You’re in Northwest Arkansas and looking for a great craft beer. You want to find those spots where the beer is fresh, the atmosphere is perfect, and the people are friendly. Well, you are in exactly the right place. Northwest Arkansas has become a total craft beer destination. This guide is your ticket to the best of it. We’re talking about a brewery tour, Northwest Arkansas style, hitting the essential stops that make this region so special.
Exploring craft beer here is about more than just a drink. It’s about community. It’s about rewarding yourself after a long bike ride on our amazing trails. It’s about hanging out with friends in a cool space. Every brewery has its own personality, and that’s what makes planning a tour so much fun. You get a taste of each town’s character, from Fayetteville’s college-town vibe to Bentonville’s sleek energy.
Fossil Cove Brewing Co. (Fayetteville)
First up is a true original. Fossil Cove is in Fayetteville at 1946 N Birch Ave. It’s super easy to find, and it’s right off the Razorback Greenway.
This place is a classic. It feels like the living room of the Fayetteville beer scene. The vibe is super laid-back. They have a big, dog-friendly patio that’s packed whenever the weather is nice. And here’s a major bonus: they have a permanent food truck called Wicked Wood Fired Pizza. It’s right there on the patio, so you never have to worry about finding food. It’s the perfect pairing.
You should try their IPA because it’s a local favorite. But they also make fantastic seasonal sours and stouts. They are a community hub and care about sustainability. If you want the authentic Fayetteville craft beer experience, this is your first stop.
Bentonville Brewing Co. (Bentonville)
Next, head to Bentonville. You can find this brewery at 1000 SE 5th St. It’s right next to the Bentonville trails, which is a huge clue about the crowd here.
This isn’t just a taproom; it’s a whole experience. The space is huge and built for fun. They have a massive outdoor beer garden, a kids’ play area, and lawn games everywhere. They even have their own kitchen with a full menu.
So, you can bring the whole family, your dog, and your biking buddies, and everyone will have a great time. The energy is really lively, especially after a day on the Slaughter Pen mountain bike trails.
For beer, you can’t go wrong. Their Homewrecker IPA is a legend. But they also brew a wide range of styles, from crisp lagers to interesting Belgian ales. It’s a guaranteed good time.
Ozark Beer Co. (Rogers)
Now, let’s go to Rogers. Ozark Beer Co. is downtown at 109 N Arkansas St. It’s in a cool, refurbished building that feels genuine and welcoming.
The attitude here is all about honesty and quality. They focus on making classic styles really, really well. The taproom is unpretentious and comfortable. It’s the kind of place where you can have a great conversation and truly taste the craft in your glass. They are a major production brewery, too, so you’ve probably seen their cans around town.
You have to try the Ozark Lager. It’s crisp, clean, and incredibly drinkable. It’s the beer that made them famous. Also, check out their American Pale Ale or any seasonal stout they have on tap.
Bike Rack Brewing Co. (Bentonville)
When you’re back in Bentonville, you have to visit Bike Rack. The original location is inside the 8th Street Market at 801 SE 8th St. It is a bustling food hall with many local vendors.
As the name shouts, this place is for cyclists. The whole vibe connects the area’s amazing biking culture with great beer. The space is modern and industrial, and it’s always full of energy.
Their most famous beer is the Urban Pale Ale. It is balanced and refreshing, exactly what you want after exercise. They also make a great lager called Sacred “D” and always have seasonal options on tap.
New Province Brewing Co. (Rogers)
Let’s return to Rogers for another great stop. New Province is at 1310 W Hudson Rd. It has a cozy, neighborhood-pub feel.
This is a great spot if you’re with a group with different tastes. They brew a very diverse lineup of beers, so everyone can find something they like. The staff is friendly, and the taproom is just comfortable.
You must try the Space Suit IPA. It’s their flagship beer for a reason, with bright citrus flavors. The Commoner amber ale is another excellent choice.
Core Brewing & Distilling Co. (Springdale)
Our next stop is in Springdale. Core is a giant in the NWA beer scene. Their main facility is at 2470 Lowell Rd.
This place is big and built for crowds. They have a huge taproom, a full kitchen, lawn games, and they often host live music. It’s a vibrant community hub with something always happening.
Core is famous for two beers: the Easy Living IPA and the Arkansas Red. Both are iconic in the state. They have a huge tap list, plus they distill spirits. So, you can explore more than just beer here.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it. Your map for an unforgettable adventure. Northwest Arkansas is not just about beautiful scenery; it’s about the thriving, welcoming culture that you find in each of these taprooms. Each brewery adds its own flavor to the community.
You can plan a full day around these places, or you can visit them gradually over time. The point is to get out and explore. Remember, the best way to understand this region is to experience its craft beer scene firsthand. So grab some friends, pick a starting point, and embark on your own perfect brewery tour, Northwest Arkansas.