Your Guide to Summer Breweries in Staunton, VA

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As the summer heat settles in, quench your thirst by exploring the craft beer scene in Staunton, VA! Whether you're a beer connoisseur or simply looking for a refreshing summer experience, we've created a guide for you to visit the best breweries that Staunton has to offer. From crisp ales to hoppy IPAs, each brewery on our list promises an unforgettable tasting adventure. So grab your friends, raise a glass, and let's embark on a journey to discover the very best of summer brews in Staunton!

Second Draft Bistro

If you love a refreshing beer and want the convenience of drinking it on our property, our restaurant, Second Draft Bistro, is the place to go. We offer beers from Virginia-based breweries on draft for you to enjoy in our restaurant, or on our outdoor patio. To view our current offerings, please visit our website!

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Queen City Brewing

Located near Gypsy Hill Park, Queen City Brewing has great summer brews that you will enjoy. Queen City Brewing is historical, as they were the first brewery in Staunton since Prohibition. Opening 15 years ago in 2003, Queen City Brewing has over 30 beers on tap for you to taste. Not only is it a great place to taste beer, but they offer different events throughout the week to enjoy. On Wednesdays at 7pm, they have a weekly open mic night. You can choose to perform, or just relax and enjoy local talent. Queen City also boasts live music every Friday, and has billiards  along with TVs streaming all the big games. Their current beer offerings are listed on their website.

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Redbeard Brewing Company

Another Staunton brewery to visit is Redbeard Brewing Company. Redbeard Brewing is a nano-brewery with an attached taproom and beer garden in the wharf district in downtown Staunton, VA. Each batch of beer is hand crafted by one person from beginning to end, using ancient techniques, but modern equipment. As Redbeard is not a full-service restaurant, feel free to grab some food to go from The Blackburn’s Second Draft Bistro and bring it along with you. With such a great beer selection, it’s hard to know which one to choose! Redbeard offers 5 ounce portions of all of the beers and encourages guests to customize their own beer flights. If you’re bringing a dog with you, they allow leashed dogs outside in the beer garden. You can see upcoming events at Redbeard or their current beer list on their website.

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Both Redbeard Brewing Company and Queen City Brewing are a part of the Shenandoah Valley Beerwerks Trail. There are 17 breweries along the Beerwerks Trail, on which you can complete a passport earning a t-shirt (and bragging rights)! You’ll start by picking up your passport at any of the participating breweries or visitor’s centers. Staunton’s visitor center would be your closest option to your stay at The Blackburn! You will then collect 8 stamps at any brewery on the trail. After you’ve had your fill, mail your passport to the address on the back. Be sure and include your email, mailing address, and your shirt size, because a finished passport holder will receive a free Beerwerks T-shirt!

Ciders from Mars

For those looking for ciders instead of beers, head over to Staunton’s newest cider bar, Ciders from Mars. This multipurpose venue offers a combination cider production and lab space, an open and comfortable taproom and lounge, and outdoor deck seating. Ciders from Mars offers a wide variety of award-winning ciders and cocktails, primarily infused with Virginia fruits. Check out their website for what they are currently brewing!

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During your upcoming tour of summer breweries in Staunton, stay with us at The Blackburn Inn & Conference Center! Situated amidst the picturesque beauty of Staunton, our hotel offers a peaceful retreat that perfectly complements your beer-filled summer vacation. After an exciting day of sampling exquisite brews, you can unwind and recharge in the serenity of The Blackburn. Get ready to savor the flavors of summer and experience the vibrant brewery culture of Staunton, all while enjoying a memorable stay with us.  Book your stay at The Blackburn Inn & Conference Center for your next unforgettable trip to Staunton, VA.