Best breweries in Calgary: find options near you
Calgary, Alberta, is rapidly establishing itself as a premier destination for craft beer enthusiasts. The city’s blossoming beer scene is a testament to the ingenuity and passion of its local brewers, who continually innovate and refine their processes to create truly exceptional beverages. A multitude of craft beer producers have emerged, each bringing unique flavors and styles to the table.
Identifying the leading establishments within Calgary’s growing selection of beer-producing businesses requires careful consideration of various factors, including brewing techniques, quality of ingredients, and overall reputation. These enterprises represent a significant part of the city’s cultural and economic landscape, and offer a distinct taste of the local flavor for both residents and visitors.
Discover 10 outstanding options for breweries in Calgary
Here are 10 outstanding options for breweries in Calgary based on value for money:
1. CRAFT Beer Market Calgary Downtown
Tuesday: 11:00–00:00
Wednesday: 11:00–00:00
Thursday: 11:00–01:00
Friday: 11:00–02:00
Saturday: 11:00–02:00
Sunday: 11:00–00:00
Craft Beer Market is a fantastic destination for a relaxed evening with friends. The atmosphere is consistently enjoyable, creating a welcoming space for socializing and unwinding after a long day. The staff are exceptionally friendly and attentive, adding to the overall positive experience—it’s a spot where you genuinely feel comfortable and well looked after.
The selection of craft beers is outstanding, complemented by a tasty menu of snacks and food options. While some dishes may have a kick, the flavors are undeniably delicious and satisfying. A visit promises a pleasurable time and the chance to enjoy truly good food and drinks.
It’s a bit on the pricey side, but the quality and portion sizes made it worth it. Great atmosphere, friendly service, and overall a solid dining experience. Would definitely come back!
2. Cold Garden Beverage Company
Tuesday: 11:00–00:00
Wednesday: 11:00–00:00
Thursday: 11:00–00:00
Friday: 11:00–01:00
Saturday: 11:00–01:00
Sunday: 11:00–00:00
Cold Garden Beverage Company offers a genuinely relaxed atmosphere, ideal for gatherings with friends. It’s clear that creating a comfortable space for patrons is a priority; the indoor areas are spacious with plenty of seating, and the outdoor patio appears to be a highlight during warmer months. It’s a spot you’ll likely return to for simple enjoyment and a casual, positive experience.
The selection appears to be well-curated and offers options beyond traditional beers, catering to a broader range of tastes. What stands out most is the commitment to being welcoming; bringing your own food or even having your canine companion along enhances the overall appeal and contributes to a thoroughly pleasant visit. The customer service and friendly environmentare definitely something to be commended.
Beers were alright. You can bring your own food in!
Had to add more pics to add to the fun!!
3. Last Best Brewing & Distilling
Tuesday: 11:30–22:00
Wednesday: 11:30–22:00
Thursday: 11:30–23:00
Friday: 11:30–01:00
Saturday: 11:30–01:00
Sunday: 11:30–22:00
Last Best Brewing & Distilling is a fantastic establishment that clearly prioritizes customer satisfaction. The staff are consistently praised for their exceptional service and genuine friendliness; a welcoming atmosphere is a hallmark of the experience, ensuring visitors feel well taken care of and valued. Many highlight specific servers who made their visit memorable, demonstrating a dedication to personalized and attentive care.
Beyond the superb service, the food receives overwhelmingly positive mentions. The menu offers a diverse selection, and the quality shines through in every dish. Many rave about the creative and delicious offerings, featuring exceptional flavor combinations> and generous portions. The overall impression is that of a place where you can relax, enjoy fantastic refreshments, and create positive memories.
The spicy chicken sandwich always slaps, as well as the smash burger. I got the beet salad this last time and it was pretty good, but I wish the beats were a bit more seasoned.
Monday nights are Trivia and it is run very well with a gift card to Last Best for the winning team (when I was there at least).
I have had Denise as a server many times, and she is always a sweet heart.
As for the food, it was just average. Nothing really stood out or wowed me, so if you’re going for the culinary experience, you might be left a bit underwhelmed. Overall, it’s a solid spot for drinks and a social evening, but don’t expect anything too memorable from the menu.
But food is pretty average. My shrimp pasta tasted not as I expected and really lacking some kind of good sauce to it. Halloumi fries(ordered to share) is also not what we were expected this kid of cheese doesn’t really created to be breaded….
4. Citizen Brewing Company
Tuesday: 11:00–22:00
Wednesday: 11:00–22:00
Thursday: 11:00–22:00
Friday: 11:00–22:00
Saturday: 11:00–22:00
Sunday: 11:00–22:00
Citizen Brewing Company offers a delightful experience for those seeking a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The staff are consistently praised for their friendly and attentive service, creating a genuinely hospitable environment. The spacious patio is a highlight, providing a comfortable and enjoyable setting, frequently described as perfect for casual gatherings and enjoying a refreshing drink.
The overall quality of the food is well-regarded, with the menu featuring appealing options designed to complement the brewed beers. The sense of community is palpable, suggesting a place where both locals and visitors feel comfortable and welcome. It’s clearly a favored spot for creating enjoyable memories.
I had the Citizen Burger (double patty) and maybe it needed more fancy burger sauce, as I definitely missed it. It was good, but not great. The Kahuna gets top marks, but didn’t push into the stratosphere. It also could have used more sauce.
We both had a soup as the side and it was a stewie beef and barley that was really good.
Very atmospheric for a brewpub, as though seating is a nit limited, you can see directly into the brewery.
Highly recommend.
The kids menu is excellent with a great price point for the portion sizes.
Their patio is chill and relaxing, and as usual, the beer is always on point.
Everyone in our party of 7 enjoyed their meal and drinks. What a great place to have lunch on a holiday.
5. Bitter Sisters Brewing Co.
Tuesday: 11:30–22:00
Wednesday: 11:30–22:00
Thursday: 11:30–23:00
Friday: 11:30–23:00
Saturday: 11:30–23:00
Sunday: 11:30–20:00
Bitter Sisters Brewing Co. provides a remarkably pleasant dining experience. The staff consistently demonstrate an attentive and welcoming attitude, ensuring guests feel comfortable and valued throughout their visit. The atmosphere is clearly a priority, resulting in a relaxing environment conducive to enjoying both the drinks and the innovative menu offerings.
The focus on unique and well-crafted dishes is particularly noteworthy. The kitchen showcases a dedication to quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations, offering a refreshing departure from standard brewery fare. The exceptional level of culinary excellence elevates the entire experience beyond just a casual pint.
And servers is extremely friendly and they don’t interrupt you when you’re eating (what I think is very important)
Was the service mouth watering? LOL
We didn’t have anything to eat but everyone’s meals looked very good.
We have to try the fondue for sure.
This place has been many things over the years but this is the first time it’s been a brewery. I must say I did not know what to expect but was absolutely blown away with the quality of the food and the beer was unique and delicious. You don’t normally think of a brewery when you aim for culinary perfection and our group was stunned by the level of excellence from the various plates we sampled. We plan on coming back to try everything on the menu, it was that good. It’s so very rare to find a place that can make a bore sausage with Italian cheese with the same passion as a plate of cauliflower bites. BTW I’d wager BS makes the best cauliflower bites in all of Calgary. If you do come here you absolutely must try the food. Thank you BS I’ll be back for that schnitzel and another pint!
6. Annex Ale Project
Tuesday: 12:00–21:00
Wednesday: 12:00–21:00
Thursday: 12:00–22:00
Friday: 12:00–23:00
Saturday: 12:00–23:00
Sunday: 12:00–19:00
Annex Ale Project offers a really pleasant atmosphere. The staff are incredibly attentive, ensuring everyone receives prompt and friendly service, even with larger groups. The selection of drinks is extensive, catering to a wide range of preferences, and they have consistently excellent drink quality.
It’s a fantastic spot to unwind and enjoy a refreshing beverage. The food is sourced from a partner vendor, a great addition to the experience. The overall vibe is relaxed and welcoming, making it ideal for social gatherings and casual evenings. A great place for enjoyable social events.
We were a large group, and even so the service was incredible. They were fast with drinks, accurate and gave great suggestions. The food is through a third party vendor, so they don’t take orders at the table (you go up and order). No biggy, but good to know when you get there they don’t serve food TO the table. They had burgers and fries-type food, actually next-level good (the loaded fries, especially).
The patio was really cosy (and dog friendly <3), lots of seating options throughout the establishment. Will definitely be going again in big groups and small.[/su_testimonial][su_testimonial name="Ye Tian (☆ 5/5)" photo="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a/ACg8ocJa4_UP28dV9cyDeZRHsPrb3cDpErqaGVKdDR3C1U0c5ZDnaA=s120-c-rp-mo-ba4-br100"]Before the new semester starts, I went to check out a craft beer spot with some friends. Annex's collaboration with Phil & Sebastian on a coffee stout totally won me over—the coffee aroma was rich, and the aftertaste lingered beautifully! The space was super spacious, and the bartender there was really friendly. Had some great drinks, good conversations, and now I’m in a good mindset to take on the second semester![/su_testimonial][su_testimonial name="Mark Satterthwaite (☆ 4/5)" photo="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a/ACg8ocKeAXEAQuOesYsoUmuXzwbr_mzQpK9OgrpFe-2Xw6Y64MojHzN6=s120-c-rp-mo-ba2-br100"]Went on a Thursday evening. Had a really nice bitter and good cheeseburger. A bit noisy for my taste. Mixed crowd of various ages.[/su_testimonial][su_testimonial name="Sarah Elaine Eaton (☆ 5/5)" photo="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjU3j90zULDC6-sLaPcQGXNiPVhcx_lWN-oQ6XE6u10BT3dliqcD2g=s120-c-rp-mo-ba5-br100"]Went here for a weekend lunch with a small group. Overall, we enjoyed our experience here. When you go in, you'll get table service for your beverages and go up to the food window to order and pay for your meal separately. Burgers and fries are the main staple of the food menu. There are lots of different kinds of beers to try, too. This place wasn't super busy on a Saturday, but there were still a good number of people there. One thing to note is that seating is mostly at long tables with benches.[/su_testimonial][su_testimonial name="benita1009 (☆ 5/5)" photo="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjWt670YKXkZ3s6sN3Rt-nG_APDk6eG0MT62TK7Y561S3IDX7xtS=s120-c-rp-mo-ba4-br100"]One of our favourite draft beer place . The menu include regular and seasonal flavours. They offer tasting if you are not sure about which one will go home with you. If you dine in, tasting menu is available, allowing you have 4 choices from their existing menu. Beside some safe choices like Golden and Pale Ale, there are some random taste like coffee stout and cranberry sour turns out to be surprisingly good! I suggest finish all draft beer ASAP, they taste even better with fresh baked pizza, cheese sticks and salami platters This place is a good find after Anchor’s beer quality fall off the cliff couple years ago. Local breweries always bring more aspects than a large manufacturer.[/su_testimonial][su_testimonial name="DW King (☆ 2/5)" photo="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a/ACg8ocL4hCyzMR9y8AjQ1IiQB0NK9spVfLANpQ9z_R0jpH3aByoHnw=s120-c-rp-mo-ba3-br100"]Beers is Beer, Annex does have great product, the team up with Lil empire great collaboration. However, it has lost it's cool. Maybe put in a bouncy room and get a clown.[/su_testimonial][su_testimonial name="PM (☆ 5/5)" photo="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a/ACg8ocIruAUJ8LTZ9RJUxjv-P6Ig2mqsmnzjNXA4JuFLKB9k9giQvw=s120-c-rp-mo-ba3-br100"]Great place! It's pretty cool that they have a burger joint attached to them! Would recommend it to anyone![/su_testimonial][su_button url="https://search.google.com/local/reviews?placeid=ChIJLVfhZUJwcVMR_ggzfQLrtUI&q=Annex+Ale+Project&authuser=0&hl=en&gl=ES" target="blank" background="#dd332f" size="3" icon="icon: comments" id="btnComentarios" style="ghost" icon_color="#dd332f" color="#dd332f"]View all reviews[/su_button][su_divider top="no" divider_color="#eeeeee" size="1" margin="10"][/su_spoiler]
7. Cabin Brewing Company
Tuesday: 12:00–20:30
Wednesday: 12:00–20:30
Thursday: 12:00–20:30
Friday: 12:00–22:30
Saturday: 12:00–22:30
Sunday: 12:00–18:30
Cabin Brewing Company offers a remarkably pleasant atmosphere, instantly welcoming guests. The focus on creating a relaxed and friendly environment truly shines through, setting it apart from many other establishments. The staff consistently demonstrate a genuine desire to ensure everyone feels comfortable and enjoys their experience. It’s a place where you can easily unwind and appreciate a quality beverage.
Beyond the excellent service, the overall experience is enhanced by a well-curated selection of drinks, catering to a variety of tastes. The commitment to quality is evident, fostering a sense of trust and satisfaction. Their offerings of snacks and treats are a thoughtful addition, ensuring complete enjoyment and leaving a lasting positive impression for those seeking a place for casual gatherings.
Cabin Brewing has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination in Calgary, and for good reason. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with a genuine warmth that exemplifies top-class service. The staff are knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and clearly passionate about their craft. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or just dipping your toes into the world of craft brewing, they’re always ready with recommendations and a friendly chat, making you feel right at home.
But the exceptional service is just the beginning. Cabin truly shines when it comes to their great beers. A standout among their impressive lineup is undoubtedly the Sunshine Rain IPA. This beauty perfectly balances a bright, citrusy hop profile with a smooth, refreshing finish. It’s the kind of IPA that appeals to a wide range of palates – hoppy enough to satisfy the enthusiasts, yet approachable for those newer to the style. Each sip is a burst of sunshine, making it a perfect choice any time of year.
Beyond the liquid gold, Cabin also knows how to satisfy your hunger. The Bretzel King cabin dogs are, as claimed, truly top class. These aren’t your average hot dogs; they’re elevated with quality ingredients and creative toppings, often served on a delicious pretzel bun that adds a delightful textural element. They perfectly complement the beers on tap, making for a satisfying and enjoyable experience.
The atmosphere at Cabin Brewing is also worth noting. It strikes a great balance between a lively taproom and a comfortable gathering space. Whether you’re catching up with friends, enjoying a solo pint, or looking for a relaxed spot to unwind, Cabin provides the perfect backdrop.
In conclusion, Cabin Brewing offers a complete package: exceptional and attentive service that makes you feel valued, a fantastic selection of well-crafted beers with the Sunshine Rain IPA being a definite highlight, and delicious, high-quality food like the Bretzel King cabin dogs. It’s a place where passion for brewing and hospitality truly shines through, making it a top recommendation for anyone in Calgary looking for a memorable brewery experience.
The vibe at Cabin Brewing is cozy yet vibrant, making it an ideal spot for both casual get-togethers and special outings. The decor is warm and inviting, with a rustic charm that makes you feel at home. Their selection of craft beers is impressive, catering to all tastes. Each beer is crafted with care, ensuring a delightful experience for your taste buds.
A standout feature is their delectable meat pies, which perfectly complement their brews. These hearty, flavourful pies are a must-try, adding a unique twist to the typical brewery fare. The friendly staff enhances the overall experience, always ready with a smile and helpful recommendations.
Cabin Brewing’s patio is a fantastic spot to enjoy your drinks and food, especially on sunny days. It’s also a kid-friendly environment, making it a great choice for families. The blend of good vibes, excellent beers, tasty meat pies, and welcoming service makes Cabin Brewing Company a nice destination in Calgary.
This place is by far my favorite brewery in Calgary because of the good beer, great atmosphere and the friendly people. When it’s summer, head to the patio. If it’s winter hang out under the canoe or in one of the little cabin booths. You can’t lose!! It’s a running joke with my wife and I that we have to bring a separate suitcase just because of cabin. Been coming here since the first year they were open and we will keep coming back. Congrats on 6 years!
The staff here bring a ton of excitement with them to their job, they honestly seem to be happy at work which adds to the incredibly fun atmosphere. The beer is exceptional, with my favorites being the light lime, by the lake, and pomp & circumstance. Did I mention they have slushies! With and without alcohol!
They sell locally sourced snacks and on the weekend bring in food vendors. They try and support local as much as possible.
Love this place!
8. Railyard Brewing
Tuesday: 11:00–21:00
Wednesday: 11:00–21:00
Thursday: 11:00–23:00
Friday: 11:00–23:00
Saturday: 11:00–23:00
Sunday: 11:00–21:00
Railyard Brewing offers a genuinely enjoyable experience. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff consistently provides friendly and attentive service. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed gathering with friends, especially appreciated for those seeking a comfortable respite near the airport. The menu features a selection of appealing food options, complementing their carefully crafted beers, providing something for everyone.
The establishment itself is a highlight, with a thoughtfully designed space that feels both casual and stylish. The presence of a billiard table and darts adds to the entertainment factor. It’s a place known for its delicious food>, excellent beer selection, and a generally positive and accommodating vibe—a true gem for those seeking a quality establishment and refreshing beverages.
Yes we were most likely the only foreigners in there that night but they made us feel like regulars. It was very crowded. We literally got the only available parking spot in the whole lot.
Southwest Burger, Kale Caesar, Cowboy Chicken Crunch & Classic Burger & of course their local beer, and everyone loved what they ordered.
Highly recommend it and as a bonus experience great Canadian hospitality!
Food is well presented and hits the spot. Tried the Cowboy club with a side of Kale Caesar – crisp and juicy as needed.
Will return when opportunity arises.
Stuck somewhere unassuming in the middle of the warehouses and hotels up by YYC, you’ll find Railyard Brewing.
Marked only by a sign, high above the front door among everything that looks the same… You’d expect only that – just the same. This place is anything but.
Walking through the front door you are welcomed by an inviting glow and a case holding some of the things they are most proud of.
On your way passed the bar, the aesthetic of the place starts to take hold. The decor is semi-industrial – fitting to the area – with awesome graffiti on the wall.
The food menu features familiar favourites – pizzas, sandwiches and bar snacks. They take every opportunity they can to incorporate their craft brews as ingredients in their dishes. The pizza features a fantastically crispy, yet chewy crust! Everything I’ve tried so far is amazing! The presentation never lets you down, even the vegetables are still al dente in the soups
I highly recommend the Pesto Cauliflower Sub, their Pretzel Crouton Kale Caesar and the Loaded Nacho Fries.
They offer so many beers, made in house and available in most liquor stores. You’ll have to swing by for their taproom exclusives, which are only available at this location – including Anita.
She was super knowledgeable, ready with recommendations and an absolute gem – just like this place.
9. Best of Kin Social
Tuesday: 15:00–22:00
Wednesday: 11:30–22:00
Thursday: 11:30–22:00
Friday: 11:30–23:00
Saturday: 11:00–23:00
Sunday: 11:00–20:00
Best of Kin Social seems like a truly delightful spot for a relaxed gathering. From what I’m hearing, the atmosphere is undeniably inviting, with a blend of comfort and unique charm. The staff consistently receive praise for being friendly and attentive, creating a welcoming experience for every visitor.
Beyond the ambiance, the food offerings appear to be a major draw. The menu showcases a variety of options to satisfy different tastes, with a real emphasis on quality ingredients>. It’s clear that they’re focused on offering more than just drinks, creating a place that families and friend groups can enjoy together. A true champion of the local community.
We ordered some Kennebec Fries to share and had the BBQ Korean Chicken sandwich and the Pork Belly Bao as mains. The Boozy Lemonade cocktail was a nice touch for a hot warm day
Wonderful fun murals in the bathrooms.
Big space with lots of seats, suitable for big groups/parties.
Had a fantastic experience at Best of Kin! The staff was amazing, and the cozy vibe made it a perfect spot to unwind. Tried the Summer Crush, Sailor’s Delight, and Celebration Sour (beers on tap)—all refreshing and surprisingly good. But the real star of the night? The Fish and Chips—absolutely outstanding! The fish just melts in your mouth. Highly recommend this place and can’t wait to be back!
Ambiance:
The open-concept design with exposed ductwork and high ceilings gives it a modern, trendy feel, while the warm wood accents and quirky vintage pieces add character. The space is bright, with plenty of natural light coming through the large windows, making it feel lively and open. The kitchen is cleverly housed in a repurposed shipping container, adding a unique touch to the overall design.
Service:
The staff were friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu and beer selections. They took the time to explain the different beer options and made some great recommendations that paired perfectly with our food.
Food & Drinks:
We ordered a variety of items, and everything was spot-on. The hot wings had a fantastic kick, perfectly glazed with a tangy sauce and topped with fresh jalapeños for that extra heat. The fries were crispy and came with a delicious, flavorful dipping sauce. To complement the food, we enjoyed a few of their craft beers – all fresh, smooth, and well-balanced. The beer selection caters to all tastes, from hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers.
Family-Friendly Touches:
I also appreciated that the place is family-friendly. They provided coloring materials for the kids, which kept them entertained while we enjoyed our drinks and food. It’s a great place to bring the whole family, whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch or an afternoon hangout.
Final Thoughts:
Best of Kin Brewery is a gem in Calgary’s brewery scene. Whether you’re looking for a great pint, delicious food, or a cozy atmosphere to hang out with friends or family, this spot has it all. I’ll definitely be coming back and recommending it to friends.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Highly recommended!
went here for the end of year recital of my son (who was enrolled at anacrusis music)…..
great atmosphere to hangout, tasty foods….
next time i’ll bring my dog and sit at the patio….
We ended up stopping here and had an absolutley fabulous meal and some cold brews. We got a sampling plate with some meats and cheeses and it was so good. We also got a few other things like wings and some salads.
We had such a good meal we wanted to come again but sadly we weren’t able to return in the short time we had left in Calgary. Excellent place though, if I lived in Calgary I would come often!
10. The Establishment Brewing Company
Tuesday: 15:00–21:00
Wednesday: 12:00–21:00
Thursday: 12:00–22:00
Friday: 12:00–23:00
Saturday: 12:00–23:00
Sunday: 12:00–19:00
The Establishment Brewing Company offers a truly delightful experience. Their focus on quality is evident in every pint, showcasing a superb range of beers—from refreshing lagers to complex IPAs. It’s a place where you can easily spend an afternoon, enjoying the atmosphere and the expertly crafted beverages, and their selection offers something for everyone’s taste.
Beyond the excellent beer, the establishment itself is impressive. The design and layout create a welcoming and comfortable setting, perfect for casual gatherings or relaxed enjoyment. Their staff expertise is a definite plus, providing knowledgeable insights and recommendations to enhance the overall experience. The focus on a positive and pleasant experience is clear.
I started with a tasting set and discovered today’s highlight: a hazy pale ale called *Afternoon Delight*. It’s bursting with fruity aromas—absolutely amazing!
They have a fantastic beer selection, with some amazing Hazy IPAs, and Czech lagers served with proper respect to the tradition.
Their hazy IPAs and sours are personal favorites, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
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Catalog of services offered by breweries in Calgary
On-Site Brewery Tours
Many breweries in Calgary offer on-site brewery tours. These tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, from grain to glass, often explaining the equipment used and the steps involved in creating different beer styles.
Tasting Flights
For those wanting to explore a brewery’s offerings without committing to a full pint, tasting flights are a common service. These typically include smaller portions of several different beers, allowing patrons to sample a range of flavors and styles.
Beer and Food Pairings
Many breweries recognize the synergy between beer and food and offer beer and food pairings. These curated menus match specific beers with complementary dishes, highlighting how different flavors enhance the overall tasting experience.
Private Event Spaces
Breweries frequently provide private event spaces for various occasions, such as birthdays, corporate gatherings, or weddings. These spaces may be customizable with decorations and catering to create a unique and memorable event.
Retail Sales of Beer and Merchandise
Most breweries in Calgary offer retail sales of beer and merchandise. Patrons can purchase their favorite beers in growlers, cans, or bottles, as well as branded merchandise like t-shirts and glassware, to enjoy at home or as gifts.
Seasonal and Limited-Release Beers
Breweries often create seasonal and limited-release beers to showcase their creativity and offer unique flavors. These beers are typically available for a limited time and may feature special ingredients or brewing techniques.
Growler Filling Services
Many breweries offer growler filling services, allowing customers to purchase beer in reusable growlers. This reduces packaging waste and provides a convenient way to enjoy freshly brewed beer at home.
Specialty Beer Workshops and Classes
Some breweries offer specialty beer workshops and classes, allowing attendees to learn about brewing techniques, beer styles, and the history of beer. These educational experiences can range from basic brewing introductions to more advanced topics.
Frequently Asked Questions about Breweries in Calgary
What types of beers are commonly brewed in Calgary?
Calgary breweries produce a wide range of beer styles. You’ll find everything from classic lagers and ales to more experimental brews like IPAs, stouts, sours, and saisons. Many breweries also focus on seasonal beers incorporating local ingredients. The diversity reflects the creativity of Calgary’s brewing scene.
How do I find breweries that are open and serving?
Several online resources and apps can help you locate open breweries. Websites like BreweryFinder.com or local tourism sites often provide updated lists with hours of operation. Social media pages for individual breweries are also a reliable source for real-time information about events and service availability. Always confirm hours before visiting.
Are Calgary breweries kid-friendly?
The level of kid-friendliness varies from brewery to brewery. Some breweries have outdoor patios and spacious areas suitable for families, while others are more geared toward adult clientele. Many allow well-behaved children, but it's always best to check the brewery’s specific policy beforehand, particularly regarding food service and space availability.
Do Calgary breweries offer tours?
Many Calgary breweries offer guided tours that provide insight into the brewing process, from grain to glass. Tours often include explanations of equipment, ingredient sourcing, and the history of the brewery. Check the brewery's website or contact them directly to inquire about tour schedules and booking information.
What's the best way to get around to multiple breweries?
Given the spread of breweries throughout Calgary, several transportation options are available. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are common choices. Designated drivers are also a responsible option. Some companies offer brewery tour transportation, while Calgary's public transit system also provides access to many brewery locations.
Can I bring my own food to a Calgary brewery?
The policy on outside food varies. Some breweries have their own kitchens and offer a full menu, while others allow patrons to bring their own snacks. It's advisable to check the brewery's policy on their website or by contacting them directly before bringing food.
Do Calgary breweries offer flights of beer?
Most Calgary breweries offer flights of beer, allowing patrons to sample a variety of their brews. This is a great way to discover new favorites and appreciate the breadth of the brewery’s offerings. The selection of beers included in a flight often rotates to feature new or seasonal options.
What is the legal drinking age in Alberta, and how does it affect breweries?
The legal drinking age in Alberta is 18 years old. Breweries must adhere to Alberta’s liquor laws, which regulate the sale and service of alcohol. Servers are required to verify age and prevent underage drinking. Breweries must obtain proper liquor licenses and follow stringent regulations.
Are there any special events or festivals related to breweries in Calgary?
Calgary hosts several beer-related events and festivals throughout the year. These include beer festivals showcasing local breweries, seasonal celebrations, and themed events. Check local event listings and brewery websites for information on upcoming events and opportunities to sample a diverse range of beers.
What’s the difference between a brewpub and a microbrewery in Calgary?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, there's a distinction. A brewpub is a restaurant that brews its own beer – it's focused on providing a full dining experience alongside its beers. A microbrewery, on the other hand, primarily focuses on brewing and distributing beer, often with a smaller production volume. Some breweries may operate as both.