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Best of Illinois

Brewery fun activities

You want to spend your time at a brewery that offers more than just a place to sit and drink.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Goose Island Taproom image 1
Goose Island Taproom image 2
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U-shaped bar made from reclaimed local wood creates a communal vibe in a sleek, modern space with indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels laid-back and playful, attracting people who enjoy quality beer and relaxed socializing. Specialty brews and exclusive offerings add a unique touch to the experience.

Tours feature a charismatic guide who makes learning about hops, barrels, and fermentation genuinely fun. The experience combines informative facts with an engaging, lively presentation.

The brewery offers a fantastic tour that covers the entire production process. The taproom features outdoor sidewalk seating and serves all standard beers plus exclusive varietals, especially barrel-aged dark beers.

People are saying

"The beer tour guides are knowledgeable and share great stories."

"The brewery tour here is fun, informative, and led by a great guide."

"The tours here are super fun and informative."

Good to know

1

The brewery tour costs $15 per person and lasts over an hour.

2

Bingo events are held regularly, providing a fun community experience.

3

Participate in March Madness promotions for a chance to win prizes.

02
is/was brewing image 1

Brewery offers a spacious taproom with cozy indoor seating and a large outdoor garage area. Atmosphere stays chill and friendly, featuring skeeball games and rotating food trucks. Focus centers on creative saison and farmhouse beers with a family- and dog-friendly vibe.

Hilarious hosts run games with fun categories. The taproom offers skee-ball and artwork featuring cats and geese.

Focus centers on a creative and focused saison menu featuring bright, drinkable Franco-Belgian styles. The taproom offers a good selection of guest drafts and maintains a comfortable ambiance without feeling overcrowded.

People are saying

"Their saison and wild beers are complex and nuanced."

"This brewery is all about inventive saisons and mixed fermentation beers."

"Their beer is fantastic, especially the nuanced saison-influenced brews."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Thursday at 8pm with a fun host.

2

Bingo events are held every Thursday night for community engagement.

3

Follow their Instagram for updates on special food pop-ups.

03
Riverlands Brewing Company image 1

Brewery offers large open spaces with relaxing outdoor patio and frequent live music. Atmosphere feels down to earth and welcoming, with a laid back vibe and local artwork. Food trucks and sports on screens add variety and energy to the experience.

Monthly board games and BINGO night offer engaging group fun. Food trucks, trivia nights, and local artwork add to the lively, fun atmosphere.

Offers a vibey taproom with chill outdoor seating. Known for quality stouts and a standout vibe among local breweries.

People are saying

"I enjoyed their well-crafted and flavorful beer."

"The beer here is top-tier, flavorful, and really tasty."

"I loved the great beer selection and rotating brews."

Good to know

1

You can bring your own food into the brewery.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere on Friday nights, but service is quick.

3

Food trucks are available on-site when the weather is nice.

04
Sturdy Shelter Brewing image 1

Bright, open brewery in a historic building offers cozy seating nooks and board games for a community feel. Atmosphere stays friendly and lively with live music and food trucks outside. Beer selection includes unique brews like mango-lime-jalapeรฑo and imperial stout.

Trivia nights on Tuesday evenings offer a super fun way to engage with others. Frequent events and food trucks keep the atmosphere lively and provide something for everyone.

A beautiful and cozy brewery with a wide range of quality beer options. It offers standout service and works well for private events along the Fox River.

People are saying

"I enjoyed their great beer; every single one was delicious."

"It's a beautiful and cozy spot with nooks for hanging out."

"This brewery has some of the best craft beer I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The brewery does not accept cash; only credit cards are accepted.

2

There are food trucks available on weekends for dining options.

3

Trivia night happens every Tuesday evening and is a fun event.

05
Nightshade and Dark's Pandemonium Brewing image 1

Brewery combines live jazz, anime and Japanese films, and board games for a unique, eclectic vibe. Atmosphere stays laid-back and welcoming, inviting relaxation with friends. On-site brewing offers distinctive ales, including an Irish stout and a red beer with Earl Grey tea and plum.

Fun activities include watching anime and Japanese films all night and enjoying local music at the brewery. The atmosphere stays lively with these engaging entertainment options.

Lots of options include a red beer with Earl Grey tea and plum for a unique taste. The brewery offers lots of seating and a small separate cafe to satisfy hunger.

People are saying

"I loved all the unique beers I tried here."

"I thought the brewery's beers were really original and creative."

"I found the trivia night full of people and lots of laughs."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a lively atmosphere.

2

Live big band performances occur on Sunday nights, attracting a good crowd.

3

The brewery allows BYO food, making it budget-friendly for snacks.

06
Hop District Community Brewing Co. image 1

Brewery offers a spacious interior with large bar seating, a fenced-in patio, and a back lounge with games. Atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly, welcoming families and locals without pretense. Regulars enjoy varied brews alongside casual games and outdoor seating.

A chill bar area and a back lounge with games and comfy seating create a fun environment. Frequent game nights and events keep activities lively, while an outdoor patio offers a relaxed hangout spot.

A variety of brews fills the taps, offering more than just one style. The atmosphere feels like a true neighborhood brewery with a family friendly vibe and a crowd of real people.

People are saying

"The staff here makes you feel so welcome with their friendly energy."

"The staff at this brewery makes you feel so welcome."

"The rotating beer selection here is amazing and constantly new."

Good to know

1

Food trucks are available on weekends for added dining options.

2

Hop District hosts various fun events and game nights throughout the week.

3

You can order food from the Italian restaurant next door for delivery.

07
Black Lung Round Lake Beach image 1

Brewery offers a laid back vibe with live music four days a week and a dog friendly environment inside and out. Wood bar and outdoor seating create a warm and inviting atmosphere where community gathers. Games and artwork add to the casual, entertaining experience.

Lots of fun events happen here, including a game night with DJ Bingo and live music on Fridays. Several TVs show sports games, adding to the lively atmosphere with friendly people around.

Warm and inviting ambiance sets the tone. Impressive beer knowledge guides choices. The brewery acts as a community web and a string of memorable nights.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer selection here."

"Jesse's beer knowledge made choosing a brew a fun activity."

"The bartender Jesse's knowledge of the brewery's beer was impressive."

Good to know

1

Live music is available every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

2

DJ Bingo nights are hosted regularly and are very popular.

3

Food is available from a nearby pizza place, delivered to the bar.

08
Garage Band Brewing image 1

Wide open space with huge bar and patio seating creates a welcoming environment. Live music and pinball machines add lively entertainment. The atmosphere is comfortable and often crowded on weekends with a friendly, relaxed vibe.

Pinball games add a playful touch, while local music nights bring extra energy. Friendly staff create a welcoming vibe that makes activities more fun.

Known for its friendly atmosphere, this brewery offers a welcoming space with a strong local reputation. It stands out as one of the best breweries in the area.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer and solid options."

"The beer at this brewery is great and the vibe is good."

"The bartenders here are so inviting, it makes the fun activities even better."

Good to know

1

Garage Band Brewing hosts Yahtzee night every Wednesday at 7pm.

2

You can bring your pets to Garage Band Brewing, both inside and outside.

3

The brewery allows outside food, so you can bring BBQ from the nearby restaurant.

09
Bubblehouse Brewing Company image 1

Large indoor space with contemporary aesthetics and a family-friendly atmosphere during appropriate hours. Outdoor patio features sun shade covers and string lighting, creating a relaxed setting for socializing and games. Regular live music, board games, and food trucks add to the lively but casual vibe.

Events happen all week to keep the vibe lively. Fridays feature vinyl rewind with Jon, adding to the fun atmosphere.

Offers a family-oriented atmosphere with a wide flavor spectrum on tap. Features unique beer styles not commonly found in many breweries and includes a party room for gatherings.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is excellent and always moving."

"The brewery's beers were excellent, creative, and unique."

"The beer selection here is diverse and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in the front, but more is available in the back.

2

The venue allows outside food since they do not serve food on-site.

3

Bubblehouse Brewing Company hosts various events and activities throughout the week.

10
Double Clutch Brewing Company image 1

Brewery space doubles as a classic car gallery with a strong German theme. Atmosphere feels fun and lively, often featuring live music and a warm, inviting vibe. Crowd enjoys authentic German-style beers alongside a unique automotive setting.

A fun atmosphere sets the tone with old school car collection adding a unique twist. Regular events and a yearly membership keep activities engaging.

Craft beers come with a strong automotive theme featuring a notable car collection that shapes the atmosphere. The space feels more like a museum or events venue than a typical brewery.

People are saying

"The German-style beers here are fantastic and flavorful."

"I loved their German-style beers, especially the Helles Rauchbier."

"The beer and food here are top-notch, making for great fun activities."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs weekdays from 3-5pm with discounted drinks.

2

Trivia night occurs every Wednesday at 7pm with no entry fee.

3

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Thursdays; a two-drink minimum applies.

11
Harbor Brewing Company image 1

Brewery offers a friendly family atmosphere with dog-friendly indoor and outdoor spaces. Minimalist design avoids clutter and neon, creating a relaxed vibe complemented by live music and outdoor games. Beer selection includes excellent sour and red ales, while food must be brought in or ordered from a nearby Italian restaurant.

A fun host leads trivia in a kid friendly atmosphere. The space supports a great time for everyone involved.

A family-friendly brewery with a beautiful venue offers a solid selection of beers but does not carry Mexican alcohol. The bartender can come off as unwelcoming and annoyed when guests enter.

People are saying

"The beer choices here are great."

"The Barrel Room at this brewery is a fantastic space for events."

"The drinks here are fabulous and great."

Good to know

1

The cost of the room is approximately $1,200, with a $1,000 minimum bar bill guarantee.

2

A $30 reservation fee is required to secure a table for events.

3

The Barrel Room is available for private events.

12
District Brew Yards image 1

Open-layout brewpub with self-serve beer taps and cashless system creates a casual, interactive atmosphere. Spacious indoor and dog-friendly outdoor seating accommodate groups and encourage relaxed socializing. Board games and a variety of beers from multiple breweries add to the laid-back, fun vibe.

A self-pour system lets people sample many drinks easily, making tasting interactive and fun. Trivia nights add an inviting vibe, and the spot works well for big groups looking to hang out in a laid-back setting.

Four microbreweries share a self-serve tap system that lets you pour as much as you want from each. Staff stay friendly while this setup keeps costs low and offers a unique collaborative experience.

People are saying

"You can pour your own beer and try a ton of options."

"You can pour your own beer from tons of options."

"It's a fun, interactive spot to sample a wide variety of beers."

Good to know

1

Trivia night occurs every Wednesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

The venue offers an all-you-can-eat and drink deal during special events.

3

Guests can pour their own beer from multiple breweries at their own pace.

13
Sketchbook Brewing Co image 1

Spacious brewery with industrial design and a laid-back vibe offers both large indoor areas and a dog-friendly outdoor patio. Family-friendly features include board games and kid activities, while live music adds energy on weekends. Noise levels can rise to nightclub volume, making conversation difficult at times.

Events include live music and trivia nights. Sketchbook offers a fun atmosphere for social activities.

Spacious yet cozy taproom creates a welcoming vibe. The brewery stands out as a community gem with a large indoor and outdoor area.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer here."

"I found the brewery's beers to be well-made and inventive."

"They host fun activities like live music and trivia."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so consider arriving early or using nearby street parking.

2

The brewery does not serve food, but food trucks are often available outside.

3

Dogs are allowed on the outdoor patio, making it pet-friendly.

14
Sketchbook Brewing Co - Evanston image 1

Small brewery with a warm, laid-back vibe offers a cozy taproom where people read, play games, and chat. Occasional live music and community events create a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Guests bring their own food, enjoying tasty beers with a focus on citric and West Coast IPA styles.

Musical bingo nights bring fun energy with lively music and engaging events. The taproom offers a laid back vibe perfect for socializing and enjoying activities.

Taproom offers a variety of beers with community-supported programs. The space features fun music and events, creating a lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"The beer staff here are so friendly and helpful."

"This brewery has a great IPA collection and a huge variety of beers."

"I loved the fantastic brews with fresh rotating taps."

Good to know

1

After-hours drinks and DJ dancing happen every Wednesday at the brewery.

2

Musical bingo night is a fun event held regularly at the brewery.

3

You can bring your own food to enjoy with your drinks.

15
Phase Three Brewing - Lake Zurich image 1

Brewery occupies a smaller industrial space with large outdoor patio and modern decor. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and lively, featuring live music, pinball machines, and video games. Beers, especially stouts, receive high praise for quality and uniqueness.

Unique beer options and a variety of fun ciders and cocktails create a lively atmosphere. Tons of fun events, including themed ones like haunted nights, keep the experience engaging.

Modern vibe sets this brewery apart from typical older styles. Open space creates a family-friendly atmosphere with fun events and a great environment for kids.

People are saying

"I thought the beer was excellent and amazing."

"I found the haunted event to be super fun."

"The beer here is amazing, especially the hazy styles."

Good to know

1

Happy hour pricing is available before 5 PM on weekdays.

2

The event costs $50 for three pours plus a welcome pour.

3

You can bring your own food or order from a nearby restaurant.

16
Wolfden Brewing Company image 1

Large indoor space combines with spacious outdoor beer garden featuring a fire pit, stage, and dog-friendly seating. Atmosphere stays cozy and casual with low music volume, welcoming families and pets. Regular live music and craft fairs add to the friendly, community vibe.

Weekly walks explore the nearby forest preserve. Staff dress as movie characters adds a playful touch. The atmosphere feels lively and fun.

A real brewery with a casual vibe serves consistently top-tier beer. It caters to hop heads, dark beer fans, and casual drinkers alike.

People are saying

"It's a great place to sit and enjoy some good beer."

"This brewery's beers are top-notch and perfectly balanced."

"It's a fun atmosphere with a great outdoor space."

Good to know

1

On Thursdays, the burgers are half off.

2

Thirsty Thursday offers 1/2 pound hamburgers for 8 dollars.

3

The brewery is kid and dog friendly.

17
Mikerphone Brewing image 1

Music-themed brewery with pinball machines, dog-friendly environment, and a decorated tap room featuring old guitars and vinyl. Outdoor patio offers space for casual conversation, though it lacks shade. Atmosphere shifts from relaxing to lively during concerts and trivia nights.

Loud and lively, this spot offers a fun atmosphere with plenty of space inside and out. Craft beers inspired by music add to the pup-friendly vibe, making it a big and engaging place to hang out.

A music-themed brewery with pinball machines offers a dog friendly atmosphere and a big, fun space. Fresh batches include collaborations with local breweries and seasonal beers.

People are saying

"The beer here is fantastic and thoughtfully brewed."

"I loved the awesome brewery with a ton of beer selections."

"They had sours, Hazies, and Weiss beers, plus cocktails."

Good to know

1

Live events are held year-round at Mikerphone Brewing.

2

Food trucks frequently serve local food alongside their beer.

3

Parking can be challenging on busy days due to the industrial area.

18
Roaring Table Brewing Co. image 1

Industrial, modern space offers cozy couch area, small beer garden, and multiple seating options. Atmosphere stays mellow and relaxing with a local community feel and soft tunes. Beers feature citrus notes and pair well with creative Detroit and NY style pizzas.

Trivia nights offer a lively way to engage with others. The tasting experience at Roaring Table Brewing Co. adds a fun, flavorful twist to the visit.

A smaller brewery in a strip mall with a clean taproom and multiple seating options. It stands out as a solid choice in the northwest suburbs.

People are saying

"I thought the beer here was amazing."

"The beers here are outstanding and refreshing."

"You have to try their creative pizza pies; they're amazing."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

The brewery allows food delivery even though they don't have a full menu.

3

You can get $2 off pints on Sundays.

19
One Allegiance Brewing image 1

Brewpub offers spacious outdoor patio and board games for a relaxed, social vibe. Atmosphere shifts from laid-back family-friendly early to lively and fun later. Beer selection includes authentic brews and seasonal cocktails, paired with standout dishes like smoked wings and truffle BLT.

Trivia Night and beer bingo create a fun atmosphere midweek. Events combine engaging games with the chance to enjoy drinks.

Underrated little brewery with a positive vibe that makes it fun to hang out. Easy and enjoyable to work with, it stands out as a brewery worth frequenting.

People are saying

"Brooke's beer knowledge made finding a great drink easy."

"Brooke's positive vibe made the brewery more fun."

"I had a lot of fun at trivia nights and bingo."

Good to know

1

Trivia night occurs every Wednesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Bingo night is held on Wednesday evenings and is a popular event.

3

Kids are not allowed after 8pm on Fridays.

20
Une Annรฉe | Hubbard's Cave Brewery & Barbecue image 1

Industrial-style brewery with a spacious outdoor patio and live music stage creates a casual, lively atmosphere. The space attracts groups, families, and dog owners who enjoy diverse sour beers and mouth-watering barbecue in a fun, shaded setting. The vibe balances relaxed outdoor enjoyment with energetic social gatherings.

Outdoor seating welcomes dogs and kids, making it a lively spot. A bubble machine on a platform adds extra fun for children. Regular events keep the atmosphere engaging throughout the month.

This brewery offers a variety of beers with consistently good taste and pairs them with great food. Staff greet guests warmly, and the brewery supports local businesses through partnered beer 5ks.

People are saying

"The beers here are amazing, especially the sours."

"I loved the brewery's flavorful brisket and tender ribs."

"It's a fun, family-friendly place with a bubble machine outside."

Good to know

1

Monday nights feature trivia nights starting at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Live music happens every Sunday evening, perfect for a relaxed night out.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

21
Global Brew Tap House image 1

Bar offers huge craft beer selection with guava ciders and in-house cocktails. Outdoor patio provides a laid-back vibe with manageable music and TV sound levels, making it easy to relax and watch sports. Board games and live music add to the fun atmosphere.

Trivia night and a variety of fun games like UNO create a lively atmosphere. Watching ball games adds to the fun vibe and casual hangout feel.

Staff explain beers clearly and help with choices. The brewery offers a welcoming atmosphere and detailed guidance on their selections.

People are saying

"They offered loads of beer options, from IPAs to stouts."

"The bartender Justin made our fun activities feel so welcoming and enjoyable."

"The beers at this brewery were amazing."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday with a $5 entry fee.

2

Themed trivia nights occur on the first Tuesday of each month.

3

Live music is featured on Friday nights, creating a lively atmosphere.

22
Buffalo Creek Brewing image 1

Barn-style brewery with hardwood floors and big windows creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Spacious indoor and immense outdoor beer garden features live music, fire pits, and picnic tables. German-style beers and local food trucks add to the relaxed, friendly vibe.

Events like Oktoberfest offer well planned activities that engage all ages. Entertainment adds to the fun atmosphere, making it a good spot to relax with friends.

Cozy brewery with a friendly atmosphere maintained by the owner. Features tall tables for small groups and picnic tables that encourage socializing.

People are saying

"The biergarten is spacious and a perfect spot for a cold beer."

"I loved the family-friendly activities during Oktoberfest."

"The brewery's beers were fantastic and easy to drink."

Good to know

1

Live music is offered on weekends, enhancing the brewery experience.

2

Food trucks visit at specific times, providing food options for guests.

3

Oktoberfest celebrations feature family-friendly activities and live entertainment.

23
GoodTimes Brewery + Kitchen image 1

Massive bar and large open space with oak detailing create an inviting setting. Atmosphere feels warm and friendly with brewing equipment visible, adding to the vibe. Multiple TVs and games make it a chill spot for groups and events.

Fun ambiance creates a lively atmosphere. Trivia night adds an extra layer of engaging entertainment.

A large, clean brewpub offers a fantastic selection of beers alongside solid food. The atmosphere suits larger group meetups with phenomenal service and an inviting vibe.

People are saying

"The German and Czech style beers here are some of the best I've had."

"The brewery offers a solid lineup of fresh, enjoyable beers."

"The food and drinks here are incredible, especially the cookie skillet."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

3

On Mondays, the BYO pizza is half off.

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