Top-Rated Breweries to Explore in New Hampshire

In just five years, the number of New Hampshire breweries has more than doubled to a staggering 72. This means that, wherever in the Granite State you venture, you won’t be far from fresh and inventive local brews. Some of these breweries are renowned, including one that reliably advertises during the Super Bowl, while others have carved out passionate followings with their highly-rated artisan beers. If you’re a beer enthusiast planning a New Hampshire getaway, Brew NH’s map of breweries statewide will assist you in locating worthy stops along your route. To ensure you don’t miss the essential visits, here’s your guide to nine of the best breweries to explore in New Hampshire, where tasting beer is just part of the experience.

Stoneface Brewing Co.

Address: 436 Shattuck Way, Newington, NH 03801, USA

Phone: +1 603-427-9801

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Home to five of the top 10 beers in New Hampshire as rated by Beer Advocate, this five-year-old brewery serves as a prime destination for beer enthusiasts. Conveniently located in southern New Hampshire, just outside of Portsmouth, it’s an easy trip from Boston and hard to miss if you’re heading north. Stoneface RIS, a Russian Imperial Stout, is a must-try, but with 12 fresh-made beers on tap, choosing can be a challenge. An affordable menu of snacks and larger bites encourages guests to linger and savor the selections, and in a fun twist, adults can order from the kids’ menu.

Anheuser-Busch Merrimack Brewery

Address: 221 Daniel Webster Hwy, Merrimack, NH 03054, USA

Phone: +1 603-595-1202

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Before dismissing the idea of visiting the Anheuser-Busch brewery, consider this: factory tours—either the Bud Light Experience or the Beermaster Tour—are not only fascinating but also primarily focused on educating visitors about the brewing process. Furthermore, you’ll likely have the chance to sample beer right from the finishing tank. Additionally, you might meet the famous Budweiser Clydesdales. As you explore, you’ll discover a diverse range of beers brewed on-site, and the Biergarten beckons for sampling various selections.

Woodstock Inn Brewery

Address: 135 Main St, North Woodstock, NH 03262-2306, USA

Phone: +1 603-745-3951

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Established for over 20 years, the Woodstock Inn Brewery is an ideal home base for your New Hampshire beer tour. For a truly immersive experience, consider their Brewer’s Weekend package, which provides hands-on participation in brewing a new beer, alongside behind-the-scenes learning. Even if you’re not staying at the inn, you can take advantage of their tours and tastings available throughout the week. It’s a great way to unwind after a scenic drive through the White Mountains.

Schilling Beer Co.

Address: 18 Mill St, Littleton, NH 03561, USA

Phone: +1 603-444-4800

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Located in Littleton, Schilling Beer Co. offers a diverse lineup of European-style beers alongside bold American ales. Housed in a historic 1700s grist mill, this picturesque brewery overlooks the Ammonoosuc River, enhancing its rustic charm. Guests can enjoy a relaxing dining experience on the outdoor deck, paired with wood-fired pizzas and selections of local meats and cheeses while soaking in the scenic views.

Smuttynose Brewing Company

Address: 105 Towle Farm Rd, Hampton, NH 03842, USA

Phone: +1 603-436-4026

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Smuttynose Brewing Company was founded in Portsmouth in 1994 and is the largest craft brewery in New Hampshire. Relocated in 2014 to Towle Farm in Hampton, the brewery offers free tours and tastings of unique New Hampshire beers such as the Shoals Pale Ale and Robust Porter. Their on-site restaurant, Hayseed, features a beer-inspired menu in a charming Victorian farmhouse atmosphere. The brewery also frequently hosts events, such as Paint Nights and Game Nights, plus dog-friendly gatherings.

Tuckerman Brewing Company

Address: 66 Hobbs St, Conway, NH 03818-1058, USA

Phone: +1 603-447-5400

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Tuckerman Brewing Company is a top destination for skiers and outdoor enthusiasts in majestic Conway, NH. The inviting tasting room features a stunning 43-foot bar, making it a perfect starting point for your beer adventure. Daily tastings showcase frequently updated selections, and you can’t go wrong with a warm pretzel accompanied by Tuckerman’s beer mustard. Their summer outdoor concert series attracts top regional bands, providing an excellent setting to relax and enjoy a refreshing Rockpile IPA.

Kelsen Brewing Company

Address: 44 Nashua Rd, Londonderry, NH 03053, USA

Phone: +1 603-965-3708

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Kelsen Brewing Company, a tiny nanobrewery located in Derry, NH, produces top-rated beers, including the Vinátta Russian Imperial Stout, brewed only once each year in winter. If you miss it, fear not; you can sample other acclaimed brews such as the Vendel Imperial Stout, which features striking Viking and Medieval-themed label art. Visiting this artisanal brewery is an exceptional experience for beer lovers.

Rek’-Lis Brewing Company

Address: 2085 Main St, Bethlehem, NH 03574, USA

Phone: +1 603-991-2357

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This beloved brewery in New Hampshire’s Great North Woods stands out for its bold craft beers, using water from a secret stream. It’s an ideal spot to cool off after a day of mountain biking on Bethlehem’s trail network. Rek’-Lis offers a farm-to-table experience with a diverse menu featuring poutine, burgers, and sandwiches sourced from local ingredients. Moreover, guests can enjoy live music, trivia nights, and exhibitions by local artists, making every visit unique.

Cisco Brewers Portsmouth

Address: 35 Corporate Dr, Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA

Phone: +1 603-380-7575

Experience the essence of Nantucket and its vibrant ambiance right in New Hampshire. Cisco Brewers Portsmouth boasts a lively outdoor beer garden at Pease International Tradeport, perfect for sampling their flagship beers along with innovative new releases. The rich menu includes beer-infused creations such as ale-steamed Maine mussels and IPA-battered haddock. Formerly operated by the Redhook Ale Brewery, this facility has been revitalized to broaden Cisco’s appeal beyond its island origins. Check ahead for brewery tour times and keep an eye on Facebook for upcoming events.