It is certainly true that the craft beer industry has experienced a boom in recent years, with more and more independent producers opening their doors and showing what they have to offer.
One of the best regions in the country for beer production is Tennessee, with the city of Chattanooga in particular being the home to some of the best craft breweries in the country.
But what exactly are the best breweries in Chattanooga, and what makes them so special?
Where Is Chattanooga?
Located along the Tennessee River, and bordering Georgia, Chattanooga is a major city within the state of Tennessee – where it is considered one of the two principal cities in eastern Tennessee, alongside Knoxville.
A crucial city during the American Civil War, Chattanooga’s multiple converging railroads made it a principal hub during the conflict – a fact that marked the city as a crucial waypoint for commerce, industry, and manufacturing for the decades to follow.
Famed for its history, its architecture, and of course, its beer, Chattanooga remains a popular city that is visited by Tennessee residents and tourists alike.
The 10 Best Breweries In Chattanooga
Now that we know a little more about Chattanooga, and the wide variety of things that it has to offer, it is now time to take a closer look at some of the best breweries in the region – all of them offering something a little different to the wider framework of Tennessee.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
1. Five Wits Brewing Company
First on our list, we have the Five Wits Brewing Company – a great local spot known for its great beer, great customer service, and an environment that keeps people wanting to come back again and again.
With a decor that blends modern and traditional, and a timeless sense of charm that makes for a great sitting experience, what Five Wits really prides itself on is the beer – of which there are 6 active beers presently in circulation.
They might not be the biggest brewery on this list, but they have certainly made a name for themselves in Chattanooga.
Address: 1501 Long St, Chattanooga, TN 37408
2. Heaven And Ale Brewing Company
Next on our list, we have Heaven and Ale Brewing Company – one of the most popular breweries in Chattanooga, and one that has three different locations within the town.
Very much becoming part of the local flavor of Chattanooga, Heaven and Ale brings old fashioned charm and combines it with the modern science of craft beer – creating a specific menu of food and snacks that perfectly pair with the beers on offer.
While this degree of precision might not be to everyone’s taste, it really is a must see spot for those who consider themselves craft beer fanatics.
Address: 326 E Main St, Chattanooga, TN 37404
3. Odd Story Brewing Company
With an eccentric name that takes inspiration from the ‘Odd Story of Chattanooga’ – a local tale that involved a series of floods and storms causing the town to be raised above its previously established level – Odd Story Brewing is a tight, modern brewery that is a great place to enjoy some of the best beers and food around.
Light and airy, and with all the modern, trendy charm you’d expect from micro breweries, this might not be what you would expect from such an unusual name.
However, where this place really shows its true character is the beer itself – which has won awards locally for its taste and flavors.
Address: 336 E Ml King Blvd, Chattanooga, TN 37403
4. Wanderlinger Brewing Company
Next on our list, we have the Wanderlinger Brewing Company – a locally owned brewery that is as famous for its taproom and live music, as it is for its beer.
This has really won over the hearts of the local community, and has become a great place to kick back, enjoy some great Tennessee music, and drink some even finer beers.
Packed with modern charm, and serving some of the best food and beer in the region, Wanderlinger Brewing Company is the perfect place to unwind and relax.
Address: 1208 King St, Chattanooga, TN 37403
5. Chattanooga Brewing Company
One of the oldest breweries in the area, the Chattanooga Brewing Company is home to both the local soccer and football teams, and is very much a main fixture of the local community.
Originally starting in 1890, this spot might not be the original location, but it certainly carries on the spirit of this bygone era – offering old time charm, great tasting beer, and some of the best food and snacks in the town.
So if you are looking to try the real deal, then the Chattanooga Brewing Company is the place to start!
Address: 1804 Chestnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37408
6. Naked River Brewing Company
Found in one of the town’s oldest buildings, the Naked River Brewing Company is laden with natural light, charm, and vintage aesthetics – all of which pay homage to the history of the region, and the brewing heritage of Chattanooga.
Located right on the waterfront, you are certainly guaranteed one of the best seats in town – the perfect place to kick back, enjoy some fine food and beer, and enjoy any of the community activities that take place throughout the week.
For a touch of something special, this really is the place to be!
Address: 1791 Reggie White Blvd, Chattanooga, TN 37402
7. Hutton And Smith Brewing Company
Named for the two men who are considered the forefathers of modern geology – James Hutton and William Smith – the Hutton and Smith Brewing Company pays a fitting tribute to the legacies of these two men.
And what better place than right in the heart of Chattanooga? A place that, while a world away from Scotland and England (the birthplaces of the two men), is surrounded by some of the best natural beauty spots in the world.
Address: 431 E Martin Luther King Blvd #120, Chattanooga, TN 37403
8. Mad Knight Brewing Company
Somewhat strangely named for a brewery in the middle of Tennessee, the Mad Knight Brewing Company boasts a lowkey, medieval-style taproom – one that, unlike the others on this list, is not the primary focus of the business.
Their main business model is wholesale, selling their beer to local stores, supermarkets, and suppliers, and quickly becoming a local favorite in the process.
Laden with all the charm, and with a sense of character more akin to European brewing companies, Mad Knight is a great addition to the Chattanooga brewing industry, and one that seems like it is here to stay.
Address: 4015 Tennessee Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37409
9. The Tap House & Empyreal Brewing Company
Understated and charming, The Tap House & Empyreal Brewing Company is a fine addition to the local brewing industry in Chattanooga, and one that has taken the area by storm – offering a great place to kick back and enjoy some fine local beers.
Located in an old brick building in the center of town, this really does feel like it has been forever, which is unusual from such a fresh and modern company.
Address: 3800 Saint Elmo Ave Ste 114, Chattanooga, TN 37409
10. Tailgate Brewery
Last on our list, but by no means least, we have the Tailgate Brewery – the perfect place to kick back and enjoy some of the finest beer and food in Chattanooga.
With a great location that brings together the modern and the traditional, this feels right at home in the city, and offers a great selection of local craft brews, IPAs, and snacks.
Address: 1464 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402
Final Thoughts
And there we have it, everything you need to know about Chattanooga, and the best breweries located in the region.
It is certainly true that the world of craft beer has exploded in recent years, with more and more local, independent breweries opening up each year – all of them offering something new and exciting to this blossoming industry.
However, as this list shows, there are some breweries that are just a little better than the rest.
So if you want to explore the best breweries in Chattanooga, then be sure to check out this handy guide. Something tells me you won’t be disappointed!
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that we know a little more about the best breweries in Chattanooga, it is now time to take a closer look at some frequently asked questions that you might be interested in.
While the competition for beer brewing in Tennessee is certainly tight, Chattanooga is held up as hosting some of the best beer breweries in the state.
While craft beer has a reputation for being stronger tasting than mass produced beer, it is a blanket term that includes all forms of lager, beer, ale, and stout – meaning there is something to suit everyone’s tastes.
Inspired by my love for brewing, I started this site with my friend Derek. We travel, discover unique beers, and share our experiences and recommendations. Join us in exploring our favorite beers and breweries. Enjoy our site as we share our passion with you!
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