Spokane’s Craft Beer Scene: A Local’s Guide to the Lilac City’s Brews

Spokane’s Craft Beer Scene: A Local’s Guide to the Lilac City’s Brews

Hey there, fellow beer enthusiasts and curious travelers! As a proud resident of Spokane, I’m thrilled to pull back the curtain on what I consider one of the most vibrant and underrated craft beer scenes in the Pacific Northwest. Forget what you think you know about Eastern Washington’s beer offerings; Spokane, the Lilac City, is brewing up some seriously impressive suds, from meticulously crafted IPAs to rich stouts and crisp lagers. Whether you’re a seasoned hophead or just looking for a great pint after exploring Riverfront Park, this guide is your ticket to discovering Spokane’s best brews.

A Brief History: From Macro to Micro

For a long time, Spokane’s beer landscape was dominated by larger, more traditional breweries. However, in the last decade or so, a craft beer revolution has taken hold. Inspired by the burgeoning craft scenes in Seattle and Portland, local entrepreneurs and brewers saw an opportunity to bring unique, high-quality beers to the Inland Northwest. This shift has transformed Spokane into a destination for craft beer lovers, with new breweries popping up regularly, each bringing its own personality and brewing philosophy to the table. The spirit of collaboration is strong here, and you’ll often find breweries supporting each other, sharing knowledge, and even collaborating on special brews. It’s this sense of community that truly sets Spokane apart.

Downtown & Browne’s Addition: The Heart of the Action

When it comes to concentrated brewery goodness, downtown Spokane and the adjacent historic Browne’s Addition neighborhood are where you want to be. These areas offer a fantastic walkability factor, allowing you to hop from one tasting room to another without needing a designated driver for every single stop. It’s a great way to sample a variety of styles and soak in the city’s atmosphere.

Gilded Goat Brewing Company

Located just a stone’s throw from downtown, Gilded Goat Brewing Company is a must-visit. They are known for their approachable yet expertly crafted beers. You’ll find a solid lineup of flagship brews, but their rotating seasonal taps are where the magic truly happens. Their tasting room has a cozy, welcoming vibe, perfect for an afternoon pint or a casual evening with friends. They often have food trucks on-site or allow outside food, making it easy to pair your favorite brew with a delicious meal.

Whistlepunk Ice Cream Co. (with their own brewery!)

This is one of Spokane’s most unique spots. Whistlepunk Ice Cream Co. not only serves up incredible artisanal ice cream but also houses its own small-batch brewery. Yes, you read that right – beer and ice cream! They often have a few experimental brews on tap, ranging from fruited sours to experimental IPAs. It’s a quirky and delightful experience, and a perfect stop for those with a sweet tooth (or a beer tooth, or both!).

Iron Horse Brewery (Spokane Taproom)

While Iron Horse Brewery’s main production facility is in Ellensburg, their Spokane taproom brings their popular brews right into the heart of the city. Known for their wide range of styles, from their classic Irish Death to lighter lagers, Iron Horse offers a consistent and quality experience. Their taproom is a great place to relax and enjoy some of the more established craft beers that have been staples in the Washington beer scene for years.

Community Pint

This isn’t a brewery, but it’s an essential stop for any craft beer lover in Spokane. Community Pint is a phenomenal craft beer bar and bottle shop that curates an exceptional selection of local, regional, and national craft beers on tap and in cans/bottles. If you want to try a beer from a brewery that might be a bit further afield, or if you’re looking for something truly unique, this is your spot. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through their impressive offerings, and they often host tasting events.

South Hill & South Spokane: Expanding Horizons

Venture south of downtown, and you’ll discover more excellent breweries, often in more industrial or neighborhood settings, offering a different, yet equally rewarding, experience.

No-Li Brewhouse

You absolutely cannot talk about Spokane craft beer without mentioning No-Li Brewhouse. Located right on the Spokane River, with stunning views, No-Li is a cornerstone of the local beer scene. They are pioneers in brewing innovative, high-quality craft beers, with a particular focus on hop-forward styles like their famous Spin Cycle IPA and Born & Raised IPA. Their flagship beers are fantastic, but don’t miss their smaller batch, experimental brews that showcase their creativity. The riverside location makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a beer on a sunny day. They also offer a full food menu, making it a great destination for lunch or dinner.

River City Brewing Company

A long-standing favorite, River City Brewing Company has been serving Spokane for years. They offer a diverse menu of well-executed beers, from their popular Pale Ale to seasonal specials. It’s a classic brewpub experience with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly service. They also have a solid food menu, making it a reliable choice for a satisfying meal and a great pint.

Genetically Blessed Brewing

For those seeking unique and experimental flavors, Genetically Blessed Brewing is a fantastic find. They are known for pushing the boundaries with their brews, offering everything from kettle sours to barrel-aged creations. Their tasting room is often lively and welcoming, and it’s a great place to discover something truly different. Check their social media for tap lists and special releases.

North Spokane: More Brews to Explore

The north side of Spokane also boasts its own share of brewing talent, making it worth the excursion.

Bontrager Cellars

While not exclusively a brewery, Bontrager Cellars offers a unique experience. They are known for their wine, but often have a selection of local craft beers available, and their focus on local and quality ingredients extends to their beer offerings. It’s a good option if you have a mixed group with different beverage preferences.

The Black Diamond, a Brewery

This brewery is a newer addition to the north side and has quickly gained a following. The Black Diamond, a Brewery, offers a solid lineup of classic styles done right. They focus on well-balanced beers and a friendly neighborhood pub atmosphere. It’s a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring the north end of the city.

Insider Tips for Your Spokane Beer Adventure

• Check Tap Lists Before You Go: Craft breweries, especially the smaller ones, have constantly rotating tap lists. Before you head out, check their websites or social media (Instagram is usually the best for real-time updates) to see what’s currently on tap.
• Embrace the Flight: If you’re unsure what to try, order a flight. Most Spokane breweries offer flights of 4-6 tasters, allowing you to sample a variety of their offerings without committing to a full pint of each. It’s the perfect way to discover new favorites.
• Food Options Vary: Some breweries have full kitchens (like No-Li), while others rely on food trucks or allow you to bring your own food. It’s always a good idea to check their policy beforehand if you plan on eating.
• Transportation: While downtown is walkable, if you plan on hitting multiple breweries across different neighborhoods, consider using ride-sharing services or a designated driver. Spokane is spread out, and you want to enjoy your beer responsibly.
• Local Events: Keep an eye out for local beer festivals, tap takeovers at various bars, and brewery events. These are fantastic opportunities to sample a wide range of beers and meet the brewers themselves. Events like Spokane Craft Beer Week are huge highlights for local beer lovers.
• Explore Beyond the Brewery: Don’t forget about bars like Community Pint or others that focus on curated craft beer selections. These spots are invaluable for experiencing beers from breweries that might not have their own tasting rooms or are located further out.
• The Spirit of Collaboration: Spokane brewers often collaborate. Look for special collaboration brews that highlight the community aspect of the scene.
• Check Out Dropt: For the latest news, reviews, and insights into the craft beer world, including what’s happening in Spokane, make sure to check out Dropt. They also have a fantastic shop for all your beer-related needs and a blog with valuable insights and news.

A Growing Scene with a Bright Future

Spokane’s craft beer scene is a testament to the passion and dedication of its brewers and the enthusiasm of its residents and visitors. It’s a scene that is constantly evolving, with new breweries and innovative beers emerging regularly. From the riverside charm of No-Li to the neighborhood gems scattered throughout the city, there’s a brew here for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Lilac City, make sure to carve out time to explore its fantastic craft beer offerings. Cheers!