The Saginaw region offers a diverse craft beverage scene, from small-town breweries to scenic coastal and countryside stops. With so many great options, this trail lets you mix and match your own perfect route. With Hop Passport, enjoy 50% off your first two beers while discovering hidden gems along the way.
👉 Start your Saginaw brewery trail with a Hop Passport and collect stamps as you explore each stop.
🧠Frankenmuth to National City Beer Trail at a Glance
This trail starts in the charm of Frankenmuth, moves through the Thumb and Tri-Cities, and winds into scenic northern stops before ending near the coast. Expect a mix of breweries, wineries, and distilleries, plus laid-back vibes, local flavor, and plenty of unique stops along the way.
🍻 1. Frankenmuth, Michigan – Charming Start with Bavarian Flair
Frankenmuth kicks off the trail with a unique blend of Bavarian charm and lively tourist energy. It’s a vibrant starting point where scenic streets, local flavors, and welcoming stops set the tone for the journey ahead.
Modern Craft Wine – Frankenmuth, Michigan | Riverplace Tasting Room with Mixable Wines & Fun Flavorsrience with Local Flavor
Located in Frankenmuth, Michigan, Modern Craft Wine offers a vibrant tasting room in the River Place Shops with a fun, social atmosphere. The space is bright and inviting, making it an easy stop while exploring the area.
Their lineup features fruit-infused wines designed for mixing, with popular options like Nightberry and Blush on the Rocks. Guests are encouraged to create their own wine cocktails, adding an interactive twist to the tasting experience.
Food isn’t a main focus, keeping attention on tastings and creative drinks. The lively setting and steady flow of visitors give it an event-like feel, making each visit fun and engaging.
Grand Traverse Distillery – Frankenmuth, Michigan | Riverplace Tasting Room with Craft Spirits & Signature Cherry Flavors
Located in Frankenmuth’s River Place Shops, Grand Traverse Distillery offers a cozy tasting room with a relaxed, walk-in friendly atmosphere. It’s an easy stop while exploring the area, with cocktails and tastings available year-round.
Their lineup features vodka, whiskey, bourbon, gin, and rum, with standout favorites like Cherry Vodka and Cherry Whiskey made from local ingredients. Tastings and cocktail flights make it simple to explore a variety of flavors in one visit.
Food isn’t a main focus, keeping attention on the spirits and tasting experience. The lively River Place setting and seasonal events around the area add energy, making each visit feel fun and social.
🍻 2. Sandusky, Michigan – Small-Town Stop with a Cozy Vibe
Sandusky offers a quiet and welcoming stop along the trail, where small-town charm and a relaxed pace make it easy to settle in. It’s a smooth transition from the lively start, giving you a more laid-back experience before heading toward the next destination.
Elk Street Brewery & Tap Room – Sandusky, Michigan | Historic Taproom with Craft Beer, Comfort Food & Live Events
Located in downtown Sandusky, Elk Street Brewery & Tap Room sits inside a beautifully renovated historic building with a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. The cozy taproom blends small-town charm with a welcoming space perfect for casual visits.
Their lineup features handcrafted microbrews made with locally grown hops, including favorites like IPAs and rich porters. Rotating selections and house specialties keep the beer menu fresh for returning guests.
Food is a standout, with hearty options like elk burgers, sliders, sandwiches, and comfort-style dishes served alongside the beer. Regular events, live music, and even special offerings like weekend breakfast add energy and make each visit feel like a local gathering.
🍻 3. Caseville, Michigan – Coastal Stop with Relaxed Beach Town Vibes
Caseville brings a refreshing coastal feel to the trail, where lake views and a laid-back beach town atmosphere create a fun and easygoing stop. It’s a scenic stretch that adds a touch of vacation energy before heading into the next destination.
Thumb Brewery – Caseville, Michigan | Beach Town Brewery with Outdoor Patio, Craft Beer & Live Events
Located in Caseville, Michigan, Thumb Brewery offers a laid-back taproom with indoor seating and a spacious outdoor patio near Lake Huron. The relaxed, coastal vibe makes it a perfect stop after exploring the beach and local shops.
Their lineup features classic craft styles like West Coast IPA, Oatmeal Stout, and Quinn’s Irish Red Ale, along with rotating seasonal brews. With additional cocktails and wine available, there’s something for every type of drinker.
Food is a major highlight, with a full menu including burgers, flatbreads, sandwiches, and shareables that pair well with their beers. Events like live music, trivia, and themed nights bring energy to the space, making it a lively and social destination.
🍻 4. Bay City, Michigan – Waterfront Stop with Lively Energy
Bay City brings a vibrant waterfront vibe to the trail, where historic charm meets a growing craft beverage scene. It’s a lively stop filled with character, offering a mix of scenic views and energetic taprooms before heading deeper into the region.
Tri City Brewing – Bay City, Michigan | Historic Brewery with Classic Styles & Community Feel
Nestled in Bay City, Michigan, Tri City Brewing Company offers a laid-back taproom that highlights the region’s strong brewing roots. The space is welcoming and community-focused, making it an easy stop whether you’re exploring downtown or meeting up with friends.
Their lineup features crowd favorites like Hell’s Half Mile Helles Lager and the hop-forward Charity Island IPA, alongside rotating seasonal pours. For something richer, the Giant Slayer Russian Imperial Stout stands out with bold chocolate and coffee notes.
While food isn’t a main focus, the brewery regularly hosts events like beer dinners and private gatherings that bring people together. These experiences, paired with their diverse drink selection, make each visit feel a little different and worth coming back for.
W.H. Ales Brewpub – Bay City, Michigan | Historic Brewpub with Craft Beer & Social Atmosphere
Located inside the Liberty Harbor Event Center, W.H. Ales Brewpub features a large, lively taproom with plenty of space to relax or gather. The atmosphere blends casual brewpub comfort with an event-ready setting.
Their lineup includes a variety of house-made beers, from easy-drinking ales to rich stouts like the popular Stuck Up Stout. With multiple taps and a full bar, there’s something here for every taste.
Food is a standout, with wood-fired pizza, burgers, and hearty pub favorites served fresh from the kitchen. Regular events like live entertainment and seasonal celebrations keep the experience fun and constantly changing.
🍻 5. Saginaw, Michigan – Central Hub with a Growing Craft Scene
Saginaw serves as the heart of the trail, where a mix of breweries and taprooms bring energy and variety to the experience. It’s a lively midpoint that blends local character, creative craft offerings, and a social atmosphere before the journey continues.
Loggers Brewing Company – Saginaw, Michigan | Rustic Brewery with Local Flavor & Live Events
Located in Saginaw, Michigan, Loggers Brewing Company offers a cozy, wood-accented taproom with a laid-back and welcoming feel. The space features a mix of bar seating and tables, creating a relaxed spot to enjoy a pint with friends.
Their beer lineup includes a wide range of styles from light ales to bold stouts, with rotating taps that keep things interesting for repeat visitors. Popular pours like their rich stouts and seasonal releases highlight the brewery’s focus on variety and local flavor.
There’s no full kitchen on site, but guests can enjoy snacks or catch visiting food trucks, and outside food is always welcome. Weekly events like trivia nights, euchre, and live entertainment bring energy to the taproom and make every visit feel like a community gathering.
Oracle Brewing Company – Saginaw, Michigan | Cozy Downtown Taproom with Creative Small-Batch Brews
Located in the heart of downtown Saginaw, Oracle Brewing Company offers a cozy, intimate taproom with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The small space features bar seating and scattered tables, perfect for unwinding with friends or enjoying a quiet pint.
Their beer lineup focuses on creative small-batch styles like hazy IPAs, farmhouse ales, sours, and rich stouts, with standout pours such as Nectaronomicon and barrel-aged specialties. Rotating releases and experimental flavors keep things fresh for returning visitors.
There’s no full kitchen, but guests are encouraged to bring in food or order from nearby local spots, adding flexibility to the experience. Regular events like trivia nights, book clubs, live music, and themed gatherings bring energy to the taproom and make it a true community hangout.
🍺 Take Your Time Along the Trail
Each stop along the Saginaw route brings a different experience, from interactive tastings to small-batch brewing and lakeside views. With Hop Passport, you can enjoy 50% off your first two beers while taking your time to explore what each location offers.
👉 Keep your trail going and make every stop count with Michigan Hop Passport.
🍻 6. Midland, Michigan – Balanced Stop with Craft Variety & Local Charm
Midland offers a well-rounded stop along the trail, blending a relaxed atmosphere with a growing craft beverage scene. It’s a smooth transition point where variety, local flavor, and a welcoming vibe come together before the journey continues.
Midland Brewing Company – Midland, Michigan | Full-Service Brewpub with Smoked Eats & Beer Garden Vibes
Located in Midland, Michigan, Midland Brewing Company offers a spacious taproom with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and an outdoor beer garden. It’s a go-to spot for everything from casual hangouts to laid-back family outings.
Their beer lineup features house-made craft brews ranging from crisp lagers to bold IPAs, with favorites like Copper Harbor Red Ale and rotating seasonal releases. Each pour highlights their focus on quality and variety, keeping the tap list fresh for every visit.
Food is a major highlight, with a full kitchen serving smoked meats, burgers, and hearty pub favorites designed to pair with their beers. The experience is rounded out by private events and gatherings hosted at The Red Keg event center, making it a destination beyond just great beer.
Three Bridges Distillery – Midland, Michigan | Industrial-Style Taproom with Craft Spirits & Live Events
Located in downtown Midland, Three Bridges Distillery and Taproom offers a unique industrial-style taproom with a relaxed, creative vibe. Guests can even view the distilling process while enjoying drinks in the inviting space.
Their lineup includes handcrafted spirits, beer, and wine, with easy-drinking options like their Three Bridges Light lager and rotating creations. The focus on small-batch production keeps the menu fresh and locally inspired.
Food is available with options like pizza and light fare, and guests can sometimes bring in outside food or enjoy food trucks during events. Live music, open mic nights, and special gatherings regularly bring energy to the space, making each visit feel like a local event.
🍻 7. Sanford, Michigan – Quiet Stop with a Relaxed Countryside Feel
Sanford offers a peaceful and laid-back stop along the trail, surrounded by a calm countryside setting. It’s a slower-paced stretch where you can unwind and enjoy a more relaxed experience before heading to the next destination.
Crazy Vines Winery – Sanford, Michigan | Cozy Tasting Room with Local Wines, Ciders & Live Events
Located in Sanford, Michigan, Crazy Vines Winery offers a welcoming tasting room with a relaxed, homey atmosphere. The space is designed for easygoing visits, whether you’re sipping with friends or enjoying a quiet afternoon.
Their lineup features a wide variety of locally produced wines, ciders, and even craft beer, with highlights like fruit-forward Marquette and unique blends. With dozens of options including sweet, dry, and specialty flavors, there’s something for every palate.
Food options include light bites like charcuterie boards, paninis, and snacks that pair well with their drinks. Regular events like live music, happy hour specials, and private gatherings keep the vibe lively and make each visit feel like a local hangout.
🍻 8. Hemlock, Michigan – Cozy Stop with Rustic Charm
Hemlock offers a warm and inviting stop along the trail, where a rustic setting and relaxed atmosphere create a comfortable place to unwind. It’s a unique stretch that blends countryside charm with a welcoming, food-driven experience.
The Maple Grille – Hemlock, Michigan | Farm-to-Table Microbrewery with Wood-Fired Flavor
Located in Hemlock, Michigan, The Maple Grille offers a rustic, cozy taproom centered around a wood-fired open kitchen. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a strong focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a true farm-to-table experience.
Their drink lineup features wood-fired craft beers on tap with rotating seasonal selections that change alongside the menu. This keeps each visit unique, with small-batch brews and fresh flavors always in rotation.
Food is the highlight, with a full menu of wood-fired dishes like steaks, burgers, pizzas, and locally sourced meats cooked fresh daily. While there isn’t a heavy event schedule, the ever-changing menu and community-focused setting make every visit feel like a special experience.
🍻 9. Mt. Pleasant, Michigan – Lively Stop with College-Town Energy
Mt. Pleasant brings a lively and upbeat feel to the trail, driven by its college-town atmosphere and active social scene. It’s a high-energy stop where busy taprooms and a steady flow of visitors keep the momentum going.
Mountain Town Brewing Company – Mount Pleasant, Michigan | Craft Brewery with BBQ Taproom & Classic Michigan Favorites
Located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, Mountain Town Brewing Company features a spacious taproom paired with a smokehouse-style setting. The atmosphere blends casual brewery vibes with a lively, restaurant-style experience.
Their lineup includes well-known favorites like Railyard Raspberry Wheat and Cow Catcher Red Ale, along with hop-forward options like El Idaho IPA. The variety of classic and rotating beers keeps the tap list approachable and flavorful.
Food is a major highlight, with house-smoked BBQ, brisket, ribs, and comfort sides served fresh from the kitchen. Events, watch parties, and gatherings regularly bring energy to the space, making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.
Mountain Town Station – Mount Pleasant, Michigan | Historic Train Depot Brewpub with Craft Beer & Full Dining
Located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, Mountain Town Station is set inside a beautifully restored train depot with a warm, rustic atmosphere. The spacious taproom blends brewery charm with a full-service restaurant experience, making it a standout destination.
Their lineup features handcrafted ales and lagers developed over decades, including classic favorites and rotating seasonal brews. These beers reflect the same recipes that helped launch their long-running brewing tradition.
Food is a major highlight, with a full menu ranging from steaks and comfort dishes to crowd-pleasing favorites for all tastes. The venue also hosts private events, catering, and gatherings, making it a go-to spot for both casual visits and special occasions.
🍻 10. Clare, Michigan – Small-Town Stop with Classic Craft Feel
Clare offers a relaxed and welcoming stop along the trail, where small-town charm meets a straightforward craft beer experience. It’s an easygoing stretch that lets you slow down and enjoy a more traditional brewery atmosphere before continuing the journey.
Four Leaf Brewing – Clare, Michigan | Cozy Downtown Brewpub with Full Menu & Rotating Taps
Located in historic downtown Clare, Four Leaf Brewing offers a cozy taproom set inside a charming century-old building. The space has a relaxed, small-town feel with a welcoming atmosphere perfect for casual visits.
Their lineup features a wide variety of handcrafted beers including IPAs, stouts, ales, and seasonal releases, alongside cider, wine, and mead on tap. With around 20 taps available, there’s always something new to try for every kind of drinker.
Food is a major highlight, with a full menu of pub-style favorites that pair well with their beers. Regular events like trivia, live music, and themed nights keep the taproom lively and make it a go-to local hangout.
🍻 11. Alma, Michigan – Relaxed Stop with Local Charm
Alma offers a smooth and easygoing stop along the trail, where a welcoming small-town atmosphere makes it easy to slow down and enjoy the experience. It’s a laid-back stretch that keeps the journey comfortable before heading to the next destination.
Alma Brewing Company – Alma, Michigan | Downtown Brewpub with Classic Ales & Cozy Taproom
Located in downtown Alma, Alma Brewing Company offers a welcoming taproom with a relaxed, small-town atmosphere. The space feels comfortable and inviting, making it an easy stop for a casual pint or laid-back hangout.
Their lineup includes around 10 beers on tap, featuring staples like Alma Pale Ale and Highlander Scottish Ale alongside rotating brews. The focus on classic, easy-drinking styles keeps the menu approachable and consistent.
Food is available with a full menu of grilled sandwiches, soups, appetizers, and desserts that pair well with their beers. While events are more low-key, the brewpub’s steady local crowd gives it a friendly, community-driven vibe.
🍻 Discover More at Every Stop
This trail is designed for flexibility, giving you the chance to mix and match stops based on your pace. With Hop Passport, every visit becomes more rewarding as you explore new flavors across the region.
👉 Continue your journey and collect stamps along the way with Michigan Hop Passport.
🍻 12. Remus, Michigan – Small-Town Stop with Local Wine Experience
Remus adds a quiet and relaxed stop along the trail, shifting the focus toward a more laid-back countryside setting. It’s a smooth transition that introduces a different pace before heading to the next destination.
Gwin Girls Winery – Remus, Michigan | Seasonal Tasting Room with Local Wines, Ciders & Live Events
Located in Remus, Michigan, Gwin Girls Winery and Tasting Room offers a charming, seasonal tasting room with a relaxed countryside vibe. The space is family-owned and designed for easygoing visits surrounded by a welcoming, community feel.
Their lineup features a wide variety of wines, sangrias, hard ciders, and wine slushies, with standout options like Gwin Gris and fruit-forward blends. The mix of sweet, dry, and specialty drinks makes it easy to find something for every palate.
Food is available with small plates, sandwiches, and light bites that pair well with their drinks. Seasonal events like live music and their annual Music Palooza bring energy to the winery and make each visit feel like a local celebration.
🍻 13. West Branch, Michigan – Relaxed Stop with Local Craft Variety
West Branch brings a slower pace to the trail with a mix of small-town charm and locally driven craft options. It’s an easygoing stop that offers a balance of beverage experiences before continuing north.
Modern Craft Wine – West Branch, Michigan | Creative Tasting Room with Mixable Wines & Fun Flavors
Located in West Branch, Michigan, Modern Craft Wine offers a bright, laid-back tasting room centered around a fun and social wine experience. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it an easy stop for both first-time visitors and returning guests.
Their lineup features fruit-infused wines designed to be mixed into cocktails, with popular options like Nightberry and Blush on the Rocks. These unique, flavor-forward creations set them apart from traditional wineries and encourage guests to get creative.
Food options are minimal, keeping the focus on drinks, but the experience is elevated through tastings and interactive wine mixing. The playful concept and variety of flavors make each visit feel different and memorable.
Highway Brewing Company – West Branch, Michigan | Multi-Level Brewpub with Craft Beer, Cocktails & Elevated Pub Fare
Located in downtown West Branch, The Highway Brewing Company offers a unique multi-level taproom set inside a historic former fire hall. The space features a rooftop patio, cozy lounge, and a lively main dining area, creating a dynamic and welcoming atmosphere.
Their lineup includes six flagship beers and rotating seasonal brews made in-house, alongside a well-crafted cocktail menu featuring Michigan spirits. This mix of classic and creative drinks keeps the menu fresh and appealing for a wide range of tastes.
Food is a major highlight, with elevated pub fare like burgers, flatbreads, and hearty entrees designed to pair with their beers. Events, private gatherings, and a social, community-driven vibe make every visit feel like more than just a stop for a drink.
🍻 14. Standish, Michigan – Quiet Stop with Local Flavor
Standish offers a calm and straightforward stop along the trail, where the pace slows and the experience stays simple. It’s a relaxed stretch that keeps the journey easy before heading toward the final destinations.
Modern Craft Wine – Standish, Michigan | Boutique Tasting Room with Mixable Wines & “Shop-and-Sip” Experience
Located in downtown Standish, Michigan, Modern Craft Wine Standish Tasting Room offers a cozy tasting space inside Marigold Boutique, blending shopping with a relaxed wine experience. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, perfect for browsing unique finds while enjoying a glass.
Their lineup features fruit-forward wines designed for mixing, with creative favorites like cherry sangria and signature “Slammer” drinks. The focus on customizable wine cocktails makes it a fun and interactive stop for something different.
Food isn’t a main feature, but the experience centers around sipping, mixing, and socializing in a laid-back setting. Occasional promotions and a lively “shop-and-sip” concept give it an event-like feel, making each visit unique.
🍻 15. Au Gres, Michigan – Scenic Stop Near the Lake
Au Gres brings the trail closer to the water with a quiet coastal setting along Lake Huron. It’s a peaceful stop where open views and a slower pace create a laid-back experience before the final stretch.
Modern Craft Wine – Au Gres, Michigan | Original Tasting Room with Creative Blends & Laid-Back Vibes
Located in the heart of Au Gres, Modern Craft Wine is the original tasting room and home base of the brand, offering a relaxed, welcoming setting in a quaint downtown location. The space is casual and inviting, perfect for travelers stopping in to unwind and sample something different.
Their lineup features fruit-infused wines designed for mixing, with popular options like Northbound Red and apple-forward blends that encourage creative combinations. Tastings allow guests to sample multiple flavors, making it a fun and interactive experience.
Food isn’t a primary focus, keeping attention on the wine and tasting experience. The lively, social atmosphere and group-friendly tastings make it feel like a casual event every time you visit.
🍻 16. National City, Michigan – Laid-Back Finish Surrounded by Nature
National City closes out the trail with a quiet, nature-filled setting that feels removed from the busier stops along the way. It’s a relaxed final destination where the pace slows down and the experience winds down naturally.
Sand Lake Micro Brewery – National City, Michigan | Up North Brewery with Outdoor Courtyard & Live Music
Located in National City, Michigan, Sand Lake Micro Brewery offers a laid-back taproom with a cozy indoor space and a fun outdoor courtyard. The atmosphere is relaxed and social, complete with yard games and a true “up north” feel.
Their lineup includes craft beer alongside cider, wine, and unique options like hard iced tea and specialty drinks. Rotating selections and local favorites keep the menu interesting for every visit.
Food is limited to snacks, but food trucks frequently visit to serve meals during peak times. Live music and events, especially on weekends in the summer, bring energy to the space and make it a lively destination.
🍻 Your Next Craft Beer Destination Awaits
If your beer journey doesn’t stop in Michigan, you’re just getting started. From scenic coastlines to vibrant city scenes, the state is packed with incredible breweries waiting to be explored.
👉 Continue your journey with nearby brewery destinations:
– Traverse City breweries serving up craft beer with stunning lake views and laid-back vibes
– Grand Rapids breweries known for its legendary Beer City scene and endless taproom options
– Detroit breweries blending historic roots with a bold and growing craft culture
Wherever you head next, there’s always another great pour waiting and a Hop Passport to go with it. 🍻
Cheers! 🥂 #DrinkLocal
