Indianapolis breweries have earned their place among the nation’s finest. The city’s beer scene might catch you off guard – USA Today readers ranked Indy as the #3 beer city in the U.S. in 2022.
Indiana boasts 204 breweries, putting it at 17th place nationally. The city’s best breweries cater to every beer enthusiast’s taste. Bier Brewery stands out with an impressive collection of 133 competition medals. Downtown’s historic Rathskeller has poured drinks since 1894. The craft beer scene shows remarkable range – Daredevil Brewing Company runs one of America’s largest German-style lager programs. Metazoa Brewing takes a unique approach by giving 5% of its profits to animal and wildlife organizations.
This piece takes you through 15 essential spots where locals get their favorite brews. You’ll understand why Sun King Brewery ranks among the world’s top five breweries for medals at prestigious competitions. Let’s head over to Indy’s thriving beer scene.
Sun King Brewery
Sun King Brewery stands as the life-blood of Indianapolis’s craft beer renaissance. The largest brewery in Indianapolis and second largest in Indiana opened its doors in July 2009. They broke a 30-year drought by becoming the first commercial brewery to open in Indianapolis after decades without one.
Sun King Brewery’s Story
Sun King’s reputation shines through its prestigious awards. Their medal collection shows exceptional craftsmanship with eight medals at the 2011 Great American Beer Festival alone – four of them gold. The brewery’s success goes beyond awards. They generated over $1.50 million to help more than 450 Central Indiana nonprofits in 2019.
Sun King Signature Beers
The brewery’s core lineup features these standout beers:
- Sunlight Cream Ale – Their flagship beer brings together smooth malt complexity and a crisp finish. This celebrated brew earned Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals in worldwide competitions.
- Pachanga – A Mexican-style lager that blends easy-drinking malt character with subtle lime notes. It earned Gold and Silver at the US Beer Open.
- Wee Mac – A Scottish-style brown ale that delivers caramel, cocoa, and hazelnut notes with toffee undertones.
- Osiris Pale Ale – A bold West Coast-style pale ale that packs a distinct citrus hop punch.
- Orange Vanilla Cream Ale – The newest addition to their everyday lineup since 2021 brings creamsicle-like flavors that earned Bronze at the 2022 US Beer Open.
Sun King Atmosphere & Vibe
The brewery evolved from a modest twelve-tap tasting room into a sprawling downtown campus across three buildings. Families feel welcome in this all-ages space that draws up to 1,000 visitors on busy Friday nights. Nacho by La Margarita serves up food options that make this more than just a beer destination.
Sun King Pricing & Accessibility
Sun King’s presence spans multiple locations: Downtown Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, Kokomo, Mishawaka, Indianapolis International Airport, and Sarasota, Florida. The downtown taproom welcomes visitors seven days a week from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekdays and stays open until 10:00 PM on weekends. Their beer reaches over 1,000 bars, restaurants, and liquor stores throughout Indiana, Louisville, and Chicago.
Guggman Haus Brewing Co.
Twin sisters and their husbands founded Guggman Haus Brewing Co. in 2015. The brewery opened its doors in 2019 at the historic Boyle Racing Headquarters in Indianapolis’ Riverside neighborhood. This family brewery creates a perfect blend of traditional German roots with American craft breakthroughs.
What Makes Guggman Haus Special
The brewery started with just five people and has grown to more than 40 team members today. A restored two-story family house from 1916 serves as the main brewery space, along with a reconstructed 20,000-square-foot building that was once home to the legendary Boyle Race Team. Their quality standards have paid off – the Winner’s Milk Jug Stout won gold at the Great American Beer Festival.
Guggman Haus Signature Beers
The brewery crafts more than 15 different beers on-site. Some favorites include:
- Guggenweizen Hefeweizen (5.7% ABV) – A classic German wheat beer with banana and clove notes
- Winner’s Milk Jug Stout (6.2% ABV) – A tribute to the Indy 500 tradition of winners drinking milk, featuring rich chocolate flavors from seven different malts
- Great Day IPA (6.7% ABV) – An approachable American IPA with bright citrus notes from Citra, Idaho 7, and Mosaic hops
- Wilbur’s Prize Pilsner (4.9% ABV) – Named after three-time Indy 500 winner Wilbur Shaw
Guggman Haus Atmosphere & Vibe
The main building houses a 100+ seat taproom and “The Festhall” event space alongside the Boyle Racing Shop. The outdoor beer garden features over 30 picnic tables with heaters that guests can enjoy year-round, and dogs are welcome too. Guests can relax in the cozy fireplace area or gather at communal tables for board games.
Guggman Haus Pricing & Accessibility
Pints cost between $4.00-$6.50, while 4-packs range from $9.99-$14.99. Wednesdays feature $1 off pints, and happy hours include half-price pretzels. Free parking lots sit across the street, and the entire facility offers wheelchair access. The Cabin Kitchen rounds out the experience with full menu service in the taproom.
Deviate Brewing
Deviate Brewing stands at 96th and Michigan on Indianapolis’ northwest side. The name perfectly captures what owners Mike and Greg do best – they create beer that breaks from tradition. Their brewing experience started about 18 years ago when they shared a passion to create unexpected flavor combinations.
Deviate Brewing Highlights
The brewery’s steadfast dedication to “deviate from the norm” shapes everything they do. Their small-scale operation maximizes flexibility by design. Eight years of craft beer excellence shows through their 12 rotating taps. Local customers return often to find what’s new. Mike handles the technical brewing while Greg creates unique flavor combinations. Their combined talents produce adventurous beers for experimental tastes.
Deviate Brewing Signature Beers
The beer selection changes often, but these favorites stand out:
- Hop Supremacy – Their hazy IPA featuring Citra and Mosaic Cryo hops (6.5% ABV)
- Bourbon Brownie Bliss – Barrel-aged Chocolate Brownie Imperial Stout (11.3% ABV) with rich fudge flavors
- Jalapeño Cornbread – Cream Ale with jalapeño (6.2% ABV)
- Maple Splatter – Maple Pecan Porter (5.7% ABV)
Their playful brewing philosophy shines through creations like Piña Colada IPA with coconut and pineapple.
Deviate Brewing Atmosphere & Vibe
Colorful artwork adorns the intimate taproom’s walls while brewing equipment remains visible. The brewery welcomes dogs with their “BYOPets” policy. They don’t serve food but encourage customers to bring their own or order from nearby restaurants. Delivery menus stay readily available. Bugambilias food truck visits regularly Thursday through Saturday.
Deviate Brewing Pricing & Accessibility
You’ll find Deviate at 4004 W 96th St. The brewery opens seven days a week: Monday-Thursday (3-9 PM), Friday (3-10 PM), Saturday (2-10 PM), and Sunday (1-6 PM). Customers can enjoy pints in the taproom or take home 16oz cans and limited 22oz bottles. Flight options help you sample their diverse selection before choosing a full pour.
Bier Brewery
The Connor family started Bier Brewery in 2010 with a small 55-gallon brewing setup. Their commitment to craft beer helped them grow quickly, and now they run three locations throughout Indianapolis.
Bier Brewery Highlights
Quality drives everything at Bier Brewery, and it shows. Their beers have earned more than 100 medals in state, national, and international competitions. The brewery’s trophy case has several World Beer Cup awards. Their Pumpkin Ale stands at #13 on Beer Advocate’s top 100 Pumpkin Beers. A $3 million investment in 2023 brought their newest location to Noblesville, adding to their original 65th Street taproom and Carmel spot.
Bier Brewery Signature Beers
The brewery creates more than 100 different beer styles. Here are some standouts:
- Weizengoot – German Hefeweizen that brings strong banana and clove flavors (Gold medal winner at Indiana Brewers’ Cup)
- Special Kolsch – German-style Kolsch featuring earthy hop character and subtle malt sweetness (Gold at Indiana Brewers’ Cup)
- Pumpkin Ale – Tastes like “liquid pumpkin pie” and has multiple medals, including Bronze at World Beer Cup
- South Simcoe IPA – American Hazy IPA that bursts with mango and pineapple flavors
- Roggenschnizzle – Dark German Rye Beer showing chocolate and pumpernickel notes
Bier Brewery Atmosphere & Vibe
The Noblesville location is their biggest yet. A 6,000-square-foot taproom sits on 4 acres with a beautiful 2-acre biergarten. Kids can enjoy the playground while dog owners love the leashed-friendly outdoor areas and members-only dog park. The space feels welcoming with fire pits, bocce courts, and cornhole. Even during peak times, guests have plenty of room to spread out.
Bier Brewery Pricing & Accessibility
Tuesday through Friday brings happy hour (3-5pm) with $4.50 pints and 25% off appetizers. Beer lovers can join the Mug Club for $90 with a $50 yearly renewal. Members get 20oz pours at 16oz prices and exclusive event access. Each location welcomes wheelchair users. The Noblesville taproom serves beer, wine, cider, coffee, and food. The original Indianapolis taproom welcomes guests Monday (3-8pm) through Sunday (12-7pm).
Chilly Water Brewing Company
The 9-year old Chilly Water Brewing Company brings music and beer together in Indianapolis’ Fletcher Place neighborhood. This unique brewpub blends excellent craft beer with music that strikes a chord through their space and branding.
Chilly Water Expresses
Chilly Water grabbed the prestigious Brewery of the Year title at the 2015 Indiana Brewer’s Cup, just a year after opening. They took home six medals and added three more the next year, including a silver for their Built to Last Pilsner. They’ve crafted more than 80 different beer styles since they opened. First-time visitors love their beer menu, which comes in a nostalgic CD wallet that pays tribute to their musical roots.
Chilly Water Signature Beers
You’ll always see three flagship beers on tap, while other options rotate:
- Built to Last Pilsner – A German-style Pilsner (4.7% ABV) with silver medal credentials
- One Hop Wonder IPA – An American IPA (6.9% ABV) that packs a hoppy punch
- Blood on the Tracks Blood Orange IPA – A citrus-forward IPA (7.4% ABV)
The rotating lineup features Santeria (Light Mexican Lager), Highway to Helles (Helles Lager), and seasonal treats like Team Builder (Grapefruit Radler). Locals keep coming back to find what’s new on tap.
Chilly Water Atmosphere & Vibe
Music shapes everything in this relaxed brewpub, from beer names to live shows by local and regional artists. The noise level stays just right for conversations. Dogs can join their humans in the outdoor seating area. Their kitchen serves up tasty options from hummus and paninis to quesadillas, burgers, pasta, and vegetarian dishes.
Chilly Water Pricing & Accessibility
You’ll find Chilly Water at 719 Virginia Ave in the buzzing Fletcher Place neighborhood. They’re open six days a week: Tuesday through Thursday (11AM-10PM), Friday and Saturday (11AM-11PM), and Sunday (11AM-9PM), but take Mondays off. A 16oz pour costs between $5.00-$7.00, and they always have a $5 Pint of the Week. Regular happy hour deals make this spot wallet-friendly among Indy’s breweries. They’ll bring the beer to you with delivery and takeout options.
Fountain Square Brew Co.
Fountain Square Brew Co. has built a rich 12-year history since January 2012, making it one of Indianapolis’s oldest microbreweries. The historic brewery changed hands three times before finding new life in 2023. Head Brewer Beppe Cuello and his wife Dama took ownership with two other investors.
A New Chapter
The brewery has evolved into a woman- and Latin-owned family business. Its Fountain Square neighborhood location has produced over 1,500 batches of beer. The current owners stepped in to save the brewery from closing down and preserved the core team while maintaining the taproom’s legacy. They strengthened their team in 2024 by adding an investor with food industry expertise who brings his Filipino American food truck to serve customers regularly.
Signature Beers
The brewery crafts classic favorites and offers rotating selections:
- Workingman’s Pilsner – A Bohemian-style pilsner with subtle malty sweetness balanced with German Noble Hops
- Preacher’s Daughter Amber Ale – An American amber with citrusy hops balanced by caramel and biscuit malts
- Hop 4 Teacher – An aggressively hopped American pale ale with citrus aroma
- Seasonal offerings – Including Hop Your Face Double IPA (9.5% ABV)
Atmosphere & Vibe
Local artwork adorns this vibrant building where the relaxed, dog-friendly taproom comes alive with weekly events. Visitors can enjoy open mic comedy on Wednesdays and karaoke every Thursday. The weekends feature rotating live music, drag shows, and comedy performances. Most events are free to attend.
Hours & Location
The taproom welcomes guests at 1301 Barth Ave in Indianapolis. Hours run Tuesday through Thursday (3-10 PM), Friday (2-10 PM), Saturday (12-10 PM), and Sunday (12-8 PM). Beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike can choose from their craft beers, guest ciders, and non-alcoholic options.
Kismetic Beer Company
Kismetic Beer Company transports you back in time. This female-owned brewery opened its doors in April 2022 on Indianapolis’ near-eastside. Nicole and Ryan Oesch created this taproom because they couldn’t find a welcoming space like it anywhere else in the city.
Kismetic Highlights
The brewery made waves when it landed the #2 spot for “Best New Brewery” in USA Today’s 10Best reader’s choice survey. The name cleverly combines “kismet” (things meant to be) with “kinetic” (energy in movement). They craft their beers with “purpose, passion, and a dash of cosmic timing”.
Kismetic Signature Beers
The brewery focuses on lower ABV beers that stay under 6.5%:
- Italian Pilsner – A flagship beer crafted with Italian barley and German noble hops
- Banana Nut Bread Hefeweizen – Steeped with Nelson’s Tea Banana Nut Bread
- New England IPA – Showcases Lotus, Amarillo, and Mandarina Bavaria hops
- Schwarzbier – A crisp lager that brings out dark chocolate and fig notes
Kismetic Atmosphere & Vibe
The taproom’s mid-century charm shines through royal blue velvet booths, black leather chairs, and purple and turquoise brand colors. The space feels like “your neighborhood’s living room” with vintage light fixtures, wood panel walls, and a cozy faux fireplace. Their steadfast dedication to inclusivity makes it especially welcoming to women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Kismetic Pricing & Accessibility
You’ll find Kismetic at 201 S Rural St, Suite #110. The brewery opens Wednesday-Thursday (4-9pm), Friday (4-10pm), Saturday (12-10pm), and Sunday (1-7pm). This 21+ spot serves ciders, seltzers, wine, and non-alcoholic options. Yes, it is possible to enjoy snacks, bring your own food, or order from nearby delivery services.
Metazoa Brewing Co.
Metazoa Brewing Co. makes its mark in downtown with a unique mission to help wildlife. The brewery donates 5% of its profits to animal organizations. Their straightforward motto says it all: “Drink beer. Help animals.”
What Makes Metazoa Special
This craft brewery occupies an acre of prime downtown real estate. The team crafts both traditional ales and experimental styles that deliver bold flavors while staying drinkable. Their success speaks volumes – revenue soared 98% from 2017 to 2019, reaching $2 million. A former Goose Island head brewer leads the team to create what owners proudly call “the best beer in the state”.
Metazoa Signature Beers
Beer lovers can enjoy these popular options:
- Hoppopotamus IPA (7.3% ABV) – Bright grapefruit and tropical notes shine through from Citra and Mosaic hops
- Trash Panda Blonde Ale (5.3% ABV) – A coffee-infused blonde that delivers marshmallow sweetness
- Puppy Slumber Party – Fans describe this peanut butter milk stout as “one of the absolute best stouts out there”
Metazoa’s Atmosphere & Vibe
Leashed dogs can roam freely throughout the 21+ taproom. The space features an Astroturf off-leash dog park that attracts 50-60 furry friends on typical weekend nights. Visitors love the “very dog-friendly atmosphere”. Garage doors open to reveal a patio with stunning skyline views.
Pricing & Getting There
You’ll find Metazoa at 140 S. College Ave. The taproom welcomes guests daily from 11am-10pm, though Monday through Wednesday they open at 1pm. Their Mug Club membership costs $50 annually and rewards members with 20oz pours at 16oz prices plus merchandise credit.
Daredevil Brewing Co.
Daredevil Brewing Co., a production brewery that made waves in the craft beer scene with its well-balanced Lift Off IPA, sits just minutes from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. This 11-year old brewery quickly outgrew its first location and moved to Speedway in 2015.
Daredevil Expresses
This family-owned operation runs one of America’s most extensive German-style lager programs. Their brewing mastery earned them Grand Champion Brewery and Indiana Brewery of the Year titles in 2017 and 2018. Daredevil’s Pils proved its excellence by winning Best in Show at the 2017 Indiana Brewers’ Cup.
Daredevil Signature Beers
Their flagship beers include:
- Lift Off IPA (7.2% ABV) – A West Coast Style IPA that ranks among Indiana’s best-selling craft beers
- Rip Cord Double IPA (9% ABV) – Features intense hop flavors with 90 IBUs
- Vacation Kölsch (5% ABV) – An authentic, refreshing ale perfect for relaxation
- Indy Lager (5% ABV) – Crisp, clean golden lager marketed as “your choice for Domestic, Local, Beer”
Daredevil Atmosphere & Vibe
The brewery’s spacious industrial design features a sunny tasting room and covered patio seating. Families can enjoy the outdoor areas while the indoor space remains 21+. Their popular tavern-style pizza satisfies hungry visitors at both locations.
Daredevil Pricing & Accessibility
You’ll find Daredevil at 1151 N Main St in Speedway. They welcome guests Tuesday through Thursday (3-10pm), Friday/Saturday (12-11pm), and Sunday (12-8pm). The Speedway Running Club gathers every Wednesday at 6pm for a group 5K fun run.
Centerpoint Brewing
Centerpoint Brewing opened its doors in October 2016, founded by three Rose-Hulman engineering graduates who brought their technical expertise to craft beer. Their carefully chosen plumb bob logo represents their quest for perfect balance in brewing.
Centerpoint Highlights
This brewery makes its home in the historic Circle City Industrial Complex, where engineering precision creates consistently balanced beers. Beer lovers and traditional drinkers flock here equally. The brewery started with a 30-barrel brewhouse and added sophisticated water quality control systems that manage mineral content with incredible precision.
Centerpoint Signature Beers
Their balanced brewing philosophy shines through these favorites:
- Blood Orange IPA – A perfect blend of Amarillo and Simcoe hops with sweet citrusy blood orange notes
- Centerpoint Black – An American porter that delivers rich chocolate flavors
- El Gato – A Mexican-style lager that customers love for its refreshing character
Centerpoint Atmosphere & Vibe
Dogs can roam freely in their spacious tap room, both inside and out. The brewery hosts exciting events like trivia nights and their yearly “Frigid Digits” Winter Beer Fest where guests sample unlimited pours from over 25 Indiana breweries. The core team receives constant praise, with Kendra standing out for her deep beer knowledge.
Centerpoint Pricing & Accessibility
The brewery sits at 1125 E. Brookside Ave in downtown Indianapolis. They welcome guests Monday through Wednesday from 3pm to 9pm, Thursday 3pm to 10pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm to 10pm, and Sunday 12pm to 8pm. While they don’t have a kitchen, guests can bring their favorite food along.
Broad Ripple Brewpub
Indianapolis’ brewing history started at Broad Ripple Brewpub, the city’s first microbrewery, now 33 years old. Englishman John Hill brought authentic British pub culture to this Broad Ripple Village staple in the Midwest.
Broad Ripple Highlights
This revolutionary force in Indy’s craft beer scene created the foundations of Indiana’s modern craft beer industry. Hill’s master craftsmanship turned the original retail automotive space into a cozy English-style pub.
Broad Ripple Signature Beers
Their celebrated lineup features:
- E.S.B. (Extra Special Bitter) – Their flagship 5.6% ABV beer with perfect balance between malt and hops
- Monon Porter – A 6% ABV American porter with rich character
- Into the Mild – A 5.4% ABV English Dark Mild Ale
Broad Ripple Atmosphere & Vibe
Dark wood-paneled walls, decorative tin ceiling, and a life-blood fireplace create a traditional English countryside pub atmosphere. The outdoor seating area provides beautiful views of the Monon Trail. Authentic English pub food like shepherd’s pie and scotch eggs complete the experience.
Broad Ripple Pricing & Accessibility
The brewpub welcomes guests at 840 E 65th St and operates Tuesday through Sunday from noon until 9 PM. Visitors will find wheelchair accessibility and convenient parking in a small adjacent lot.
Books & Brews
Books & Brews sits quietly in a modest strip mall on Indianapolis’ north side, blending a craft brewery with a used bookstore. Jason Wuerfel brought this creative concept to life in 2014 after raising $17,000 through Kickstarter.
Books & Brews Explains
The business quickly outgrew its initial 2,250-square-foot space and doubled in size within the first year. This literary-themed brewery’s success led to eight new locations throughout central Indiana. The small independent brewery evolved and now collaborates with Flat12 Bierwerks to craft their beers.
Books & Brews Signature Beers
Each beer features a clever literary name:
- Nancy Brew and the Hoppy Boys – Their popular pale ale (6.3% ABV) featuring tropical mango and passion fruit notes
- Cream & Punishment – A smooth, light cream ale (4.8% ABV)
- Charlie and the Chocolate Stout – Features Ecuadorian cocoa nibs (6.3% ABV)
- Clifford – A full-bodied Irish Red Ale (7.4% ABV)
Books & Brews Atmosphere & Vibe
Bright, bookshelf-lined walls create a welcoming community space. The bookshelves serve as a free lending library where customers can swap books at no cost. Book lovers can purchase any book permanently for just $3.
Books & Brews Pricing & Accessibility
The establishment’s Mug Club membership costs $75 for life and rewards members with 20oz pours at 16oz prices. The Mothership location welcomes customers daily and serves a curated food menu that includes local meat and cheese plates.
Upland Brewing FSQ
Upland FSQ, Upland Brewing’s newest Indianapolis venture, sits right in the bustling heart of Fountain Square where food, culture, and arts flourish.
Upland FSQ Highlights
A small-batch brewery designed for experimentation and barrel-aging gives brewers the perfect space to create new recipes. The venue has 22 taps that serve Upland’s diverse beer selection among other unique features like an on-site bike shop run by Gray Goat Bicycle Co. Customers can enjoy their favorite brew while waiting for bike repairs.
Upland FSQ Signature Beers
The beer menu changes with daily specials:
- Monday: $4 pints/$12 pitchers of Dragonfly IPA
- Thursday: Discounted Tart Series
- Wednesday & Sunday: $2 off select specials
Dragonfly IPA, Wheat Ale, and Champagne Velvet stand as core favorites that go together with one another with rotating specialty brews.
Upland FSQ Atmosphere & Vibe
Industrial elements and barrel displays surround a striking central bar in the spacious interior. The “fabulous” dog-friendly patio fills up fast when the weather’s nice. The menu goes way beyond the reach and influence of typical pub fare with local favorites such as guajilo steak tacos and fish and chips.
Upland FSQ Pricing & Accessibility
Upland FSQ welcomes visitors at 1201 Prospect St from Sunday through Thursday (11am-10pm) and Friday through Saturday (11am-11pm). The Cultural Trail runs just a block away, making the spot available by car, bike, or foot.
MashCraft Brewing Company
MashCraft Brewing started small in 2014 and grew into a beloved staple with three Indianapolis locations: Greenwood, Downtown Indy, and Fishers. Their simple yet powerful motto states “Something great is always brewing.”
MashCraft Highlights
MashCraft’s brewing team brings impressive credentials to their craft. Master Brewer Andrew began his journey in 2006 and earned two Great American Beer Festival medals in 2012 and 2013, plus 13 Indiana Brewer’s Cup medals. The team celebrates variety in beer styles and locations. Their strong community connections run deep – they even name some beers after loyal customers.
MashCraft Signature Beers
The rotating taps feature five house beers with seasonal options that change regularly:
- Jamaica Joe – A popular red ale infused with coffee from Strange Brew in Greenwood
- Coffee Infusions – Monthly special flights that showcase four house beers infused with different local coffees
- Pepper Beers – New releases come out second Wednesday monthly, with creations like pickle beer and Anaheim pepper beer
MashCraft Atmosphere & Vibe
The Fishers location, 5 years old since January 2018, quickly built a loyal following. Families love the relaxed setting and board games. The taprooms come alive with regular events from trivia nights to live music.
MashCraft Pricing & Accessibility
The three locations welcome guests at different hours – 4PM on weekdays and 12PM on weekends. Weekly specials make growler fills more affordable with $3 off Mondays, $2 off Tuesdays, and $1 off Wednesdays. Fishers location’s menu features upscale pub food with standouts like the “Not Yo’ Mama Burger” and “Let Go My Tachos” – braised meats served over tater tots.
St. Joseph Brewery & Public House
St. Joseph Brewery & Public House opened in 2015 inside a repurposed Catholic church in Indianapolis. The historic building dates back to 1873. Hamburg architect Diedrich A. Bohlen designed this Gothic church, which cost a mere $17,000 to build in 1880.
St. Joseph’s Best Features
The downtown brewery serves award-winning craft beers alongside innovative seasonal food items. Their Confessional IPA earned gold at the 2019 Indiana Brewer’s Cup and bronze in 2015. Brewing tanks now fill the altar area of the massive cathedral space, creating a unique drinking experience.
St. Joseph Signature Beers
The year-round beer selection features:
- Cornerstone Kolsch (5.0% ABV) – Clean, crisp German-style beer
- Confessional IPA (6.3% ABV) – Made with Citra, German Hallertau Blanc and Mandarina Bavarian hops
- Benevolent Belgian Blond (6.2% ABV) – Balances malty sweetness with Belgian yeast complexity
The brewery rotates seasonal offerings throughout the year. Their award-winning Baltic Porter “St Nick’s” (7.3%) showcases rich coffee, chocolate and dark fruit notes.
St. Joseph Atmosphere & Vibe
The dramatic church setting pairs perfectly with a dog-friendly patio and beer garden. Visitors can enjoy $1 off pints on Tuesdays and $8 seasonal growler fills on Wednesdays.
St. Joseph Pricing & Accessibility
The brewery welcomes guests daily from 11AM-10PM at 540 North College Avenue, staying open until 11PM on weekends. Sunday brunch service runs until 2PM.
Comparison Table
| Brewery Name | Year Est. | Notable Awards/Recognition | Signature Beer(s) | Special Features | Location Type/Atmosphere |
| Sun King Brewery | 2009 | 8 medals at 2011 GABF (4 gold) | Sunlight Cream Ale, Pachanga, Wee Mac | $1.50M+ economic effect on nonprofits (2019) | Sprawling downtown campus, 1000+ visitors on Fridays |
| Guggman Haus | 2019 | Gold at GABF for Winner’s Milk Jug Stout | Guggenweizen Hefeweizen, Winner’s Milk Jug Stout | Historic Boyle Racing HQ location | 100+ seat taproom, 2-acre biergarten |
| Deviate Brewing | 2017 | Not mentioned | Hop Supremacy, Bourbon Brownie Bliss | 12 rotating taps, experimental focus | Intimate taproom with colorful artwork |
| Bier Brewery | 2010 | 133+ competition medals | Weizengoot, Special Kolsch, Pumpkin Ale | 100+ beer styles produced | 6,000 sq ft taproom, 2-acre biergarten |
| Chilly Water | 2014 | 2015 Indiana Brewery of the Year | Built to Last Pilsner, One Hop Wonder IPA | Music-themed venue | Relaxed brewpub with live music |
| Fountain Square | 2012 | Not mentioned | Workingman’s Pilsner, Hop 4 Teacher | Woman/Latin-owned, 1500+ batches produced | Vibrant building with local artwork |
| Kismetic Beer | 2022 | #2 Best New Brewery (USA Today) | Italian Pilsner, Banana Nut Bread Hefeweizen | 70s-inspired speakeasy theme | Mid-century design with velvet booths |
| Metazoa | Not mentioned | 98% revenue growth 2017-2019 | Hoppopotamus IPA, Trash Panda Blonde | 5% profits to wildlife organizations | Dog-friendly with off-leash park |
| Daredevil | 2012 | Grand Champion Brewery 2017/2018 | Lift Off IPA, Rip Cord Double IPA | Extensive German-style lager program | Industrial-style brewery near speedway |
| Centerpoint | 2016 | Not mentioned | Blood Orange IPA, Centerpoint Black | Engineering precision focus | Located in historic industrial complex |
| Broad Ripple | 1990 | Not mentioned | E.S.B., Monon Porter | Indy’s first microbrewery | Traditional English pub style |
| Books & Brews | 2014 | Not mentioned | Nancy Brew, Cream & Punishment | Combined brewery/used bookstore | Bookshelf-lined community space |
| Upland FSQ | Not mentioned | Not mentioned | Dragonfly IPA, Wheat Ale | On-site bike shop | Industrial interior with barrel displays |
| MashCraft | 2014 | 13 Indiana Brewer’s Cup medals | Jamaica Joe, rotating coffee infusions | Three locations across Indy | Family-friendly with board games |
| St. Joseph | 2015 | Gold at 2019 Indiana Brewer’s Cup | Life-blood Kolsch, Confessional IPA | Located in 1873 Gothic church | Cathedral space with altar brewing tanks |
Explore Indianapolis Breweries With Metropolitan Shuttle
Indianapolis boasts a vibrant craft beer scene, with standout breweries like Sun King, Metazoa, and Daredevil serving up creative pints across the city. With Metropolitan Shuttle, your group can explore multiple breweries in one trip, enjoying tastings and tours without the hassle of driving or finding parking—making your Indy brewery adventure safe, seamless, and full of flavor.
Conclusion
Indianapolis stands tall as a beer lover’s paradise. The city boasts 204 breweries across Indiana and ranks #3 nationally according to USA Today readers. The craft beer scene here competes with America’s finest. This piece highlights breweries that showcase creativity, quality, and community spirit.
Each brewery tells its own unique story. Sun King’s impressive medal collection and Guggman Haus’s historic Boyle Racing location set them apart. Metazoa donates 5% of profits to wildlife causes, while Kismetic adds retro 70s vibes to the near-eastside. These distinct characteristics give Indy’s beer world its special flavor.
Local taps flow with exceptional craftsmanship. You’ll see it in Daredevil’s Grand Champion titles, Bier Brewery’s 133+ medals, and Sun King’s international recognition. MashCraft’s family-owned operation adds personal touches to their brews, even naming some after loyal customers.
The city offers brewery experiences of all types. St. Joseph’s Gothic church has become a cathedral of craft beer. Books & Brews blends literature with libations, while Metazoa welcomes four-legged friends warmly. Your perfect brewery experience awaits, whatever your preferred setting.
These breweries balance tradition with new ideas brilliantly. Broad Ripple Brewpub has kept authentic English pub culture alive since 1990. Meanwhile, experimental spots like Deviate expand possibilities with unexpected flavor combinations.
The next time someone asks about Indianapolis, tell them how this Midwestern city built one of America’s most impressive beer scenes quietly. Better yet, plan a brewery tour to taste the excellence yourself. Your perfect pint waits at one of these 15 stellar establishments.
Key Takeaways
Indianapolis has quietly emerged as one of America’s premier beer destinations, earning recognition that will surprise many craft beer enthusiasts.
• Indianapolis ranks #3 nationally as a beer city according to USA Today readers, with 204 breweries statewide showcasing exceptional quality and diversity.
• Award-winning breweries dominate the scene – Sun King earned 8 medals at one Great American Beer Festival, while Bier Brewery boasts 133+ competition medals.
• Unique brewery concepts set Indianapolis apart – from Metazoa donating 5% profits to wildlife causes to St. Joseph operating in a historic Gothic church.
• Family-owned operations drive innovation – breweries like Guggman Haus (woman/Latin-owned) and MashCraft create personal connections by naming beers after loyal customers.
• Diverse atmospheres cater to every preference – whether you want dog-friendly spaces with off-leash parks, literary-themed venues, or 70s speakeasy vibes.
The city’s craft beer renaissance spans from pioneering establishments like Broad Ripple Brewpub (1990) to innovative newcomers like Kismetic Beer Company, proving that Indianapolis offers both brewing heritage and cutting-edge creativity in one remarkable beer destination.
FAQs
Q1. What makes Indianapolis a top beer destination?
Indianapolis has emerged as the #3 beer city in the U.S. according to USA Today readers, boasting 204 breweries across Indiana. The city offers award-winning craft beers, unique brewery concepts, and diverse atmospheres catering to every preference.
Q2. Which Indianapolis breweries have received notable awards?
Several Indianapolis breweries have earned prestigious recognition. Sun King Brewery won 8 medals at the 2011 Great American Beer Festival, Bier Brewery has accumulated over 133 competition medals, and Daredevil Brewing Co. was named Grand Champion Brewery in both 2017 and 2018.
Q3. Are there any unique brewery concepts in Indianapolis?
Yes, Indianapolis features several distinctive brewery concepts. Metazoa Brewing donates 5% of profits to wildlife organizations, Books & Brews combines a brewery with a used bookstore, and St. Joseph Brewery operates in a historic Gothic church building from 1873.
Q4. What types of atmospheres can visitors expect at Indianapolis breweries?
Indianapolis breweries offer a wide range of atmospheres. Options include dog-friendly spaces with off-leash parks at Metazoa, a 70s-inspired speakeasy vibe at Kismetic Beer Company, and a traditional English pub setting at Broad Ripple Brewpub.
Q5. How does Indianapolis balance brewing tradition with innovation?
Indianapolis seamlessly blends brewing heritage with cutting-edge creativity. While Broad Ripple Brewpub has preserved authentic English pub culture since 1990, newer establishments like Deviate Brewing focus on experimental flavors and constantly rotating taps to push boundaries in craft beer.
