Exploring new destinations is one of the joys of being a general aviation pilot. But what if you could combine your love for flying with your love for craft beer? Here are 12 breweries you can fly to for $100 brews.
1. Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership
El Prado, New Mexico
Nestled in the stunning desert landscape of New Mexico, Taos Mesa Brewing's Mothership location offers an unforgettable experience. With its on-site venue hosting frequent concerts (many free during the summer), Taos Mesa Brewing provides a great blend of craft beer and local culture.
If you drink after flying in, consider staying the night at Hotel Luna Mystica, where you can stay in a vintage trailer under the New Mexico stars.
2. Hangar 24 Brewery & Taproom
Redlands Municipal Airport (KREI)
Redlands, California
Hangar 24 Brewery was founded by pilots, so it's no wonder that it is a favorite among pilots. The Taproom serves aviation-themed beers like the Chem Trail Creme Ale and High Wing Hazy IPA just 500 feet away from the airport lobby. The proximity to the airport makes it an easy and enjoyable stop for any aviation enthusiast. Rotating food vendors and weekly Thursday trivia will have you flying back for more.
3. Hangar 24 Taproom and Restaurant
Lake Havasu City Airport (KHII)
Lake Havasu, Arizona
A sister location to the brewery's original Redlands location, the Hangar 24 Taproom and Restaurant in Lake Havasu City offers a unique desert experience. Located directly on the airport next to transient parking, it's the quickest that pilots can go from throttle to bottle. The taproom pours Hangar 24's best known beers (including the Betta IPA) while the restaurant serves burger, tacos, and flatbreads.
4. St Nicholas Brewing Company
Southern Illinois Airport (KMDH)
Murphysboro, Illinois
In 2023, St. Nicholas Brewing Company brewed the Wheelz Up' IPA, the first beer brewed in a general aviation airport in the United States. At this MDH location, you'll find the brewery's flagship beers, including the 7*11 Blonde Ale, Cadence Porter, Peloton Pale Ale, and the Wee-Heavy Scotch Strong. If you prefer cocktails, try the Aviation, Paper Plane, or The Piper. There's also plenty to eat, including a Hundrder Dollar Burger (which is only $23.95). See the drinks and food menus for the most up-to-date offerings.
The brewery's MDH location hosts cycling club rides every Wednesday, so pack your bike if you're looking to burn off that carbs you'll put on!
5. Flight Deck Brewing
Brunswick Executive Airport (KBXM)
Brunswick, Maine
Situated on the former Brunswick Naval Air Station, the brewery's taproom is a tribute to aviation history. Its Subhunter Imperial IPA and P-3 Pale Ale embrace the site's naval aviation roots. Other great beers include the Preflight Czech List (a Czech-style Pilsner), Puddle Jumper Hazy IPA, and Breaking the Sour Barrier (a Raspberry Lime Sour Ale). Even if you've tried these beers before, you'll only find the McFly Nitro Irish Stout, Hellfish Helles Lager and Vuelo Nocturno Mexican-style Dark Lager at the Tasting Room. Check their tap list to know what to expect before flying in.
Flight Deck also serves up pizza baked in a Maine-made copper clad wood-fired oven baked with locally-sourced ingredients.
6. Cape May Brewing Co. Tasting Room
Rio Grande, New Jersey
Located in the complex of former Naval Air Station Wildwood, Cape May brews nautical-themed beers like the Coastal Evacuation Double IPA and Shellstruck Ale. Although you'll find Cape May Brewing's beers across the Northeast, it's worth flying in to try the Hot Honey Porter and the Crushin' It Blueberrry Lemon IPA, which are only available at the Tasting Room. See their draft menu for the most up-to-date offerings.
7. Big Slide Brewery & Public House
Lake Placid, New York
Big Slide always has ten beers on tap. For sours lovers, the brewery's fermentation room creates delicious Berliner Weisse, Gose, and Lambic beers. The restaurant also serves a full menu of locally-sourced foods. Come back often to enjoy their weekly Pizza & Pint Night Thursdays, Oyster Fridays, and Sunday Brunch.
8. Glasstown Brewing Company
[Millville Municipal Airport (KMIV)[(/airports/KMIV)]
Millville, New Jersey
Glasstown Brewing Company is an embodiment of New Jersey. It's located on the former Millville Army Air Field (now Millville Municipal Airport) next to the Millville Army Air Field Museum. The brewery's 609 IPA and 856 DIPA are a nod to New Jersey. Their friendly staff will help you get to know the rest of their beers on tap.
Glasstown doesn't serve food, but you can check out Verna's Flight Line Restaurant just a short walk away.
9. Dark Horse Brewing Company
Marshall, Michigan
This brewery is a local staple, offering an eclectic range of beers and a lively atmosphere. The brewery is located just under a mile away from Brooks Field Airport, but it's well worth the walk. 4,500 mugs (each belonging to a member of the Mug Club) cover the walls and ceiling, showing just how popular the brewery is among locals. The taproom's full menu includes pizza (red, white, and Detroit-style), calzones, and sandwiches.
The brewery hosts weekly events, like trivia, game, and live music nights. The beer garden opens in early May, but the 4 Elf Winter Warmer Ale makes it a worthwhile visit even during the winter.
10. Think Tank Brew Lab
Greenville Downtown Airport (KGMU)
Greeneville, South Carolina
Tucked away on the southestern industrial corner of Greenville Downtown Airport, Think Tank Brew Lab is a hidden gem perfect for visiting year-round. The brewery hosts the Frosty Farmer Winter Market on Saturdays from January through April, making Think Tank a great winter destination. The Swamp Rabbit Trail runs next to the brewery, making it the perfect starting point to explore Greenville's green spaces.
The House Pale Ale is a common favorite, but their tap list includes other great beers, like the Cold Porter and Night Rider dark German lager. The brewery's small but delicious food menu includes bratwurst, pulled pork sandwich, and tacos.
11. Hunter-Gatherer Brewery
Jim Hamilton L B Owens Airport (KCUB)
Columbia, South Carolina
Hunter-Gatherer Brewery is housed in the historic Curtiss-Wright Hangar at Owens Field. With a solid lineup of craft beers and a variety of pizzas, it’s a great fly-in destination. Its rooftop patio is perfect for watching aircraft taking off and landing on runway 13.
12. Westhampton Beach Brewing Company
Francis S Gabreski Airport (KFOK)
Westhampton Beach, New York
Located a 5-minute walk from the airport, this Long Island brewery is known for its relaxed coastal vibe and a great selection of beers. Its beach-themed beers include the Flying Dutchman Belgian Tripel, Hurricane IPA, and Riptide DIPA. They also serve up pizzas and pretzels. See their full menu for all available brews and food.
A note on drinking and flying
Please drink responsibly, and never drink and fly. Always follow the FAA regulations regarding alcohol consumption and flying. If you plan to drink when flying into one of these destinations, make sure you bring a designated pilot, find lodging, or arrange for alternative transportation.