Illinois Office of Tourism Releases Guide to Craft Breweries and Distilleries

Chicago, IL – The Illinois Office of Tourism today announces the release of its newest guide to craft breweries and distilleries around the state. Plan a quick Chicago & Beyond beer-centric getaway at the more than forty craft breweries and distilleries in the Chicagoland area, or travel downstate and experience even more of the state’s celebrated local flavors and ingredients.

Illinois, located in the heart of the Midwest, knows a thing or two about craft beer. The state is among the most exciting places to enjoy handcrafted brews and spirits thanks to the many local artisans and craftsman who take extreme pride in their work. 

Browsing the guide, readers will find a listing of craft brews and distilleries across Illinois, listed alphabetically by town. Included in the guide are such popular drinking destinations as:

• Scratch Brewing Company - this farmhouse brewery and restaurant located 5 miles from the Shawnee National Forest in Ava was named a top brewery for foraged beer by Outside Magazine, and one of the most beautiful places to drink beer in the world by All About Beer Magazine. Scratch Brewing Company focuses on farmhouse beers and other styles brewed with home grown and locally farmed and foraged ingredients.
• The Old Bakery Beer Company – Located in downtown Alton, Old Bakery Beer Companyoffers high quality local food and beer to Alton residents. The brewery and restaurant, located at 400 Landmarks Boulevard, has been home to at least 3 bakeries over the last 100 years. Old Bakery Beer will offer four year- round beers, including a Wheat IPA, Rye Pale Ale, Mild Brown Ale, and a Pilsner-style Beer, as well as several rotating seasonal and local guest taps.
• Half Acre – Chicago’s Half Acre brews, packages, and sells craft beers in Chicago's Northcenter neighborhood. Along with perennials Daisy Cutter, Gossamer, and Over Ale they put out small-batch specialty brews all the time. You can come get to know the beers and the people behind them in their Brewery Shop, where you can sample and purchase to-go, or in their Tap Room, where you can stay and get to know more about Half Acre.

 “This state offers such a variety of activities to inspire travel, and our guides allow us to showcase how Illinois tourism can cater to individual interests and hobbies” says Cory Jobe, Director of the Illinois Office of Tourism. “Our Illinois breweries are worth planning an entire trip around – offering tasting rooms, tours, restaurants, sample souvenirs and events and festivals throughout the year.”