Wisconsin’s beer scene is legendary and nowhere is that more evident than in the Milwaukee and Waukesha County area. From small-batch microbreweries to iconic taprooms, this corner of the state is packed with places to raise a glass and toast to the good life. Whether you’re into hazy IPAs, rich stouts, or something experimental, this guide highlights some of the very best spots to explore.
Waukesha County Favorites
1725 Dolphin Dr, Waukesha, WI
Award-winning and hop-forward, Raised Grain is a go-to for bold IPAs like the Paradocs Red and refreshing lagers. The taproom also features a full kitchen and lively events calendar.
1225 Robruck Dr, Oconomowoc, WI
A newcomer with a strong following, SteelTank blends a rock 'n' roll vibe with seriously good beer. Their expanding tap list includes everything from traditional lagers to modern hazy brews.
Eagle Park Brewing & Distilling
S64W15640 Commerce Center Pkwy, Muskego, WI
With bold flavors and fun can art, Eagle Park is a creative powerhouse. Try their Milkshake IPAs, pastry stouts, or house-distilled spirits—and stay for the live music or food.
Milwaukee Must-Stops
1872 N Commerce St, Milwaukee
This riverside favorite is known for its hilarious, award-winning brewery tours and iconic beers like Riverwest Stein and New Grist. The German-style beer hall atmosphere and patio make it a perfect spot to gather with friends.
6751 W National Ave, West Allis, WI
With plenty of “Midwest nice,” OPE! Brewing serves up classic, clean beers in a cozy, casual space. Think Cream Ales, IPAs, and plenty of Wisconsin pride.
1505 W St. Paul Ave, Milwaukee, WI
A staple of the Menomonee Valley, Third Space is beloved for beers like Happy Place and Upward Spiral. Expect a lively taproom, food trucks, and frequent live events.
Good City Brewing
333 W Juneau Ave (Downtown)
Known for its bright and airy spaces, Good City offers great food and great beer—try the Motto Pale Ale or Reward Double IPA while enjoying rooftop views or watching a game near the Deer District.
505 S 5th St, Milwaukee, WI
Where creativity meets community. Fans submit ideas and vote on what MobCraft should brew next. Their inventive approach results in standout offerings like sour ales, porters, and unusual flavor fusions.
909 E Locust St, Milwaukee, WI
Quirky and unapologetically Northwoods-themed, Black Husky’s small taproom in Riverwest delivers big flavors—think bold IPAs like Sproose or their seasonal stouts. Dogs welcome!
2018 E North Ave, Milwaukee, WI
With roots in Door County, Hacienda's Milwaukee taproom is sleek and artistic, just like their beer. Known for hazy IPAs and farmhouse ales with personality, this spot also offers a great food menu.
5519 W North Ave, Milwaukee, WI
Coffee shop by morning, brewery by afternoon—Vennture is the definition of neighborhood charm. Their small-batch beers are creative and balanced, and the space is great for everything from remote work to weekend hangs.
Central Standard Craft Distillery
320 E Clybourn St, Milwaukee, WI
Not just a distillery—Central Standard offers beer, cocktails, and elevated food in a stylish downtown venue. Come for the spirits, stay for the rooftop views and craft beer collaborations.
616 W Virginia St, Milwaukee, WI
As one of Wisconsin’s first distilleries since Prohibition, Great Lakes also brews limited-release beers. Sip spirits or try their house-made cocktails alongside seasonal beer offerings in their inviting tasting room.
342 E Ward St, Milwaukee, WI
Located in Bay View, 1840 specializes in slow-fermented beers and mixed fermentation styles, including sours, saisons, and barrel-aged brews. The taproom has an intimate, rustic charm.
2020 S Allis St, Milwaukee, WI
A laid-back Bay View favorite, Enlightened crafts approachable, well-balanced beers with names like Cream City Brix and Sustained Thought. It’s a cozy stop for casual sips and conversation.
135 E Pittsburgh Ave, Milwaukee, WI
Baseball-themed and full of charm, Broken Bat brews up heavy hitters like the Straight Chedd IPA. Located in the heart of Walker’s Point, it’s a great spot to pregame or wind down.
Bonus: Plan a Brew Trail Adventure
Many of these breweries and distilleries host special releases, trivia nights, food trucks, live music, and seasonal events. Consider creating your own “brewery crawl” or visit during one of Milwaukee or Waukesha’s beer festivals to get a full flavor of the local scene.
Staying at The Ingleside Hotel?
From Pewaukee, you can easily access Waukesha’s best breweries and make a day trip into Milwaukee for urban taproom hopping. To see these Breweries on The Ingleside Hotel’s interactive map, please click here: https://www.theinglesidehotel.com/location-map