Visit the 8 Best Missoula Breweries

When you first explore the many things to do in Missoula, one thing becomes obvious: this city is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With access to hiking, mountain biking, skiing, kayaking, fishing, and more, there’s always an adventure nearby. Downtown also offers a lively cultural scene with art, music, and a strong lineup of Missoula breweries.

Sampling draught beer from the best breweries in Missoula, Montana is a highlight for many visitors. After a day outside, nothing beats a cold pint from one of the classic Missoula breweries. The variety is impressive, too, with spots perfect for quick tastings and others where you can settle in and enjoy a long afternoon.

Here are our picks for fantastic Missoula breweries to visit:

1. One of the first Missoula breweries to make a splash, KettleHouse Brewing has been a cornerstone of the beer scene since 1995. Their taprooms pour a wide range of reliable favorites and creative seasonal releases, all served fresh on draught. Both locations offer inviting spaces to relax with friends, and many visitors appreciate the chance to enjoy a true staple of breweries in Missoula, Montana. Their staff is known for being friendly and helpful, especially if you’re unsure where to start.
2. Tamarack Brewing has built a loyal following thanks to its community-minded approach, hearty menu, and consistently great beer. It’s an easygoing spot where you can enjoy a pint while watching sports or grabbing a casual lunch or dinner. Their craft lineup includes approachable ales, rich darker styles, and rotating specialties that appeal to a range of palates. As one of the most welcoming breweries in Missoula, Montana, it’s ideal when you want a relaxed stop with good food and good beer.
3. Draught Works is widely celebrated among Missoula breweries for its award-winning lagers, balanced ales, and experimental creations like the Hazy Latte IPA. Their taproom has a lively atmosphere with plenty of seating, and you’ll often find music, food trucks, or special releases pouring on tap. They offer crisp, easy-drinking options along with bold, modern styles, including popular hard seltzers. For anyone wanting to explore the creative side of breweries in Missoula, Montana, this is a can’t-miss stop.
4. Big Sky Brewing is one of the most recognized breweries in Missoula, Montana, thanks to its nationally distributed flagship beer, Moose Drool. Their spacious facility features an extensive tap list that goes well beyond the classics, offering everything from light and refreshing wheat beers to punchy IPAs. Visitors enjoy the casual indoor seating, outdoor spaces, and friendly help from the team when choosing among their many draught beer options. It’s a fun stop for fans of iconic Montana beer.
5. Bayern Brewing is the oldest operating craft brewery in Missoula and remains the only German microbrewery in the Rockies. Expect traditional Bavarian styles made according to Reinheitsgebot, including pilsners, lagers, dopplebocks, and hefeweizens, crafted with remarkable precision. Their attached Bistro serves great European-inspired dishes that pair well with the beer lineup. This is the perfect stop for fans of old-world brewing among the many breweries in Missoula, Montana.
6. Great Burn Brewery leans toward hop-forward, west-coast-influenced styles with a lineup that features expressive IPAs, smooth pale ales, and occasional barrel-aged surprises. The taproom is cozy and welcoming, making it a fun neighborhood stop on the south side of town. Their commitment to bold yet balanced ales makes them a favorite among IPA lovers exploring Missoula breweries. You’ll find several beers on tap that showcase their signature hop character.
7. Highlander Beer has a heritage dating back to 1890 and continues to celebrate its legacy with a modern, inviting taproom. Their current brewery pours approachable, easy-drinking ales and lagers along with fun seasonal releases and small-batch specialties. The outdoor space is popular for gathering with friends, grabbing food, and sampling their latest draught beer selections. Among breweries in Missoula, Montana, Highlander stands out for its long local history and warm atmosphere.
8. Gild is a lively brewpub on one of Missoula’s coolest blocks, blending a historic bar setting with a dynamic menu of beer, cider, and seltzer. Gild’s taproom has a stylish yet relaxed vibe, with favorites like Peak to Prairies and Survey Says consistently earning praise. They’re also known for great tacos and a popular happy hour, making it a favorite stop for anyone exploring Missoula breweries. With so much variety on tap, it’s easy to settle in for a while.