The best breweries in Asheville NC have made this city one of the top craft beer destinations in the whole country. Asheville has more breweries per person than almost any other city in the US. The River Arts District alone has more than a dozen you can walk between in one afternoon.

Why Asheville for Craft Beer?

The mountains provide great water, and great water makes great beer. The soft, clean water that flows out of the Blue Ridge is one reason brewers love this area. The creative and independent culture of the city also attracts craft brewers who want to do things their own way. And the tourism that pours into western NC every year brings in visitors who are actively looking for local experiences.

It all started with Highland Brewing in 1994, the first legal brewery in Asheville. They never stopped growing, and dozens of others followed. Today Asheville is regularly ranked as one of the best beer cities in the country.

River Arts District Breweries

The RAD is a former industrial neighborhood along the French Broad River. It used to be full of warehouses and factories. Now it is packed with breweries, art studios, and restaurants. You can park once and walk between most of these spots in an afternoon.

New Belgium Brewing

The iconic Fort Collins Colorado brewery chose Asheville for its East Coast home. Huge taproom right on the river with outdoor seating, food trucks, and river views. Great for groups and perfect for a long afternoon outside.

Wedge Brewing

An Asheville institution. Wedge is set inside a large industrial space in the RAD with a huge outdoor patio. Food trucks park outside regularly. Very laid back and local feeling. This is a great first stop if you are new to the area.

South Slope Breweries

The South Slope is Asheville's densest craft beer neighborhood, just south of downtown. A short walk from Pack Square puts you in the middle of more taprooms per block than almost anywhere in the country.

Burial Beer Co.

One of the most beloved local Asheville breweries, located on the South Slope. Small batch, creative beers in a moody atmosphere. The outdoor space is great in warm weather. This is what many people picture when they think of Asheville craft beer.

Beyond Asheville

Sierra Nevada Brewing

Sierra Nevada built their East Coast location in Mills River, about 10 miles south of Asheville near Hendersonville. Large taproom with a full restaurant, a hop field on the property, and frequent tours. Worth spending an hour or two here if you want a real behind the scenes look at how craft beer is made.

Other Great Asheville Breweries

Highland Brewing

The original. Highland Brewing opened in 1994 and was one of the first craft breweries in the Southeast. Their facility on the east side of town has a rooftop terrace with mountain views. Great spot for sunset drinks.

Wicked Weed Brewing

Located in downtown Asheville on Biltmore Ave. Known for sour beers and barrel aged styles. The taproom is a great multi level space right in the heart of the city. Easy to add to a downtown afternoon.

Hi Wire Brewing

Two Asheville locations, one downtown and one on the South Slope. A great everyday spot with approachable beers. The South Slope location has a large outdoor area and is usually a little less crowded than the downtown spot.

How To Do an Asheville Brewery Crawl

The best approach is to start in the River Arts District and work your way through. Grab a rideshare between locations if you are planning to drink at several spots. The RAD is walkable between most breweries. Plan 45 minutes to an hour per brewery so you have time to settle in and try a few things.

Tips For Visiting Asheville Breweries

Frequently Asked Questions

How many breweries are in Asheville NC?

Asheville has around 40 to 50 breweries in the city and surrounding area. The River Arts District alone has more than a dozen.

What is the best brewery in Asheville NC?

That depends on your style. For local craft, try Burial Beer or Wedge. For a big taproom experience, New Belgium and Sierra Nevada are great picks.

Is Asheville good for beer tourists?

Yes. The craft beer scene here is one of the best in the country. Even if you are not a big beer drinker, the taprooms and atmosphere are worth a visit.

Asheville's beer scene is one of a kind. Whether you are a craft beer fan or just looking for a great spot to relax, the breweries here will not disappoint. And after your last pint, the Biltmore Estate is only a few miles away if you want to round out your trip.