The Ultimate Guide to Kansas City's Thriving Craft Beer Scene

thomashoward995
Jul 23
5 min read

Welcome to Kansas City, a hidden gem for craft beer lovers! With its eclectic mix of breweries, each offering unique brews and inviting atmospheres, this Midwestern city is a hotspot for both local and visiting craft beer enthusiasts. In this guide, we will take you on an exhilarating journey through Kansas City's craft beer scene, helping you discover some of the most exciting breweries and beer styles this vibrant city has to offer.

Why Kansas City? A Craft Beer Paradise

Kansas City is gaining national recognition for its booming craft beer industry. The city has transformed into a flourishing microbrewery hub, attracting entrepreneurs and innovative brewers who are eager to bring bold flavors and creative recipes to the beer community. The accessibility of quality ingredients and a supportive environment for local businesses has assisted in fostering such an impressive scene.

This wheat belt city is not just about BBQ; it is also about producing high-quality ales, lagers, stouts, and sours that cater to a wide range of taste buds. From trendy taprooms to cozy neighborhood breweries, Kansas City boasts a diverse selection of breweries that showcase the best of what craft beer has to offer.

Top Kansas City Breweries to Explore

Get ready to craft your brewery hop itinerary! Below are some of the best breweries in Kansas City that you won't want to miss.

Boulevard Brewing Company: Established in 1989, this brewery is one of the pioneers of the Kansas City craft beer movement. Their flagship beer, Boulevard Pale Ale, has earned a loyal fanbase, along with a delightful lineup of seasonal and limited-edition brews. Make sure to take a brewery tour and visit their Beer Hall for tastings.
Kansas City Bier Company: Drawing inspiration from German brewing traditions, this brewery offers a variety of traditional German-style lagers. Known for their attention to detail and quality ingredients, their slow-brewed beers have garnered multiple awards. The Biergarten is a perfect place to enjoy a sunny afternoon with friends.
Rowley’s Farmhouse Ales: If you’re in the mood for farmhouse ales and funky sours, Rowley’s is the place to be. Specializing in barrel-aged and wild-fermented beers, this brewery focuses on blending flavors inspired by local agriculture and traditional brewing methods. It’s an experience for adventurous palates.
Double Shift Brewing Co.: This microbrewery is known for its unique beer recipes that touch on a wide variety of styles. Their beer menu often includes unusual flavor combinations, making each visit an adventure. Don’t miss their friendly taproom vibe and rotating food trucks outside!
Casual Animal Brewing Co.: One of the newer players on the scene, Casual Animal Brewing is all about creating a community-centered atmosphere. Their eclectic taproom offers an impressive array of beers, from double IPAs to pastry stouts. The brewery also frequently hosts events and activities that bring people together.

The Craft Beer Styles of Kansas City

As you explore the breweries, take the opportunity to dive into the various beer styles that Kansas City crafts have to offer. Understanding these styles will enhance your tasting experience and make beer selection easier.

1. India Pale Ales (IPAs)

IPAs are a cornerstone of many craft breweries, and Kansas City is no exception. Expect a range of offerings from West Coast-style IPAs, known for their hoppiness, to New England-style IPAs, which are often hazy and bursting with fruitiness.

2. Stouts and Porters

Ideal for chilly days or cozy nights, stouts and porters are a rich and creamy option. Many Kansas City breweries experiment with flavors such as coffee, chocolate, and vanilla to create decadent brews.

3. Lagers

While many craft breweries highlight ales, lagers have a strong presence in Kansas City, especially those done in the traditional German style. Crisp, clean, and refreshing, lagers are perfect for any gathering.

4. Sours

Sour beers are becoming increasingly popular on the local scene. With options ranging from tart and tangy to fruity and funky, these refreshing beverages highlight creativity and fermentation techniques.

5. Farmhouse Ales

Often showcasing locally grown ingredients, farmhouse ales are an exciting way to explore regional tastes and styles. These brews embody the spirit of artisan craftsmanship and experimentation.

The Experience: Brewery Tours and Tastings

A brewery tour is a must-do experience while exploring the craft beer scene in Kansas City. Many breweries offer guided tours of their facilities, giving you insider access to the brewing process, equipment, and the artistry behind each craft beer. Here are some tips for making the most of your brewery tours:

Ask Questions: Engaging with brewers and staff can reveal fascinating insights. Don’t hesitate to ask about the brewing process or the inspiration behind new flavors!
Tasting Flights: Most breweries provide tasting flights that allow you to sample various styles. This is a great way to identify your favorites without committing to a full pint.
Keep an Open Mind: Venture outside your comfort zone. You may discover a newfound love for a beer style you thought you didn’t like!

Events and Festivals Celebrating Craft Beer

If you time your visit right, you might find yourself in the middle of one of Kansas City's vibrant craft beer festivals. These celebrations are not only great for sampling beers, but they also offer fantastic opportunities to meet local brewers and other enthusiasts.

Kansas City Beer Fest: This is an annual must-attend event featuring an extensive selection of local, regional, and national craft beers. It’s a perfect way to explore and discover new favorites.
Boulevard’s Beer & BBQ Fest: A match made in heaven, this festival combines craft beer tastings with mouthwatering BBQ from local vendors. Enjoy live music and immerse yourself in Kansas City's culinary scene.
Great American Beer Festival: For those who are a bit more adventurous, the Great American Beer Festival in Denver is the largest of its kind. Kansas City’s breweries often participate, showcasing their best brews on a national stage.

Embracing the Craft Beer Community

The craft beer scene in Kansas City thrives on community and collaboration. Many local brewers work together on projects, creating unique beers that tell a story of friendship and shared passion. Joining events, festivals, and taproom gatherings can help you connect with like-minded individuals who share your love for craft beer.

Following local breweries on social media is another great way to stay updated on upcoming events, releases, and exclusive tastings. Many breweries also offer memberships and loyalty programs that can benefit frequent visitors.

Wrap Up Your Kansas City Brewing Adventure

Your expedition into Kansas City’s craft beer scene will surely be one filled with delightful discoveries and unforgettable experiences. With a perfect blend of historical roots and innovative craft brewing trends, Kansas City is poised to continue its growth as a significant player in the craft beer world. Next time you’re in the area, grab some friends, embark on this exhilarating brewery tour, and immerse yourself in the culture and creativity that make Kansas City's craft beer scene truly unique!

Cheers to adventure and the joy of craft beer in the heart of Kansas City!

FAQs

What makes Kansas City a great destination for craft beer lovers?

Kansas City is a hidden gem for craft beer lovers, featuring a booming craft beer industry with a diverse array of breweries that offer unique brews and inviting atmospheres.

What are some of the top breweries to visit in Kansas City?

Some top breweries to explore include Boulevard Brewing Company, Kansas City Bier Company, Rowley’s Farmhouse Ales, Double Shift Brewing Co., and Casual Animal Brewing Co.

What types of beer styles can I expect to find in Kansas City?

Kansas City offers a variety of beer styles, including India Pale Ales (IPAs), stouts and porters, lagers, sours, and farmhouse ales.

Are brewery tours available in Kansas City, and what should I expect?

Yes, many breweries in Kansas City offer guided tours where you can learn about the brewing process and sample different beers. It's a great way to engage with staff and discover new flavors.