Tucson was listed as one of the “Most Underrated Beer Cities for 2023” and it makes sense why the Old Pueblo made the list. The article expresses the importance of grabbing a cold, crisp, and rather tasty craft beer while traveling — Tucson being one of those spots that’s “funky, artsy, and weird” to keep you busy during your trip.
This is your family-friendly, veteran-owned hangout spot that’s been brewing up some creative sips in Tucson since 2015. They’re famous for their sour beers and the huge range of other styles they serve up. You gotta try their Sangre De la Cabra, it’s a sour beer that’s bursting with berry flavors. And don’t miss the Ryed Or Die, it leaves this awesome whiskey/rye aftertaste that’s really something else.
Barrio is the granddaddy of Tucson breweries, and it’s been rocking since 1991. It’s Arizona’s first 100% employee-owned brewery, and they make a stellar Barrio Blonde that’s been around forever. Aside from the great beers, they’ve got a mouth-watering menu with dishes cooked up using their own brews.
This 4th Ave cider house is all about fun and flavor. Their ciders, which range from traditional apple to hard cider slushies, are made with real fruit, spices, and herbs. They’re gluten-free and low sugar, but don’t skimp on taste. Try their Community Citrus cider for a refreshing sip, or their spicy Reaper of the Soul if you’re feeling adventurous.
This cool spot is one of the only brewery on Tucson’s East Side. The crew at Blackrock are all about brewing beer that’s easy to love and top-notch in quality. They’ve got a bunch of different brews to try, including two IPAs that have won awards! Give their Imperial Irish Red a go, or the Strong Scottish Ale that’s won them some serious bragging rights​.
Housed in a rad brick building that used to be a railroad depot, Borderlands is where you want to be for laid-back vibes and dog-friendly hangs. They’ve got a pretty wide beer menu (we’re talking 31 different kinds), and while not every brew knocks it out of the park, they’re all worth a taste. Don’t miss the food truck that parks out front — the chorizo quesadilla is seriously yummy. They have another taproom in the Sam Hughes neighborhood at 2500 E. Sixth St.
Founded by David Woods and Andrias Asnakew, BrillĂ© is Tucson’s first meadery, creating Ethiopian-inspired honey wine. Using Arizona honey, hops, and Ethiopian-origin coffee beans, they craft unique meads in a shared space with Dillinger Brewing Company. The co-located taproom offers visitors a taste of both beer and BrillĂ©’s mead.
Tucked away in an industrial park, Button Brew House is a hidden gem for beer lovers. It’s just off the interstate and has a chill vibe with a cozy bar and an outdoor patio that’s perfect for sunny days. Their range of beers on tap isn’t huge, but the ones they do have are pretty awesome — we especially love the Tropical Monsoon #9 and Un-Buttoned DIPA.
Just as Dragoon Brewing is not located in the Dragoons, Catalina Brewing is not located in Catalina. It’s close, though, kind of. Situated near Ina and I-10, Catalina Brewing features a unique lineup of beer that’s worth the trip.
This little joint is tucked away in a shopping center on the east side of town, but don’t let that fool you. They serve up some seriously good brews. They’ve got a variety of styles on tap, including a standout beer called Campfire Dreams, plus some killer deals on Sundays!
Just north of downtown Tucson, you’ll find Corbett Brewing Company. It’s got a cool local vibe with an indoor bar, a few tables, and some comfy couches, as well as a small patio out back for when the weather’s nice. They’ve got 10 beers on tap, with some pretty tasty options like the Grizzly Brown and VMO.
Known for their zesty sours and gluten-reduced beers, they’ve got about 8 different brews on tap to quench your thirst. Their location is pretty rad, too — a nice corner spot with big windows and a breeze. If you’re looking to try their popular stuff, go for the Budding Moon Imperial Saison or the 18th Hour IPA – New England / Hazy.
Dillinger Brewing Company opened its Fourth Avenue taproom in a building that began as a bakery a century ago. Today, it’s on one of downtown’s busiest corners and boasts a large, dog-friendly patio.
This is the place to go if you’re looking for locally brewed Arizona beers that really hit the spot — and food to go with them! The menu is packed with fresh, local ingredients. Plus, they’ve got some killer daily specials. If you’re around on a Sunday or Tuesday, don’t miss their “Burger + Beer” and “Tap + Tacos” deals!
Dragoon is more than just a brewing company, it’s a community of beer lovers who are passionate about making and sharing the best beer possible. They offer a wide variety of beers, from their year-round staples like Dragoon IPA to specialty releases that keep things interesting. But what sets them apart is their focus on quality and the sense of family that permeates everything they do.
If you’re into smoked BBQ and smokin’ beer, this is your place. These guys have been rockin’ it since 2012​ — their Salida Del Sol Mexican Amber is one of their most popular brews on tap. Oh, and don’t miss their wings with Carolina sauce and hatch green Chile Mac and cheese — they bring the heat, too. The brewery also has three other locations in town at 9155 E. Tanque Verde Rd. #177, 9630 N. Oracle Rd. #110, and 800 N. Kolb Rd.
A staple in Tucson since 1971, Gentle Ben’s began brewing award-winning beers in 1991. They offer a dozen beers on tap, including the long-standing favorites Tucson Blonde, Red Cat Amber, and Copperhead Pale Ale. Just steps away from the U of A, and has a rich history, having been a private residence, a boarding house, and a fraternity house before becoming a brewery. Fun fact: the name was inspired by a bear named Gentle Ben from the television show “Grizzly Adams.”​
Here’s a brewery with some serious history. It’s named after a seafaring ancestor who did some pretty epic stuff back in the day. Cool, right? If you’re looking for exceptional beers brewed with top-notch ingredients, Harbottle Brewing Co. is your spot. They’re whipping up some killer brews like the Watermelon/Hibiscus Kolsch and The Czar’s Breakfast.
A standout brewery in Tucson known for its eclectic beer selection and welcoming atmosphere. These guys love to get experimental, always switching up their lineup with wild and creative brews. Don’t miss their go-to IPA, “Hoppenheimer,” a citrusy hop bomb that goes down smooth.
MotoSonora Brewing Company was opened by Tucson brothers Jeff and Jeremy DeConcini, cousin Eric Thu, and craft brewing veteran and former college roommate Tomme Arthur, who all share a passion for beer and motorsports. If you’re hungry, Substance Diner is currently setting up shop in the front parking lot.
A favorite Tucson local brewery that’s all about top-notch ingredients and sustainable brewing practices. These guys take their beer seriously and it shows. Their Hazy IPA is a tropical explosion of citrus and pineapple flavors that proves they’ve mastered the art of hoppy goodness.
Housed in a historic building near the University of Arizona, Screwbean serves up classic brews with a twist. They’ve also got you covered with hard seltzer cocktails, coffee, and tasty bites from local vendors. Plus, who can resist enjoying a cold one on a patio under a mesquite tree?
Thunder Canyon Brewery is a Tucson classic that’s been pouring craft beers for over 20 years. With a diverse beer list, you can go for their crowd-favorite Deep Canyon Amber, or try something unique like the Sexi Mexi Mexican Lager or the Milk Stout. They also have guest taps featuring ciders and house-brewed hard kombucha. And, if you can’t get enough, you can grab their beers and a selection of rums to enjoy at home.