What would you say if I told you that Utah has over 100 breweries and distilleries? That’s right, Utah is home to some of the most unique craft beer and spirits brands in the country.
Utah is known for its rich history and culture, but did you know that it also boasts some of the best breweries and distilleries in the nation? From award-winning microbreweries to artisanal distillers, there are plenty of reasons why you should visit Utah.
From the historic Pioneer Saloon to the modern day brewpubs, Utah offers a variety of places to enjoy local beers and spirits. Whether you want to sample some of the state’s finest craft beer or sip on a whiskey straight from the barrel, Utah has something for everyone.
Here are our recommendations for the top 10 breweries and distilleries you must see while visiting Utah:
1) Red Rock Brewing Company – Price
Red Rock Brewing Company was founded in 2011 by brothers Michael and Jared Ragusano. They wanted to create an oasis where people could relax and have fun with their friends. Today, they offer visitors a wide selection of delicious craft beer, wine, cocktails and food. The brewery hosts live music events throughout the year so be sure to check out what’s going on during your stay!
2) Great Basin Brewery & Grill – Delta
Great Basin Brewery & Grill is located just outside of Delta, UT. This family owned business opened up shop in 2012 and quickly became one of the largest craft breweries in Utah. Its location near the Colorado border makes this brewery stand out as one of only two in the state. It has won multiple awards including Best Beer at the Utah State Fair and Best Craft Beer at the Utah Brewers Festival.
3) Moab Brewery – Moab
Moab Brewery is located in downtown Moab, UT. This brewery features a full restaurant, tasting room and outdoor patio. Stop by for a pint and try something off the menu like the Moab IPA made with locally grown Citra hops. You can even take a tour of the brewing operation.
4) Snowbasin Resort – Ephraim
Snowbasin Resort is a great place to unwind after a long day of skiing or snowboarding. When you get hungry, stop into the Alpine Bistro for dinner. Or, head to the bar inside the resort’s Mountain Room Lounge. If you love craft beer, make sure to check out Snowbasin’s own brew pub, which serves up more than 20 different styles of beer.
5) Uinta Brewing Company – Vernal
Uinta Brewing Company is located about 40 minutes south of Salt Lake City in Vernal, UT. Founded in 1993, this company produces a variety of popular beers like Hefeweizen American Lager, Hop Hog IPA and Cascadia Brown Ale. In addition to their tasty brews, Uinta is also famous for its beer dinners featuring four courses paired with various beers.
6) Wasatch Brewery – Park City
Wasatch Brewery is located in the heart of Park City, UT. This brewery is surrounded by restaurants and shops offering everything from ski rentals to ice cream. Their taproom features eight taps dedicated to unique seasonal beers created especially for the brewery. Visitors will also find over 30 bottled varieties of beer along with a large selection of wines and ciders.
7) Epic Brewing Company – Ogden
Epic Brewing Company is located in Downtown Ogden, UT. This brewery specializes in creating flavorful ales using traditional ingredients such as citrusy Cascade hops. A visit here is like stepping back in time. While you enjoy a cold one, you can watch old school arcade games and sip on some truly original brews.
8) Squatters Pub and Brewery – West Valley City
Squatters Pub and Brewery is located in West Valley City, UT. This sports pub offers some of the best burgers in town, both classic and specialty. But, it’s the extensive list of microbrews that are brewed on site that really sets them apart. From light lagers to IPAs to stouts, there’s always a perfect brew for any taste bud.
9) Spuds MacKenzie Restaurant & Brewery – North Logan
Spuds MacKenzie Restaurant and Brewery is an institution in the Cache Valley area where they serve breakfast all day, lunch and dinner seven days a week. They feature a wide variety of dishes, but guests agree that nothing beats their handcrafted beef burger. The patty is juicy, topped with bacon, lettuce, tomato, pickles, sport peppers and onions and served open faced on a toasted bun.
As we have mentioned above, there are a little bit over a hundred different places to visit in Salt Lake City if you want to experience the best in wineries and breweries. So the above mentioned places are merely the tip of the iceberg. There’s a lot more to explore when you make your way down to the city and experience the best of downtown Salt Lake city. What are you waiting for?