The Best Breweries Around Columbus
For almost 200 years, Columbus has enjoyed a reputation as a hub for brewers and craft beer makers. German immigrant Louis Hoster opened the city’s first brewery in 1836. And while that establishment shut its doors long ago, there are still plenty of other breweries, bars and pubs around Columbus where you can sample local craft beer.
Columbus Ale Trail
There are more than 50 breweries along the Columbus Ale Trail. Pick up a booklet at any participating venue and collect its stamp when you visit. Some breweries have multiple locations but only qualify as one stamp. Collect four stamps, and you’ll receive an embroidered Ale Trail patch. Complete the booklet, and you’ll get a free art print.
Popular Columbus Breweries
Columbus Brewing Company: This local staple is best known for the Columbus IPA and Bodhi. The brewers take inspiration from German-style lagers and barrel-aged beers to add variety to their yearly and seasonal fare.
Land-Grant Brewing Company: This 12,000 square-foot brewery is located on West Town Street in East Franklinton. Land-Grant produces 310,000 to 465,000 gallons of beer every year. Their most popular brews include Greenskeeper Session IPA, 1862 Ale, Beard Crumbs and Stiff-Arm IPA.
Wolf’s Ridge Brewing: A father and son duo established Wolf’s Ridge Brewing to combine their love of craft beer and fine dining. Their establishment features a taproom, dining room and private space for special events. Enjoy brews like Dire Wolf, Howling Moon and Driftwood in the taproom or order a six-pack online for delivery.
Hoof Hearted Brewpub & Kitchen: Hoof Hearted is located on North 4th Street and offers an extensive lineup of craft beers, plus savory brunch and dinner dishes. Some of their best brews include Musk of Minotaur IPA, South of Eleven and Roller Blabe. You can also enjoy your beer at their outdoor pool, weather permitting.
Hofbrauhaus Columbus Brewery & Restaurant: This brewery has roots in Munich, Germany. The brewers are committed to crafting authentic German beer using ingredients and processes perfected over 500 years. They host happy hour daily from 3 to 6 p.m., so you can enjoy their wide variety of lager, weizen and Marzen beers.
Elevator Brewery & Draught Haus: Opened in 1897 as Bott Brothers’ Billiards, the Elevator Brewery’s unique grandeur includes mahogany bars, mosaic tile flooring and stained glass. You’ll want to come for the atmosphere and stay for the popular Three Frogs IPA, Bleeding Buckeye Red and Heiferweizen.
Grove City Brewing Company: Located in the heart of downtown Grove City, this regional staple is known for putting a spin on classic beers and creating new custom brews. They offer porters, lagers, IPAs, stouts and ciders. Top picks include Beulah, The Day the Mosaic Died and Big Run Black Lager.
Ardent Communities has apartment and townhouse communities in Columbus that offer convenient access to local breweries, restaurants and entertainment options. Connect with us online to learn about our locations and amenities.