Craft Breweries, Distilleries, and Wineries That Put Ohio on the Map
Nestled in the heart of Cincinnati, Rhinegeist Brewery stands as a beacon of Ohio’s craft beer revolution. Just a short drive north from downtown Cincinnati, this sprawling brewery occupies a former bottling plant, blending industrial charm with modern creativity. Visitors can explore the expansive taproom and sample a rotating lineup of inventive brews, from hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts that push the boundaries of traditional styles. Rhinegeist’s dedication to innovation and community has earned it a reputation beyond Ohio’s borders. The brewery’s spacious outdoor patio fills with laughter and music during warm summer evenings, making it a lively spot to savor fresh air alongside fresh beer.
Traveling northeast to Cleveland, a city about an hour’s drive from Akron, Great Lakes Brewing Company offers a distinctly local craft beer experience rooted in history and sustainability. Their taproom, located near the historic Ohio City neighborhood, provides an excellent introduction to their flagship beer, Dortmunder Gold Lager, which helped popularize craft lagers nationwide. Visitors often start with the brewery tour, which delves into the 25-year-old company’s commitment to eco-friendly practices like water reclamation and solar power. The rustic taproom features barrel-aged brews and seasonal releases, paired perfectly with locally sourced pub fare. Autumn visits are particularly charming, as the city’s foliage complements the warmth of a freshly poured porter.
In the rolling hills outside Columbus, the town of Granville, about 30 minutes northeast, is home to the Granville Inn’s own Distillery. This boutique distillery embraces handcrafted spirits, focusing on small-batch bourbon and rye that draw inspiration from Ohio’s rich agricultural heritage. Visitors are invited to tour the facility where copper stills gleam, and fragrant grains are fermented and distilled with care. The distillery’s tasting room offers flights that highlight nuanced flavors, from spicy rye to smooth, caramel-kissed bourbon. Springtime here is ideal, when the surrounding Licking County countryside bursts into bloom, creating a serene backdrop for savoring fine spirits.
Farther east, near the Pennsylvania border, the town of Geneva on the Lake—roughly an hour’s drive northeast of Cleveland—hosts the flourishing vineyards of Ferrante Winery & Ristorante. This winery’s estate sits along the shores of Lake Erie, where the moderating lake effect creates ideal conditions for growing grapes used to craft award-winning reds, whites, and sparkling wines. Visitors can stroll the well-manicured grounds or relax on the patio overlooking the lake, tasting wines that express the region’s terroir with crisp acidity and fruit-forward profiles. The setting sun reflecting on the water during summer evenings makes for an unforgettable wine-tasting experience that highlights Ohio’s burgeoning wine country.
On the other side of the state, near Dayton, the Dayton Distillery offers a compelling story of revival and craftsmanship. Located approximately 15 minutes from downtown Dayton, this historic distillery has been reborn in a 19th-century building, combining heritage aesthetics with modern distilling techniques. The distillery specializes in classic spirits, including bourbon and gin, distilled from Ohio-grown grains. Tours provide insight into the meticulous production process, punctuated by tastings in the intimate bar space. Winter visits add a cozy atmosphere, where guests can sip warming cocktails while learning about the distillery’s role in the region’s revival of spirit-making traditions.
Heading south toward Athens, nestled about 70 miles southeast of Columbus, the Jackie O’s Brewery is a destination for craft beer lovers seeking distinctive, experimental brews in a vibrant college town atmosphere. Known for its hazy IPAs and barrel-aged beers, Jackie O’s embraces creativity with a focus on local ingredients and wild fermentation. The brewery’s tasting room buzzes with energy during weekends, offering samples of rare releases alongside crowd-pleasing favorites. Autumn is a perfect time to visit, as Ohio University’s campus nearby bursts with fall colors and a lively arts scene, complementing the brewery’s eclectic vibe.
In the northern city of Toledo, nestled about 40 miles southwest of Detroit, the Maumee Bay Brewing Company taps into the region’s rich maritime heritage. Located near the shores of Lake Erie, this brewery draws inspiration from the Great Lakes with crisp, refreshing beers that pair well with the local fish dishes featured in their pub. Visitors can enjoy the spacious beer garden during pleasant weather, with views of the Maumee River adding to the experience. Summer evenings are especially rewarding here, when the combination of warm breezes and craft brews invites locals and visitors alike to unwind by the water.
Finally, the Ohio River town of Marietta, approximately two hours southeast of Columbus, is home to the Marietta Brewing Company, a spot that blends historic charm with a modern craft beer sensibility. Situated in the heart of the city’s historic district, the brewery features a rotating selection of house-made beers and seasonal specials that reflect the region’s German brewing roots. The brick-walled taproom and outdoor seating area offer a cozy atmosphere for sampling brews after exploring the nearby Harmar Historic District or walking along the riverfront trail. Springtime brings mild temperatures perfect for pairing a pint with a scenic stroll along the Ohio River, making it a memorable stop on any Ohio craft beverage tour.