Your Guide to the Best Craft Beers in the Washington DC Area
If you are thinking about enjoying the tastes of Washington DC, you cannot miss out on some of the most exciting craft beer breweries.

Are you looking for the best craft beers in Washington, DC? Look no further! This guide will provide you with all the information you need to find your favorite local brews. From breweries to pubs, we’ve got it all covered. Whether you're a fan of IPAs or prefer a stout, there's something for everyone here. Grab a beer, and follow along on our tour of some of the best craft beers in Washington, DC!
Read on to learn about the craft beer scene around our nation's capital.
Port City Brewing Company
Situated in the magnificent port city of Alexandria, Virginia, Port City Brewing Company is a place to savor, explore and celebrate amazing beer creations. From tastings to tours and events, there are many ways to discover why this brewery is so beloved!
Port City Brewing Company opened its doors in February 2011, founded by Bill and Karen Butcher. They offer award-winning seasonal, occasional, and specialty beers; each brewed to be a delicious and well-balanced drink. They also have year-round brews that you can always count on to be available.
Port City Brewing Company only uses the highest quality ingredients to craft delicious beers bursting with creativity. They have a popular tasting room where you can explore their beer portfolio. The tasting room provides a casual setting for friends, family, and pets to enjoy award-winning beers.
While you're there, ask to experience the crisp and citrusy flavor of Optimal Wit. Crafted in the traditional Belgian style, this beer offers layers of complex flavor. Made with 100% Virginia-grown wheat and a perfect blend of spices such as Spanish orange peel, coriander, and grains of paradise, Optimal Wit is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it year-round with an ABV of 4.9%, an IBU of 12.5, and a hazy pale color.
Don't stop at Optimal Wit, though. You should also get a sample of their year-round Monumental IPA. A perfect harmony of hop bitterness and malted sweetness is present in this IPA, making it a truly exquisite drinking experience.
7 Locks Brewing
7 Locks Brewing began with a mission: to craft well-executed, thoughtful beers reflective of their vision of what local beer should be. With an emphasis on hospitality and inclusiveness, they have created a space for the community to come together and enjoy the award-winning beer.
Since 2015, 7 Locks Brewing has become an integral component of the local Maryland community, offering an array of brews that everyone can enjoy. Whether you're new to craft beer or are looking for something unique, this spot is sure to have something perfect for you.
Located in the heart of Rockville, 7 Locks Brewing welcomes visitors to their 7,200 square-foot breweries and taproom. Enjoy a beer on tap or flight with friends, or take in some live music from local musicians on Saturdays. You'll also have access to food trucks outside the building for tasty treats.
And don’t forget the chance to help out Maryland charities! 7 Locks Brewing proudly supports animal welfare organizations and environmental groups – causes close to their hearts. Beer lovers throughout Maryland and DC can find 7 Locks Brews at restaurants, bars, and many other retail locations.
Silver Branch Brewing Company
At Silver Branch Brewing Company, guests can enjoy the highest quality beer inspired by traditions from all over Europe and America. Representing four different cultures--Belgium, the British Isles, Central Europe, and the Americas--the four flagship beers offer an array of tastes to explore.
The taproom and Biergarten, located in downtown Silver Spring, MD, provide a unique atmosphere encapsulating the various brewing cultures. Guests can choose to relax in a classic American taproom or enjoy the lively atmosphere of a German beer hall. Come experience gemütlichkeit at its finest! This is the spot to bring all of your closest friends to.
Brookland Pint
If you're looking to tantalize your taste buds with new and exciting flavors, Brookland Pint is the perfect place to purchase a drink! American craft beer is their specialty, and it helps reduce transatlantic shipping and supports local economies.
Brookland Pint immerses you in the flavor experience. Their seasonal menu, crafted by chefs, is mainly sourced from regional farms. The ingredients pair perfectly with their great selection of craft beers - making it the go-to spot for all beer lovers.
Brookland Pint hopes to be environmental stewards in the community, showcasing a better way of doing business through the spirit of American craft beer, and people love it! Composting the bulk of their waste means that landfills are impacted less, which is great for the planet.
Furthermore, much of their equipment, furniture, construction materials, and design elements have been recycled or reclaimed as eco-friendly. And the brewery's energy source comes from windmill farms to provide green energy credits.
Additionally, about 95% of staff live within walking distance, reducing parking problems, traffic flow, and overall carbon footprint to a minimum. The best part, of course, is their tasty drink menu.
The drink menu is always evolving at Brookland Pint. Here are some of their favorite beers:
• Madonna IPA – Imperial / Double 8% ABV, 90 IBU from Zero Gravity Craft Brewery
• Snow Pants Stout – Oatmeal 8.5% ABV, 55 IBU from Union Craft Brewing
• Christmas Morning Stout – Imperial / Double Milk 9.2% ABV, 55 IBU from Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
• Gingerbread Stout – Imperial / Double Milk 9.2% ABV, 55 IBU from Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
Whether a light pilsner or an imperial stout, they'll have something that suits your taste. Their seasonal offerings ensure you can find a delicious craft beer no matter the time of year.
Plan Your Craft Beer Trip to Washington DC
There you have it! Now you know where you can start exploring Washington, DC's amazing brewery scene.
Are you ready to experience some of the best craft breweries firsthand? Then it's time to plan your trip to the nation's capital. Contact us today for more information on what we have to offer.
From craft beer brewery tours to historic day trips, we know how to make your trip to Washington D.C. one you'll never forget! Let one of our team members tell you how our services can help you. Happy travels!


