The Best Local Breweries in Kansas City: A Hoppy Guide to Craft Beer

thomashoward995
May 9
6 min read

If you’re a beer enthusiast or just someone looking for a great place to kick back with friends, Kansas City has an impressive craft beer scene waiting for you to explore. With a dynamic mix of flavors, innovative brews, and a vibrant brewery culture, the city is home to some of the best local breweries you won't want to miss. In this blog, we’ll take a tour of the fantastic breweries in Kansas City, highlighting what makes each one unique and worth a visit. So grab your favorite pint glass and prepare for a hoppy journey!

Why Kansas City? Craft Beer at Its Finest

Kansas City is growing as a craft beer hub in the Midwest, boasting an array of breweries that offer everything from traditional ales to experimental brews. The local craft beer scene is fueled by a passion for quality, community, and creativity. Each brewery showcases its unique personality, making it an exciting place for beer lovers. Whether you’re a fan of IPAs, stouts, sours, or lagers, you're bound to find a brew that suits your palate. Let’s dive into the best local breweries in Kansas City that should be on every craft beer lover’s radar!

1. Boulevard Brewing Company

Arguably the most renowned brewery in Kansas City, Boulevard Brewing Company has made a name for itself not just locally, but nationally. Founded in 1989, Boulevard has set the standard for brewing excellence.

Notable Brews: The unfiltered wheat beer, Boulevard Wheat, is a must-try for newcomers, while the Smokestack Series offers innovative and seasonal selections to satisfy seasoned craft connoisseurs.
Brewery Tours: Their brewery tours are informative and give you a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process.
Community-Focused: Boulevard is dedicated to sustainability and community involvement, making it a responsible choice for socially conscious drinkers.

2. Martin City Brewing Company

Located in the Martin City neighborhood, Martin City Brewing Company is known for its scratch kitchen and flavorful brews that complement delicious food offerings.

Food Pairing: Their wood-fired pizzas are a perfect match for their specially crafted beers.
Unique Offerings: Look out for their seasonal brews that change dynamically throughout the year, each crafted to pair well with their food menu.
Atmosphere: The brewery has a laid-back vibe perfect for a casual night out with friends or a family gathering.

3. KC Bier Co.

If you’re a fan of German-style lagers, KC Bier Co. is the brewery for you. This family-owned brewery emphasizes traditional brewing techniques and high-quality ingredients.

Signature Brews: Their flagship Kölsch and Dunkel Lagers are local favorites, featuring authentic German taste.
Authentic Experience: The brewery often hosts events that celebrate German culture, making it a lively spot for patrons seeking more than just great beer.
Community Events: They participate in local festivals and host their own to engage with the community.

4. Border Brewing Co.

Border Brewing Co. is about pushing boundaries–literally and metaphorically. This brewery is known for its eclectic range of craft beers and its inviting taproom atmosphere.

Innovative Flavors: Don’t miss out on their rotating taps which include experimental and seasonal brews that keep locals coming back for more.
Inclusive Culture: Border Brewing prides itself on its welcoming environment where everyone can feel at home.
Neighborhood Hub: The brewery regularly collaborates with local artists, hosting events that shine a light on Kansas City culture.

5. Torn Label Brewing Company

Torn Label Brewing Company is buzzing with energy and creativity, making it a fantastic spot for adventurous beer drinkers.

Craftsmanship: Their focus on small-batch brewing allows for unique flavors and innovative recipes to shine through, such as the popular “Roses are Red” pale ale.
Community Engagement: Torn Label frequently hosts events that engage both the beer community and art enthusiasts, creating a platform for local talents.
Tasting Room: The creative and artistic tasting room is the perfect setting to enjoy a cold beer with friends.

6. Dry Dirt Brewing Company

Dry Dirt Brewing Company is making waves with its commitment to sustainability and craft beer innovation. They prioritize using local ingredients, making their brews fresh and local.

Fresh Ingredients: Their focus on farm-to-table brewing ensures that what you drink is as local as it gets.
Diverse Offerings: The brewery is known for experimenting with flavors, so you can often find something new on tap that challenges the norm of traditional brewing.
Welcoming Atmosphere: Dry Dirt has a friendly neighborhood vibe that makes it an inviting place to share a drink.

7. Stockyards Brewing Company

Residing in the historic West Bottoms, Stockyards Brewing Company combines a rich history with innovative craft brewing techniques.

Historical Significance: The brewery is located in a space that reflects the rich history of Kansas City’s stockyards, adding cultural value to every pint.
Signature Brews: Definitely try their “Cowtown” IPA, a local favorite that packs a hop punch.
Events and Offerings: Stockyards Brewery hosts community-focused events, reinforcing its commitment to the local scene.

8. Double Shift Brewing Company

Double Shift Brewing Company places a strong emphasis on creativity and craft. This brewery is known for its welcoming environment and experimental brews.

Artistic Brews: With a rotating selection of inventive beers, each visit promises something different, catering to adventurous taste buds.
Great Location: Nestled in the historic Crossroads district, it’s a perfect stop during your art gallery visits.
Community-Focused: Double Shift often engages with local artists and vendors, making each visit an enjoyable experience.

9. Big Rip Brewing Company

If you love a good pun, Big Rip Brewing Company will have you smiling before you even take a sip!

Unique Characters: Each beer is richly infused with distinct personality, resulting in a variety of creative offerings.
Taproom Environment: Their taproom is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for enjoying a flight with friends or settling in for a long afternoon.
Fun Events: The brewery often hosts trivia nights and live music, contributing to the lively atmosphere.

10. Cinder Block Brewery

Cinder Block Brewery blends creativity with passion, producing some truly unique offerings that every craft beer lover should try.

Inventive Flavors: From their award-winning “The City” Cream Ale to off-the-wall seasonal brews, there’s something for everyone.
Community Vibes: Located in North Kansas City, the brewery is a hub for locals, providing a friendly gathering space.
Events and Promotions: Regularly hosting craft beer tastings and other events, Cinder Block is dedicated to promoting local beer culture.

Plan Your Brewery Tour

With this array of local breweries in Kansas City, planning your brewery tour can be both fun and fruitful. Here are some tips to keep in mind while exploring:

Check Out Brewery Events: Many breweries host special events like tastings, food pairings, and community gatherings. Look up their schedules before you go!
Consider a Brewery Tour: Some breweries, like Boulevard, offer comprehensive tours that provide deeper insights into their brewing processes.
Tasting Flights: Trying a flight of various beers is a great way to sample each brewery’s offerings. Be adventurous!
Support Local: Consider purchasing brewery merch or canned beers to enjoy at home while supporting these local businesses.

Raise a Glass to Kansas City’s Brewing Heritage!

Kansas City’s local breweries offer a delightful array of flavorful craft beers and inviting atmospheres perfect for all types of beer enthusiasts. The sense of community that you’ll find at each of these breweries is a testament to the dedication of the brewers and their love for craft brewing. Each visit promises a unique experience filled with exploration, innovation, and good times with friends. So, the next time you're considering what to do in Kansas City, remember this list of incredible breweries and make it part of your craft beer adventure!

Explore the taste, atmosphere, and culture of Kansas City breweries, and here's to discovering your next favorite brew!

FAQs

What makes Kansas City a great place for craft beer?

Kansas City is emerging as a craft beer hub in the Midwest, with a diverse range of breweries that offer everything from traditional ales to innovative brews, showcasing quality, community, and creativity.

What are some notable breweries to visit in Kansas City?

Some notable breweries include Boulevard Brewing Company, Martin City Brewing Company, KC Bier Co., Border Brewing Co., and Torn Label Brewing Company, each offering unique brews and experiences.

Are there any food pairings available at Kansas City breweries?

Yes, many breweries like Martin City Brewing Company offer food pairings, such as wood-fired pizzas that complement their specially crafted beers.

What types of events do Kansas City breweries host?

Breweries often host special events like tastings, food pairings, community gatherings, and cultural celebrations, providing a lively atmosphere for patrons.

How can I plan a brewery tour in Kansas City?

To plan a brewery tour, check the breweries' event schedules, consider joining a brewery tour for insights into brewing processes, try a flight of various beers, and support local businesses by purchasing brewery merch.