Lincoln’s craft beer scene is thriving, and there’s no better way to experience it than during Lincoln Craft Beer Week, taking place from October 20-26, 2024. Whether you're a longtime beer enthusiast or just curious to try something new, Lincon Craft Beer Week is a celebration of Lincoln’s most beloved breweries, from the OGs to the freshest faces on the scene.
Here is a rundown of the standout spots you won’t want to miss:
Boiler Brewing Company
With two locations in Lincoln – both downtown and in south Lincoln, Boiler Brewing Company offers one of the most unique brewery experiences in Lincoln. Known for their bold, small-batch beers, Boiler’s inventive offerings range from rich pastry stouts to tart sours and refreshing pilsners. For those seeking unique flavors, be sure to stop by Boiler Brewing Co. to sample their exciting, rotating taps and don’t forget to ask about their exclusive Boiler Society membership that includes access to limited-released brews and other special member-exclusive perks.
Empyrean Brewing Co.
When it comes to craft beer in Lincoln, Empyrean is the original pioneer. Since 1990, this local gem has been brewing small-batch favorites that pair perfectly with dishes from Lazlo’s, Nebraska’s first brewpub. While Empyrean’s iconic brews like Dark Side Vanilla Porter, Third Stone Brown and Luna Sea ESB are available statewide, nothing compares to sipping them fresh at their Historic Haymarket or south Lincoln locations.
Bierhaus Maisschäler
For a taste of Europe in the heart of Lincoln, head to Bierhaus Maisschäler, one of the city’s newest hotspots. Inspired by Old World traditions, this popular spot offers everything from German-style lagers to Bavarian pretzels and butcher-crafted sausages, all served in authentic steins. With 20 rotating taps featuring a variety of styles like dunkels, pilsners, and radlers, there is something for everyone. And now you can enjoy a cold one on their new rooftop patio overlooking downtown Lincoln and the Historic Haymarket District.
Code Beer Co.
Sitting on the edge of Antelope Valley Parkway just east of downtown Lincoln, Code Beer Co. has built a reputation for offering a variety of different beers, including their Berry Lemon Sour and Nitro Oatmeal Stout. Their laid-back and comfortable taproom hosts a variety of food vendors while guests are also welcome to bring in their own food. Smooth and simple is what you get at Code Beer Co.!
Corn Coast Brewing Company
Though they are one of the newer breweries in town, Corn Coast Brewing has quickly built a stellar reputation among both locals and visitors. Their Citra Soaker IPA won bronze at the Great American Beer Festival in 2022, and they have kept the accolades coming with beers like Juice Mid-Tones and Modern Melody. Corn Coast specializes in hazy IPAs, but their menu also includes crisp pilsners, lagers, and fruited seltzers—something for every palate.
Zipline Brewing Co.
Zipline is all about precision and quality, producing award-winning ales and lagers since 2012. Their flagship brew, the Copper Alt, a German-style altbier, earned them a gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival, but it’s just the tip of the iceberg. Zipline’s offerings range from the bright and juicy Dope! IPA to the refreshing Pickle Time Lager and the hearty Oatmeal Porter. Be sure to check out the new Zipline Tap & Grill in Fallbrook to enjoy their artisanal beers with thoughtfully paired dishes.
Kinkaider Brewing Co.
Known for creative and crowd-pleasing brews like Dan the Wiser, Dragon Juice and the winter favorite Snow Beast, Kinkaider Brewing has been a staple in Nebraska’s craft beer community since its origins as a farm brewery in Broken Bow. Their Lincoln location in the Historic Haymarket offers a variety of beer styles, from sours and radlers to seasonal ales, ensuring there is always something new and exciting on tap. Don’t miss their sister venues, Bierhaus Maisschäler and Sideshow Spirits, also located in downtown Lincoln.
White Elm Brewing Company
If you’re in the mood for something a little different, White Elm Brewing has you covered. Since 2017, they have been pushing the boundaries of craft beer with bold and experimental brews. From funky farmhouse styles and fruited goses to dark, decadent pastry stouts, White Elm brings a unique twist to the Lincoln beer scene. Their laid-back taproom is the perfect place to unwind, sip on a flight and enjoy live music or events in their spacious venue.
Saro Cider
Built on the spirit of travel and exploration, the founders of Saro Cider believe it’s fun to try new things. That’s the ethos behind every sip of their delicious ciders. So, if you are craving something different than a traditional beer, take this as your sign to stop by Saro Cider and be prepared to fall in love with their tangy, not-too-sweet ciders.
Get ready to dive into Lincoln’s thriving craft beer culture during Lincoln Craft Beer Week! From iconic breweries like Empyrean to up-and-coming spots like Corn Coast, this celebration is the perfect chance to explore the full range of what Lincoln’s brewing community has to offer. Grab your friends, plan your brewery visits and raise a glass to good beer—cheers!
Visit lincoln.org/beer-week to learn more and sign up for the digital Lincoln Craft Beer Week passport.
