Crafted in Winston-Salem: Breweries and Distilleries Worth the Pour
From smooth spirits to inventive ales, Winston-Salem’s makers are redefining North Carolina’s craft beverage scene.
Winston-Salem’s craft beverage scene tells a story of creativity, community, and craftsmanship. Once known for its manufacturing roots, today the city thrives with independent brewers and distillers blending artistry and innovation in every pour.
Visitors can sip everything from bold IPAs and barrel-aged stouts to small-batch bourbons and rum—all crafted by locals who take pride in their process.
Whether you’re touring downtown’s historic warehouses or discovering hidden gems in Forsyth County, the city’s breweries and distilleries invite you to slow down, raise a glass, and experience the flavor of Winston-Salem.
What Makes Winston-Salem’s Brewery Scene Special
Each tasting room reflects the city’s creative energy. Many breweries are housed in revitalized industrial buildings, offering large patios, live music, food trucks, and rotating seasonal releases.
The distilleries showcase a mix of tradition and experimentation, using locally grown grains and time-honored methods to create premium spirits. Together, these makers form a connected community—collaborating on limited releases, pairing dinners, and festivals that celebrate the art of craft.
Breweries to Visit in Winston-Salem
Foothills Brewing
One of North Carolina’s craft pioneers, Foothills has been pouring since 2005 and remains a must-visit for beer lovers. The downtown brewpub pairs house-brewed staples like People’s Porter and Hoppyum IPA with a full gastropub menu, while the full tasting room on Kimwell Drive offers tours, tastings, and a slate of rotating events. Seasonal and small-batch releases paired with staple comfort classics keep locals and travelers coming back.
Wise Man Brewing
Located in a former 1920s warehouse, Wise Man has become a gathering place for live music, trivia nights, and community events. Expect a diverse tap list—from hazy IPAs to crisp lagers—and a welcoming outdoor beer garden that buzzes year-round.
Fiddlin’ Fish Brewing Company
Just steps from downtown hotels and the ballpark, Fiddlin’ Fish celebrates the spirit of adventure. The brewery’s rotating taps highlight approachable, easy-drinking styles that pair perfectly with live music and weekend food trucks.
Small Batch Beer Co.
A cozy downtown brewery that lives up to its name, Small Batch crafts inventive one-off beers in limited quantities. It’s the kind of place where visitors might find a peanut butter stout one week and a citrusy pale ale the next—always creative, always fresh. Located in the heart of downtown, Small Batch also offers a full restaurant menu!
Incendiary Brewing Company
Set in the restored Bailey Power Plant, Incendiary draws a crowd for its spacious courtyard, bold IPAs, and lively atmosphere. The brewery often hosts concerts, markets, and community events, creating a hub of energy in the heart of the Innovation Quarter.
Lesser-Known Beer Co.
Located in charming West Salem, Lesser-Known Beer Co. specializes in expressive, small-batch beers that encourage exploration. The relaxed tasting is simple and free of distractions like TV’s and brewery trivia events, instead focusing on top quality, lesser-known brews.
Brouwerij DuBois
This boutique brewery brings Belgian-inspired brewing traditions to Winston-Salem, offering farmhouse ales, saisons, and bottle-conditioned beers crafted with patience and precision. The intimate tasting room gives visitors the chance to connect with the brewer, enjoy thoughtful pours, and learn about the old-world methods behind each release. It is a welcoming stop for travelers seeking a quieter, more contemplative beer experience.
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