
Beer Lover's Day is September 7, so what better opportunity to step back and appreciate the art of craft brewing? Beer has played an important role in our country's history — early Virginia colonists often brewed their own ale, and many of our brewing styles were influenced by German settlers in the mid-1850s. However, the process has evolved significantly, and thanks to various hops, grains, and brewing methods, we can enjoy countless styles and flavors of beer today.
One of the best ways to celebrate Beer Lover's Day is to head out to your favorite Ohio craft brewery to learn about their particular brewing style and sample new kinds of beer. Whether you're truly interested in the art of brewing or simply looking for an excuse to have some drinks with friends, here are nine of Ohio's best breweries that should be on your list to try.
2043 E. 4th St., Cleveland, OH 44115
This locally owned and operated brewpub and dining house in Cleveland serves some of the best local beers as well as delicious farm-to-table shareable plates. They even have an in-house butcher and Charcuterie. With over 12 different beers on tap and a robust menu of wines and cocktails, Butcher And The Brewer is a great place to hang out and relax with friends. There is spacious indoor and outdoor seating, and you can even order directly from your phone. The bar and restaurant are open Wednesday through Sunday evenings.
58 E. Market St, Akron, OH 44308
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With over 22 beers on tap and a taproom menu full of delicious snacks, Akronym Brewing is one of the best breweries in Northeast Ohio and makes for a great date night or weekend hangout location. Beer is brewed on-site, and several of Akronym's beers have actually won local and national competitions. Trivia night is on Wednesdays, and they serve a delicious brunch on Sundays. The bar is open daily, but hours change, so be sure to check their website. Rather drink at home? Order a keg of your favorite beer with a pony tap to go.
6307 Whipple Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
For some delicious locally-brewed craft beer choices, check out Codex Brewing. This small brewery has 13 rotating taps to choose from, including delicious IPAs, wheat beers, and even seltzers. Enjoy your beer inside their cozy, minimalist taproom. Codex Brewing doesn't have a kitchen, but they do frequently have food trucks, and they even allow you to bring your own food. The taproom is open Wednesday through Sunday, and drive-thru beer pickup is also available.
1101 N. 4th St., Columbus, OH 43201
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Seventh Son has been voted best brewery in Columbus on multiple occasions and makes some of the most delicious ales & IPAs in Central Ohio. Located in the historic Italian Village, Seventh Son has a robust draft list, great food truck schedule, and even a small retail shop. Enjoy the rustic atmosphere of the taproom, which is divided into two floors and has a "Downstairs Draft List" and an "Upstairs Draft List." There is plenty of table space both indoors and outdoors, and the bar is open 7 days a week.
61 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43215
This locally-owned brewery and retail store sits in the Olde Towne East area of Columbus and provides a comfortable atmosphere to learn about and try different craft beers and wine. The staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable and can help you find your new favorite beer. The store has six rotating drafts but also features over 300 different varieties of bottled beer. Growlers are available if you'd like to take your beet to-go. Make sure to check out their website for fun weekend events. The brewery is open Monday through Saturday until 10 pm on weeknights and 11 pm on weekends.
2555 Harrison Rd., Columbus, OH 43204
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Best known for its Columbus IPA, Bodhi, and German Lagers, Columbus Brewing Company's massive brewery is where you'll find some of the most popular beers in Central Ohio. The large brewery is attached to a beautiful taproom where you can enjoy 20 popular beers, all brewed on-site. Beer is available to go, and small plates, appetizers, and pizzas are available to order. Stop by Wednesday through Thursday for a beer and a snack.
1910 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
One of the most popular craft beer brands in the Midwest can be found right in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood of Cincinnati. This 25,000 square foot brewery features a rooftop bar and a beautiful taproom. The draft list includes all the popular Rhinegeist favorites plus rotating season choices. Best of all, you can take a tasting tour of the entire brewing facility on weekends. While they don't actually serve food, they do have a partnership with their next-door neighbor's OTR Chili, so it's to pair your favorite Cincinnati chili with your favorite beer. The brewery is open Tuesday through Sunday.
3301 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209
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This warehouse-turned-brewery in Cincinnati features ample indoor and outdoor seating, great beer, and some delicious pizza. MadTree Brewing has over 26 styles of craft beer and an awesome family-friendly vibe. There are a variety of outdoor activities on the weekends, and the brewery is dog-friendly. They also have a huge outdoor patio, making it a great place to hang out on warm weekend afternoons. Stop by for a pint or order a growler or keg to go. MadTree is open seven days a week.
1621 Dana Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45207
20 draft beers and a dog-friendly taproom make Listermann Brewing Company an awesome place to gather with friends and family. Listermann's beers have won several local and national awards dating all the way back to 2014. Not only do they have a great taproom, but you'll also find a growler station and a home brewing supply store. The taproom and store are open 7 days a week.
Where will you find your new favorite style of beer around Ohio?