Indianapolis’ craft beer scene has exploded over the last decade, earning national recognition for its creativity and quality. What began with a handful of production breweries in the late 2000s has blossomed into a network of taprooms and beer gardens that draw locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a hop head searching for the latest double IPA or just want a sunny patio for a summer lager, these Indy breweries offer something for everyone.

Sun King Brewery
Sun King Brewery, located at 135 N. College Ave near downtown, paved the way for the city’s modern beer culture. When it opened in 2009 it was Indianapolis’ first full-scale production brewery in generations, and it quickly became a local staple with flagship beers like Osiris Pale Ale, Wee Mac Scottish Ale and Pachanga Mexican-Style Lager. The brewery’s spacious taproom hosts live music and food trucks, and tours show how the company has grown from a small canning operation to one of Indiana’s most awarded breweries. Sun King also operates a small-batch taproom at the Fishers Test Kitchen and seasonal beer gardens at Victory Field during Indianapolis Indians games.

Guggman Haus Brewing Co.
Tucked inside the historic Boyle Racing Headquarters on the northwest side, Guggman Haus Brewing Co. (1701 Gent Ave) is a family-owned brewery run by twin sisters and their husbands. It’s been ranked among the top breweries in Indiana thanks to its approachable haus beers, rotating IPAs and inviting beer garden shaded by mature trees. Visitors can sip a Haus Lager or B.F. Hefeweizen while touring the on-site museum dedicated to the building’s auto-racing history. Guggman Haus frequently hosts run club meetups, trivia nights and live music, making it a favorite community gathering spot.

Bier Brewery, Deviate and Chilly Water
Several other trailblazing breweries help round out Indianapolis’ beer roster. Bier Brewery on the northeast side (5133 E. 65th St.) specializes in small-batch ales and lagers; it’s known for its Pumpkin Ale each fall and award winning German beers. **Deviate Brewing** embraces experimentation with pastry stouts, dessert sours and hazy IPAs that push the boundaries of style—its taproom on W. 86th Street also features a rotating art gallery. Chilly Water Brewing Company in the Fletcher Place neighborhood pairs its hop-forward beers with a laid-back music theme and a full kitchen serving sandwiches and salads. Their Built to Last Pilsner and Blood on the Tracks IPA are crowd favorites.

More Breweries to Explore
Indy’s brewery scene stretches far beyond the city core, so consider building your own beer crawl. Downtown’s Metazoa Brewing Co. donates a percentage of profits to animal and wildlife organizations and has a dog-friendly patio overlooking the skyline. **Fountain Square Brewing Co. anchors the artsy Fountain Square neighborhood and often hosts food pop-ups and live bands. Daredevil Brewing Company in Speedway brings racing flair to its lagers and IPAs, while Scarlet Lane Brewing Company pays homage to horror films with themed beers and a witchy taproom in McCordsville. Check each brewery’s website for tap lists, hours and special releases; many offer flights and growler fills to-go.

Plan Your Brewery Tour
The best way to experience Indy’s breweries is to sample a few in one afternoon. Most taprooms are family-friendly and offer non-alcoholic options, but remember to plan a safe ride if you’re drinking. IndyGo bus routes, rideshares and bike share stations make it easy to hop between neighborhoods. Pair your beer crawl with a visit to a nearby restaurant, our guide to Mass Ave dining offers ideas for a pre or post‭brewery meal—and don’t miss Sun King’s patio** on a summer evening. Cheers to exploring Indy’s craft beer community!