reveal the diversity and creativity flourishing across Minnesota’s varied landscapes. Whether you’re savoring a hoppy IPA in a downtown taproom, touring a distillery nestled in historic brick warehouses, or unwinding with a glass of cold-climate wine amid river bluffs, each destination offers a distinct taste of the state’s evolving beverage culture. Exploring these spots invites travelers not only to enjoy exceptional drinks but to experience the communities and stories that make Minnesota’s craft scene truly unique.