Crafty Hops: Best Southwest MI Breweries

We're excited to share our list of the best Southwest MI breweries. Michigan is starting to gain a reputation for having some of the best craft beers in the country. Some have even nicknamed the state the “Great Beer” State. While staying at Castle in the Country, you can access excellent breweries within a 30-minute drive or less.

420 Water St. Allegan, MI 49010
(269) 286-1059

Practically just down the street from the Castle is Schaendorf Brewing Company, a second-generation family brewery. Operated by a family of farmers here in Michigan, this brewery prides itself on providing farm-fresh food and home-brewed drafts. Light, hoppy, malty, fruity, or sour: This brewery has over 16 beers on tap, plus a few specialty cocktails and local wines. Whichever you choose, you really can’t go wrong! Less than 10 minutes away, this brewery is the perfect place for an authentic taste of Michigan.

443 Hubbard St. Allegan, MI 49010
(269) 512-7016

The new brewery on the block has quickly become a local favorite. Tantrick Brewing was founded based on a love of good food and great beer. Just a block from Schaendorf’s, this brewery is a must-visit! Featuring over a dozen craft brews with incredibly unique flavors and ingredients, Tantrick also creates crafty hops that are the best of Michigan’s brews! Enjoy a night just down the street from your bed and breakfast, and know that comfort and serenity await you upon your return.

355 E. Kalamazoo Ave. Kalamazoo, MI 49007
(269) 382-2332

Founded in 1985 by Larry Bell, Bell’s Brewery is one of the most well-known breweries in the state. Located just 25 miles from our bed and breakfast in the heart of downtown Kalamazoo, this brewery is a local favorite that attracts visitors from far and wide.

Most brews are available by the pour and in one of their signature mini-kegs! With over 15+ craft beers ranging from light ales to strong IPAs, there is truly something for everyone. Make sure you try one of their most popular handcrafted brews: the “Two Hearted” American IPA.

Are you looking to take a tour? “See the sights and taste some flights” at Bell’s Brewery with free tours of their original brewery every Saturday and Sunday. Look at their booking page to find the best tour time for you and claim your spot!

66 E 8th St. Holland, MI 49424
(616) 355-6422

New Holland Brewing Company is another community staple within 30 minutes of our bed and breakfast. With multiple locations, the main one being a distillery, specialty brew house, restaurant, and pub in downtown Holland, this brewing company is a must-visit for your next brewery hopping experience.

With a wide variety of craft beers, they’re sure to have something for everyone. We recommend trying the “Mad Hatter” IPA or their dark stout called “The Poet” or any seasonal brews. Their craft beer is distributed to 13 states and sold in most grocery stores in West Michigan, so be sure to pick up a six-pack of your favorite to enjoy by our private 80-acre lake at sunset or around the outdoor fireplace on the deck.

Explore brewery tours and other special events. Their primary location offers monthly themed cocktail classes, tasting events, and more. Or, enjoy the downtown tasting room in Saugatuck for flights, happy hour cocktails, and more. Another great option is the location in South Haven, which offers tasting flights, cocktails, light snacks, and more!

2948 Blue Star Hwy. Douglas, MI 49406
(269) 857-7222

The newest of the three breweries is Saugatuck Brewing Company. Also located conveniently close to us, this brewing company offers two fabulous locations guests love visiting. With 12 unique brews renowned for their spectacular flavors, you can't go wrong. Explore fruity and fresh shandies, stouts, porters, and more!

The Saugatuck-Douglas Pub and Barrel Room is a classic favorite. You can taste all their specialty craft beers, rent out the barrel room, learn about the brewing process, or even brew your own beer! They are the only brewery in the state with this unique experience, sending you home with a custom label and a batch to enjoy later.

Their secondary location in Kalamazoo hosts fun local events like trivia and live music nights regularly. Either stop is worth the visit!

What better way to remember your extraordinary experience here at the Castle than with the low-key brewery hopping experience of a lifetime? Are you more of a wine drinker? No worries—we have a romantic wine-tasting getaway for you.

Vacation is a time to enjoy the little things in life, such as comfortable, dreamy lodging and cold, local beer. With these fantastic Southwest MI breweries, all within a 30-minute radius of our Castle in the Country Bed & Breakfast Inn, you can fill your stay with good food, hand-crafted brews, and great memories.

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Published March 2024

Photo Credit: © davideangeliniphotos via canva.com