Top Breweries in Missoula: A Local's Guide to Craft Beer

Quick Answer: Must-Visit Missoula Breweries

 

Missoula's craft beer scene rivals much larger cities with innovative breweries and welcoming taprooms. Kettlehouse Brewing leads with their iconic Cold Smoke Scotch Ale. Draught Works offers experimental small batches. Highlander Beer honors Montana brewing heritage. BareBottle Brew provides neighborhood charm with food trucks. Imagine Nation Brewing focuses on community and global beer styles.

 

Kettlehouse Brewing

 

Kettlehouse Brewing has defined Montana craft beer since 1995, with their Northside taproom at 602 Myrtle Street and Southgate location serving as community gathering hubs.

 

Their Cold Smoke Scotch Ale has achieved legendary status among craft beer enthusiasts, earning national recognition while remaining deeply connected to Missoula's identity.

 

The Northside taproom offers views into the production facility, allowing visitors to watch brewers craft batches while enjoying pints in the industrial-chic tasting room.

 

Seasonal releases like Fresh Bongwater Pale Ale and Double Haul IPA showcase the brewery's creativity beyond their flagship offerings.

 

The Southgate location features an expansive outdoor patio that becomes Missoula's unofficial living room during summer months, hosting events and live music.

 

Best for: Beer enthusiasts wanting to taste iconic Montana brews, those seeking authentic brewery experiences.

 

Draught Works

 

Draught Works at 5980 Highway 10 West brings an experimental approach to Missoula beer culture with constantly rotating small-batch creations.

 

Their industrial taproom features an expansive outdoor beer garden that hosts food truck rallies, trivia nights, and live music throughout the year.

 

Beer styles range from approachable lagers and IPAs to adventurous sours, barrel-aged specialties, and experimental brews that push creative boundaries.

 

The brewery's commitment to innovation means frequent visitors always find something new on tap, with limited releases selling out quickly among local enthusiasts.

 

The laid-back atmosphere welcomes beer newcomers and connoisseurs alike, with knowledgeable staff happy to guide tastings and explain brewing processes.

 

Best for: Adventurous beer drinkers, those seeking lively social atmospheres, west-side residents.

 

Highlander Beer

 

Highlander Beer at 200 International Way honors Montana brewing history, tracing lineage back to the original Missoula Brewing Company founded in 1909.

 

The expansive taproom and outdoor area feature fire pits, lawn games, and stunning mountain views that make this a destination beyond just the beer.

 

Their Scottish and Irish-inspired ales pay homage to traditional brewing methods while incorporating modern techniques and Montana ingredients.

 

The family-friendly environment welcomes children and pets, making Highlander a popular weekend destination for Missoula families seeking casual outdoor dining.

 

Historic photographs and brewing artifacts throughout the taproom educate visitors about Montana's rich beer heritage and Missoula's place in that story.

 

Best for: Families, history enthusiasts, those seeking outdoor spaces with mountain views.

 

BareBottle Brew

 

BareBottle Brew occupies a converted space on West Broadway, offering an intimate neighborhood taproom experience that feels like drinking at a friend's place.

 

The rotating food truck schedule brings diverse culinary options to complement their approachable beer lineup, from tacos and BBQ to pizza and Asian cuisine.

 

Their beer program focuses on sessionable styles perfect for extended visits, including crisp lagers, balanced pale ales, and smooth porters.

 

Regular events like board game nights, art shows, and pop-up markets create a community hub atmosphere that extends beyond just beer drinking.

 

The smaller scale allows for direct interaction with brewers and staff, who remember regulars and happily discuss beer recommendations and upcoming releases.

 

Best for: Casual beer drinkers, those seeking neighborhood vibes, people wanting food variety.

 

Imagine Nation Brewing

 

Imagine Nation Brewing at 1151 West Broadway combines community focus with global brewing influences, creating a unique gathering space with purpose beyond beer.

 

The brewery emphasizes bringing people together through thoughtfully crafted beers inspired by worldwide traditions and collaborative community events.

 

Their taproom features Belgian farmhouse ales, German lagers, hop-forward American IPAs, and rotating experimental styles that reflect global beer culture.

 

Regular community events range from fundraisers for local nonprofits to educational beer tastings and cultural celebrations that engage beyond the beer community.

 

Sustainability practices and local sourcing align with Missoula's environmental values, making Imagine Nation a favorite among eco-conscious beer drinkers.

 

Best for: Community-minded drinkers, those interested in global beer styles, socially conscious consumers.

 

Brewery Hopping Tips

 

Many breweries offer tasting flights, allowing you to sample multiple beers without committing to full pints, perfect for exploring different styles.

 

Check social media for special releases and limited-edition beers, as these often sell out within days of announcement.

 

Designated drivers receive discounted or free non-alcoholic beverages at most locations, making brewery tours accessible for groups with mixed preferences.

 

Consider visiting during weekday afternoons for quieter experiences, as weekends can get crowded with both locals and visitors exploring the beer scene.

 

Stop by Worden's Market on Higgins or Orange Street Food Farm to build a mixed six-pack of local cans to enjoy at home.

 

FAQ

 

Q: Are Missoula breweries family-friendly?

 

A: Most breweries welcome families, with Highlander and Draught Works being particularly kid-friendly due to their large outdoor spaces and lawn games.

 

Q: Do breweries serve food?

 

A: Some offer limited menus, but most partner with food trucks or allow outside food. Draught Works and BareBottle have regular food truck schedules.

 

Q: Can I bring my dog to breweries?

 

A: Outdoor areas at most breweries are dog-friendly. Highlander and Draught Works are especially welcoming to four-legged visitors.

 

Q: Do any breweries offer tours?

 

A: Kettlehouse offers tours at their Northside location. Contact other breweries directly to arrange private group tours.

 

Q: Which brewery has the best outdoor seating?

 

A: Highlander offers the most expansive outdoor area with fire pits and mountain views. Draught Works beer garden is excellent for summer socializing.

 

Looking for more Missoula food and drink recommendations? Check out our guides to the best coffee shops for remote work and beginner hiking trails near Missoula to round out your local exploration.