Michigan has established itself as one of America’s premier craft beer destinations, boasting over 400 breweries that rank the state sixth nationally for the number of breweries, microbreweries, and brewpubs. From the shores of the Great Lakes to urban centers and small towns, Michigan’s brewing culture represents a perfect blend of innovation, tradition, and local pride that continues to evolve with each passing year.
A Rich Brewing Heritage
Michigan’s brewing history dates back to the 1830s, with Englishman John Pannell credited as the first to open a brewery in the state in 1836. The industry truly flourished when German immigrants arrived in the 1840s, bringing with them recipes for pale lagers that complemented the dark ales already being produced. This diversification of beer styles marked the beginning of Michigan’s reputation for brewing excellence.
The 1860s is considered the golden age for breweries in Michigan, and by 1893, six Michigan breweries joined forces to create Grand Rapids Brewing Company, one of the state’s largest beer operations at that time. Though Prohibition temporarily halted legal production, Michigan’s brewing industry has since rebounded spectacularly, particularly in the modern craft beer era.
Michigan’s Brewing Landscape Today
The contemporary Michigan beer scene is characterized by incredible diversity in both geography and brewing styles. The state’s breweries employ more than 16,000 people and operate as community-based small businesses that contribute significantly to local economies. These breweries support state agriculture by purchasing locally-grown ingredients including hops, malted barley, wheat, beet sugar, cherries, apples, and numerous other fruits, herbs, and spices.
Notable Breweries Across the State
Michigan’s brewery landscape features established icons alongside innovative newcomers. Some of the most celebrated include:
Lower Peninsula Standouts
Brewery Vivant in Grand Rapids has earned acclaim for its Belgian-inspired brews served in a renovated historic funeral chapel, creating a unique atmosphere that complements their flagship Farmhand farmhouse ale and barrel-aged offerings.
Shorts Brewing Company in Bellaire has become a national name, pushing boundaries with bold flavors and whimsical branding. Their Soft Parade fruit ale exemplifies their innovative approach to brewing.
New Holland Brewing Company, with locations in Holland and Grand Rapids, has achieved widespread recognition for their Dragon’s Milk barrel-aged stout, which has become one of Michigan’s most iconic beer exports.
Bell’s Brewery in Kalamazoo remains one of Michigan’s most historic and respected brewing operations, consistently ranking among the most covered breweries in industry publications.
Austin Brothers Beer Company in Alpena has rapidly risen in popularity, with visitors noting that it “skyrocketed to the top of the ‘best breweries in Michigan list’” upon first visit.
Upper Peninsula Gems
The Upper Peninsula hosts numerous exceptional breweries despite its more remote location:
Keweenaw Brewery in Houghton is celebrated for its iconic Widowmaker black ale and other cold-weather favorites that capture the spirit of Michigan’s northernmost region.
Blackrocks Brewery in Marquette embodies adventure and exploration with small-batch brewing and experimental flavors, complemented by a laid-back taproom and two-story outdoor patio perfect for northern Michigan summers.
Lake Superior Brewing Company in Grand Marais offers an authentic, unpretentious experience in a local bar setting, with their blueberry wheat ale drawing particular praise.
Michigan Beer Festivals and Events
Michigan’s love affair with beer extends beyond taprooms to numerous festivals celebrating the craft throughout the year:
Summer Beer Festival
The 26th Annual Michigan Summer Beer Festival, scheduled for July 25-26, 2025, in Ypsilanti’s Riverside Park, stands as the oldest of the Michigan Brewers Guild’s five annual festivals. The event features hundreds of fresh, local Michigan beers from many of the state’s finest breweries. Friday admission costs $55 in advance ($65 at the gate) and includes 15 tokens for beer samples, while Saturday’s $60 admission ($70 at the gate) includes beer samples and access to an evening concert featuring Keller and the Keels.
Winter Beer Festival
The 19th Annual Winter Beer Festival will take place on February 22, 2025, at LMCU Ballpark in Comstock Park. This popular winter event features hundreds of local beers alongside ice sculptures, carving demonstrations, fire pits, and food vendors.
Michigan Beer & Brat Festival
Crystal Mountain hosts the 18th annual celebration of Michigan-made food and craft beverages on May 24, 2025. This festival offers live entertainment while showcasing Michigan’s microbrews, meads, hard ciders, wine, liquor, and gourmet brats from northwest Michigan markets.
Beerfest at the Ballpark
The 10th Annual Beerfest at the Ballpark takes place on April 19, 2025, at Jackson Field in Lansing. This outdoor festival features over 300 different beers, ciders, hard seltzers, meads, spirits, and wines, along with live music and food from Lugnuts concession stands.
The Future of Michigan Beer
While Michigan’s brewery scene continues to thrive, it’s not without challenges. In 2022, nine breweries closed all or part of their operations, indicating that the market remains competitive. However, the industry continues to grow with 22 breweries in progress of opening as of early 2023.
Some of the most anticipated newcomers include:
- Big Pines Brewing in Hillsdale
- Full Measure Brewing Co in Detroit
- Loco Boys Brewing Company in Traverse City
- SaltRock Brewing Co in Lansing
- Third Life Brewing in Manistee
Michigan Beer Month
The state’s commitment to its brewing industry is officially recognized each July, which Governor Whitmer proclaimed as Michigan Beer Month in 2024. This designation acknowledges Michigan breweries for “providing jobs, improving the balance of trade, supporting Michigan agriculture,” and contributing to the state’s cultural identity.
Conclusion
Michigan’s brewery scene represents far more than just places to enjoy a pint—it embodies the state’s entrepreneurial spirit, agricultural bounty, and community values. From historic operations that have shaped American brewing to innovative newcomers pushing boundaries, Michigan’s 400+ breweries offer something for every palate while supporting local economies and agriculture.
Whether you’re planning a dedicated beer tourism trip or simply looking to enjoy local flavors during your Michigan visit, the state’s breweries provide a perfect lens through which to experience Michigan’s diverse regions, from urban centers to lakeside communities and everywhere in between. As Michigan continues to cement its reputation as one of America’s premier beer destinations, both established breweries and newcomers ensure that the tradition of excellent Michigan craft beer will continue for generations to come.