Wide-open prairies, welcoming communities, and a fast-growing craft beer scene make Kansas a rewarding stop for beer lovers exploring the Midwest. Breweries across the Sunflower State pour everything from crisp lagers to bold IPAs and inventive small-batch releases, often served in laid-back taprooms full of local pride. Even better, these locations are included in the Missouri Hop Passport, giving you 50% Off Your First Two Beers so every visit starts with serious savings.
Quick Scan Guide
Location: Breweries across Kansas cities, college towns, and prairie communities
Beer Styles: From smooth lagers and wheat beers to hop-forward IPAs and seasonal specialties
Passport Perk: 50% Off Your First Two Beers
Included In: Missouri Hop Passport
Best For: Road trips, weekend getaways, and discovering underrated Midwest beer spots
Atmosphere: Friendly, relaxed, and proudly local
Why Go: Great beer, genuine hospitality, and unbeatable savings on your first pours 🍻
#1. 785 Beer Company — Topeka, Kansas | Community-Focused Brewpub with Food & Fun
785 Beer Company in Topeka is a large, family-owned brewpub built for gathering, dining, and entertainment. Opened in 2023, it offers a casual, welcoming space for everything from quick meetups to big celebrations.
House-made craft beer is the highlight, alongside cocktails, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks. The food menu features pizza, shareables, and hearty pub favorites designed for groups.
A unique draw is the indoor pickleball courts, plus games and regular events that keep the atmosphere lively. With its mix of beer, food, and activities, 785 Beer Company has quickly become a standout social destination in Topeka.
#2. Black Stag Brewery — Lawrence, Kansas | Downtown Brewpub with German-Inspired Beers
Black Stag Brewery sits in the heart of historic downtown Lawrence, offering a spacious brewpub experience with both food and house-made beer. The venue blends a restaurant atmosphere with a working brewery, creating a comfortable stop for lunch, dinner, or drinks. Guests can often see brewing equipment from the dining area, adding to the authentic craft feel.
The beer lineup typically includes a wide range of styles, many with German influences, alongside IPAs, lagers, sours, and seasonal releases. A full kitchen serves hearty pub fare such as burgers, sandwiches, and entrees, making it suitable for full meals as well as casual visits. The large interior and patio seating provide plenty of space for groups and events.
Located on Massachusetts Street, the brewery has long been part of Lawrence’s active downtown scene and a convenient stop while exploring local shops and attractions. Reviews frequently highlight its broad tap list, comfortable setting, and reliable food options. With its combination of craft beer, dining, and central location, Black Stag Brewery offers a well-rounded brewery experience in Kansas.
#3. Boot Hill Distillery — Dodge City, Kansas | Farm-to-Bottle Spirits in a Historic Setting
Boot Hill Distillery in Dodge City produces handcrafted spirits using grain grown on the owners’ family farm. The operation follows a “soil to sip” approach, meaning the grain is grown, distilled, and bottled locally. Guests can sample whiskey, vodka, gin, and cocktails in the on-site tasting room.
The distillery is housed in a historic former city building on the site of the original Boot Hill Cemetery, adding strong Old West character. Tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the production process and the building’s history. The tasting room provides a relaxed bar environment for flights and signature drinks.
Boot Hill is especially known for its Kansas bourbon and wheat whiskey, crafted from locally grown grain and aged in oak barrels. Seasonal releases and specialty bottles highlight regional partnerships and local pride. With its blend of history, craftsmanship, and Western atmosphere, Boot Hill Distillery is a distinctive stop in Dodge City.
#4. Force of Nature Brewing — De Soto, Kansas | Herb-Infused Craft Beer in a Historic Building
Force of Nature Brewing is located in downtown De Soto inside the historic 1902 Ford Building. As the town’s first craft brewery, it focuses on creative beers made with medicinal herbs and locally sourced ingredients. The vintage, eclectic interior creates a relaxed space for casual visits and small gatherings.
The tap list highlights herbal-inspired brews that offer flavors not commonly found at traditional breweries. A kitchen and taproom setup allow guests to enjoy both food and drinks in one place. The concept blends science and artistry, reflecting the founders’ passion for experimentation.
With its unique beer approach and historic setting, the brewery stands out in the local craft scene. The laid-back atmosphere makes it an easy stop for travelers exploring Johnson County. Force of Nature Brewing delivers a distinctive experience centered on flavor, creativity, and community.
#5. Hidden Trail Brewing — Garden City, Kansas | Family-Friendly Brewery with Rotating Taps
Hidden Trail Brewing in Garden City is a welcoming local brewery designed for families and groups. The taproom offers a rotating selection of beers, ciders, and seltzers brewed on site. Guests can enjoy a relaxed environment with games and casual seating.
The brewery is known for being both family-friendly and dog-friendly for well-behaved pets. Regular events such as live music, classes, and markets keep the space active throughout the year. It serves as a social hub where locals gather for drinks and community activities.
With its laid-back atmosphere and variety of house beverages, Hidden Trail Brewing offers an easygoing stop in southwest Kansas. The focus on community, events, and inclusive space makes it appealing to a wide range of visitors. It stands out as a comfortable place to unwind while exploring Garden City.
#6. Outfield Beer Company — Bonner Springs, Kansas | Baseball-Themed Brewery in a Historic Mill
Outfield Beer Company is a small microbrewery located in Bonner Springs inside a historic mill complex. The taproom runs on a compact brewing system and serves a rotating lineup of house-made beers with baseball-inspired names. Its casual setting makes it an easy stop for both locals and visitors exploring the Kansas City area.
The beer selection spans multiple styles, from approachable lagers and wheat beers to hop-forward IPAs and darker brews. Many offerings change regularly, encouraging repeat visits to try new releases. The brewery also offers guest taps and packaged options to broaden the selection.
Guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor seating, games, and a family-friendly environment. The location within a multi-business mill space adds food options and activities nearby. With its unique building, sports theme, and varied tap list, Outfield Beer Company delivers a relaxed and entertaining brewery experience in northeast Kansas.
🍻 Explore Kansas One Pour at a Time
From lively college towns to wide-open prairie communities, Kansas breweries deliver a welcoming mix of creative beer, local pride, and easygoing Midwest charm. As part of the Missouri Hop Passport, participating Kansas locations offer 50% Off Your First Two Beers, making every stop a great way to sample more while spending less across the Sunflower State.
#7. Servaes Brewing Company — Shawnee, Kansas | Female-Led Brewery Known for Creative Small Batches
Servaes Brewing Company is a small craft brewery located in historic downtown Shawnee. Opened in 2019, it was the first Kansas brewery owned and operated by a female head brewer. The intimate taproom offers a casual, family-friendly space for enjoying house-made beer.
The brewery is known for constantly rotating taps featuring NEIPAs, barrel-aged beers, and inventive sour ales. Many releases use unusual ingredients, resulting in bold and experimental flavors. Because of the small-batch approach, the menu often changes from visit to visit.
Servaes also hosts events, specialty releases, and themed pop-ups that keep the experience fresh year-round. Guests can bring their own food, and both families and leashed dogs are welcome in the taproom. With its creative brewing style and community feel, Servaes Brewing Company stands out in the Kansas City area craft scene.
#8. Transport Brewery — Gardner, Kansas | Adventure-Inspired Craft Beer in Downtown Gardner
Transport Brewery’s Gardner taproom sits on Main Street across from City Hall in the heart of downtown. The space offers a welcoming environment focused on community, conversation, and locally made beer. Guests can choose from a rotating lineup of house-brewed craft beers on tap.
The brewery is known for bold, innovative recipes that reflect its adventure-themed identity. Live music and special events are held regularly, especially on weekends. Indoor seating and ample nearby parking make it an easy stop while exploring the area.
With its central location, steady tap rotation, and social atmosphere, the Gardner location serves as a lively gathering place for locals and visitors. Food options are available through on-site partners, complementing the beer selection. Transport Brewery delivers a relaxed small-town craft experience within the Kansas City metro region.
#9. Transport Brewery — Shawnee, Kansas | Community-Driven Craft Brewery in Old Town
Transport Brewery’s Shawnee location sits in Old Town at 11113 Johnson Drive, creating a convenient stop while exploring the historic district. The taproom offers a rotating selection of house-brewed craft beers, including lagers, IPAs, and seasonal releases. The space is designed to feel welcoming and social rather than formal.
Food trucks frequently partner with the brewery, adding dining options without a full kitchen. Regular activities such as trivia nights, bingo, and special events help keep the atmosphere lively throughout the week. Dogs and families are welcome, reinforcing its role as a neighborhood gathering spot.
With its laid-back vibe, diverse tap list, and community focus, Transport Brewery has become a popular local hangout. The Old Town location also places it close to other breweries, making it easy to include on a multi-stop beer outing. It offers a relaxed Kansas City–area craft experience centered on connection as much as beer.
🍺 Planning Your Next Brewery Getaway?
If your Kansas beer tour doesn’t stop here, you’re in the perfect position to keep exploring. We’ve created brewery guides for nearby states and standout beer destinations, each one built to help you discover new taprooms, support independent brewers, and turn every trip into something memorable.
👉 Keep the adventure going with our brewery travel guides for:
– Missouri breweries full of big-city energy and historic beer culture
– Colorado breweries surrounded by mountain views and bold craft innovation
– Minnesota breweries known for creative styles and welcoming taprooms
No matter which direction you travel next, great beer is never far away and there’s a Hop Passport ready to make every stop even better. 🍻
Cheers! 🍻 #DrinkLocal
