From the rugged beauty of the Black Hills to the wide-open prairies and charming small towns, South Dakota’s craft beer scene is as bold and refreshing as its landscapes. Expect everything from crisp lagers perfect after a day of adventure to hop-packed IPAs, smooth amber ales, rich stouts, and creative small-batch releases served in welcoming taprooms across the state. These standout breweries are included in the Minnesota Hop Passport, and are official partnership of Hop Passport where you can enjoy a Buy One, Get One Free beer at participating South Dakota locations making every stop twice as rewarding.
Quick Scan Guide
Location: Breweries across South Dakota’s scenic regions, from the Black Hills to vibrant small towns and cities
Beer Styles: IPAs, lagers, amber ales, stouts, wheat beers, sours, and seasonal releases
Passport Perk: Buy One, Get One Free Beer
Included In: Minnesota Hop Passport
Best For: Road trips, outdoor adventurers, and travelers seeking authentic local flavor
Atmosphere: Relaxed, friendly taprooms ranging from rustic and historic to modern and lively
Why Go: Big flavors, welcoming communities, and unbeatable BOGO value on every visit 🍻
#1. Altered Species Ales – Sioux Falls, South Dakota | Science-Inspired Taproom with a Living Plant Atmosphere
Located on the south side of the Western Mall, Altered Species Ales offers a unique brewery experience centered on small-batch beers brewed entirely on site. Their lineup spans everything from hazy IPAs and farmhouse saisons to fruited sours and rich stouts, with options available on tap and in take-home packs.
The taproom itself is designed as a “living” space filled with plant life, blending science, nature, and travel-inspired ideas into a relaxed environment. Guests will also find guest taps, wine, cider, seltzers, and non-alcoholic options, ensuring something for every palate in the group.
Food is flexible here, with pizza available on site and outside food welcome, making it easy to turn a quick stop into a longer hangout. Family-friendly and dog-friendly policies add to the laid-back community feel, creating a welcoming space for groups, casual meetups, or low-key social gatherings.
#2. Buffalo Ridge Brewing – Hartford, South Dakota | Community-Focused Taproom with Charity Events
Located along Main Avenue in downtown Hartford, Buffalo Ridge Brewing is a welcoming neighborhood brewery pouring a wide lineup of handcrafted beers made on site. With up to 18 house beers on tap, guests can explore everything from approachable crowd-pleasers to more adventurous seasonal releases.
The spacious taproom and outdoor patio create a comfortable setting for both casual visits and lively gatherings, with a family-friendly and dog-friendly atmosphere that encourages groups to linger. Regular entertainment and community happenings help keep the space active beyond just beer service.
One standout tradition is their Charity Bingo & Brews series, held monthly to raise funds for local organizations, reinforcing the brewery’s strong ties to the community. This blend of social events, relaxed surroundings, and a large tap selection makes Buffalo Ridge Brewing feel less like a bar and more like a hometown gathering place.
#3. Remedy Brewing Company – Sioux Falls, South Dakota | Downtown Brewery with Patio Games & Live Music
Located in the historic 8th & Railroad district of downtown Sioux Falls, Remedy Brewing Company combines craft beer, food, and entertainment in one lively destination. The spacious taproom pours a rotating selection of house beers alongside wine, cider, and other options, making it easy for groups with different tastes to settle in.
Out back, a large converted dock patio creates a relaxed hangout space filled with yard games like cornhole, Giant Jenga, and oversized Connect 4. Live music takes place regularly on Saturday evenings, adding energy without overwhelming the laid-back outdoor vibe.
The brewery is also equipped for gatherings, offering rentable spaces for private parties and group events, while remaining family- and dog-friendly for everyday visits. With entertainment, food, games, and a central location all in one spot, Remedy feels less like a simple taproom and more like a full social hub for downtown Sioux Falls.
#4. Severance Brewing Company – Sioux Falls, South Dakota | Creative Downtown Taproom Near Falls Park
Located at The Cascade at Falls Park in downtown Sioux Falls, Severance Brewing Company offers a scenic spot to unwind with inventive craft beers just steps from one of the city’s most popular attractions. The brewery focuses on unique, guideline-free creations designed to break away from traditional styles while still remaining approachable.
The welcoming taproom is built for connection, encouraging conversation over pints in a relaxed, community-oriented setting. Families, friends, and even dogs are welcome, reinforcing its reputation as an easygoing place to gather rather than a high-pressure nightlife venue.
Regular fun events and social happenings help keep the space lively, complementing the steady flow of creative beers on tap. With its downtown location, inclusive atmosphere, and focus on good times as much as good brews, Severance feels like a natural meeting point for locals and visitors alike.
#5. Watertown Brewing Company – Watertown, South Dakota | Downtown Brewpub with House-Made Beer & Comfort Food
Located on historic Kemp Avenue in downtown Watertown, Watertown Brewing Company serves handcrafted beer brewed on site alongside a full menu of pub favorites. The warm, inviting brewpub atmosphere makes it easy to settle in for a casual meal, a tasting flight, or a relaxed evening with friends.
All ages are welcome, giving the space an approachable, community-focused feel rather than a late-night bar vibe. Guests can expect a rotating selection of house brews, with something new and different regularly appearing on tap.
The brewery occasionally hosts special tastings and events, adding an interactive element for visitors interested in learning more about the beers. With its combination of in-house brewing, hearty food, and welcoming downtown setting, it stands out as a go-to gathering spot in Watertown.
🧭 Planning Your Next Beer Adventure?
If your travels don’t stop here, you’re in luck. We’ve created brewery guides for neighboring states and top craft beer destinations perfect for discovering new taprooms, supporting independent brewers, and turning every trip into a flavorful experience.
👉 Continue your journey with our brewery travel guides for:
– Minnesota breweries worth exploring from the Twin Cities to scenic lake country
– Colorado breweries spanning mountain towns, urban hotspots, and legendary beer trails
– Missouri breweries offering everything from historic brewpubs to modern craft innovators
Wherever the road leads next, great beer and welcoming taprooms are never far away and your next memorable stop could be just across the state line. 🍺
Cheers! 🍻 #DrinkLocal
