Arizona’s brewing scene has flourished over the past decade. There are over 100 breweries in the state, each with a unique vibe. Below are a few standout brewery taprooms that we consider must-visit locations. They span across Arizona and all have something special to offer.
Borderlands Brewing Company (seen above)
Tucson
Borderlands Brewing just opened a second location in Tucson, but the original taproom has a special atmosphere. The large brick building was erected over 100 years ago by a legendary local produce company. Since, Borderlands has covered the interior walls in Dia De Los Muertos art created by local artist Jennifer North. A rustic vibe permeates the entire spot outward into a massive patio space. Be sure to soak up one of their Sonoran-inspired beers, including Horchata Cream Ale and Citrana Southwestern Gose.
Bone Haus Brewing
Fountain Hills
The large wooden front door at Bone Haus Brewing hints at the unique experience you are about to have. The story of every beer revolves around the history-influenced fiction story of Hans Von Bierman and his adventures around Arizona in the 1800s. Inspired by European ossuaries, you immediately step into another world when you walk into this Fountain Hills taproom. While enjoying a unique beer such as Englemann’s Elixir Prickly Pear Pale, try to find one of the two real human bones hidden in the taproom.
Smelter Town Brewery
Clarkdale
Clarkdale, Arizona was founded as a town to support the vibrant mining industry just up the hill in Jerome, smelting their copper ore into finished metal. Along the historic Main Street of Clarkdale, you will find Smelter Town Brewing, housed in a beautiful 100-year-old brick building. The brewery and taproom sit on the ground floor of the 9-room boutique Park Hotel. Large windows expose Town Park, and the patio provides an even closer look. Be sure to try the Modern Miner Milkshake IPA, a smooth yet hoppy brew with an incredibly soft mouth feel.
Crooked Tooth Brewing Co.
Tucson
Two large antique garage doors take up the entire front of the Crooked Tooth Brewing taproom, which is built inside a beautifully converted brick auto garage. While sitting at the wooden counters that line the tall doors, patrons can feel the energy of the city as they enjoy distinctive beers. These counters, as well as the massive table tops, are made from blue beetle pine hand milled by the owners Ben and Julie Vernon. The crew tops the tables with fresh flowers that often match the bright colors of Crooked Tooth’s beers, including their Sonoran Sour series and Crooked Light–an excellent Mexican light lager. Enjoy some outdoors and fun games on the back patio as well.
Grand Avenue Brewing Company
Phoenix
Grand Avenue Brewing brings a delicious Belgian flare to their beer and is a hidden gem in the Phoenix brewery scene. Their taproom is located in a brick industrial building in the Grand Avenue Arts District and features a large garage door that invites bright natural light. An in-house smoker creates some incredible dishes including loaded baked potatoes, brats, and mac-n-cheese. Dig in and enjoy some food and beer in their outdoor seating area, complete with fire pits and comfy Adirondack chairs.
BRI Arcade
Mesa
The second location of Mesa’s Beer Research Institute is an arcade lovers’ dream and is in the heart of the resurrected downtown Mesa. Owner Matt Tretheway carefully curates the games in this 4000-square-foot taproom, including classics such as Donkey Kong and Street Fighter. However, we suggest using your coins on some of the lesser-known gems including Tapper, a game where the player serves beers to demanding patrons. A full row of pinball machines will keep the “pinheads” busy for hours.
Front Porch Brewing Co.
Phoenix
Adding character to a taproom that sits in an industrial park can be a challenging task. However, the family at Front Pourch Brewing has nailed it. Old barnwood lines nearly the entire interior including an old Western storefront facade. An old 2-story grain silo sits in one corner and they made the light shades from old hop baskets. Framed vintage black and white photos show the baskets in action at hop farms. Of course, there is a range of beer to enjoy by the pint or taste on their rustic galvanized tin flight boards.
Mother Road Brewing Co.
Flagstaff
The Mother Road Brewing taproom sits right along the original Route 66, and is a must-visit for any beer lover visiting or living in Flagstaff. Housed in an old steam laundry building, the high ceilings and large windows create a cozy yet spacious feel. Plenty of outdoor seating is available, as well including heaters and firepits, so you can enjoy the snow but stay toasty. The Roadside Stove food menu has been curated by local bbq legend Satchmo’s, so grab a plate and a pint of one of the most popular beers in Arizona, Tower Station IPA.
Dark Sky Brewing Co.
Flagstaff
Since opening in 2014, Dark Sky Brewing has seen a few changes to the flow of its taproom. Each change has brought more beauty and function to this beloved Flagstaff brewery. With the brew house in full view, guests can often catch the brewing process unfolding. The 2020 addition of local pizza legend Pizzicletta brought forth a tantalizing food option and the ever-present aroma of one Arizona’s best pies. In 2022, Dark Sky purchased the location next door. The expansion includes a new kitchen led by a local food legend and the best patio in town.
Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. DTPHX
Phoenix
Six years after opening its original location in Gilbert, Arizona Wilderness Brewing opened its second location in downtown Phoenix. The taproom is a large location that combines indoor and outdoor space seamlessly. The walls tell the story of Arizona Wilderness through pictures, words, and diagrams; a brewery that reveres the outdoors and the environment. Flow into the outdoor area to find fire pits, tons of seating, and a second bar fabricated from a storage container. Grab an Arizona Grass Raised Beef burger and a Desert Wheat ale for a true taste of Arizona.
Written by Eric Walters
Photography by Luke Irvin