Phoenix's Booming Craft Beer Scene
Phoenix's craft beer scene has exploded over the past decade, and the Valley is now home to over 80 craft breweries, taprooms, and brewpubs. From hoppy IPAs and desert-inspired sours to rich stouts and traditional lagers, there's a style for every palate.
However, the best breweries are spread across the metro — from Tempe to central Phoenix to North Scottsdale — and visiting more than two or three in a day requires navigating traffic, finding parking, and most importantly, having a sober driver.
Fun Fact
Arizona's craft beer industry contributes meaningfully to the state's economy. The state is home to more than 100 craft breweries, with the Phoenix metro area claiming a large share of them. Several Arizona breweries have earned national and international awards.
Top Phoenix Breweries to Visit
- Wren House Brewing (Phoenix): Award-winning small-batch brews in a converted bungalow. Known for IPAs and seasonal releases.
- Arizona Wilderness Brewing (Gilbert/Downtown Phoenix): Arizona's most celebrated brewery with beers inspired by the state's natural landscape.
- Four Peaks Brewing (Tempe): A Phoenix institution housed in a former creamery. The Kilt Lifter Scottish Ale is iconic.
- Huss Brewing Company (Tempe): Family-owned with an excellent taproom. Try the Scottsdale Blonde and Papago Orange Blossom.
- SanTan Brewing (Chandler): Downtown Chandler's anchor brewery with a massive taproom.
- Goldwater Brewing (Scottsdale/Mesa): Multiple locations with creative seasonal brews.
- Helton Brewing (Phoenix): Small, friendly taproom near the light rail. Belgian-inspired ales.
- The Shop Beer Co. (Tempe): A converted auto shop turned taproom with excellent IPAs.
Sample Party Bus Brewery Tour Route
Here's a ready-to-go 5-hour route covering the best of Phoenix craft beer:
- 12:00 PM — Wren House Brewing: Start with award-winning IPAs in a cozy bungalow setting
- 1:15 PM — Helton Brewing: Walk-up window, Belgian-style ales, and a neighborhood vibe
- 2:30 PM — Arizona Wilderness (Downtown): Full kitchen, outdoor patio, and Arizona-inspired brews
- 3:45 PM — Four Peaks Brewing: The iconic Phoenix brewery experience with a full food menu
- 5:00 PM — The Shop Beer Co.: Finish with IPAs and a relaxed industrial atmosphere
Scottsdale Brewery Tour Route
For groups staying in Scottsdale, here's an alternative route:
- 12:00 PM — Goldwater Brewing (Scottsdale): Creative seasonal beers in a welcoming atmosphere
- 1:30 PM — McFate Brewing (Scottsdale): Award-winning IPAs and a large outdoor patio
- 3:00 PM — Arizona Wilderness (Gilbert): Flagship location with tours available
- 4:30 PM — SanTan Brewing (Chandler): End at downtown Chandler's anchor brewery with food trucks
Brewery Tour Tips
- Order tasting flights (4–6 small pours) instead of full pints to sample more breweries
- Eat food at every other stop — most breweries have food trucks or full kitchens
- Plan 45–60 minutes per brewery for a comfortable pace
- The 20-passenger party bus is the ideal size for brewery tour groups
Vote for your favorite Phoenix brewery on our polls page. Ready to hop on a brewery tour? Get your free quote or call (480) 347-0743 and let us plan the perfect craft beer day.
