As the fall leaves start to fade and the crisp air sets in, beer enthusiasts from across the country flock to Traverse City for one of the region’s most anticipated annual events—Traverse City Beer Week. This week-long celebration of Northern Michigan's thriving craft beer scene is a must for anyone looking to experience the region’s finest brews. And with Lakemore Lodge as your home base, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the best of Traverse City Beer Week.
Here’s your complete guide to Traverse City Beer Week, including event highlights, participating breweries, and suggested itineraries.
1. What is Traverse City Beer Week?
Traverse City Beer Week is an annual celebration of craft beer, bringing together beer lovers and local breweries for seven days of tastings, food pairings, and special events. Hosted every November, the event draws visitors from near and far to sample unique brews, learn about beer-making, and meet the passionate brewers behind Michigan’s top craft beers.
2. Event Highlights for Traverse City Beer Week
Traverse City Beer Week offers a packed schedule of events that cater to every type of beer enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer connoisseur or just starting your beer journey, there’s something for everyone. Here are some event highlights to look forward to:
Brewery Tours & Tastings: Many of Traverse City's top breweries offer special tours during Beer Week. Learn about the brewing process, get behind-the-scenes access, and sample limited-edition brews.
Beer & Food Pairings: Local restaurants and breweries team up to create curated beer and food pairings. Enjoy perfectly matched bites with your brews, from hearty comfort food to gourmet dishes.
Tap Takeovers: Traverse City’s best beer bars and restaurants host tap takeovers, where a single brewery takes over the taps to showcase its entire lineup of beers, including rare and seasonal selections.
Pub Crawls: Join fellow beer lovers on organized pub crawls around Traverse City. It’s a fun way to explore the local craft beer scene and discover new favorites while socializing with other enthusiasts.
Beer Trivia and Games: Test your beer knowledge at one of the many trivia nights hosted during Beer Week. Some venues even offer board games and interactive competitions.
3. Participating Breweries to Visit During Beer Week
Traverse City is home to a growing number of craft breweries that take pride in creating unique, locally-inspired beers. Here’s a list of participating breweries that you should include in your Beer Week itinerary:
Short’s Brewing Company (Bellaire): Just a short drive from Traverse City, Short’s Brewing is known for its experimental and flavorful beers. Their Autumn Ale and Noble Chaos are perfect for the season.
Right Brain Brewery: This innovative brewery stands out for its offbeat, creative beers. Be sure to try their CEO Stout or their seasonal Pumpkin Spice Latte Ale.
North Peak Brewing Company: Located downtown, North Peak offers a variety of well-balanced ales and lagers. Their Diabolical IPA and Furry Hat Oatmeal Stout are fall favorites.
The Workshop Brewing Company: Known for their commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability, The Workshop’s small-batch beers are worth the stop. Don’t miss their Tenpenny Bit Irish Red Ale or their Tung Oil Brown Ale.
Earthen Ales: Nestled in the historic Village at Grand Traverse Commons, Earthen Ales is perfect for those looking for a laid-back, community-oriented atmosphere. Their Harvest Ale and Dark Matter Porter are great for cooler days.
7 Monks Taproom: Although not a brewery, this iconic taproom is a must-visit for craft beer lovers. With over 40 rotating taps, 7 Monks showcases the best local and national brews, making it a great spot to sample beers from multiple breweries.
4. Suggested Itineraries for Traverse City Beer Week
To help you make the most of your experience, here are a few suggested itineraries based on different interests:
Itinerary 1: The Ultimate Beer Lover’s Tour
Day 1: Kick off your Beer Week experience with a brewery tour at Short’s Brewing Company in Bellaire. Enjoy a tasting flight featuring their signature and seasonal brews. Head back to Traverse City for a tap takeover at 7 Monks Taproom.
Day 2: Start your day with brunch at a local favorite, then take part in a brewery tour and beer trivia night at Right Brain Brewery. In the evening, head to The Workshop Brewing Company for a relaxing night by the fire with their cozy ales.
Itinerary 2: Beer and Food Pairing Adventure
Day 1: Begin your adventure with a lunch and beer pairing at North Peak Brewing Company. In the evening, enjoy a specially curated food and beer pairing dinner at a participating restaurant, such as The Franklin or Trattoria Stella.
Day 2: Visit Earthen Ales at The Commons for a late afternoon tasting, followed by a cozy dinner at The Filling Station Microbrewery, where wood-fired pizzas pair perfectly with their handcrafted ales.
Itinerary 3: Laid-Back Exploration
Day 1: Spend a relaxed morning exploring downtown Traverse City. In the afternoon, take a leisurely drive out to Leelanau Peninsula and stop by Hop Lot Brewing Co. for a laid-back outdoor beer garden experience, complete with bonfires and s’mores.
Day 2: Enjoy a casual beer crawl around Old Town Traverse City, with stops at Right Brain Brewery, The Workshop, and 7 Monks Taproom.
5. Staying at Lakemore Lodge: Your Home Base
Located just outside Traverse City on the shores of Arbutus Lake, Lakemore Lodge offers the perfect retreat after a day of exploring the local breweries.
Why Choose Lakemore Lodge?
Prime Location: Close enough to downtown Traverse City to access all the Beer Week events, yet far enough to enjoy peace and tranquility after a day of festivities.
Lakeside Views: Enjoy beautiful fall foliage views and stunning lake vistas from your private deck.
Luxurious Accommodations: With spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and cozy fireplaces, Lakemore Lodge provides the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort.
Relaxation After the Fun: After a day of brewery tours and tastings, return to Lakemore Lodge to unwind by the fire as you reflect on your favorite brews of the day.
Traverse City Beer Week is the ultimate celebration for craft beer lovers, offering a unique opportunity to sample some of the best local brews in Northern Michigan. With its cozy accommodations, stunning views, and proximity to all the action, Lakemore Lodge is the perfect place to stay during your Beer Week adventure. So pack your bags, gather your friends, and get ready to sip, savor, and celebrate the best of Traverse City’s craft beer scene. Cheers!