Best Breweries in Missoula: A Guide to the Garden City's Craft Beer Scene

Quick Answer: Best Breweries in Missoula

 

Missoula's craft beer scene offers something for every palate.

 

- Bayern Brewery for authentic German-style lagers

 

- Big Sky Brewing Company for Montana's iconic Moose Drool Brown Ale

 

- Draught Works Brewery for experimental small-batch creations

 

- Imagine Nation Brewing for community-focused beer and coffee

 

-Bayern Brewery

 

Bayern Brewery brings authentic German brewing traditions to Missoula.

 

Founded by a German native, this brewery focuses on classic European styles including pilsners, hefeweizens, and doppelbocks.

 

The outdoor biergarten features communal tables and regular live music events during summer months.

 

Located at 1507 Montana Street, Bayern offers a true taste of Bavaria in the heart of Montana.

 

Best for: Beer purists, outdoor seating lovers, and fans of traditional German styles.

 

Big Sky Brewing Company

 

Big Sky Brewing is Montana's largest brewery and a Missoula institution since 1995.

 

Their Moose Drool Brown Ale has become one of the best-selling craft beers in America.

 

The taproom on Galaxy Way offers flights, growler fills, and brewery tours.

 

Summer visitors can enjoy the expansive outdoor beer garden with mountain views.

 

Best for: Visitors seeking iconic Montana beer, families enjoying the outdoor space, and first-time craft beer explorers.

 

Draught Works Brewery

 

Draught Works pushes boundaries with experimental and rotating tap lists.

 

This brewery near the railroad tracks on Wyoming Street embraces creativity and risk-taking.

 

Their sour program and barrel-aged beers have earned regional recognition.

 

The industrial taproom features local art and a dog-friendly patio.

 

Best for: Adventurous drinkers, sour beer fans, and those seeking unique flavor combinations.

 

Imagine Nation Brewing

 

Imagine Nation combines craft beer with community impact and specialty coffee.

 

This unique establishment donates a portion of proceeds to local nonprofits and community projects.

 

The bright, modern space on West Broadway welcomes families, remote workers, and beer enthusiasts alike.

 

Their coffee program rivals the beer selection, making it perfect for any time of day.

 

Best for: Socially conscious drinkers, coffee and beer lovers, and those seeking a community hub.

 

Local Tips for Brewery Hopping

 

Many breweries offer flight options perfect for sampling multiple styles.

 

Weekday afternoons typically provide a quieter experience than weekend evenings.

 

Bring ID as Montana breweries strictly enforce age verification.

 

Most taprooms allow outside food or offer their own menus.

 

Local Resources for Beer Lovers

 

Brewery Tours and Transportation:

 

- Missoula Brew Bus - Guided tours visiting multiple breweries safely

 

- Mountain Line (406-721-3333) - Public bus service connecting downtown breweries

 

Bottle Shops:

 

- The Dram Shop (229 E Front St) - Extensive local and regional craft beer selection

 

- Worden's Market (451 N Higgins Ave) - Local favorites and hard-to-find releases

 

FAQ

 

Q: What is the legal drinking age in Montana?

 

A: You must be 21 years old to purchase and consume alcohol at all Missoula breweries.

 

Q: Are breweries family-friendly in Missoula?

 

A: Yes, most breweries welcome families and offer non-alcoholic options. Big Sky and Imagine Nation are particularly family-oriented.

 

Q: Can I bring my dog to breweries?

 

A: Many breweries have dog-friendly patios, but policies vary. Draught Works and Bayern both welcome well-behaved dogs outdoors.

 

Q: Do I need reservations for brewery tours?

 

A: Big Sky offers tours on a first-come basis. Call ahead for large groups or special arrangements.

 

Continue your exploration of Missoula's beverage scene with our guide to the best bars in downtown Missoula.

 

For a classic Missoula experience, visit Red's Bar, where locals have gathered for generations.