Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, boasts a thriving craft beer scene that rivals many in the lower 48 states. With a growing number of local breweries and taprooms, beer enthusiasts have plenty of options to explore. Alaska ranks eighth in the nation for breweries per capita, making Anchorage a prime destination for craft beer lovers.
The city’s craft beer journey began in 1994 with the opening of Humpy’s Alaska Ale House, which is credited with kickstarting the local brewing movement. Since then, numerous breweries have sprung up, each offering unique flavors and experiences. From downtown hotspots to industrial area gems, Anchorage’s breweries showcase the creativity and passion of local brewers.
Visitors and residents alike can enjoy a diverse range of beer styles, from traditional ales and lagers to innovative brews that incorporate local ingredients. Many Anchorage breweries also feature taprooms with food menus or partner with local food trucks, allowing patrons to pair their favorite beers with delicious cuisine. This guide will help beer enthusiasts navigate Anchorage’s exciting craft beer landscape.
History of Brewing in Anchorage
Anchorage’s craft beer scene has deep roots dating back to the early 1990s. The city’s brewing history began in earnest with the opening of Humpy’s Alaska Ale House in 1994.
Humpy’s is often credited with kickstarting Anchorage’s craft beer revolution. It introduced locals to a wider variety of beer styles beyond the mass-produced lagers common at the time.
Midnight Sun Brewing Co. followed shortly after, opening its doors in 1995. As one of Alaska’s oldest and largest craft breweries, Midnight Sun helped put Anchorage on the map for beer enthusiasts.
The early 2000s saw continued growth in Anchorage’s brewing industry. New breweries opened, expanding the city’s beer offerings and fostering a culture of innovation.
Anchorage Brewing Company, founded in 2011, brought further prestige to the local beer scene. Known for its barrel-aged and wild fermented ales, it quickly gained national recognition.
Today, Anchorage boasts a thriving craft beer community. The city is home to numerous breweries, each contributing unique flavors and styles to the local beer landscape.
Alaska’s natural resources play a significant role in Anchorage’s brewing history. Many breweries incorporate local ingredients like spruce tips, berries, and glacier water into their recipes.
Top Breweries in Anchorage
Anchorage boasts a thriving craft beer scene with several standout breweries. These establishments offer unique flavors, innovative brewing techniques, and inviting taproom experiences for beer enthusiasts.
Anchorage Brewing Co
Anchorage Brewing Co is renowned for its barrel-aged and wild fermented ales. Founded by Gabe Fletcher, this brewery pushes boundaries with unconventional ingredients and brewing methods. Their taproom features a modern, industrial aesthetic with ample seating.
Popular beers include:
- A Deal with the Devil: A high-ABV barleywine
- Whiteout Wit: A Belgian-style witbier
- Bitter Monk: A Belgian-style IPA
Anchorage Brewing Co has gained national recognition for its experimental approach and consistently high-quality offerings.
Midnight Sun Brewing
Established in 1995, Midnight Sun Brewing is one of Alaska’s oldest craft breweries. Their diverse portfolio includes year-round favorites and seasonal specialties. The brewery’s “Loft” bar and restaurant offers a full menu alongside their beers.
Signature brews:
- Sockeye Red IPA
- Panty Peeler Belgian Tripel
- Arctic Devil Barleywine
Midnight Sun’s creative recipes and consistent quality have earned them a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.
King Street Brewing Company
King Street Brewing Company focuses on traditional European and American beer styles. Their taproom provides a comfortable space to enjoy fresh brews and light snacks. The brewery emphasizes quality ingredients and precise brewing techniques.
Notable beers:
- King Street Pilsner
- King Street IPA
- Blonde Ale
King Street’s dedication to classic styles and community involvement has made them a local favorite.
49th State Brewing Co
49th State Brewing Co offers a lively brewpub experience in downtown Anchorage. Their spacious venue features multiple levels, outdoor seating, and regular live entertainment. The brewery produces a wide range of styles to suit various tastes.
Popular offerings:
- Golden Road Ale
- Solstice IPA
- 907 Lager
49th State’s combination of quality beers, hearty food menu, and vibrant atmosphere makes it a go-to destination for locals and tourists.
Broken Tooth Brewing
Broken Tooth Brewing, formerly known as Moose’s Tooth Brewing, operates in conjunction with the popular Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria. Their beers are primarily available at Moose’s Tooth and Bear Tooth Theatrepub locations.
Flagship beers:
- Pipeline Stout
- Fairweather IPA
- Northern Lights Amber Ale
Broken Tooth’s brews pair excellently with Moose’s Tooth’s renowned pizzas, creating a beloved local dining and drinking experience.
Glacier Brewhouse
Glacier Brewhouse combines a full-service restaurant with an on-site brewery in the heart of downtown Anchorage. Their beers focus on English and American West Coast styles. The brewhouse’s rustic decor and wood-fired cooking complement their beer offerings.
Standout brews:
- IPA
- Oatmeal Stout
- Blonde Ale
Glacier Brewhouse’s commitment to quality extends from their beers to their food menu, making it a popular choice for both drinks and dining.
The Craft Beer Scene
Anchorage boasts a vibrant and diverse craft beer scene. Local breweries offer a wide range of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, attracting beer enthusiasts from around the world.
Beer Styles and Trends
Anchorage breweries excel in producing a variety of beer styles. IPAs remain popular, with many breweries crafting unique versions using local ingredients. Oatmeal stouts have gained traction, offering a smooth, creamy texture perfect for cold Alaskan nights.
Barrel-aged stouts have become a specialty, with brewers aging their creations in whiskey or bourbon barrels for added depth and complexity. These limited releases often draw crowds of eager beer aficionados.
Many taprooms offer beer flights, allowing patrons to sample multiple styles in one visit. This trend has helped educate consumers about different beer varieties and brewing techniques.
Breweries Per Capita
Anchorage boasts an impressive number of breweries relative to its population. With over 20 craft breweries in the city, Anchorage ranks high in breweries per capita nationwide.
This concentration of breweries fosters healthy competition and innovation. Brewers constantly strive to create new and exciting beers to stand out in the crowded market.
The high density of breweries also makes it easy for visitors to explore multiple taprooms in a single day. Many locals and tourists enjoy brewery hopping, sampling a variety of craft beers across the city.
Cynosure Brewing
Cynosure Brewing has carved out a niche in Anchorage’s craft beer scene. Founded in 2016, this small-batch brewery focuses on traditional European-style beers.
Their taproom offers a rotating selection of lagers, ales, and seasonal brews. Cynosure is known for its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality ingredients.
Popular offerings include their crisp pilsners and rich bocks. The brewery’s cozy taproom provides a welcoming atmosphere for beer enthusiasts to enjoy their carefully crafted brews.
Cynosure frequently collaborates with other local breweries, contributing to the tight-knit community feel of Anchorage’s craft beer scene.
Brewery Highlights and Specialties
Anchorage’s craft beer scene boasts unique flavors and innovative brewing techniques. Several standout breweries offer distinctive experiences and specialty beers that capture the essence of Alaskan brewing.
Turnagain Brewing
Turnagain Brewing focuses on mixed fermentation and barrel-aged beers. Their sour ales and farmhouse-style brews showcase local ingredients and wild yeast strains.
Popular offerings include:
- Blackberry Sour: Tart and fruity
- Spruce Tip Saison: Piney and refreshing
- Bog Myrtle Gruit: Herbal and complex
The taproom features a rustic ambiance with reclaimed wood furnishings. Visitors can sample flights or enjoy full pours while learning about the brewing process from knowledgeable staff.
Resolution Brewing
Resolution Brewing specializes in Belgian-inspired ales with an Alaskan twist. Their beers blend traditional European styles with local ingredients and modern brewing methods.
Signature brews:
- Bushmaster Saison: Crisp and spicy
- Northern Lights IPA: Hoppy with citrus notes
- Permafrost Porter: Rich and chocolatey
The cozy taproom hosts regular events, including beer release parties and live music nights. Food trucks often park outside, offering tasty pairings for Resolution’s unique beers.
Girdwood Brewing Company
Nestled in the scenic Girdwood Valley, this brewery combines stunning mountain views with exceptional craft beer. Girdwood Brewing Company emphasizes sustainability and community involvement.
Must-try beers:
- Hippy Speedball Coffee Blonde: Light-bodied with a caffeine kick
- Winner Creek IPA: Balanced and tropical
- Glacier Blue Blueberry Wheat: Refreshing with subtle fruit notes
The spacious taproom features large windows overlooking the Chugach Mountains. In summer, the outdoor beer garden is perfect for enjoying a pint in the fresh alpine air.
Local Culture and Breweries
Anchorage’s craft beer scene reflects the city’s adventurous spirit and appreciation for quality. Local breweries often incorporate Alaskan ingredients and draw inspiration from the surrounding wilderness, creating unique flavors that capture the essence of the Last Frontier.
Brewpubs and Eateries
Anchorage boasts several brewpubs that combine excellent craft beer with delicious food. These establishments serve as gathering places for locals and tourists alike. Many offer a rotating selection of seasonal brews alongside their regular lineup.
Some brewpubs feature outdoor seating, allowing patrons to enjoy their beers with views of the stunning Alaskan landscape. Food trucks often partner with breweries that don’t have full kitchens, providing a diverse array of culinary options.
Happy hour specials are common, typically offering discounted pints and appetizers in the late afternoon. This is an ideal time for visitors to sample multiple beers and meet locals.
Bear Tooth Theatrepub
Bear Tooth Theatrepub is a unique Anchorage institution that combines cinema, craft beer, and dining. This innovative concept allows patrons to enjoy films while sipping on house-brewed beers and eating gourmet pizzas.
The theatrepub brews its beers on-site, offering a range of styles from light lagers to robust stouts. Their menu features creative pizzas with locally-sourced toppings, as well as other pub favorites.
Bear Tooth often hosts special events, including film festivals and live music performances. These events showcase the venue’s versatility and its role as a cultural hub in Anchorage.
Moose’s Tooth
Moose’s Tooth is a beloved Anchorage brewpub known for its exceptional pizzas and craft beers. Founded in 1996, it has become a local landmark and a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts.
The brewery produces a wide variety of beer styles, from crisp pilsners to hoppy IPAs and rich porters. Their rotating tap list ensures there’s always something new to try.
Moose’s Tooth’s popularity often results in wait times, but many consider it well worth it. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff contribute to its status as a favorite local hangout.
Other Alcoholic Beverages in Anchorage
Anchorage offers a diverse selection of locally-produced alcoholic beverages beyond craft beer. The city’s beverage scene includes cideries, kombucha brewers, and distilleries crafting unique spirits.
Cideries and Kombucha
Double Shovel Cider Co. leads Anchorage’s cider production. They create a variety of hard ciders using Alaska-grown apples and other local ingredients. Their taproom offers seasonal and experimental flavors alongside their core range.
Zip Kombucha brings probiotic-rich fermented tea to Anchorage. They produce small-batch kombucha in flavors like blueberry lavender and ginger turmeric. Zip Kombucha is available on tap at their brewery and in bottles at local stores.
Double Shovel Cider Company (the same as Double Shovel Cider Co.) hosts events and live music at their facility. They often collaborate with local breweries and food trucks to enhance the tasting experience.
Distilleries
Anchorage Distillery produces handcrafted spirits using Alaskan glacial water. Their product line includes vodka, gin, and whiskey. The distillery offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about their production process.
Alaskan Spirits Distillery focuses on creating unique spirits that capture Alaska’s essence. They use local ingredients like spruce tips and wild berries in their products. Their tasting room provides a cozy atmosphere for sampling their spirits neat or in cocktails.
Both distilleries participate in local events and farmers markets. They often create limited-edition releases and seasonal spirits that reflect Anchorage’s flavors and culture.
Shopping for Local Brews
Anchorage offers excellent options for purchasing local craft beers to enjoy at home or as souvenirs. Specialty stores and brewery taprooms provide a wide selection of Alaskan-made brews.
La Bodega
La Bodega stands out as a premier destination for craft beer enthusiasts in Anchorage. This specialty store boasts an impressive selection of local and international beers, with a strong focus on Alaskan brews.
Customers can find bottles and cans from popular Anchorage breweries like 49th State Brewing, Midnight Sun Brewing Co., and Anchorage Brewing Company. La Bodega also offers growler fills from a rotating tap list featuring local craft beers.
The knowledgeable staff at La Bodega can provide recommendations based on individual tastes and preferences. They often host beer tastings and events, allowing customers to sample new releases and meet local brewers.
La Bodega’s convenient location in downtown Anchorage makes it easily accessible for both residents and tourists seeking to explore Alaska’s craft beer scene.
Annual Events and Festivals
Anchorage celebrates its thriving craft beer scene with several exciting events throughout the year. The Alaska Craft Brew & Barley Wine Festival stands out as a highlight for beer enthusiasts.
This festival takes place at the Dena’ina Center in late January or early February. It features multiple sessions where attendees can sample a wide variety of craft brews and barley wines.
Local Anchorage breweries showcase their best offerings alongside regional and national craft beer producers. The event also includes food pairings, live music, and opportunities to learn about brewing techniques.
Alaska Beer Week coincides with the festival, offering additional beer-centric activities around Anchorage. Breweries host special tastings, beer dinners, and meet-the-brewer events during this time.
For those visiting in autumn, Oktoberfest celebrations pop up at various Anchorage breweries and venues. These events typically feature seasonal beers, German-inspired food, and festive atmosphere.
The Anchorage Folk Festival in January often incorporates craft beer into its programming. While primarily a music event, it provides another opportunity to sample local brews in a lively setting.
These festivals not only showcase Anchorage’s craft beer talent but also foster a sense of community among beer lovers and brewers alike.
Planning Your Brewery Tour
Anchorage boasts a thriving craft beer scene with numerous breweries to explore. When planning your tour, consider starting at Matanuska Brewing Company, known for its diverse selection of ales and lagers.
Next, head to Silver Gulch Brewing, Alaska’s oldest operating brewery. Their unique flavors and historic atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts.
Onsite Brewing Company offers a more intimate experience with its small-batch brews and cozy taproom. It’s an excellent spot to sample innovative local creations.
For those seeking a comprehensive experience, several guided tours are available. These tours often include transportation, multiple brewery visits, and expert commentary on Anchorage’s beer culture.
Consider factors like operating hours, tasting room availability, and food options when planning your itinerary. Some breweries offer full menus, while others partner with local food trucks.
Transportation is key when visiting multiple locations. Options include:
- Designated driver
- Taxi or rideshare services
- Guided tour buses
- Bicycle tours (weather permitting)
Remember to pace yourself and drink responsibly throughout your brewery tour. Stay hydrated and enjoy the unique flavors Anchorage’s craft beer scene has to offer.
