Posted by Realty Austin on Wednesday, August 11th, 2021 7:11pm.
In recent years, San Antonio has upped its craft beer scene by opening several local breweries owned and operated by people who love and appreciate the art of creating a great beer. Whether you consider yourself a craft brew connoisseur or even if you just enjoy kicking back with a cold, refreshing beer - one of these local spots is sure to satisfy!
202 Lamar Street
Since 2014, Alamo Beer Company has been the only brewery to bear the historic “Alamo” name since the days of prohibition! This local brewery has taken inspiration from the individuals who defended the alamo all those years ago and strive to be fiercely independent. With their spacious Biergarten located right next to Hays Street Bridge, you get spectacular views of the city as you enjoy one of the 24 beers they have on tap.
1414 S. Alamo Street
Open since 1996, this is the oldest existing brewery in the Alamo City. This spot located at the beginning of the Mission Reach along the San Antonio River prides itself on serving their house-made craft-brewed beer made with wholesome, 100% organic ingredients. With 14 different brews to choose from, you’re sure to find something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to try King William Ale which is a barley wine-style ale named for the popular neighborhood around the corner. Explore the Blue Star art complex which features galleries full of local artist’s work.
9 Hill View Lane, Boerne
Located just a few miles Northwest of San Antonio, the Boerne brewery is focused on making the Texas Hill Country proud. Brewed in Boerne, by people from Boerne, this beer is inspired by classic European recipes with a hill country twist. This brewery is only open Friday from 2-5 and Saturday from 1-4, but be sure to drop by to take a tour and try one of their 6 beers on tap!
Brewpub: 7114 Oaklawn Drive; Beer Garden: 14743 Old Bandera Road, Helotes
This brewery was inspired by two friends who were enjoying some brews in Austin who then tripped over a single, broken sandal in a parking lot. Originally, they planned to name their band Busted Sandal but they settled for a brewery instead. Luckily, it’s become a favorite for craft beer lovers all over the city! Busted Sandal beers are hand-crafted with locally sourced seasonal ingredients and are brewed in an energy-efficient facility! Busted Sandal has two locations in SA - a brewpub located in the city that features 20 beers on tap and a beer garden in Helotes that features 8.
Brewpub: 4035 N. Loop 1604 W., Ste. 105; Taproom: 2000 S. Presa St.
Freetail Brewing Company doesn’t simply believe a brewery should just make good beer, but that it should also embody the city that it calls home! Named after the Mexican free-tailed bats that inhabit Bracken cave north of San Antonio, everything about their beer is inspired by and made for the locals of the Alamo City. With a large variety of fresh and innovative brews and plenty of fun events to enjoy at both locations, grab your favorite beer lovers and check this place out!
1586 Wald Rd., New Braunfels
Located in New Braunfels, this brewery’s focus is on brewing full-flavored, well-balanced, and approachable Craft Beer with the use of natural ingredients that everyone can enjoy. With multiple taprooms, there is a wide selection of beers to choose from. Looking to try something unique? Try the Peanut Butta Coffee Stout or the Dreamsicle Texas Honey Ale with hints of orange and vanilla!
6025 Tezel Rd. #122
Like many of the best success stories, this brewery started in the owner’s garage and has grown to be a local favorite. Mad pecker’s purpose is to provide their customers with the most enjoyable experience inside and outside the glass. Come on Wednesday for Trivia Night or Friday for their Special “Friday Night Flights”. Be sure to try their Oatmeal Stout “A Stout Called Quest” or their traditional Amber Ale “The Ripper” while you’re there!
Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling
4834 Whirlwind Dr.
Not only does this spot have some of the best beers in San Antonio, but they also offer a wide array of bourbons distilled in-house as well if you are craving something a little stronger. This “brewstillery” was the first of its kind in Texas and was established in 2010. They make each batch by hand one at a time so each one gets the love and attention it deserves. This attention to detail is evident in the taste of each beer! Try the Love Struck Hefe or the Sky Trooper IPA which are two of the most popular favorites that are sure to satisfy.
723 N. Alamo St.
Created with the mindset that “all roads lead to beer”, this popular brewery was the result of receiving a homebrew kit as a wedding gift. While their beers are delicious, what truly sets them apart is their bright and unique label art. Their open taproom has plenty of space for the whole family to enjoy some yard games and sip some beers. Try the Mama Dukes IPA named after the owner’s mother, which is a regular favorite.
606 Embassy Oaks #500
This independent brewery takes pride in being homegrown, with old-school philosophies such as “if the beer is good enough, people will find out”. Even without advertising, this brewery is a local hotspot for enjoying unique, local brews. With a new small-batch released every Thursday, they always have something to keep regulars on their toes. Even if you’re not a regular, they always have an assortment of IPAs, sours, and lagers in addition to their widely popular barrel-aged imperial stouts to enjoy alongside some barbeque from South BBQ & Kitchen onsite!