Address: 100 Sierra Nevada Way, Mills River, NC 28732

As one of the largest and most renowned craft breweries in the country, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. has made its mark on Mills River with its stunning brewery and taproom. The Sierra Nevada campus is a marvel of both engineering and design, featuring a beautiful, eco-friendly building with a large outdoor beer garden that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Must-Try Beers:

• Pale Ale: This flagship beer is a classic example of Sierra Nevada’s commitment to quality and flavor.
• Torpedo Extra IPA: For those who prefer a more robust, hop-forward brew.
• Celebration: Only available from November until December, this holiday favorite is a hoppy must-have, and even more delicious when it’s around for a limited time.

What to Expect: A diverse range of beers, brewery tours, and a restaurant serving delicious food with locally sourced ingredients. The brewery hosts various events and live music, making it a lively spot for locals and visitors.

Address: 342 Mountain Industrial Dr, Mills River, NC 28732

Oskar Blues, originally known for its innovative canned craft beers, has expanded its footprint with a significant presence in Mills River. The brewery’s taproom is a great place to experience their unique and flavorful beers in a laid-back, welcoming environment.

Must-Try Beers:

• Dale’s Pale Ale: A well-balanced, American Pale Ale that showcases the brewery’s dedication to bold flavors.
• Mama’s Little Yella Pils: A refreshing and crisp pilsner that’s perfect for a sunny day.

What to Expect: A relaxed atmosphere with a variety of beers on tap, including seasonal and limited-edition brews. The brewery also features a spacious outdoor area and often hosts live music and food trucks.

Address: 46 N Mills River Rd, Mills River, NC 28759

Appalachian Mountain Brewing, originally founded in Boone, NC, is known for its award-winning beers and dedication to local communities, sustainability, agriculture, and environmental initiatives. It combines quality brewing with Southern-inspired pub fare, making sure to bring the spirit of mountains and soulful flavors of the South to every brew.

Must-Try Beers:

• Boone Creek Blonde: AMB’s award-winning golden ale, biscuity aroma with a hint of earthy and citrus scents. Perfect for those who look for a slightly sweet, low bitterness, bready flavor with a subtle taste of toasted cereal.
• Down South Lager: To those who prefer a crisp, easy-drinking craft lager, ideal for outdoor, porch drinking moments.
• Long Leaf IPA: With the name inspired from NC’s Longleaf Pine, it is a classic IPA with citrus-piney aroma. And with their longstanding commitment to supporting local communities, AMB will donate a dollar to the Longleaf Alliance for every Long Leaf IPA sold.

What to Expect: A welcoming mountain atmosphere, pet- and family-friendly vibes, with indoor and outdoor seating. Aside from their well-known craft brews, they also take pride in their Southern-style dishes and live music events, making them a go-to for tourists exploring Pisgah National Forest. Plus, they have some delicious pub food that pairs nicely with their brews, go for the Appalachian SMASH if you’re looking for a classic burger.

Address: 4891 Boylston Hwy, Mills River, NC 28759

A family-owned and operated brewery that brings a personal touch to traditional craft beer-making, focusing on European-style beers, particularly German and Belgian brews. Burning Blush is known for its clean and classic flavors and warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Must-Try Beers:

• Sentence Enhancer: A German Helles lager with a freshly baked bread taste and floral, berry aroma.
• Simply NC Kolsch: A German style kolsch, with slight toasted bread crust and floral, grassy aromatics from 1601 hops. This is easy drinking and perfect to refresh your palate on a summer day!

What to Expect:

The brewery’s minimalist-design, open space has a modern yet friendly, neighborhood vibe. Their rotating tap list ensures there’s always something new to try. Not sure what to drink? Fret not because their staff is always ready to guide you through their selections. With food trucks often parked outside and an emphasis on community events, Burning Blush attracts both beer connoisseurs and casual drinkers. They are dog-friendly too!

Address: 336 Banner Farm Rd, Mills River, NC 28759

Representing the heart of Mills River’s craft beer scene since 2015, Mills River Brewing Co. focuses on authentic, well-crafted beers that reflect the spirit of the beautiful North Carolina mountains. Known for its laid-back ambiance and commitment to family- and pet-friendly vibes, this brewery has become a staple for both residents and visitors.

Must-Try Beers:

• Mullinax (Dry Irish Stout): The first craft beer perfected for 10 years by their head brewer, Joey. For those who seek a classic, dark, roasty Irish Stout.
• Middle Fork (Mosaic IPA): MRB’s flagship IPA that features a well-balanced flavorful West Coast Style IPA. Light citrus aroma, with a complex herbal flavor resulting in a powerful combination.

What to Expect:

A spacious taproom with a casual, laid-back vibe and great for family or large groups. The brewery features a large outdoor area, perfect for both serious beer enthusiasts and casual visitors, with regular food trucks, live music, and community events.

Address: 451 Ecusta Rd, Brevard, NC 28712

Ecusta Brewing takes inspiration from its proximity to Pisgah National Forest and is named after the region’s famous Ecusta trail. Their tagline, “Inspired by the Outdoors, Crafted for Adventure” reflects their commitment to outdoor adventure culture and innovations in craft beer. They are known for their outdoor-inspired brews that reflect local flavors and local sourced ingredients.

Must-Try Beers:

• Dead Drift Pale Ale: Their flagship pale ale inspired from the traditional American pale ale. Lighter body, less bitter, with tropical aroma.
• Pink Beds Wild Sour Ale: Brewed with hibiscus and blood orange that gives off the beautiful dark pink color and tart, refreshing taste.

What to Expect:

This is a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts! Positioned near popular trails, with bike racks, trail maps, and a taproom that serves as a gathering place for both locals and tourists. You will appreciate the rustic, outdoor seating that offers views of the forest and craft beer. Definitely a great spot to unwind after a nature adventure.

Address: 62 Eade Rd, Etowah, NC 28729

Sideways Farm & Brewing is a unique farm-brewery that emphasizes small-batch beers that incorporate homegrown ingredients. This brewery combines ethical and sustainable farming practices with botanical-inspired brews. And since they grow their own ingredients, there are seasonal beers that you can only get based on their harvest.

Must-Try Beers:

• London Brown: Sideways’ original brew. A traditional British dark ale with a rich, malty biscuit character, deep rugby brown color and a balanced bitterness.
• Brew 97.5: This is ideal for those looking for a vibrant citrusy flavor complemented by floral aroma.

What to Expect:

Looking for a family-friendly outing, a place to unwind after a hike, or a unique craft beer experience? Sideways has it all! A true farm brewery experience with seasonal beers that reflect their local terrier. Enjoy their brews while taking in the beautiful farm setting and learning about sustainable brewing practices.

Address: 72 School House Road, Mills River, NC 28759

Bold Rock Hard Cider, a brewery that brought a unique twist to Mills River’s craft beer scene, was founded in 2012 and quickly rose as one of America’s top regional craft cider brands. Their facility offers a perfect blend of industrial craft production and warm hospitality, showcasing how they transform fresh-pressed apples into their award-winning ciders, plus they use locally sourced ingredients!

Must-Try Beers:

• Apple: Bold Rock’s flagship cider is a crisp, refreshingly smooth blend of North Carolina apples.
• Draft: If you’re looking for a unique twist, tropical, sweet cider that balances a broad blend of red apples, with a hint of tropics in each sip, this is perfect for you!

What to Expect:

The cidery has a spacious, rustic taproom with both indoor and outdoor seating areas surrounded by scenic farmlands and mountain views. No matter what your vibe is, indoor or outdoor, you will definitely enjoy a flight of their diverse ciders, from traditional to innovative flavors, and often get a glimpse of their production process! Aside from the ciders, they also offer a wide variety of food options making it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.