Did you know that Idaho is the biggest barley producer in the United States and the second-largest hops grower? That means it must be THE destination to visit for any on the lookout for high-quality beer! Amiright?
Home to over 55 breweries, Idaho has officially entered the craft brewery and beer scene. A vast majority of Idaho’s breweries are found in Boise, Idaho, where the dedication to selling and producing hand-crafted beers has grown drastically.
One of the most notable breweries, Mother Earth Brewery, now has a location in Nampa and Boise and is known for its rapid growth in becoming the largest brewery in Idaho. Additionally, other notable breweries can be found in different locations around Idaho, like Moscow, Coeur d’Alene, and Eastern Idaho.
Take a gander at the preceding selection of the 22 Best Breweries in Idaho below, and get ready to enjoy some craft beer!
If you’re more of a wine person, check out these great wineries in Idaho!
And while we’re at it, let’s be friends on Instagram or Tiktok!
22 Best Breweries in Idaho
Western Collective
This is one of my favorite breweries for the overall vibe. They have a great common space with comfortable chairs and hip western decor. In addition, in the summertime, they open up their large patio and have a swimming trough, DJs, and fun Instagram-worthy signs.
Committed to the Black Is Beautiful movement, conjoined to the start of the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020, the Western Collective is also the first brewery in Idaho to join this collective movement. Similarly, to make an impact through its business, Western Collective has brewed two beers that donate all the proceeds to five specific local organizations that put emphasis on the reform of police brutality and the injustices placed on people of color.
The same year, in 2020, Western Collective brewed Common Goal IPA. All proceeds from this brew go to independent and local breweries in business that were affected by COVID-19.
These are only a few of the major impacts Western Collective’s brews have on its community. Stop here to support a cause and make sure you try the Frosè, an unforgettable slushie Rose. Or try the Straight Outta Idaho, an Idaho-style Pilsner teeming with crisp hints of lemon and apricot!
Address:
➔ Western Collective | Garden City, Idaho
Barbarian Brewing
If you enjoy a bit of “untamed” energy in your life, and your brews, then Barbarian Brewing is the place to head to. Whether it be at the Downtown Boise Taproom location or the Garden City Brewery, Barbarian Brewing isn’t afraid to get a bit on the wild side. I personally love them for their large selection of sour beers. In fact, Rate Beer says they have over 320 different beers!
In other words, at Barbarian Brewing, they strive to honor the traditions of the ancient Valhalla-brewers. Each small batch of brewed beers celebrates the savage goodness of the olden brews, so be prepared to embark on an epic journey of taste and tradition. Try out the You’re Killin’ Me S’mores dessert ale, Doubles For Your Troubles Hoppy IPA, or enjoy a little bit of everything with their select taster flights.
Address:
➔ Barbarian Brewing | Boise, Idaho
Mother Earth Brewery
Mother Earth Brewery since its conception obtained rapid growth, so much so that it became the largest brewery in all of Idaho. However, this family-owned and operated brewery has multi-locations in Nampa, Idaho, and Vista, CA. Additionally, it boasts a production brewery and a tasting room that features over 20 house-made beers, wine, and ciders.
Looking to buy a keg? You can buy one at Mother Earth Brewery. But first, you need to try out their taster flight to get a little bit of everything. Want to try something more specific? Try out the Forgotten Trail Golden Ale, the Hop Diggity Hoppy DIPA, or the dark and malty Quit Stalin BBA Russian Imperial Stout. My personal favorite is the Wolf Mother that they have on occasion. Their taproom in downtown Boise has a fun atmosphere with games, TVs, and a good vibe. Check out my Instagram reel to see the inside.
Address:
➔ Mother Earth | Boise, Idaho
Payette Brewing
Starting out as a husband-and-wife team, Payette Brewing’s team steadily increased as other beer makers and lovers joined their mission of sharing world-class brews. In 2013, only two years after Payette Brewing’s opening, their Outlaw IPA took home the gold at the Idaho Brewers Festival. Their Mutton Buster Brown Ale goes on to win the “People’s Choice Award” at Reno’s CANFEST the same year. Payette Brewing has gone on to not only win more awards but has expanded to 8 other locations!
Check out their location in Boise and enjoy their food trucks, large outdoor lawn, and huge fire pit. This is a great place to spend the afternoon with friends and your pet friends!
Address:
➔ Payette Brewing | Boise, Idaho
Grand Teton Brewing
Enjoy a relaxed setting with this on-site pub at Grand Teton Brewing! They are committed to brewing and crafting the best of the best in terms of quality and taste. Additionally, they are notorious for their quality lagers and ales. Their location in Teton, Idaho, is ideal as Teton Valley is well-known for producing malting barley considered, and proven, to be the best in the world. No wonder their craft beer is undeniably the best of the best!
Take a sip, or three, of Grand Teton Brewing’s Black Cauldron Imperial Stout with hints of spiced Cascade and Galena hops, sweet caramel, and a natural smokiness accentuated from the beechwood-smoked malt.
Address:
➔ Grand Teton Brewing | Victor, Idaho
Sawtooth Brewing
Who doesn’t like a show, or in this case a learning experience, while sitting and enjoying a round of brews with friends and family? Sawtooth Brewery in Hailey, Idaho is the place to head to enjoy a beer with visible access to brewery operations.
Additionally, if you’re looking for great food, head to their downtown Ketchum, Idaho location for a solid menu, trivia nights, and a large beer list. I used to work here and it was a friendly, relaxing, and laid-back taproom. Sit back and relax with a glass of the famous Idahome IPA. This IPA is served year-round and is one of their most popular beers. It’s a hoppy San Diego style, aromatic IPA. Enjoy this on the deck at the brewery in the summer.
Address:
➔ Sawtooth Brewing | Ketchum, Idaho
Salmon River Brewing
Known for its award-winning craft beer, Salmon River Brewing makes it a mission of theirs to use local, or regional, ingredients in the crafting and brewing of their beers. For instance, this family-friendly restaurant makes it a point to include anyone and everyone with their easily accessible patio and rooftop dining areas available during the summer. Above all, enjoy the summer views on the patio or winter’s chill by the outdoor fire pit after a day at the local ski resort.
Address:
➔ Salmon River Brewing | McCall, Idaho
Sockeye Brewing
The Idaho area is famous for its signature Sockeye salmon, Sawtooth Mountains, and untamed rivers. Sockeye Brewing is notorious for its brews and non-alcoholic sparkling water with Idaho hops. In addition, Sockeye has won more than 250 awards in the craft of its beers. Above all, they provide a full food menu (you need to try the Sockeye Salmon Strips and the Bronco Burger!) along with a whole host of craft beers on tap.
Address:
➔ Sockeye Brewing | Boise, Idaho
Selkirk Abbey Brewing
Located in Post Falls, Selkirk Abbey Brewing is a Belgian-themed brewery with an abbey-themed taproom. Firstly, the vibe in this establishment is warm and cozy—don’t let the contrasting industrial-theme building exterior fool you!
Lastly, Selkirk Abbey Brewing’s mission is to create the best and highest-quality craft and deliver it to the people. Try out one of their flights of beers to get a taste of each quality craft they’ve designed!
Address:
➔ Selkirk Abbey Brewing | Post Falls, Idaho
Laughing Dog
Who doesn’t love a dog-friendly taproom? Laughing Dog hosts events and presents a taproom that is dog-friendly—because who wouldn’t want to spread the love of furry loved ones and great-tasting beers!
Firstly, it is award-winning and top-selling. Secondly, it is also highly recommended to check out the Laughing Dog’s Huckleberry Cream Ale, Imperial IPA Alpha Dog, and the 219 Pilsner. Lastly, enjoy the local Idaho community, dog-lovers, and award-winning craft beers at Laughing Dog Brewery!
Address:
➔ Laughing Dog | Ponderay, Idaho
Kootenai River Brewing
This brewery boasts American pub-fare food and exquisite house-crafted beer. Located between three stunning mountain ranges with a scenic view of the Kootenai River (check out the view!!), Kootenai River Brewing has a taproom with 11 beers that are brewed on-site. In addition, it also provides a family-friendly dining area.
Lastly, get a taste of their award-winning McGregor Scottish Ale, boldened with a rich and malty aroma!
Address:
➔ Kootenai River Brewing | Bonners Ferry, Idaho
MickDuff’s Brewing Company
If you’re looking for refined eats in a laid-back microbrewery, you’ll love MickDuff’s Brewing Company!
A family restaurant and brewery, MickDuff’s Brewing Company is located in a scenic town and owned by brothers, Mickey and Duffy Mahoney. You can get a taste of their two separate locations, Brewpub on First Ave which is a family-friendly restaurant. Additionally, you can check out the Beer Hall & Brewery Tasting Room located at their production facility around the corner!
Address:
➔ MickDuff’s Brewing Company | Sandpoint, Idaho
Mad Bomber Brewing
“Make Beers Not Bombs”—Mad Bomber Brewing’s start came from Tom Applegate and his fellow veterans, tasked with the highly lethal mission of disarming bombs. Therefore, Mad Bomber Brewing is decorated with pictures of fellow soldiers, a cozy fireplace, and more in its dedication to American aestheticism.
If you buy their Fatman IPA or St. Nicholas Pale Ale, which were named after two of the founding members of Mad Bomber Brewing that died in the war, 50% of the sales will go to the Wounded Warrior Project. In addition, this project is dedicated to aiding those in and out of the service by standing as a positive stronghold for their veterans and community.
Address:
➔ Mad Bomber Brewing | Hayden, Idaho
Daft Badger Brewing
A 10-barrel brewpub, Daft Badger Brewing is committed to creating Northwest-style crafted beers with a drool-worthy food menu to pair. Similarly, the environment at this pub is incredibly friendly, shining with neighborly support and kindness.
Check out the picturesque view as you sit and relax with friends and family while sipping on an ice-cold craft beer!
Address:
➔ Daft Badger Brewing | Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho
Hunga Dunga Brewing
The brewery pioneers, Hunga Dunga Brewing are taking over the northwest microbrew scene with their exceptional brews and seasonal hand-crafted farm-to-table food menu.
Get a taste of their Oatmeal Pale Ale, a refreshing pale ale crafted with the usage of rolled oats and bright hops. In addition, take a sip of the Sunflower Black Rye IPA, overflowing with a dark, roast-y flavoring tag-teamed with zesty and bitter hops.
Address:
➔ Hunga Dunga Brewing | Moscow, Idaho
Cloud 9 Brewery
Are you a fan of organic products? Why not dabble into organic beers!
Cloud 9 Brewery is a dedicated 4-barrel nano-brewery with a mission and passion for crafting and selling beers that are certified organic. For instance, get a taste of locally-sourced and organic ingredients in their brewery and restaurant. You’ll notice the difference between non-organic ingredients as it levels up the flavor and impact on your tastebuds!
Lastly, if you enjoy smaller, less hectic, and crowded joints, when sipping and relaxing with a beer, then Cloud 9 Brewery is the one for you! They also have a great restaurant that’s perfect for the whole family!
Address:
➔ Cloud 9 Brewery | Boise, Idaho
Wallace Brewing
A 15-barrel microbrewery, Wallace Brewing is known for paying homage to the town of Wallace’s history by naming its craft beers after bordello and mining-inspired labels. For example, some of these are the “Jackleg Stout”, “1910 Black Lager”, and the “Redlight Irish Red Ale”.
The town of Wallace has an in-depth history and heritage in mining. Hence, Wallace Brewing’s homage to their hometown’s history and reputation. Therefore, visit the Orehouse Tasting Room to get a taste of their notably named craft beers and play a round of giant Jenga, pool, and darts with friends.
Address:
➔ Wallace Brewing | Wallace, Idaho
Rants and Raves Brewery
A family-friend craft brewery and restaurant, Rants and Raves Brewery have a passionate range of quality. Whether it be their craft beer, locally-sourced ingredients, or craft sodas, they’ll wow you not only with the quality of their products but the excellence of their customer service.
Additionally, they provide gluten-free options along with small to larger-sized eats to pair with their crafted brews.
Address:
➔ Rants and Raves Brewery | Moscow, Idaho
River of No Return Brewing Company
If you’re searching for a place that has a fantastic beer brewed selection and menu food items to hang out and enjoy with friends, River of No Return Brewing Company is the destination to do it!
Firstly, anyone who has visited this establishment highly recommends the Bent Rod Ale paired with the burger (with all the fixin’s). Most importantly, chat up the owner as you sip on a crafted beer—you’ll find that he’s a great conversationalist who loves to speak with his customers!
Address:
➔ River of No Return Brewing Company | Challis, Idaho
Boise Brewing
Boise Brewing’s conception was raised on the idea and mission to create a community-owned brewery. This was to be able to allow your everyday craft beer drinker to work alongside your everyday investment banker. For example, to this day, Boise Brewing is one of a few breweries in the country that offers this type of ownership program. Interested in owning a brewery? Boise Brewing stock is back in business!
They are located right in downtown Boise and next to one of my favorite restaurants, The Wylder, so you can grab a beer while you’re waiting for a table.
Address:
➔ Boise Brewing | Boise, Idaho
Wildlife Brewing
An upbeat taproom that offers microbrews made onsite, Wildlife Brewing is the place to go for an eclectic and energetic drinking scene. Above all, Wildlife Brewing isn’t just limited to craft brews. They also have specialty hand-made pizza that will have your tastebuds drooling with excitement!
Address:
➔ Wildlife Brewing | Victor, Idaho
Lost Grove Brewing
Lastly, the first brewery in Idaho to become a Certified B Corporation, Lost Grove Brewing has shown and will continue to show its practice of accountability and high standards. This brewery is near Boise State University and is dog-friendly with added outdoor seating that adds to the vast amount of space for their customers.
Enjoy a draft beer or an item on their food menu as you sit and get lost in the moment. They also recently partnered with the Sushi Shack to create the Lost Shack restaurant in Harris Ranch in Boise, Idaho. It’s great, check it out!
Address:
➔ Lost Grove Brewing | Boise, Idaho
Wrapping Up
With its stunning and delectable array of high-quality breweries, Idaho is the place to visit to get a taste of hand-crafted and unique beers. Each location is dedicated to creating craft beers that are high-end and unforgettable in taste and flavor. Similarly, each destination hones in on aesthetic vibes and great customer service.
In conclusion, feel free to share this article with friends and family to start planning your next stop at one—or four—of Idaho’s Best Breweries!
More into wineries? Check out the Sunnyslope Wine Trail and take a tour with Snake River Wine Tours!
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