Birmingham, Alabama boasts a thriving craft beer scene that has gained national recognition. The city’s breweries offer a diverse range of styles and flavors, from traditional European-inspired brews to innovative American craft beers. Visitors and locals can explore over 15 breweries across Birmingham, each with its own unique atmosphere and specialties.
These establishments not only serve high-quality beer but also contribute to the city’s vibrant culinary landscape. Many breweries pair their craft beers with exceptional food offerings, creating a comprehensive experience for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike. From gourmet burgers to artisanal pizzas, the food options complement the diverse beer selections available.
The Magic City’s beer scene has earned a spot on Thrillist’s list of 13 U.S. Destinations with Incredible Beer Scenes, solidifying its reputation as a craft beer destination. This guide will take readers on a journey through Birmingham’s top breweries, highlighting must-try beers and unique features of each establishment.
The Rise of Craft Beer in Birmingham
Birmingham’s craft beer scene has flourished in recent years, transforming the city into a hub for beer enthusiasts. Local breweries have played a crucial role in shaping the community and culture.
Historical Overview
Birmingham’s craft beer journey began in earnest in 2007 with the opening of The J. Clyde Tavern and Alehouse. This establishment paved the way for a more diverse beer selection in the city. Prior to this, Birmingham’s beer options were limited.
In 2008, Good People Brewing became the first craft brewery in Birmingham. Their Snake Handler IPA quickly gained popularity, becoming a staple for Southern beer lovers. This success sparked interest in local brewing.
The Free the Hops consumer group advocated for changes in Alabama’s brewing laws. Their efforts led to increased alcohol limits and more brewing freedom, fostering growth in the craft beer industry.
Birmingham Breweries Impact on Community
Local breweries have become integral parts of Birmingham’s neighborhoods. Avondale, for example, has transformed into a vibrant area with diverse dining and drinking options, including Ferus Artisan Ales.
Craft breweries often host community events, fostering connections among residents. They collaborate with local businesses, supporting the city’s economy.
Birmingham’s breweries have put the city on the map for beer tourism. Visitors now come specifically to explore the local craft beer scene, boosting tourism and local businesses.
Many breweries prioritize sustainability, using local ingredients and implementing eco-friendly practices. This commitment resonates with environmentally conscious consumers and strengthens community ties.
Navigating Birmingham’s Breweries
Birmingham’s craft beer scene offers a diverse array of breweries across different districts. Visitors can explore these establishments through guided tours or self-guided adventures using readily available maps and transportation options.
District by District Brewery Guide
Birmingham’s breweries are spread throughout distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character. Avondale is home to Avondale Brewing Company, a local favorite known for its flagship Spring Street Saison. Lakeview District hosts TrimTab Brewing Company, celebrated for innovative flavors and artistic can designs.
In the Parkside District, Good People Brewing Company and Ghost Train Brewing Company offer contrasting experiences. Good People focuses on traditional styles, while Ghost Train experiments with unique ingredients.
Downtown Birmingham boasts Birmingham District Brewing Company, providing a centrally located taproom with a rotating selection of craft beers. The Pepper Place area features Back Forty Beer Company, known for its Truck Stop Honey Brown Ale.
Customized Brewery Tours
Several companies offer guided brewery tours in Birmingham. These tours typically include visits to 3-4 breweries, with transportation provided. Visitors can choose themed tours focusing on specific beer styles or brewery sizes.
Self-guided tours are also popular. Many breweries are within walking distance of each other, particularly in the Lakeview and Avondale areas. Rideshare services make it easy to create personalized routes between more distant locations.
Some breweries offer behind-the-scenes tours of their facilities. Cahaba Brewing Company, located in the Avondale area, provides regular tours that explain their brewing process and history.
Brewery Map and Accessibility
An interactive brewery map is available on the Birmingham Brewers’ Guild website. This map shows the locations of all local breweries, their operating hours, and current tap lists.
Most Birmingham breweries are wheelchair accessible. Trimtab Brewing and Cahaba Brewing have spacious taprooms with ample seating. Good People Brewing offers an outdoor area that’s easily navigable.
Public transportation options include the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority buses, which serve many brewery locations. The free Birmingham Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) connects several downtown breweries.
Parking is generally available at or near most breweries. Ghost Train Brewing and Oak Mountain Brewing Company have large dedicated parking lots, while downtown locations may require street parking or nearby garages.
Birmingham’s Top Breweries
Birmingham’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, with several standout breweries gaining local and national recognition. These establishments offer unique flavors, inviting taprooms, and a taste of Alabama’s brewing culture.
Cahaba Brewing Company
Cahaba Brewing Company, founded in 2011, has become a cornerstone of Birmingham’s beer community. Located in a spacious 51,000 square foot facility, Cahaba offers a diverse range of brews.
Their American Blonde Ale and Oka Uba IPA are local favorites. The taproom features a large indoor space and an outdoor patio, perfect for social gatherings.
Cahaba also hosts regular events, including trivia nights and live music performances. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them multiple awards in beer competitions.
Good People Brewing Company
Good People Brewing Company, established in 2008, was one of the first craft breweries in Alabama. Their downtown location offers stunning views of Regions Field.
Their flagship IPA and Coffee Oatmeal Stout have become Birmingham staples. Good People’s taproom features a rotating selection of seasonal and experimental brews.
The brewery is known for its community involvement, often partnering with local organizations for charitable events. Their canned beers are widely distributed throughout Alabama and neighboring states.
Trimtab Brewing Company
Trimtab Brewing Company, founded in 2013, has gained a reputation for bold, experimental beers. Their taproom in the Lakeview District showcases an ever-changing lineup of innovative brews.
Their Paradise Now raspberry berliner weisse and 205 Pale Ale are crowd favorites. Trimtab’s commitment to creativity extends to their can designs, which feature eye-catching artwork.
The brewery has received national recognition, including medals at the Great American Beer Festival. Their taproom often hosts food trucks and art events, creating a vibrant community space.
Ghost Train Brewing Company
Ghost Train Brewing Company, established in 2015, has quickly become a Birmingham favorite. Their taproom in the Lakeview area offers a unique, industrial-chic atmosphere.
Their Gulf Coast IPA and Kaleidoscope Kettle Sour Series showcase their brewing range. Ghost Train is known for their themed events, including costume parties and beer release celebrations.
The brewery also offers a selection of craft sodas, appealing to non-beer drinkers. Their outdoor space includes a beer garden and often features live music performances.
Avondale Brewing Company
Avondale Brewing Company, founded in 2011, has played a significant role in revitalizing the Avondale neighborhood. Their historic building dates back to the early 1900s and has a rich local history.
Their Spring Street Saison and Vanillaphant Porter are local classics. Avondale’s large outdoor space hosts numerous events, including concerts and festivals.
The brewery takes pride in using local ingredients when possible. Their taproom offers a family-friendly atmosphere during the day and transforms into a lively social spot at night.
Back Forty Beer Company
Back Forty Beer Company, while originally from Gadsden, opened a Birmingham location in 2018. Their spacious facility in Sloss Docks includes a full-service restaurant.
Their Truck Stop Honey Brown Ale and Naked Pig Pale Ale are popular choices. Back Forty’s Birmingham location features a 13,000 square foot production facility with a canning line.
The brewery offers tours, providing insight into their brewing process. Their restaurant menu focuses on locally-sourced ingredients, complementing their craft beer offerings.
Brewery Experiences
Birmingham’s craft breweries offer diverse and engaging experiences for beer enthusiasts. Visitors can explore taprooms, attend events, take tours, and enjoy food alongside their brews.
Taprooms and Tasting Challenges
Taprooms serve as the heart of Birmingham’s brewery scene. Good People Brewing Company, Alabama’s oldest brewery, features a welcoming taproom with a wide selection of beers. Patrons can sample crisp ales and bold IPAs in a laid-back atmosphere. Many breweries offer tasting flights, allowing visitors to try multiple beers in smaller portions.
Some taprooms use apps like Untappd to track beer tastings and offer rewards. This gamification adds an interactive element to the experience. Visitors can earn badges, compete with friends, and discover new favorites.
Avondale Brewing Company’s taproom, housed in a historic building, provides a unique setting for beer tasting. The venue’s charm enhances the overall experience.
Events and Live Music Nights
Birmingham breweries frequently host events and live music nights, creating a vibrant social atmosphere. Avondale Brewing Company doubles as an outdoor music venue, regularly featuring local and touring acts.
Many breweries organize themed nights, such as trivia contests or board game evenings. These events foster a sense of community and attract diverse crowds.
TrimTab Brewing Co. is known for its creative events, often collaborating with local artists and musicians. Their events calendar showcases the intersection of craft beer and Birmingham’s cultural scene.
Seasonal festivals and beer release parties are common, giving patrons reasons to visit throughout the year.
Brewery Tours and Beer Making
Several Birmingham breweries offer guided tours, providing insight into the brewing process. These tours typically include:
- An overview of ingredients
- Explanation of brewing equipment
- Description of fermentation and aging processes
- Tasting sessions
Good People Brewing Company and Avondale Brewing offer regular tours. Visitors learn about beer styles, brewing techniques, and the history of craft beer in Birmingham.
Some breweries provide hands-on experiences. Homebrewing workshops and “brew your own beer” sessions allow enthusiasts to participate in the beer-making process under expert guidance.
Food Options at Breweries
Birmingham’s breweries recognize the importance of pairing good food with craft beer. Many taprooms partner with local food trucks, offering a rotating selection of cuisines. This arrangement provides variety and supports local businesses.
Some breweries have on-site kitchens or restaurants. These establishments often create menus that complement their beer offerings, using local ingredients when possible.
Avondale Brewing Company, located in the Avondale Entertainment District, benefits from proximity to numerous restaurants. Visitors can easily pair their brewery experience with meals from nearby eateries.
Beer-infused dishes and beer pairings are common features, allowing patrons to explore the culinary potential of craft brews.
Brews and Styles
Birmingham’s craft beer scene offers a diverse array of unique and flavorful brews. Local breweries showcase their creativity through specialty IPAs, fruited sours, and exclusive ales. Non-alcoholic options like craft root beer are also available for those seeking alcohol-free alternatives.
Local Specialty IPAs
Birmingham breweries excel at crafting innovative IPAs. Cahaba Brewing Company’s Oka Uba IPA stands out, with a bourbon barrel-aged version adding complexity. Many local breweries experiment with hop varieties and brewing techniques to create distinct IPA profiles.
Avondale Brewing Company and other establishments offer rotating taps featuring seasonal and limited-release IPAs. These often incorporate locally-sourced ingredients or showcase new hop strains.
Hazy and New England-style IPAs have gained popularity, with several breweries producing their own juicy, low-bitterness versions.
Unique Fruited Sours
Fruited sours have become a staple in Birmingham’s craft beer lineup. Local breweries infuse their sour ales with a variety of fruits, creating tart and refreshing beverages.
Popular fruit additions include berries, citrus, and stone fruits. Some breweries push boundaries by incorporating tropical or exotic fruits into their sour creations.
These fruited sours often feature vibrant colors and bold flavors, appealing to both beer enthusiasts and those new to craft brewing.
Exclusive Kettle Sours and Ales
Birmingham brewers have embraced kettle souring techniques to produce quick-turnaround sour ales. This method allows for greater experimentation and the creation of unique flavors.
Many local breweries offer small-batch kettle sours as part of their rotating tap lists. These beers often feature interesting flavor combinations and ingredients not commonly found in traditional ales.
Some establishments have gained recognition for their specialty ales, such as barrel-aged stouts or Belgian-inspired brews. These exclusive offerings showcase the skill and creativity of Birmingham’s brewers.
Craft Root Beer and Non-Alcoholic Options
Several Birmingham breweries have expanded their offerings to include craft root beer and other non-alcoholic beverages. These options cater to designated drivers, non-drinkers, and those looking for a change of pace.
Craft root beers are often made in-house using traditional methods and natural ingredients. Some breweries also produce other non-alcoholic sodas or sparkling beverages.
For those seeking low-alcohol options, many local establishments offer session beers or alcohol-free versions of their popular styles, ensuring everyone can enjoy the craft brewing experience.
Events and Community
Birmingham’s craft beer scene thrives on community engagement and social gatherings. Local breweries host a variety of events that bring beer enthusiasts together and support worthy causes.
Annual Craft Beer Festivals
Birmingham celebrates its craft beer culture with several annual festivals. The Magic City Brewfest, held each June, showcases over 200 beers from regional and national breweries. In October, Oktoberfest celebrations take place at various breweries, featuring German-inspired beers and traditional foods.
The Sloss Fest, while primarily a music festival, also highlights local craft beers. It takes place at the historic Sloss Furnaces, offering a unique backdrop for enjoying Birmingham’s brews.
Weekly Social Club Meetings
Many Birmingham breweries host regular meetups for beer enthusiasts. The Monday Night Social Club at TrimTab Brewing Company has become a popular weekly event. Attendees enjoy discounted pints and often participate in trivia contests or board game nights.
Good People Brewing Company organizes running clubs that meet at the taproom, combining fitness with beer tasting. These social gatherings foster a sense of community among craft beer fans and provide opportunities to try new brews.
Community Support and Sponsorships
Birmingham’s craft breweries actively support local causes. Avondale Brewing Company regularly hosts charity events, donating a portion of sales to non-profit organizations. Ghost Train Brewing Co. partners with animal shelters for adoption events in their taproom.
Many breweries sponsor local sports teams and cultural events. Birmingham District Brewing Company, for example, supports the city’s minor league baseball team, strengthening ties between craft beer and local sports culture.
Family-Friendly Brewery Activities
Several Birmingham breweries create inclusive environments for families. Back Forty Beer Company offers a spacious beer garden with yard games and family-friendly events on weekends. Cahaba Brewing Company hosts occasional movie nights in their taproom, welcoming patrons of all ages.
Some breweries, like Ferus Artisan Ales, incorporate play areas for children, allowing parents to enjoy craft beers while kids stay entertained. These family-oriented spaces help broaden the appeal of craft beer beyond traditional adult-only settings.
Visitor Information
Birmingham’s craft beer scene offers a welcoming experience for beer enthusiasts. Local breweries provide diverse options and unique atmospheres for visitors to explore.
Seasonal Operation Hours
Most Birmingham breweries operate year-round, with adjusted hours during holidays. Weekday hours typically range from 3 PM to 10 PM, while weekends often see extended hours from noon to midnight. Summer months may feature longer hours and special events.
Always check individual brewery websites or Untappd for the most up-to-date information. Some taprooms close on Mondays or Tuesdays for brewing operations.
Parking and Transportation
Parking availability varies by brewery location. Downtown breweries often have limited street parking, while those in industrial areas offer larger lots. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are popular options for brewery tours.
Birmingham’s public transit system provides bus routes near major breweries. Some tour companies offer guided brewery excursions with transportation included.
Designated driver programs are common, with many breweries offering free non-alcoholic beverages to designated drivers.
Accommodations and Nearby Attractions
Several hotels in downtown Birmingham and the Avondale area put visitors within walking distance of popular breweries. The Westin Birmingham and Elyton Hotel offer upscale accommodations near Good People Brewing and TrimTab Brewing.
Breweries often cluster near other attractions. Regions Field, home of the Birmingham Barons baseball team, is steps away from Good People Brewing. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the Alabama Theatre are close to several downtown taprooms.
Many breweries partner with local food trucks or nearby restaurants for dining options. Avondale Brewing Company, for example, is surrounded by popular eateries like Post Office Pies and Melt.
