Welcome back my brew buddies! Wondering where to find the best breweries in Burlington Vermont? I make it no secret that Vermont is my absolute favorite place to visit. Burlington stands out even more so as a haven for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike. Nestled between the stunning lake views and the spirited vibes of a bustling college town, Burlington’s brewery scene is a tapestry of creativity, flavor, and community spirit.
So, join me as we embark on a hoppy journey through the best breweries in Burlington Vermont. From inventive brews that push the boundaries to cozy taprooms exuding Vermont charm. Get ready to sip, savor, and discover why Burlington is the place to visit for craft beer enthusiasts.
Foam Brewers
Starting off this brew tour off strong with one of my absolute favorite breweries in Burlington; Foam Brewers. This brewery was founded in 2016 and is housed in a charming old brick building. Located just a block from iconic Waterfront Park the brewery offers both indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor patio at Foam Brewers serves as a sun-drenched oasis where beer enthusiasts can savor their selections. All against the backdrop of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains.
What truly sets Foam Brewers apart is their commitment to innovation. This is clear in their rotating lineup of small-batch releases that showcase a wide spectrum of styles. From hazy IPAs bursting with tropical notes to complex sour ales. Each pint at Foam Brewers is a celebration of craftsmanship and creativity. I would venture to say they have some of the best sour beers I’ve ever had. The knowledgeable staff adds to the experience. Always happy to provide insights into the brewing process and guide patrons through an ever-evolving tap list. You can view the current menu on Foam’s website.
In addition to outstanding beer, Foam Brewers has a commitment to incorporating art and music into their space. The walls are always hung with works from local artists and are available for purchase. You can also catch great local music if you time your visit right!
Foam Brewers offers a small selection of cheese and charcuterie boards to compliment your brews. They are of course locally sourced ingredients and absolutely delectable. If you’re looking for more than a light snack they also often host food trucks outside. Don’t forget to check out their fridges on the way out for canned beer to go, or fill up a growler. You will definitely want to take something home with you from this amazing Burlington brewery!
Zero Gravity Craft Beer
Stop number 2 for the best breweries in Burlington Vermont is Zero Gravity Craft Beer. Zero Gravity delivers a brew-tiful experience for both seasoned beer enthusiasts and casual sippers alike. The taproom is typically bustling with activity both indoors and out and they have even recently expanded their space.
From their flagship Green State Lager to the ever-rotating selection of innovative and seasonal brews, Zero Gravity showcases a commitment to diverse flavors and impeccable craftsmanship. My favorite from this past summer was their Frankie beer. A bright, citrusy fruit ale that embodies the light hearted feel of summer!
One of the best things about Zero Gravity is their commitment to sustainability. They are committed to giving back to their local community as well as to our earth. $1 from every taproom sale of their flagship beer Green State Lager is donated to a charitable cause. The cause rotates monthly but always highlights the community that supports them, or keeping Vermont green!
It’s easy to feel good about visiting this brewery when they are doing so much good for Vermont. You can learn more about their community endeavors on their website.
Four Quarters Brewing
Full disclosure, Four Quarters Brewing is technically in Winooski. However it is definitely worth adding to your brew tour on your way to Burlington. Founded in 2014, this brewery specializes in sours, stouts and hoppy beers. This small-batch brewery, tucked away in an unassuming industrial space, surprises visitors with its unpretentious charm and a dedication to crafting exceptional beers. They also craft their own non-alcoholic drinks like kombucha, seltzer and ginger beer!
I immediately fell in love with their taproom’s moody decor accentuated with plenty of plants. (If you know me I’m a sucker for plants). The furniture was a rustic mix of mis-matched pieces that made it feel as if you’d stepped into somebody’s sitting room. There is also a beautiful outdoor space but we went on a beautiful day in May and it was full!
There were so many intriguing drinks on tap here that we asked the bartender for a recommendation. I am so glad we did because I don’t think we would have ever tried what we did! Their Piña Peño is an incredible sour ale they brew with fresh pineapples, jalapeño and a little sea salt. It was not spicy at all, but the jalapeño added an incredible hint of flavor to this fruity sour. I’ve been dreaming of it since.
Beyond the excellent brews, the brewery often hosts events and live music, adding an extra layer of vibrancy to the experience. For those seeking a taste of Vermont’s craft beer creativity in an unassuming and relaxed setting, Four Quarters Brewing offers a delightful journey through flavors that leave a lasting impression.
Citizen Cider
Next stop on this tour of best breweries in Burlington is Citizen Cider. This is a cider lover’s utopia and a nice way to break up your day. Every pour is a crisp and refreshing journey into the world of craft cider. The brewery’s vibrant taproom is a cheerful space where modern design meets rustic charm, creating the perfect ambiance for sipping and savoring.
Citizen Cider offers tasting flights that really let you indulge in their different flavor profiles. They offer a range from traditional dry ciders to experimental blends infused with everything from ginger to hops. Their apples are always sourced from Vermont and New York. You can see exactly where the apples come from right on their website.
One of my favorites here are the Brose – rosé style, co-fermented with local blueberries. They also have a Radler with grapefruit and hops that is delightful. The cider pub is always coming up with impressive new flavors so even if you’ve been before it’s worth going again!
Kraemer & Kin
Kraemer & Kin is a family owned and operated brewery located in Alburgh, Vermont. While this is about 40 minutes north of Burlington I promise it is worth the drive. Not to mention the drive takes you up through South and North Hero with absolutely incredible water views on both sides.
We made a morning of this visit and indulged in their amazing farm to table Sunday brunch. Kraemer & Kin prides themselves on using the highest quality local ingredients, and you can taste the difference. The poutine literally melts in your mouth. And the BLT while simple, was delectable and something I’ve been dreaming about having again.
This brewery actually sits right on a stunning golf course. My husband did not have a chance to play here but it is on our list for a future visit! The inside of the tap room has an eclectic, “found” feel. With perfectly mis-matched table sets, stained glass room dividers, and ferns everywhere you look it feels like you’ve stepped into a wonderland of sorts.
The outdoor seating area is on a picturesque veranda that overlooks the golf course. Past the fairway you can catch a glimpse of the sparkling water beyond. It truly sets the scene for a relaxing day well spent with great beer.
The Kraemer & Kin crafts their beer with just as much care as their food and decor. Using local ingredients to create unexpected flavors, you have to order a flight to try them all! Some of the most unusual flavors were the Lilac Sour, and Sumac Amber . They also have beer to go, and the cans are works of art.
While these are not all of the amazing breweries they are certainly some of the best breweries in Burlington, Vermont. From the inventive sips at Foam Brewers to the laid-back charm of Zero Gravity Craft Beer, Burlington’s craft beverage scene is a true testament to the city’s dynamic character. Whether you’re a hop head or just someone seeking to savor some beers in a picturesque setting, Burlington has a brew to match your taste.
Here’s to the laughter shared over pints, the exploration of innovative flavors, and the vibrant community that makes Burlington’s brewery scene an essential stop on any craft beverage lover’s map. Until the next adventure, may your glasses be full, your conversations lively, and your memories of Burlington’s brews be as effervescent as the beers themselves. I hope you get to taste all of these amazing breweries in Burlington Vermont.
If you’re looking for unforgettable places to stop for dinner while you’re in Burlington read our post here! Happy tasting!
