chattanooga brewery tour

After five and a half years of sharing Chattanooga’s craft brewing community with beer lovers, we’ve finally floated the keg and have closed the tour. Thank you to our thousands of guests, our incredible brewery partners, and our top-notch team.

Mike and Angela will be spending their free time sharing their international travel adventures on We Married Adventure and hope you’ll follow them there.

Thanks again, beer friends. We appreciate you! 🍻

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Exploring Chattanooga – Digital Chattanooga

What, Where, When, and Why in Chattanooga

Chattanoogas Brewery Trail: Exploring the Craft Breweries in Chattanooga TN

Introduction to Chattanooga’s Brewery Scene

Steeped in a rich history and home to several noteworthy breweries, Chattanooga, TN, has emerged as a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts. The city’s brewing scene is not only known for its unique beers but also for its community spirit and dedication to supporting local businesses, making it an attractive locale for residents and tourists alike.

Historical Overview of Breweries

Chattanooga’s brewing history dates back to the 1800s and has seen a resurgence in recent years with the growth of the craft beer industry. Over the years, the city has been home to numerous breweries, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Chattanooga’s brewing heritage. This history is still palpable today and is a testament to the enduring appeal of quality craft beers in Chattanooga.

Current Craft Beer Landscape

Today, Chattanooga boasts several renowned craft breweries, including OddStory Brewing Co., Chattanooga Brewing Company, Hutton & Smith Brewing Co., and Heaven & Ale Brewing Co. ( GitHub ). These breweries offer a diverse array of craft beers, from traditional ales and lagers to innovative and experimental brews.

Each brewery often features a taproom with a unique atmosphere, offering visitors a chance to relax, socialize, and enjoy craft beers in a welcoming setting. Beyond just the beers, these taprooms also serve as hubs for community events, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and connection among patrons.

The breweries in Chattanooga, TN, form an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric, alongside other attractions like the chattanooga aquarium , various museums in chattanooga tn , and numerous parks in chattanooga tn . Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor looking for things to do in chattanooga , exploring the city’s vibrant brewery scene is an experience not to be missed.

Must-Visit Breweries in Chattanooga

A trip to Chattanooga, Tennessee, would not be complete without a tour of its thriving craft beer scene. The city is home to several breweries, each offering its unique take on craft beers. Let’s explore three must-visit breweries in Chattanooga: Hutton & Smith Brewing Co., Chattanooga Brewing Co., and OddStory Brewing Co.

Exploring Hutton & Smith Brewing Co.

Hutton & Smith Brewing Co. is considered one of the best, most prolific, and most consistent breweries in Chattanooga, Tennessee. They offer a variety of mainstay beers and are known for innovating with special “Can-iversary” beers released each June. These limited-edition brews are highly anticipated by locals and visitors alike and showcase the brewery’s creativity and passion for the craft.

Some of their favorite beers include the Promenade IPA, Tectonic Session IPA, and Prusik Pale Ale. Each brew offers unique flavors and textures that cater to different palates, making Hutton & Smith Brewing Co. a key stop on any tour of the breweries in Chattanooga, TN.

Discovering Chattanooga Brewing Co.

Chattanooga Brewing Co. holds the distinction of being the first-ever brewery established in Chattanooga in the 19th century. While it closed during Prohibition, the brewery reopened in 2010 and has continuously improved its beer offerings over the years. Initially perceived as average, this historic establishment has evolved to offer better beer and food options, much to the delight of beer enthusiasts ( Scratch Made Southern ).

Among their signature brews are the Faultless Lager and Cashual Friday session IPA, both of which are favorites among locals and visitors alike. A visit to Chattanooga Brewing Co. offers you a chance to taste history and tradition, making it an essential stop on your tour of Chattanooga’s breweries.

Experiencing OddStory Brewing Co.

OddStory Brewing Co. is a long-standing favorite in the Chattanooga community, known for its distinct beers and contributions to the local brewery scene. Its unique and diverse selection of craft beers sets it apart from other breweries in the city, marking it as a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts.

OddStory Brewing Co. embodies the innovative spirit of Chattanooga’s craft beer scene, and a visit here promises a truly unique and memorable experience. Be sure to sample their rotating selection of craft beers for a taste of what makes this brewery a standout.

Visiting these breweries offers not just a taste of their unique brews but an insight into Chattanooga’s vibrant beer culture. As you explore these breweries, remember that they are just a part of the many things to do in Chattanooga . From the Chattanooga Aquarium to the best restaurants in Chattanooga , there’s always something to discover in this dynamic city.

Chattanooga’s Brewery Events

The craft beer scene in Chattanooga, TN, is not just about the high-quality brews. The city also hosts several exciting events that bring together beer enthusiasts from all over. These events not only showcase the diversity and richness of the local brewing culture but also offer a fun and engaging way for visitors to experience the city’s vibrant craft beer community.

Chattanooga Beer Fest Highlights

One of the most anticipated events in Chattanooga’s craft beer calendar is the Chattanooga Beer Fest. Presented by Hutton & Smith Brewing Company, the 2023 edition of the festival brought together a diverse range of breweries from Chattanooga, including Big River Brewing, Cherry Street Brewing, Five Wits Brewing, Naked River Brewing, Odd Story Brewing, Tanasi Brewing & Supplies, Wanderlinger Brewing, and the Barley Mob Brewers Club ( Chattanooga Beer Fest ).

The festival also featured breweries from other locations, such as Black Abbey from Nashville, Blackhorse Brewery from Clarksville, TN, Highland Brewing from Asheville, NC, Founders Brewing from Grand Rapids, MI, New Belgium Brewing from Asheville, NC, and Wiseacre Brewing from Memphis, adding a national flavor to the event.

The festival offered a ticketed craft beer event where attendees could sample tastings from every participating partner without the need for tokens or additional purchases. Tickets were priced at $48 per person in advance, with a limit of 1,200 tickets for the 2023 festival. At-the-door tickets, if available, cost $58. Designated Driver tickets were also available for $20 at the door, emphasizing the importance of a safe and enjoyable experience at the festival.

To complement the beer tastings, food offerings at the festival included Jonny Poppers Burgers, I Love Tacos, and Freaky Funnels, providing attendees with a selection of food options to complement the beer tastings during the festival.

Regular Events at Local Breweries

Apart from the annual beer festival, several local breweries in Chattanooga, TN, host regular events throughout the year. These range from weekly brewery tours and tasting sessions to special release parties, live music nights, and charity fundraisers. These events not only offer an opportunity to sample a wide variety of craft beers but also provide a platform for the community to come together and celebrate the city’s vibrant brewing culture.

For attendees, these events provide a unique insight into the craftsmanship and passion that goes into every pint of beer brewed in Chattanooga. They also offer an opportunity to meet the brewers, learn about the brewing process, and even get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing facilities.

Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler, exploring the breweries and attending the brewery events in Chattanooga, TN, is a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s craft beer scene. So, the next time you’re looking for things to do in Chattanooga , consider adding a brewery event to your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed!

Tours and Tastings in Chattanooga’s Breweries

As part of the diverse range of leisure options available in Chattanooga, the city’s brewery scene offers captivating experiences for both residents and visitors. Brewery tours and tastings are among the top attractions in Chattanooga, giving guests an in-depth look into the local craft beer industry.

What to Expect During Brewery Tours

Chattanooga’s breweries offer engaging tours that take guests behind the scenes of the brewing process. These tours offer an opportunity to learn about the time-honored craft and history behind the beers produced in the city ( Tripadvisor ).

Typically, a brewery tour in Chattanooga will guide you through the various stages of beer production, from the selection of quality ingredients to the brewing, fermenting, and packaging processes. It’s a unique opportunity to gain insight into the meticulous craft that goes into every batch of beer produced in these breweries.

Moreover, these tours often feature taprooms with unique atmospheres, offering visitors a chance to relax, socialize, and enjoy craft beers in a welcoming setting. Additionally, the breweries frequently host events like live music nights, trivia, and food trucks, adding a layer of entertainment to the beer tasting experience ( Tripadvisor ).

Sampling Unique Craft Beers

Sampling the unique craft beers at each brewery is a highlight of any visit to the breweries in Chattanooga TN. Each brewery offers a diverse selection of locally brewed beers and ales, with flavors ranging from traditional to experimental.

During a tasting session, visitors are often guided through the different styles of beers available, allowing them to explore a variety of flavor profiles. Whether a light and crisp pilsner, a bitter and hoppy IPA, or a rich and dark stout, Chattanooga’s breweries cater to a wide range of beer preferences.

Tasting sessions are not just about sampling different beers, but also learning about the flavor nuances, brewing techniques, and the stories behind each brew. It’s an immersive experience that combines education, exploration, and most importantly, enjoyment.

Whether you’re a casual beer drinker or a seasoned connoisseur, the brewery tours and tastings in Chattanooga offer a unique and engaging way to explore the city’s craft beer scene. It’s a great addition to the list of things to do in Chattanooga , and a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Impact of Breweries on Chattanooga

The impact of breweries in Chattanooga TN extends far beyond simply offering a diverse selection of craft beers. These establishments contribute significantly to the local economy and tourism industry, and play a key role in shaping Chattanooga’s cultural identity.

Economic Contributions of Breweries

Chattanooga’s breweries not only offer a wide array of craft beers but also contribute significantly to the local economy and tourism industry. These establishments often host events like live music nights, trivia, and food trucks, enhancing the overall experience for citizens and visitors alike ( Tripadvisor ).

By attracting both locals and tourists, breweries in Chattanooga TN help boost other local industries such as food, entertainment, and retail. The influx of visitors to these breweries often results in increased patronage of nearby restaurants , shopping outlets , and other attractions , thereby stimulating Chattanooga’s economy.

Breweries and Chattanooga’s Cultural Identity

Breweries have also helped shape Chattanooga’s cultural identity. Known for its community spirit and dedication to supporting local businesses, Chattanooga’s brewery scene is a popular destination for beer enthusiasts and tourists alike.

These breweries often feature taprooms with unique atmospheres, offering visitors a chance to relax, socialize, and enjoy craft beers in a welcoming setting. The combination of high-quality craft beers, vibrant events, and a strong community spirit make Chattanooga’s breweries an integral part of the city’s cultural and culinary offerings.

In summary, breweries in Chattanooga TN are more than just places to enjoy a good beer. They play a crucial role in the city’s economy, contribute to its cultural identity, and enhance the overall Chattanooga experience . Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a trip to one of Chattanooga’s breweries promises an experience steeped in local flavor and community spirit.

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Try this: Take a ChattaBrew tour

We recently went on a walking brewery tour with chattabrew tour — hop on in for the details..

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Ever wanted to see the behind-the-scenes of your favorite local brewery? Here’s your chance.

Photo by NOOGAtoday

Editors Kristen and Haley joined ChattaBrew Tour recently for a four-hour walking brewery tour + we can’t stop talking about it.

Owners Angela + Mike made the experience so much more worth it with their knowledge and fun banter. The samples and good vibes were flowing all night long — have a look at what we tried .

• Chattanooga Brewing Co. | Toured with Head Brewer Alex + tried samples of the Belgian Blonde and the New England hazy IPA.
• Dynamo Brewing & Beverage | Got a run down on its traditional brewing style + sipped on the Vienna lager, the cask ESB, and the porter. Bonus: This is usually the food stop — try the cast iron cheese dip.
• The Greenhouse Barrel + Taproom | Saw the brewing equipment + sampled from the happy hour flights and frozen beer.
• Wanderlinger Brewing Co. | Ended the night with samples of the Japanese rice lager, Belgian Wit, and the Italian pilsner + small bites.

At the end of the day, it brews down to the fact that you simply have to try it — book a walking or bus tour for yourself. Bonus: Use the promo “NOOGATODAY” for $10 off any tours now through the end of July.

The Best Breweries In Chattanooga: Top 10

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Welcome to Chattanooga, Tennessee, a city that holds a special place in the heart of craft beer enthusiasts. Nestled in the stunning landscapes of the state, Chattanooga’s craft beer scene has flourished over the years, offering a diverse array of craft breweries that showcase the region’s brewing excellence. In this article, we proudly present the top 10 breweries in Chattanooga, each contributing their unique flavors and experiences to this vibrant beer community.

With our deep knowledge and passion for craft beer, we have carefully curated this list to highlight the best Chattanooga breweries. We’ve explored the local scene, delved into the stories behind each brewery, and savored their exceptional brews to bring you a comprehensive guide to the city’s top beer destinations.

Also Read: The 10 Best Beers For Gastritis

Among the featured breweries, one intriguing highlight is Hutton & Smith Brewing Co. Known for their dedication to quality and innovation, they have garnered a loyal following. Get ready to indulge in their imaginative brews, where traditional styles meet inventive flavor combinations, creating a truly memorable drinking experience.

Here is a list of the top 10 best breweries in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

• Hutton & Smith Brewing Company
• OddStory Brewing Company
• Chattanooga Brewing Company
• Heaven & Ale Brewing Co.
• Terminal Brewhouse
• Wanderlinger Brewing Co.
• Naked River Brewing Company
• Five Wits Brewing Company
• Mad Knight Brewing Company
• Big Frog Brewing Company

The Top 10 Breweries In Chattanooga

1. hutton & smith brewing company.

Hutton & Smith Brewing Co., located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, was founded in 2014 with a focus on producing innovative and high-quality craft beers. They are known for their dedication to using locally sourced ingredients, resulting in unique flavor profiles.

Their standout beers include the Ignis Pils, Prometheus IPA, and Cavalier Stout. Hutton & Smith has received numerous accolades, including multiple medals at the Great American Beer Festival.

2. OddStory Brewing Company

OddStory Brewing Company, also based in Chattanooga, takes pride in crafting imaginative and boundary-pushing brews. Established in 2015, they offer a diverse range of beers, from traditional styles to experimental concoctions.

Notable beers from OddStory include the Good Juju Pale Ale, Coffee Brown, and Galacticus IPA. Their commitment to brewing excellence has earned them recognition at various beer competitions and festivals.

3. Chattanooga Brewing Company

Chattanooga Brewing Company, one of the oldest breweries in Chattanooga, has been producing quality beers since its establishment in 2010. With a focus on classic styles and local ingredients, they offer a wide selection of beers catering to different palates.

Chattanooga Brewing Company’s flagship beers, such as the Chestnut Street Brown Ale and Hill City IPA, have garnered praise from both critics and beer enthusiasts.

4. Heaven & Ale Brewing Co.

This Chattanooga brewery is renowned for its commitment to crafting exceptional brews. Since opening their doors in 2014, they have gained a loyal following. Notable beers from Heaven & Ale Brewing Co. include the River Roost Hefeweizen, Hopshell IPA, and Cherry Berry Ale. Their dedication to quality and innovation has resulted in several awards and recognition within the brewing community.

Also Read: The 10 Best Beers For Psoriasis

5. Terminal Brewhouse

Terminal Brewhouse, a Chattanooga-based brewery, and restaurant, has been serving craft beer since 2009. They focus on using local and organic ingredients to create flavorful and sustainable brews. Their diverse beer menu includes popular options like the Southsidenstein Amber Ale, Terminally Ale ESB, and Hill City IPA. Terminal Brewhouse has received multiple awards for its beers, including recognition at the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup.

6. Wanderlinger Brewing Co.

Wanderlinger Brewing Co., established in 2016 in Chattanooga, offers a wide range of beer styles to cater to various preferences. Known for their attention to detail and quality, Wanderlinger Brewing Co. produces notable beers such as the Doubleshot Coffee Stout, Citra Blast IPA, and Milk Stout. They have earned accolades for their brews at local and regional beer competitions, showcasing their commitment to brewing excellence.

7. Naked River Brewing Company

Naked River Brewing Company, located in Chattanooga’s Southside district, is known for its craft beers inspired by local history and culture. Since opening in 2018, they have created a lineup of standout brews, including the River Gose Wild, Nut Brown Ale, and Scenic City IPA.

Naked River Brewing Company has received recognition for its beers at various beer festivals, solidifying its position in the Chattanooga brewing scene.

Also Read: The 10 Best Beers For Steak And Ale Pie

8. Five Wits Brewing Company

Five Wits Brewing Company, based in Chattanooga, is dedicated to producing high-quality, small-batch craft beers. Founded in 2018, they strive for balance and complexity in their beer offerings.

Notable brews from Five Wits include the Citra Blonde Ale, Peanut Butter Porter, and Mango Habanero IPA. Their commitment to craftsmanship and flavor has garnered them positive reviews and a growing reputation among beer enthusiasts.

9. Mad Knight Brewing Company

Mad Knight Brewing Co., located in Chattanooga, is a family-owned and operated brewery known for its focus on traditional beer styles and creative variations.

Since opening in 2017, they have gained recognition for their beers such as the Red Queen Amber Ale, Silent Knight IPA, and Mad Hefeweizen. Mad Knight Brewing Co. has received accolades at regional beer competitions, showcasing its dedication to brewing excellence.

10. Big Frog Brewing Company

Big Frog Brewing Company, established in 2020 in Chattanooga, brings a unique approach to brewing by specializing in small-batch, artisanal, and experimental beers. They offer a rotating selection of brews, including the Frogzilla Double IPA, Smoky Mountain Brown Ale, and Raspberry Wheat Ale. Despite being a newer brewery, Big Frog Brewing Company has already garnered positive feedback and a growing following for its creative and flavorful beers.

Also Read: The 10 Best Beers For Beer Bread

Brewery Tours And Tastings In Chattanooga

Chattanooga offers several excellent brewery tours and tastings that provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant craft beer scene. Here are some of the best options:

• Chattanooga Brew Choo: The Chattanooga Brew Choo offers a unique way to experience the breweries of Chattanooga. It’s a pedal-powered trolley that takes you on a guided tour to multiple breweries, allowing you to enjoy tastings and learn about the brewing process. Tours typically last around 2.5 hours and cost around $35 per person.
• Chattanooga Brew Tours: Chattanooga Brew Tours provides guided tours to multiple breweries in the city, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and ample tastings. They offer both public and private tours, and prices range from $49 to $59 per person. Tour times and availability may vary, so it’s recommended to check their website for the most up-to-date information.
• Chattanooga Brewing Company: Chattanooga Brewing Company, one of the city’s oldest breweries, offers regular tours where you can learn about their brewing techniques and history. Tours are free of charge and typically take place on Saturdays. They also have a taproom where you can enjoy their diverse range of beers.

Also Read: The 10 Best Beers For Hot Wings

Chattanooga’s top 10 breweries encompass a wide range of styles, flavors, and experiences, making the city a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts. From innovative small-batch breweries to establishments rooted in tradition, these breweries showcase the passion and creativity that define Chattanooga’s craft beer scene. Embark on a journey of flavors and explore the best breweries Chattanooga has to offer. Cheers!

Food Tours - History Tours - Art Tours

Book Your Tours Below

ChattaBrunch Food Tour

Thursday - sunday.

Food, art, history, and mimosas. The perfect recipe for a great brunch experience. Visit 3 restaurants + 1 special stop. Find out where all the locals go for brunch.

Total Walking Distance: 3/4 mile (broken up into 4 stops)

Availability: Thursday – Sunday 11:00 am – 1:30 pm & 2:00 pm – 4:30 pm

What’s included: Food, 2 Optional Cocktail/Mimosas, + Access to Common House – Chattanooga’s Private Social Club.

Historic Southside

Thursday - saturday.

Visit local restaurants everything from tacos, to butcheries, to award winning micro distilleries. This variety of food fully encompasses the best of the Historic Southside Chattanooga.

Total Walking Distance: 1/2 mile (broken up into 4-5 stops)

Availability: Thursday – Saturday 11:00 am – 1:30 pm & 2:00 pm – 4:30 pm

What’s included: Food, 2 Optional Spirits, + Visit the Historic Chattanooga Choo Choo .

MLK Food & History

Visit 3 restaurants on Historic MLK Blvd & 1 Brewery. Plus view 20 + local art installations. Must be 21 or Older

Total Walking Distance: 3/4 mile loop

Availability: Thursday – Sat. 2:00 pm – 4:30 pm & 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

What’s included: Food, 1 Optional Beer Selection, + Art Photography Opportunities

Downtown Chattanooga

Our Most Popular Tour! The Downtown Chattanooga is fine dining done well. This elegant tour is designed for those celebrating or simply passing through.

Total Walking Distance: 1/4 mile

Availability: Thursday – Saturday 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm

What’s included: Food + Chattanooga Trivia Gifts (all local products)

Cocktail Making Classes

Learn the art of cocktail crafting with master mixologist. Must be 21 or Older

Total Walking Distance: None

Availability: Saturdays 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

What’s included: All equipment required to complete class + giveaways. Choice of alcohol. Mocktail options available. This class fills up quickly!

• Walk this Way

Chattanooga, the South’s Next Hot Craft Brewery Destination

The air in Chattanooga’s walkable, historic Southside neighborhood crackles with promise. You can feel that it’s getting ready to explode. New craft breweries fling open their doors by the minute, darling eateries take over recently empty historic storefronts, and funky coffee houses sprout up in every nook and cranny.

I wandered into Kenny’s — an adorable minimalist eatery that recently opened in an exposed pipe, wood floor, wide-open room — looking for advice from locals. The staff is super friendly (and hip!). The manager says many of the places like Wanderlinger Brewing are new. I asked if now was the time to open a business or buy property in this rapidly developing, tucked away section of Chattanooga. The answer is yes.

The city is attracting everyone from creative entrepreneurs to foodies and beer geeks. If you’re looking to explore this new Southern hot spot, here’s a walkable guide to Chattanooga’s southside breweries.

( VISIT: Find a U.S. Brewery )

Chattanooga Brewing Co.

The folks behind Chattanooga’s oldest brewery seek to connect to the past.

“This area had a large German-speaking population in those days, and our namesake produced high quality beers for the community,” says Mark Marcum, co-owner of Chattanooga Brewing Co .

The original CBC opened in 1890 and inspire the name of their mug club. Prohibition closed it down 25 years later.

Today, the brewery sits across the street from Finley Stadium, home for Chattanooga FC, an amateur soccer team, along with University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s football and soccer teams. Home of easy-drinking beers, CBC’s most popular brew is the Chestnut St. Brown Ale. Be sure to try it before or after catching a game.

( READ: The American Brown Ale Beer Style is Anything But Boring )

Wanderlinger Brewing Co.

Southside also has the distinction of being home to The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, which certainly adds to its charm and infuses the area with a youthful persona.

In fact, brothers and co-owners Chris and Mike Dial fell in love with the city during their college days when Mike would make the nearly two-hour drive from Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro.

“It was only natural to decide to open our business together in this vibrant, amazing city,” says Chris. “Chattanooga is becoming a mini-Asheville. With 10 breweries and more to come, we are creating a brewery destination city in an already amazing city that draws in folks from all over the country.”

He foresees five to seven more breweries opening within the next three years. The walkability between seven of Chattanooga’s current breweries certainly makes the budding city attractive to hopheads, Chris says.

And like Chattanooga Brewing Co., Wanderlinger aimed to honor the city’s rich history by revitalizing a 110-year-old building, which took three years to renovate.

Bonus: It’s kid-friendly until 8 p.m. and pet-friendly all the time. There’s music three nights a week, and they often have food trucks.

As Chris says, Wanderlinger is all about guests “lingering” as long as they’d like.

( TRAVEL: 2019 Great American Beer Bars )

Hutton & Smith Brewing Company

For Melanie and Joel Kratstrunk, Chattanooga’s sizzling potential as one of the country’s next amazing craft beer hubs drew them to move and open Hutton & Smith Brewing Company in 2015.

“Chattanooga has a real outdoor community, and the people here are friendly — [it’s] growing exponentially. I expect to see at least twice the number of breweries here in the next three years,” Melanie says.

Hutton & Smith is best-known for three of its IPAS: Igneous, a dry-hopped IPA; Bivoauc, a black IPA, and Promenade, a juicy IPA.

Melanie also nails exactly why Chattanooga is on the brink of big things: “[It has] all the benefits of a big city in a small town, and many of the breweries here are in a walkable distance from either another brewery, or a great local attraction.”

More Chattanooga Breweries

Of course, you can add many more breweries to your beercation agenda in Chattanooga.

There is the new Naked River Brewing across the stadium from Chattanooga Brewing. Heaven & Ale Brewing Co. is in an industrial-chic spot. OddStory offers a sleek lounge vibe, and long-standing Terminal Brewhouse , inside a flatiron building that abuts the former train station.

Southside has some darling vacation rentals popping up as locals realize how lucrative Chatt’s growing tourism market can be.

Keep in mind that besides the amazing walkability of this up-and-coming city, you can also jump on the Choo Choo. The free shuttle will cart you to and from downtown.

Shawndra Russell

Shawndra Russell, is the owner of Shawndra Russell Communications , a full service communications firm based in Asheville, NC. Off-duty, she loves trying new craft beers, traveling, reading, doing something athletic like mud runs or volleyball, or checking out live music.

CraftBeer.com is fully dedicated to small and independent U.S. breweries. We are published by the Brewers Association, the not-for-profit trade group dedicated to promoting and protecting America’s small and independent craft brewers. Stories and opinions shared on CraftBeer.com do not imply endorsement by or positions taken by the Brewers Association or its members.

THE 5 BEST Chattanooga Breweries

Breweries in chattanooga.

• Beer Tastings & Tours
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• Distilleries
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
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• Adventurous
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• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Naked River Brewing Company

2. Hutton & Smith Brewing Co

3. Wanderlinger Brewing Company

4. Chattanooga Brewing Company

5. Tanasi Brewing & Supplies

6. Brewing Works

7. oddstory brewing company, 8. mad knight brewing company, 9. tennessee crown distributing company, what travelers are saying.

• Naked River Brewing Company
• Hutton & Smith Brewing Co
• Wanderlinger Brewing Company
• Chattanooga Brewing Company
• Tanasi Brewing & Supplies

Wineries and Distilleries in Chattanooga

Chattanoogans had to move mountains to get distilleries going (worth it!). Today, the libations are flowing. Chattanooga Whiskey paved the way, getting prohibition-era laws changed in order to craft their liquid gold in the Scenic City. Love craft rum, gin, or vodka? Pull up a barstool at Gate 11 Distillery  in the Chattanooga Choo Choo. By the way, they distill their whiskey in a train car (all aboard!).

Just over the state line, discover the surprisingly flavorful wines at Georgia Winery , one of Chattanooga Valley's oldest and most celebrated winery. Go with the flow and explore Chattanooga’s wineries and distilleries on a guided walk, pedal bar, or self-guided tour (don’t forget to pace yourself!). You’ll find intimate atmospheres, world-class tasting rooms, and award-winning sips.

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The best beer destinations within driving distance of Chattanooga

Today at 12:00 a.m.

by Emily Crisman

If you're looking for reasons to get out of town, several cities within just a few hours' drive of Chattanooga boast dozens of craft breweries ready to wow you with their fermentation skills.

Birmingham, Alabama

Driving time from Chattanooga:  2 hours, 20 minutes

Birmingham may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of beer tourism destinations, but the city has a surprisingly robust beer scene.

Located next to the Birmingham Barons baseball stadium, Good People Brewing Co. gives tours on Saturdays, and the taproom also offers good views of the brewing process. Avondale Brewing's historic location — previously home to a brothel, pharmacy and saloon — has an outdoor music venue and a separate taproom dedicated to sours and cocktails. Cahaba Brewing in the East Avondale neighborhood is likewise in a historic setting, located in an old mill where gin, vodka and bourbon are also produced.

Back Forty Beer Company Birmingham , located in the industrial Sloss Docks area, is known for its good food and space to lounge, in addition to its brews. Nearby Ghost Train Brewing Co. is home to Alabama's first high-efficiency brewing system, along with 96 taps, a cocktail bar and an outdoor patio along Birmingham's Hugh Kaul Trail .

Louisville, Kentucky

Driving time from Chattanooga: 5 hours

While Louisville is better-known for its bourbon, the city's craft beer scene is worthy of attention. Head to the downtown/NuLu area for a handful of options, including Falls City Beer x PARLOUR , West Sixth Brewing , Akasha Brewing Company (known for its sours made with wild fermentation) and Against the Grain Brewery (which, along with its beer, is notable for good food and art). In the nearby Irish Hill neighborhood, check out Gravely Brewing Company and Mile Wide Beer Co. , which some say is home to the area's best New England IPA.

If you'd rather have a guide show you the best of the Louisville brew scene, Derby City Brew Tours offers a shuttle tour of three craft breweries that includes 12, 5-ounce samples (about four or five pints) or walking tours of several breweries in the Germantown or Irish Hill neighborhoods.

Or check out the Summer Beer Fest at Frazier , a block party featuring more than 200 specialty brews, food vendors and live music on Main and Ninth streets. This year's event on July 27 celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Frazier Kentucky History Museum , which also serves as the welcome center and starting point for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail .

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Asheville, North Carolina

Driving time from Chattanooga: 4 hours

A four-time winner of the Beer City USA title, Asheville is known as a top destination for beer tourism for good reason. About 100 different beers are locally brewed in Asheville, which is home to more than 50 breweries — more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city.

See where Asheville's craft-brewing tradition began at Highland Brewing , which was Asheville's first legal brewery in the post-Prohibition era when it opened in 1994 and is now the state's largest local brewery. Another of the city's original breweries is Green Man, which expanded in 2016 with the 20,000-square-foot Green Mansion , featuring a "brewtique" retail shop and third-floor tasting room with a view of the mountains.

The South Slope neighborhood is perfect for hopping between breweries, with several located within walking distance of one another. This neighborhood is home to Green Man, Wicked Weed Brewing's Funkatorium , which produces only sours and barrel-aged brews, as well as Burial Beer Co. , known for its crisp and heady Surf Wax American IPA.

In addition to the city's homegrown breweries, Asheville has also attracted outposts of breweries from Western states, such as California's Sierra Nevada and Colorado's Oskar Blues and New Belgium breweries.

(READ MORE: Why you should visit Asheville's new 'urban campground')

Nashville, Tennessee

Driving time from Chattanooga: 2 hours, 20 minutes

Explore Nashville's wide selection of breweries with a hop-on, hop-off tour on the Music City Brew Hop , a vintage trolley that stops every hour at eight Nashville breweries and offers unlimited rides on the day of your tour. The company's West Loop option provides a similar tour of seven breweries in a different area of the city.

Slightly off the beaten path in the SoBro neighborhood of downtown Nashville, Tennessee Brew Works features a two-floor taproom with views of the production floor. For family-friendly options, try Southern Grist Brewing Co. , located in The Nations and East Nashville neighborhoods, which is known for its pastry stouts, sours and New England IPAs; or Bearded Iris Brewing , renowned for its hoppy brews and outdoor patios at both locations in Germantown and Sylvan Park. To try some of the city's more unusual brews, head to Living Waters Brewing , which offers small-batch craft beer and coffee in its small East Nashville taproom.

(READ MORE: New Tennessee Ale Trail features breweries in Chattanooga and beyond)

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Gran Fondo Hincapie Cycling Tour Set For Friday-Saturday

• Monday, April 29, 2024

The Gran Fondo Hincapie cycling tour, sponsored by Tennessee Brew Works, will be in Chattanooga Friday and Saturday. More than 1,200 cyclists will ride through the downtown city streets and winding mountain roads.

The Gran Fondo Hincapie-Chattanooga begins in the center of the River City before taking riders on a scenic ride along the Tennessee River and ascending Sequatchie Mountain. Cyclists will celebrate the finish (and survival of the Sequatchie Mountain) at the family festival, with beverages and free food for ride participants, family and friends.

Tennessee Brew Works is providing the beer for the Friday afternoon happy hour from 3-5 p.m., then the “A Night with the Star” pre-ride party from 7-10 p.m., featuring George Hincapie himself at the Waterhouse Pavilion in Miller Plaza.

The main event begin at 7a.m. on Saturday, with the last riders in their corrals no later than 7:45 a.m.

The Family Festival & Expo goes from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and family and friends are encouraged to celebrate alongside riders as they cross the finish line. The vendor expo will have free food, and beverages, including Tennessee Brew Works beer.

For more information visit: https://hincapie.com/pages/granfondo-chattanooga .

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