Peoria, Illinois boasts a thriving craft beer scene that’s sure to delight beer enthusiasts. From local microbreweries to taprooms featuring unique brews, the city offers a diverse range of options for those seeking quality craft beer experiences.
The best spots to enjoy craft beer in Peoria include John S Rhodell Brewery, Pour BROS Craft Taproom, and Industry Brewing. These establishments have gained popularity among locals and visitors alike for their exceptional beer selections and inviting atmospheres. Each venue brings its own distinctive flair to the craft beer landscape, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
Craft beer aficionados will appreciate the variety of styles available in Peoria. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and refreshing lagers, the city’s breweries and taprooms cater to a wide range of preferences. Many local establishments also offer seasonal and limited-edition brews, providing exciting opportunities for beer lovers to explore new flavors and expand their beer knowledge.
Peoria’s Craft Beer History
Peoria, Illinois has a rich brewing heritage dating back to the 19th century. The city’s beer production flourished in the late 1800s, with several breweries operating successfully.
Notable establishments included the Krimm Brewery (1865-1884) and the Union Brewery (1869-1919). These breweries helped establish Peoria as a significant beer-producing city in the Midwest.
The brewing industry in Peoria faced challenges during Prohibition but rebounded afterward. However, by the 1980s, many large-scale brewing operations had closed their doors in the area.
In recent years, Peoria has experienced a craft beer renaissance. Small, independent breweries have emerged, revitalizing the city’s brewing traditions with innovative and locally-inspired creations.
Today, Peoria boasts a vibrant craft beer scene. Breweries like Industry Brewing Company and John S Rhodell Brewery offer unique, handcrafted beers that pay homage to the city’s brewing history while embracing modern tastes.
These new establishments have helped transform Peoria into a destination for beer enthusiasts. Craft beer bars and taprooms now dot the city, providing locals and visitors alike with a diverse selection of high-quality brews.
Guide to Local Breweries
Peoria’s craft beer scene boasts diverse flavors and unique brewing styles. Local breweries offer distinctive atmospheres and innovative beer selections for enthusiasts to explore.
John S. Rhodell Brewery
John S. Rhodell Brewery stands as Peoria’s oldest ongoing brewery, crafting beers since 1998. This landmark establishment draws both locals and visitors with its authentic ambiance and unique brews.
The brewery’s longevity speaks to its quality and community appeal. Patrons can expect a range of well-crafted beers that showcase traditional brewing techniques alongside creative new recipes.
John S. Rhodell’s taproom provides a cozy setting for sampling their latest offerings. Beer enthusiasts appreciate the brewery’s commitment to maintaining high standards while still experimenting with flavors.
Industry Brewing Co
Industry Brewing Co brings a modern twist to Peoria’s beer landscape. This brewery focuses on producing a variety of craft beers that cater to different palates.
Their taproom offers a rotating selection of house-made brews, ensuring repeat visitors always find something new to try. Industry Brewing’s approach combines traditional brewing methods with innovative ingredients.
Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the industrial heritage of Peoria. The brewery often hosts events and collaborations, fostering a sense of community among local beer lovers.
Peoria Brewing Company
Peoria Brewing Company emphasizes locally-sourced ingredients in their beer production. This approach results in flavors that are distinctly tied to the region.
The brewery’s taproom features a wide array of styles, from light lagers to robust stouts. Peoria Brewing Company takes pride in educating visitors about the brewing process and beer styles.
Regular brewery tours offer insights into their brewing techniques. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their operations, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
Bearded Owl Brewing
Bearded Owl Brewing stands out for its artisanal approach to beer making. This smaller brewery focuses on crafting unique, small-batch beers that push creative boundaries.
Visitors can expect an ever-changing tap list that showcases experimental brews alongside perfected recipes. The intimate taproom provides a perfect setting for beer aficionados to discuss and appreciate craft beer.
Bearded Owl’s attention to detail extends to their food offerings, which are designed to complement their beers. The brewery’s distinctive owl-themed branding adds a playful touch to the experience.
Obed + Isaac’s Microbrewery and Eatery
Obed + Isaac’s combines craft beer with a full dining experience. This establishment occupies a historic building, adding character to its brewpub atmosphere.
Their beer selection ranges from traditional styles to seasonal specialties. Obed + Isaac’s food menu is crafted to pair well with their brews, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
The brewery’s outdoor space, including a bocce ball court, makes it a popular spot for social gatherings. Regular events and live music contribute to the lively atmosphere at Obed + Isaac’s.
Exploring Beer Styles
Peoria’s craft beer scene offers a diverse range of styles to suit every palate. From hoppy ales to crisp lagers and rich stouts, local breweries showcase their creativity and skill.
Ales of Peoria
Peoria’s breweries excel in crafting flavorful ales. Industry Brewing and John S Rhodell Brewery produce standout pale ales, known for their balanced hop profiles and crisp finishes. IPA enthusiasts can find bold, aromatic options at Pour BROS Craft Taproom.
Wheat ales are popular during warmer months. Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery creates a refreshing hefeweizen with notes of banana and clove. For those seeking something different, Bust’d Brewing experiments with fruit-infused ales and Belgian-style saisons.
Many local taprooms rotate their ale selections seasonally. This ensures beer lovers always have new flavors to explore.
Craft Lagers
While ales dominate, Peoria’s craft lagers deserve attention. These clean, crisp beers showcase local brewers’ technical skills.
Industry Brewing offers a classic German-style pilsner, perfect for hot summer days. Pour BROS frequently features Czech-style lagers, known for their subtle hop character and smooth drinkability.
Seasonal lagers also make appearances. Oktoberfest märzens and doppelbocks can be found at several breweries during fall and winter months.
Local Stouts
Peoria’s breweries embrace the dark side with an array of rich, complex stouts. Coffee stouts are particularly popular, with Industry Brewing and John S Rhodell Brewery incorporating locally roasted beans.
Oatmeal stouts provide a silky mouthfeel and subtle sweetness. Pour BROS occasionally offers barrel-aged variants, adding depth through whiskey or bourbon notes.
Imperial stouts make appearances during colder months. These high-alcohol offerings often feature chocolate, vanilla, or even spicy chili pepper additions.
For a unique twist, some breweries experiment with milk stouts or pastry-inspired versions that blur the line between beer and dessert.
Enjoying Craft Beer
Peoria offers diverse experiences for craft beer enthusiasts. From guided tastings to relaxing beer gardens, the city provides numerous ways to savor locally brewed ales and lagers.
Beer Tasting and Tours
Several Peoria breweries offer tasting sessions and guided tours. John S Rhodell Brewery hosts weekly tastings, allowing visitors to sample their latest creations. Industry Brewing provides behind-the-scenes tours, explaining the brewing process and ingredients used in their signature beers.
Pour BROS Craft Taproom features rotating taps from local and regional breweries. They organize tasting flights, giving patrons the opportunity to compare different styles and flavors.
Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery and Eatery combines history with hops. Their guided tours explore the restored 1889 building and culminate in a tasting of their house-brewed beers.
Pub and Beer Garden Experiences
Beer gardens offer a relaxed outdoor setting to enjoy craft brews. Industry Brewing’s spacious beer garden hosts live entertainment during summer evenings, creating a lively atmosphere for after-work drinks.
The Publik House provides a cozy indoor pub experience with an extensive selection of local and imported craft beers on tap. Their knowledgeable staff can recommend pairings with their gastropub menu.
Kickback on Fulton features a rooftop beer garden with views of the Illinois River. It’s an ideal spot to unwind with friends while sampling Peoria’s craft beer offerings.
Growler and Craft Brew Shops
For take-home enjoyment, Peoria offers several options to purchase craft beer. Friar Tuck Beverage stocks a wide range of local and regional craft beers, including limited releases and seasonal brews.
Many breweries, like John S Rhodell and Industry Brewing, offer growler fills of their fresh-brewed beers. This allows beer lovers to enjoy draft-quality craft beer at home.
Thyme Kitchen and Craft Beer combines a restaurant with a bottle shop. Diners can purchase bottles or cans of craft beer they enjoyed with their meal to take home.
Events and Culture
Peoria’s craft beer scene thrives alongside vibrant events and cultural offerings. The city’s breweries and taprooms serve as hubs for live entertainment and community gatherings, while annual festivals celebrate the local brewing tradition.
Live Music and Entertainment
Peoria’s breweries frequently host live music performances. John S Rhodell Brewery features local bands on weekends, creating a lively atmosphere for beer enthusiasts. Industry Brewing incorporates a stage for regular acoustic sets and open mic nights.
Pour BROS Craft Taproom offers outdoor entertainment during warmer months. Their patio becomes a popular spot for live performances and comedy shows. The Publik House combines craft beer with trivia nights and occasional live acts.
Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery and Eatery – Peoria provides a unique setting for entertainment. Their bocce ball courts and outdoor games complement the beer selection, offering patrons a mix of activities.
Craft Beer Festivals
The Peoria Beer Fest stands out as the city’s premier craft beer event. Held annually, it showcases local breweries alongside regional and national craft offerings. Attendees can sample a wide range of styles while enjoying food pairings and live music.
Smaller festivals pop up throughout the year, often coinciding with seasonal releases. The Warehouse District hosts occasional beer walks, allowing participants to explore multiple venues and taste various local brews.
Some breweries organize their own events. Industry Brewing’s anniversary celebration features special releases and collaborations with other local producers. These festivals foster community engagement and highlight Peoria’s growing craft beer culture.
Craft Beer Community
Peoria’s craft beer scene thrives on a passionate community of enthusiasts. Local breweries foster a welcoming atmosphere for beer lovers to gather and share their appreciation.
Craft beer events and tastings occur regularly throughout the city. These gatherings allow aficionados to sample new brews and connect with like-minded individuals.
Unique breweries like John S Rhodell Brewery and Industry Brewing have cultivated loyal followings. Their taprooms serve as hubs for beer enthusiasts to discuss flavors, brewing techniques, and industry trends.
Pour BROS Craft Taproom offers an extensive selection of local and regional craft beers. This popular spot draws crowds eager to explore diverse styles and support area brewers.
Peoria’s craft beer community extends beyond drinking establishments. Home brewing clubs and beer education classes have sprung up, catering to those looking to deepen their knowledge.
Social media groups dedicated to Peoria’s craft beer scene help spread the word about new releases and special events. These online communities complement in-person gatherings, keeping enthusiasts connected and informed.
Where to Purchase Craft Beer
Peoria offers several excellent options for purchasing craft beer, from specialty liquor stores to unique taprooms. Beer enthusiasts can find a wide selection of local and regional brews to enjoy at home or on-site.
Local Craft Beer Retailers
Super Liquor stocks a diverse range of craft beers from Illinois and beyond. Their knowledgeable staff can help customers find the perfect brew to suit their tastes. Pour Bros. Craft Taproom in Peoria Heights provides a unique experience with its self-serve taps, allowing patrons to sample various craft beers before purchasing.
Friar Tuck – Peoria boasts an extensive selection of craft beers, including hard-to-find limited releases. Binny’s Beverage Depot – Peoria offers a vast array of craft beers, with frequent tastings and events for beer aficionados.
UFS Downtown Outlet Center, while primarily known for restaurant supplies, also carries a selection of craft beers popular among local establishments. These retailers cater to different preferences, ensuring Peoria’s craft beer lovers can always find something new and exciting to try.
Dining with Craft Beer
Peoria offers several restaurants that pair excellent food with impressive craft beer selections. These establishments combine culinary expertise with a passion for local and regional brews.
Restaurants with Great Beer Selections
The Fox Pub and Cafe boasts an extensive lineup of craft beers alongside traditional British fare. Their rotating taps feature local Illinois breweries and international favorites.
The Publik House elevates pub grub with a carefully curated beer list. Patrons can enjoy creative burgers and sandwiches while sipping on a wide variety of craft brews.
Kelleher’s Irish Pub and Eatery serves authentic Irish dishes complemented by a solid beer selection. Their taps include both Irish staples and local craft options.
Thyme Kitchen + Craft Beer focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients and pairs them with an ever-changing craft beer menu. The restaurant’s industrial-chic setting in the Warehouse District provides a trendy backdrop for beer exploration.
These venues prioritize beer quality and diversity, offering flights and knowledgeable staff to guide patrons through their selections. Many host regular beer events and tap takeovers to showcase new and limited-edition brews.
Beyond Beer: Distilleries and More
Peoria’s craft beverage scene extends beyond beer, offering spirits and cocktails that showcase local flavors. The city’s distilleries and cocktail bars provide unique experiences for those seeking alternatives to brews.
Local Distilleries
Black Band Distillery stands out as Peoria’s premier craft spirits producer. Located in the heart of the city, this distillery crafts small-batch vodka, gin, and whiskey using locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can tour the facility to learn about the distillation process and sample the spirits in the tasting room.
The distillery’s signature bourbon pays homage to Peoria’s whiskey-making heritage. Black Band also offers seasonal releases, including fruit-infused liqueurs that highlight the region’s agricultural bounty.
Cocktail Bars with Craft Influence
Several Peoria bars embrace the craft beverage movement in their cocktail programs. These establishments use locally distilled spirits and house-made mixers to create unique drinks.
The Publik House features a rotating selection of craft cocktails that incorporate Black Band spirits. Their mixologists experiment with flavor combinations, often using herbs and fruits from nearby farms.
Thyme Kitchen and Craft Beer, despite its name, offers an impressive cocktail menu alongside its beer selection. The bar’s skilled bartenders create drinks that complement the restaurant’s farm-to-table cuisine.
Planning Your Craft Beer Adventure
Exploring Peoria’s craft beer scene requires thoughtful preparation. A well-crafted plan ensures you visit the best breweries and make the most of your time in the city.
Maps and Itineraries
Create a custom map of Peoria’s craft breweries. Include Downtown Peoria hotspots like Industry Brewing and John S Rhodell Brewery. Plan routes that maximize brewery visits while minimizing travel time.
Consider grouping nearby breweries for efficient exploration. Pour Bros. Craft Taproom and Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery make a great pairing in the Peoria Heights area.
Allow 1-2 hours per brewery visit to fully appreciate each location’s offerings. Factor in time for tastings, tours, and potential food pairings.
Research brewery hours and special events. Some locations may have limited operating days or host unique tastings that align with your visit.
Transportation and Accommodations
Book accommodations near brewery clusters to minimize travel. Downtown Peoria offers several hotels within walking distance of multiple craft beer destinations.
Consider ride-sharing services or designate a sober driver for brewery-hopping. Many local taxi companies also offer reliable transportation options.
For a worry-free experience, book a guided brewery tour. These often include transportation and curated tastings at multiple locations.
If driving between breweries, plan for parking. Downtown Peoria has several public parking garages and street parking options.
Pack a refillable water bottle and snacks to stay hydrated and maintain energy between brewery visits.
