Akron, Ohio has transformed from a rubber industry hub into a thriving craft beer destination. The city now boasts a diverse array of breweries, offering beer enthusiasts an exciting range of flavors and experiences. From well-established brewhouses to innovative newcomers, Akron’s craft beer scene caters to every palate.
Visitors and locals alike can explore a variety of brewing styles across the city. Hop-forward IPAs, rich stouts, and creative seasonal offerings are just a few of the options available at Akron’s numerous taprooms. Each brewery brings its unique character to the local beer landscape, contributing to Akron’s growing reputation as a craft beer hotspot.
The city’s beer culture extends beyond just brewing. Many Akron breweries offer food options, creating complete experiences for patrons. With convenient operating hours and welcoming atmospheres, these establishments have become integral parts of Akron’s social fabric, drawing in both casual drinkers and dedicated beer aficionados.
Exploring Akron’s Craft Beer Scene
Akron’s craft beer scene has blossomed in recent years, offering a diverse array of flavors and styles. Local breweries have become integral to the city’s culture, attracting beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
A Brief History of Brewing in Akron
Akron’s brewing tradition dates back to the 19th century. German immigrants established the first breweries in the area, catering to the growing industrial workforce. The city’s beer production thrived until Prohibition forced many to close.
After a long hiatus, craft brewing in Akron experienced a revival in the late 20th century. Thirsty Dog Brewing Company, founded in 1997, led the charge in rekindling Akron’s beer scene. This paved the way for newer establishments like R. Shea Brewing and Missing Falls Brewery.
Today, Akron boasts a vibrant craft beer community. The city’s industrial past influences many breweries, with some even operating in renovated factory spaces.
Defining Craft Beer in the Akron Context
Craft beer in Akron emphasizes quality, flavor, and local ingredients. Brewers often experiment with unique recipes and brewing techniques to create distinctive offerings.
Many Akron breweries focus on small-batch production, allowing for greater creativity and quality control. This approach enables them to craft a wide range of styles, from traditional lagers to experimental sour beers.
Local ingredients play a significant role in Akron’s craft beer scene. Some breweries incorporate regional products like Ohio-grown hops or locally sourced fruits into their recipes. This practice not only supports local agriculture but also creates beers with a true taste of Akron.
Collaboration is another key aspect of Akron’s craft beer culture. Breweries often work together on special releases, fostering a sense of community within the industry.
Prominent Akron Breweries
Akron boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with several standout breweries. These local establishments offer unique flavors, innovative brewing techniques, and welcoming taprooms for beer enthusiasts to explore.
Thirsty Dog Brewing Co
Thirsty Dog Brewing Co has been a cornerstone of Akron’s craft beer scene since 1997. Their downtown taproom features over 20 taps of their own brews, ranging from classic styles to experimental creations.
Signature beers include the Old Leghumper robust porter and Siberian Night imperial stout. The brewery has gained national recognition, winning medals at prestigious beer competitions.
Thirsty Dog’s expansion to a production facility in the Merriman Valley area has allowed them to increase distribution across Ohio and beyond. Visitors can enjoy brewery tours, seasonal releases, and food trucks at their taproom locations.
Hoppin’ Frog Brewery
Founded in 2006, Hoppin’ Frog Brewery has earned a reputation for bold, flavorful beers. Their B.O.R.I.S. The Crusher Oatmeal Imperial Stout consistently ranks among the world’s top-rated beers.
The brewery’s tasting room, known as the Tasting Room & Frog Cellar, offers a rotating selection of draft beers and bottle pours. Hoppin’ Frog is known for high-alcohol brews and barrel-aged variants.
Owner and brewmaster Fred Karm’s innovative approach has led to unique creations like the Infusion A coffee porter and Tower Tuesday IPA series. The brewery has garnered numerous awards and a loyal following among craft beer aficionados.
R. Shea Brewing
R. Shea Brewing began as a nanobrewery in Akron’s Merriman Valley before expanding to a larger production facility and taproom in the Canal Place complex. Their diverse beer lineup includes crowd-pleasing IPAs, stouts, and lagers.
The Canal Place location features a full-service restaurant, spacious taproom, and outdoor patio with views of downtown Akron. Popular brews include the Sticky Fingers IPA and Cold Brewed Blonde coffee ale.
R. Shea’s commitment to quality and community involvement has helped them become a favorite among local beer drinkers. They regularly collaborate with other area businesses and participate in charitable events.
Akronym Brewing
Akronym Brewing opened its doors in 2018, quickly establishing itself as a rising star in Akron’s beer scene. Their downtown taproom offers a rotating selection of house-brewed beers across various styles.
The brewery is known for its crisp lagers, juicy New England-style IPAs, and creative small-batch releases. Akronym’s founders bring backgrounds in engineering and chemistry to their brewing process, resulting in consistently high-quality beers.
Visitors can enjoy flights, pints, and crowlers to-go in the industrial-chic taproom. Food trucks and local delivery options provide dining choices to complement the beer selection.
Lock 15 Brewing Company
Located in a historic building along the Ohio & Erie Canal, Lock 15 Brewing Company combines craft beer with a full-service brewpub experience. Their rotating tap list features house-brewed beers alongside guest taps from other local breweries.
Lock 15’s brewing philosophy emphasizes balance and drinkability across a range of styles. Popular options include the Cascade Lock IPA and the 1913 Pilsner, named after Akron’s great flood.
The brewpub’s menu focuses on locally-sourced ingredients and beer-friendly fare. With its prime location near Canal Park stadium, Lock 15 has become a popular pre- and post-game destination for Akron RubberDucks fans.
Local Craft Beer Offerings
Akron’s craft beer scene boasts an impressive array of unique brews and seasonal offerings. Local breweries take pride in using regional ingredients and innovative techniques to create distinctive flavors that captivate beer enthusiasts.
Unique Beers and Ales
Akron’s breweries excel in crafting one-of-a-kind beers that showcase the city’s brewing prowess. Magic City Brewing offers bold and experimental ales, pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing. Their hop-forward IPAs and rich stouts have gained a loyal following.
Lock 15 Brewing Co. specializes in ales infused with local ingredients, creating flavors that reflect Akron’s culinary heritage. Their pale ales often incorporate Ohio-grown hops, giving them a distinct regional character.
Hoppin’ Frog Brewery is renowned for its high-alcohol content beers and barrel-aged creations. Their imperial stouts and unique flavor combinations have earned them international recognition.
Seasonal and Special Releases
Akron’s breweries embrace the changing seasons with limited-edition beers that capture the essence of each time of year. Missing Mountain Brewing offers refreshing summer wheat beers and hearty winter warmers, aligning their brews with the weather.
Akronym Brewing delights patrons with special releases throughout the year. Their barrel-aged series and collaborations with local businesses result in exclusive beers available for short periods.
Ohio Brewing Company pays homage to local traditions with seasonal releases inspired by Akron’s history. Their autumn pumpkin ale and spring fruit beer showcase the region’s agricultural bounty.
HiHO Brewing Co. surprises customers with small-batch experimental brews, often available only at their taproom. These limited releases encourage beer enthusiasts to visit regularly and try new flavors.
Emerging Akron Breweries
Akron’s craft beer scene continues to grow with several new breweries making their mark. These up-and-coming establishments offer unique flavors and experiences for beer enthusiasts.
Missing Mountain Brewing Co
Missing Mountain Brewing Co opened its doors in 2018 in Cuyahoga Falls. The brewery features a spacious taproom with views of the Cuyahoga River. Their beer lineup includes a range of styles, from hazy IPAs to Belgian-inspired ales.
Missing Mountain is known for its commitment to quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques. The brewery often collaborates with local businesses to create special releases.
Visitors can enjoy food from rotating food trucks while sipping on their favorite brews. The outdoor patio is a popular spot during warmer months.
Hiho Brewing Co
Hiho Brewing Co brings a fresh perspective to Akron’s beer scene. Located in a renovated industrial space, the brewery combines modern aesthetics with a cozy atmosphere.
Hiho’s beer selection focuses on approachable styles with unique twists. Their flagship IPA and fruited sour ales have gained local popularity.
The taproom features a small kitchen offering pub-style snacks. Hiho also hosts regular events, including trivia nights and live music performances.
Magic City Brewing Company
Magic City Brewing Company pays homage to Akron’s nickname with its creative approach to beer. The brewery opened in 2017 and quickly became known for its experimental brews.
Their tap list rotates frequently, offering everything from traditional lagers to barrel-aged stouts. Magic City often incorporates unexpected ingredients like local honey or exotic fruits.
The intimate taproom provides a laid-back environment for beer tasting. Food options include partnerships with nearby restaurants for delivery.
Two Monks Brewing Company
Two Monks Brewing Company focuses on Belgian-inspired ales and European beer styles. The brewery’s name reflects its dedication to traditional brewing methods.
Their beer list features classics like dubbels and tripels alongside more modern interpretations. Two Monks also produces small-batch seasonal releases.
The taproom’s decor echoes European beer halls, creating an immersive experience. Visitors can pair their beers with a selection of imported cheeses and charcuterie.
Eighty-Three Brewery
Eighty-Three Brewery opened in 2019, bringing new life to a historic building in downtown Akron. The brewery’s name references the year 1983, a nod to Akron’s industrial past.
Eighty-Three offers a diverse range of beers, from light lagers to robust stouts. Their signature series includes beers named after Akron landmarks.
The spacious taproom features original architectural elements mixed with modern touches. A large outdoor beer garden provides additional seating during summer months.
Eighty-Three hosts regular events, including beer release parties and local art showcases.
The Craft Beer Tasting Experience
Akron’s craft beer scene offers diverse tasting opportunities and educational experiences for beer enthusiasts. Local breweries provide spaces to sample unique flavors and learn about the brewing process.
Tasting Rooms and Brewery Tours
Many Akron breweries feature inviting tasting rooms where visitors can sample flights of craft beers. These spaces often showcase the brewing equipment, allowing guests to see the production process up close. Some breweries offer guided tours, providing insights into ingredients, brewing techniques, and the history behind their signature beers.
Tasting rooms typically offer a rotating selection of seasonal and experimental brews alongside their core offerings. This variety allows beer enthusiasts to explore new flavors and styles with each visit. Many breweries also provide food pairings or host food trucks to complement their beers.
Beer Tasting Tips for Beginners
New craft beer drinkers can enhance their tasting experience by following a few simple guidelines. Start by examining the beer’s appearance, noting its color and clarity. Swirl the glass gently to release aromas, then take a moment to smell the beer before tasting.
When tasting, take small sips and let the beer coat your tongue. Pay attention to initial flavors, mouthfeel, and aftertaste. It’s helpful to cleanse your palate with water between samples. Many breweries provide tasting notes to guide novices through the flavor profiles of their beers.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the brewing process or ingredients. Staff members are often passionate about their craft and eager to share knowledge with curious patrons.
Pairing and Cuisine
Akron’s craft beer scene intertwines seamlessly with its culinary offerings. Local breweries and restaurants collaborate to create unique flavor experiences that showcase the best of the city’s food and drink.
Food Pairings with Akron Brews
Akron’s diverse beer styles pair exceptionally well with local cuisine. Hoppy IPAs complement spicy dishes, cutting through heat with their bitter notes. Try pairing a citrusy IPA with buffalo wings or tacos.
Rich stouts and porters match perfectly with hearty comfort foods. Enjoy a chocolatey stout alongside a beef stew or barbecue ribs. The roasted flavors in these dark beers enhance savory meat dishes.
For lighter fare, wheat beers and lagers offer refreshing accompaniments. These crisp brews pair nicely with salads, grilled fish, and chicken dishes. Their subtle flavors won’t overpower delicate foods.
Akron’s Culinary Scene and Craft Beer
Akron’s restaurants embrace the local beer culture, often featuring rotating taps of nearby brews. Many establishments curate beer lists to complement their menus, enhancing the dining experience.
Gastropubs in Akron combine innovative cuisine with craft beer selections. These venues offer elevated pub fare designed to pair with specific beer styles. Expect to find dishes like beer-battered fish and chips or stout-braised short ribs.
Beer-themed events and festivals in Akron showcase food and beer pairings. The Akron Craft Beer Festival highlights local breweries alongside food vendors, allowing visitors to explore flavor combinations.
Some Akron breweries operate their own kitchens, creating menus tailored to their beer offerings. These brewpubs provide a complete craft beer dining experience, with dishes specifically designed to match their brews.
Supporting Local: The Economic Impact
Choosing local breweries in Akron boosts the economy and strengthens community ties. These businesses create jobs, stimulate growth, and foster a sense of local pride.
Benefits of Choosing Local Breweries
Local breweries contribute significantly to Akron’s economy. They create jobs for brewers, servers, and support staff. In 2019, the craft brewing industry provided over 580,000 jobs nationwide, with 160,000 directly at breweries and brewpubs.
Akron’s breweries also generate tax revenue. Ohio craft breweries contributed $141.5 million in state and local taxes in a recent year. This money supports local infrastructure and services.
Many breweries source ingredients locally, further stimulating the regional economy. This practice supports local farmers and suppliers, creating a ripple effect of economic benefits.
Community Engagement and Events
Local breweries often serve as community hubs. They host events that bring people together and promote local culture. These gatherings can range from trivia nights to live music performances.
Breweries frequently partner with local charities and organizations. They may donate a portion of their proceeds or host fundraising events. This engagement strengthens community bonds and supports important local causes.
Some breweries offer tours and educational experiences. These activities attract visitors, potentially boosting tourism in Akron. Increased tourism can lead to additional spending at local restaurants, shops, and hotels.
Understanding Beer Styles
Akron’s craft beer scene offers a diverse array of beer styles for enthusiasts to explore. The city’s breweries showcase both traditional and innovative approaches to brewing, with a particular focus on hop-forward ales.
The Popularity of IPAs in Akron
India Pale Ales (IPAs) dominate Akron’s craft beer landscape. Local breweries craft various IPA sub-styles, from hazy New England IPAs to West Coast-inspired versions. Many Akron breweries feature flagship IPAs that highlight unique hop blends.
These beers often showcase citrus, tropical, and pine flavors. Some local favorites incorporate experimental hop varieties, creating distinctive flavor profiles. Double and triple IPAs are also gaining traction, appealing to hop enthusiasts seeking bolder tastes.
Exploring the Range of Pale Ales
Pale Ales offer a more balanced alternative to IPAs in Akron’s beer scene. These beers typically feature a moderate hop presence and a sturdy malt backbone. Local brewers produce American Pale Ales, English-style Pale Ales, and innovative variations.
Some Akron breweries experiment with fruit additions or unique grain bills in their Pale Ales. Session Pale Ales have gained popularity, providing flavorful options with lower alcohol content. Many local establishments offer Pale Ale flights, allowing patrons to compare different interpretations of the style.
Navigating Akron’s Craft Beer Venues
Akron offers a vibrant craft beer scene with numerous venues to explore. Local breweries and craft beer destinations provide unique experiences for beer enthusiasts.
Brewery Maps and Guides
Several resources help visitors navigate Akron’s craft beer landscape. The Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau offers a downloadable brewery map highlighting key locations. Online platforms like RateBeer and Yelp provide up-to-date listings of breweries and craft beer bars in the area.
Local beer tours offer guided experiences to multiple breweries. These tours often include transportation, tastings, and behind-the-scenes looks at brewing processes.
Beer enthusiasts can also find self-guided tour itineraries online. These typically suggest routes to visit 3-5 breweries in a day, focusing on different Akron neighborhoods.
Craft Beer Events and Festivals
Akron hosts several annual craft beer events and festivals. The Akron Ale Fest, held each summer, features over 50 breweries and food trucks. This event showcases both local and regional craft beers.
The Rubber City Beer Fest takes place in spring, celebrating Akron’s brewing heritage. It focuses on Ohio-made craft beers and often includes limited edition releases.
Many local breweries organize their own events throughout the year. These range from new beer releases to seasonal celebrations like Oktoberfest-style gatherings.
Beer dinners pairing craft brews with local cuisine are popular. Venues like Lock 15 Brewing Co. and Missing Mountain Brewing regularly host such events.
