February 10, 2020
Nothing sounds better after a long day of museum exploring, kayaking, or golfing than a cold crisp brew from one of Williamsburg’s incredible breweries. Luckily for you, there are several around town offering a wide variety of beers from classic pilsners to experimental concoctions that may very well become your new favorite tap. Here are some of our favorites around town that we think you’ll fall in love with too.
This brewery- taproom- beer garden one of the best in Virginia. Started by two graduates of William & Mary, VA Beer Company took off rapidly and is one of the biggest in town. You’ll find 4 classic taps plus a myriad of rotations spanning from groundbreaking flavors and brews, to perfectly sippable creations made with seasonal ingredients.
Set in the heart of downtown Williamsburg, the Precarious Beer Project is a modern brewery that aims to stretch the boundaries of craft brewing to create entirely new and exciting beers. This community-style beer hall is decorated with funky art and hosts the colorful Electric Citrus Taco Bar that will pair perfectly with the bright and energizing beers in the store.
Paying homage to Williamsburg’s colonial history, Brass Cannon Brewing is a veteran owned brewery that focuses on classic beer styles and creating a welcoming community. You won’t find their beers on tap at any local restaurants or in coolers at the liquor store, so you have to plan a visit to tap into their tastes. The trip is completely worth it as each beer poured is fresh as can be and allows the ingredients to shine through perfectly.
Back in 2006, before craft brewing was trendy, Chuck Haines fell in love with the idea of small batch beers that could showcase the unique flavors and ingredients of the region. In a matter of years, his beers were being praised and Aleworks Brewery was collecting awards faster than they could make a batch of beer. Since then, they have dedicated themselves to creating some of the best brews on the East Coast and are now a certified Virginia Green Business.
While technically not a brewery, Silver Hand Meadery still makes the list due to their incredibly clear mead drinks. Made from honey, the process is similar to a craft brewery but creates a sweet and refreshing drink with a higher alcohol content. Step inside their warm and inviting tasting room and order a flight of their meads, each named after the song that inspired them.
On the outskirts of Williamsburg, near the Jamestown settlement lies Billsburg Brewery, a waterfront brewery and food truck lot that is the place to be on a sunny afternoon. Pop in after a day of exploring for a cold, crisp brew and a snack from the rotating food trucks. Check the event calendar and plan your trip during one of their live music nights or game nights for a fun excursion.
Stop into one of these breweries after a long day of exploring Williamsburg or string them all together for an epic Williamsburg Ale Trail experience. From classic ales to funky new brews, you’ll find something for everyone.
Ready to sample Williamsburg’s best breweries? Book a stay at the Cedars of Williamsburg, a relaxed Bed & Breakfast housed in a Gregorian-style mansion in the heart of Williamsburg, VA.