Michigan is home to an impressive array of craft distillers and breweries, producing everything from whiskey, vodka, and gin to exceptional craft beers. Here are some top spots where you can raise a glass, whether you're enjoying a locally crafted cocktail or a pint of fresh beer.

 

South West Michigan

 

Corks & Kegs

 

Calling all 21+ zoo fanatics, beer lovers, and wine indulgers. Join Binder Park Zoo from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, September 28th, for an evening of sipping, savoring, and supporting wildlife at the second annual Corks & Kegs at the Zoo. Whether you are a zoo regular or are looking to add some wild into your life - this event is sure to leave you with memories that last a lifetime. 

 

Explore “The Give a Craft Beer Trail,” which is a unique and fun way to explore breweries around Southwest Michigan in the 269 area code. This fun free trial starting in Kalamazoo also has opportunities to earn prizes along the way. The trail is free to participate. 

 

Coppercraft Distillery

 

Discover the Art Coast of Michigan’s vibrant craft beverage scene, featuring small-batch expertise and artistry. For award-winning, handcrafted spirits, be sure to stop by the Coppercraft Distillery Tasting Room, where you can enjoy tastings and a variety of innovative handcrafted cocktails. Celebrate Bourbon Heritage Month with an exclusive bourbon cocktail class at the New Holland Spirits Tasting Room on September 17th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. During this immersive experience, you’ll learn the art of crafting classic bourbon cocktails from the expert bartending team. In addition to the two craft spirit tasting rooms, Saugatuck/Douglas is also home to several independently owned craft breweries, bars, and pubs where you can raise a glass, make a toast, and quench your thirst. 

 

When you get off one of the many lakes in Coldwater Country, head to Two Bandits Brewing Co. to enjoy a delicious craft beer, and tasty pub favorites with a twist, and celebrate Breweries and Craft Spirits Month. All about craft beers with unique flavor combinations and many locally sourced ingredients, Two Bandits offers 9 - 10 housemade craft beers on tap, rounded out with a selection of other microbrews and craft beers from the Midwest, South, and East Coast.

 

river st joe

 

South Haven is home to a handful of breweries, tasting rooms, and popular waterfront bars. No matter where you go, you'll find flavorful thirst-quenchers made with pride in the Mitten.

 

OpenRoad Brewery will be hosting its first Oktoberfest in Downtown Wayland on September 21st. They will have Germen-themed music, activities, and beer releases. The event starts at 11 a.m. and goes till 7 p.m.

 

Additional Breweries & Craft Spirits in South West Michigan:

 

Central West Michigan

 

mt.pleasant

 

With unique, locally-owned restaurants and breweries you can’t find anywhere else, the Mt. Pleasant area provides ample opportunity to explore new fermentations, delicious food, and an ambiance that draws young and old. 

 

Join the fun at Pigeon Hill’s Oktoberfest in Muskegon on Saturday, September 28th. Celebrate German heritage with live music from The Post Fontaine Duo and The Cheap Dates, friendly competition in Stein holding and oversized yard games, and delicious German food specials. Dress in traditional attire for a chance to win prizes. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur, music lover, or seeking family-friendly fall activities, this event offers something for everyone.

 

muskegon

 

Visitors to Ludington will find some of the best Michigan beer around at two breweries in the downtown district: Jamesport Brewing Company and Ludington Bay Brewing Company. Complete with gorgeous taprooms and indoor/outdoor dining. You will want to put these stops on your itinerary for your next trip to this lakeshore town. 

 

There’s a reason why Holland has a Handcrafted Passport to guide connoisseurs to the best distilleries and breweries in the area. It’s because there are so many. Right downtown, New Holland offers inventive brews and spirits and fun events for tasting them, such as their Haunted Spirits Cocktail class on October 22nd. Our Brewing and Big Lake Brewing are just steps away, and Brewery 4TWO4 and Coppercraft Distillery are but a 5-minute drive away. Stop by or call the Holland Visitors Bureau at 616.394.0000 to receive your free passport, or find all the details online.

 

holland

 

Try out the new tasting room in the heart of the downtown Grand Haven shopping district. Listen to live music as you sip handcrafted seasonal cocktails made with New Holland Brewing Co.’s artisan spirits. Take a cocktail class and learn how to make a fun new drink.

 

Additional Breweries & Craft Spirits in Central West Michigan:

 

North West Michigan & Upper Peninsula

 

iron fish

 

Join Treetops Resort on September 21st for an exclusive evening of whiskey exploration as they invite you to "A Tour of Whiskey Barrel Finishes" in partnership with Iron Fish Distillery. Step into the world of fine whiskey craftsmanship and meet the artisans behind Iron Fish Distillery's renowned spirits. This is your chance to delve deep into the intricate processes that yield the refined and exceptional flavors of quality whiskey. Tickets Include Exclusive access to expert Distillers, 6 - 1/3 oz., pours of various Iron Fish Bourbons, one Iron Fish Glass & one Crafted Cocktail, a guided tour of the tastes of Iron Fish with an expert, full hour and a half long tasting experience, and snacks to pair with your drink selections. 

 

Calling all craft beverage drinkers. Charlevoix welcomes you to try their beer, wine, and spirits, and they have crafted a curated list to help guide you through their favorite destinations. Check out the list here. 

 

Petoskey

 

There are many great breweries to discover in the Petoskey Area. One new brewery to check out is Elder Piper Brewery & Cider. Along with that, the area is home to several distilleries and spirits tasting rooms – Mammoth Distilling, Gypsy Distillery, Burnt Marshmallow Brewstillery, and Muskrat Distillery. Read more about area spirits here.

 

Celebrate Michigan’s Breweries and Craft Spirits Month in Northern Michigan. Bellaire’s beverage game is on point. Check out Short’s Brewing, Bee Well Mead & Cider, and Fireside Lounge Wine Bar, all watering holes along downtown Bellaire’s Bridge. And, to make it easy to get to and from, stay at nearby Shanty Creek Resort and take advantage of the free shuttle to downtown Bellaire.

 

short's brewing

 

Head to downtown Cadillac on the last Saturday of September is the annual Cadillac Craft Beer Festival,  held in the city park. Amazing food and many different brews, with an awesome view overlooking Lake Cadillac. You can find many local Michigan brewers and distillers. Join them on September 28th - tickets are on sale now.

 

Marquette County is a beer lover’s paradise, boasting numerous local craft breweries. As September is Michigan Craft Spirit Month, both visitors and residents have the perfect opportunity to revel in the region’s rich brewing culture. The county proudly hosts a collection of renowned Midwest breweries, each presenting a distinctive range of handcrafted beers within their charming and one-of-a-kind settings.

 

Additional Breweries & Craft Spirits in North West Michigan & Upper Peninsula: