Craft Breweries, Distilleries, and Wineries That Put North Dakota on the Map
Just a short drive north of Fargo, in the town of Moorhead, Minnesota, visitors can begin their exploration of the Red River Valley’s burgeoning craft beverage scene, which spills over into North Dakota. About 15 minutes away from Fargo’s bustling downtown, the Fargo-Moorhead area serves as a gateway to some of the state’s most innovative breweries. Rhombus Guys Brewing Company, right in Fargo itself, showcases the local passion for craft beer with its spacious taproom and wide-ranging brews. Known for its inventive seasonal releases and a rooftop patio boasting sweeping views of the skyline, it’s a perfect spot to sample a pint while soaking in the city’s energy. The vibe here is friendly and communal, making it a favorite among locals looking for a laid-back yet lively experience.
Heading northwest about an hour from Fargo brings you to Grand Forks, home to the historic Jolly Troll Pub & Brewery. Located near the University of North Dakota campus, this brewery is renowned for its traditional German-style lagers and ales. The pub’s cozy, wood-paneled interior echoes the heritage behind its recipes, which trace back to European brewing techniques brought over by early settlers. Visitors can enjoy a flight tasting while appreciating the pub’s cultural roots. The outdoor beer garden bursts to life in late spring and summer evenings, offering a communal space where locals gather after university games or concerts. The blend of academic town energy and old-world charm makes it a unique stop in the state’s craft beer journey.
About two hours west of Grand Forks, in the heart of Bismarck, sits Laughing Sun Brewing. This brewery stands out with its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, including North Dakota-grown barley, which adds a distinct terroir to their beers. Their tasting room features large windows that flood the space with natural light, perfectly highlighting the golden hues of their flagship brews. Visitors can enjoy tours that peel back the curtain on the brewing process, emphasizing the connection between agriculture and craft beer. Fall is a particularly wonderful time to visit, when the surrounding landscape turns to amber and the brewery rolls out its harvest-inspired seasonal brews, mirroring the changing colors of the Missouri River valley just beyond the city.
Traveling further west, just under two hours from Bismarck near Medora, you’ll find the intriguing Heart River Winery. Situated in the small town of Mandan, this winery leverages the unique climate of western North Dakota to cultivate grapes suited for cold-hardy varietals. The tasting room is intimate and welcoming, offering patrons a chance to savor wines that speak to the region’s distinct terroir. The Heart River Winery specializes in bold reds and crisp whites that carry subtle mineral notes from the native soil. Autumn, with its dramatic sunsets over the nearby Badlands, is an ideal time to sip and savor here, as the warm hues of the landscape perfectly complement the rich colors of the wine in your glass.
Driving northeast from Mandan about 90 minutes brings you to Devils Lake, where you can explore the Dakota Shivers Brewing Company. This relatively small but spirited brewery infuses local character into each batch, with names and labels that celebrate North Dakota’s rugged landscapes and folklore. Their production focuses on approachable, balanced beers that pair well with the hearty Midwestern fare nearby. The tasting room’s rustic ambiance, complete with reclaimed wood décor, provides a cozy refuge from the often brisk lakeside winds. Summer evenings hold a special charm here, allowing visitors to enjoy their brews on the patio while watching the sun set over the expansive lake, a quintessential North Dakota scene.
In the southwestern corner of the state, the town of Dickinson is home to the Roughrider Brewing Company, a pioneer in North Dakota’s craft beer scene for over a decade. Roughrider’s location, just under three hours southwest of Bismarck, makes it a must-stop for those touring the Badlands and Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Their beers often reflect the spirit of the rugged western plains, with robust porters and bold IPAs that capture the essence of the open range. The brewery’s taproom is a lively hub for both locals and tourists, offering live music and a strong sense of community. Winter visits offer a cozy retreat after a day exploring the snow-blanketed Badlands, where a hearty stout is especially welcome.
Lastly, about 30 minutes north of Minot, the Enchanted Highway area is home to the Old Mill Brewstillery in the town of New Salem. This unique spot combines a brewery and distillery, producing both craft beers and small-batch spirits. Visitors can tour the facility to see the intricate distilling process and sample whiskey and vodka alongside traditional ales. The Old Mill Brewstillery’s rustic charm is enhanced by its proximity to the Enchanted Highway, a stretch of road famous for its massive metal sculptures. This blend of artistic and artisanal craft creates an experience that feels authentically North Dakotan—rooted in the land, the history, and the creative spirit of the people. Spring and early summer bring mild weather perfect for combining a drive along the highway with a relaxed tasting session at the distillery.