So many wonderful conversations and moments happen around a pint of beer —  whether it’s on your backyard patio watching the sunset or within the walls of a local establishment. We happen to think a beer-drinking experience is made all the more special within a brewery, where the beer was actually transformed from grains and malts in a barrel to the liquid in your glass. The craft beer community in the United States is thriving and increasing in size each year. While tasting beer around the country is fun, it’s exciting to be situated on your local brewers’ home turf, tasting their handcrafted creations and exchanging conversation with those in your community on both sides of the bar. We decided to zoom out on the Toledo map, and select a few of our favorite breweries in the area —  some of which even cross the state line into Michigan! That way, we might bring a few breweries to your attention that you’re not already aware of. We even created an interactive map to help you visualize the brewery layout! So locate the brewery that sounds the most enticing on the map by matching it with the corresponding letter, and make your way there to try something new and support local establishments in the meantime.  

A.) Black Cloister Brewing Company —  Toledo, OH

In Toledo City Paper’s Dining Awards of 2015, Black Cloister Brewing Company was named as the Best Bar for Beer Nerds, the bar with the Best Staff, and the Best Bar in Toledo. And if that wasn’t enough, they were even named as the runner-up for Best New Bar! Plan a visit to their brewery in the heart of downtown Toledo to see what all the hype is about. One of the more unique features about a visit to BCBC is that you can select from several menus of local restaurants and their food will be delivered straight to you! That way, you can select your favorite food to accompany your beer that was made with care by the folks at Black Cloister. They are dedicated to making beers of exceptional quality, using the best techniques, practices and ingredients. So no matter what brew you choose from their wide variety (with a focus on Belgian-style beers), you’re in for a treat.  

B.) Catawba Island Brewing Company —  Port Clinton, OH

Take a trip to Port Clinton situated along Lake Erie to enjoy a handcrafted beer from the talented brewers at Catawba Island Brewing Company. They take great care and pride in ensuring every beer is extremely tasty and well-crafted. Stop by their tasting room to sample these brews yourself, keeping in mind that it’s open Wednesday through Saturday from 5–10 p.m. and Sunday from 3–8 p.m.

Photos Courtesy of Catawba Island Brewing Company

C.) Earnest Brew Works —  Toledo, OH  - COMING SOON!

Earnest Brew Works is proof that the Toledo craft beer scene is growing and expanding. This brewer-owned and operated brewery and taproom will officially open in Toledo during 2016, and we can hardly wait. The brewers intend to pay homage to traditional beer styles while also bringing in a fresh take on ingredients. They have an “earnest” attitude towards beer and brewing, meaning they are “serious in intention, purpose, and showing depth and sincerity.” Follow along with Earnest Brew Works’ updates on Facebook as this brand-new brewery arrives in Toledo this year!  

D.) Flatrock Brewing Company —  Napoleon, OH

Flatrock Brewing Company is a hidden gem in the small town of Napoleon with an impeccable passion for craft beer brewing and educating the community about the craft. A trip to their taproom in Napoleon is truly worth the commute, as you can infer just by reading the descriptions on their regularly updated live drink list. Their Towpath pilsner is a great place to start if you’ve never tried a Flatrock creation, as it is their top-seller. This gold-colored, light-bodied German-style beer will keep you coming back for another drink at this one-of-a-kind brewery!  

E.) Great Black Swamp Brewing Company —  Perrysburg, OH

There is so much to do in Perrysburg, and drinking wonderful craft beer is certainly included! You can enjoy one of Great Black Swamp Brewing Company’s handcrafted beers in their brewery or from a number of taps at establishments around the Toledo area. Wherever you enjoy these brews, you’re sure to be impressed. The two brewers at BGS Brewing Co. have 40 years of brewing experience between them and a serious love for beer!

Photos Courtesy of Great Black Swamp Brewing Company

F.) Granite City Food & Brewery —  Maumee, OH

While Granite City Food & Brewery has locations scattered across 14 U.S. states, each of the 34 restaurants provides a truly personalized experience that caters to the respective community it serves. Their brewery in Maumee offers a huge made-from-scratch food menu and of course the GCFB craft beer menu they are known for. Test out their Duke pale ale, the Bennie bock, the Batch 1000 double IPA, the Northern (an American lager) or the Broad Axe oatmeal stout —  all made with care on-site at their Maumee brewery.  

G.) Maumee Bay Brewing Co. —  Toledo, OH

As you may be aware, Maumee Bay Brewing Co. is situated in the historic Oliver House in downtown Toledo —  well, they technically brew their beers right across the street from the building. Their beers range in style, including ales, lagers, porters, stouts and more, and can be found in any of the establishments within the Oliver House. This infamous brewing company was named the Best Brewery and Best Locally Brewed Beer in Toledo City Paper’s Best of Toledo 2015!

Photos Courtesy of Maumee Bay Brewing Co.

H.) Bowling Green Beer Works —  Bowling Green, OH

Bowling Green Beer Works is Bowling Green’s first nano brewery, serving small-batch, handcrafted beer, cider, mead and soda made right there in their building. This is the place to be in the area to enjoy time with friends, to meet new friends, and sample Bowling Green Beer Work’s incredible brews all the while.

Cheers, Toledo!

What local breweries did we forget? Let us know so we might add it to our list!