This Upper Peninsula brewery trail takes you from Cedarville to Ironwood through scenic towns, waterfront views, and remote stretches of Michigan’s wild north. With Hop Passport, enjoy 50% off your first two beers while discovering hidden gems and must-visit stops along the way.
⚡Quick Trail Snapshot
Route: Cedarville ➝ Sault Ste. Marie ➝ Munising ➝ Escanaba ➝ Marquette ➝ Ironwood
Experience: Scenic road trip, spread-out destinations, nature + craft beer
Best For: Weekend trips, extended travel, outdoor + brewery combo
Top Hub: Marquette (largest concentration of breweries)
Trail Style: Drive-heavy, destination-based stops
🍻 1. Start: Eastern UP (Cedarville → Sault Ste. Marie → Paradise)
Beginning in the eastern Upper Peninsula, this stretch of the trail introduces a quieter, more scenic side of Michigan with waterfront views and wide-open landscapes. It’s a relaxed starting point where small towns, natural landmarks, and craft beverage stops set the tone for the journey ahead.
Les Cheneaux Distillers – Cedarville, Michigan | Waterfront Distillery-Brewery with Craft Spirits & Relaxed Island Vibes
Set along the beautiful Les Cheneaux Islands, this distillery and brewery offers a laid-back waterfront escape. Guests can enjoy both craft beers and house-made spirits in a scenic, welcoming setting.
The menu features a variety of vodka, whiskey, rum, and rotating taps. Each drink reflects a balance of creativity and small-batch craftsmanship.
Inside, the atmosphere feels cozy and inviting with a strong local charm. It’s the kind of place where you can unwind and enjoy the slower pace of the Upper Peninsula.
Soo Brewing Company – Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan | Global-Inspired Craft Brewery with Community Focus
Located in downtown Sault Ste. Marie, Soo Brewing Company blends global beer styles with local pride. The brewery was built on a mission to create approachable and high-quality craft beer.
Their tap list showcases a wide range of international styles. From Belgian ales to German lagers, there’s always something new to try.
The space is casual, friendly, and rooted in community connection. It’s a great stop for both locals and travelers exploring the area.
Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub – Paradise, Michigan | Rustic Woodland Brewpub Near Iconic Waterfalls
Nestled inside Tahquamenon Falls State Park, this brewpub offers a true up-north experience. The log cabin setting is surrounded by forest and natural beauty.
The brewery serves house-made beers alongside hearty, satisfying meals. It’s a perfect place to relax after visiting the famous waterfalls.
With its rustic charm and historic feel, the atmosphere is warm and memorable. This destination captures the essence of Michigan’s outdoor adventure scene.
🍻 2. Munising & Central Lake Superior Shoreline
As the trail moves west, this stretch follows the Lake Superior shoreline through Munising and surrounding areas, known for dramatic cliffs and outdoor adventure. It’s a scenic portion of the route where craft beer pairs perfectly with some of the UP’s most iconic views.
ByGeorge Brewing Co. – Munising, Michigan | Small-Town Craft Brewery with Outdoor Biergarten & U.P. Charm
Located in downtown Munising, ByGeorge Brewing Co. captures the spirit of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with locally crafted beers and a welcoming vibe. The brewery focuses on creating a variety of styles that reflect the character of the surrounding landscape.
Inside, the space is cozy and intimate, while outside you’ll find a lively biergarten and upper deck for enjoying fresh air. It’s a great place to relax after exploring nearby natural attractions like Pictured Rocks.
The tap list features everything from crisp lagers to hop-forward IPAs, along with cider, wine, and seltzer options. Guests can also grab food from the connected deli, making it an easy and enjoyable stop along your Upper Peninsula adventure.
🍺 3. Manistique → Cooks Corridor
Continuing west, this stretch slows things down with smaller towns and a more laid-back pace along the trail. It’s a quieter section where local breweries offer a relaxed stop between the more scenic and high-traffic areas.
Flatiron Brewing – Manistique, Michigan | Historic-Inspired Brewpub with Craft Beer & Detroit-Style Pizza
Located in Manistique, Flatiron Brewing blends craft beer with a lively, laid-back atmosphere. The brewery draws inspiration from the town’s historic Flatiron Block and its colorful past.
Inside, guests can enjoy games like darts and pool alongside a comfortable lounge setting. The space is designed for relaxing, socializing, and enjoying good times with friends.
The menu features house-made beers paired with scratch-made Detroit-style pizza and pub favorites. It’s a fun and flavorful stop that mixes history, entertainment, and great brews.
LaTulip Brewing Co. – Cooks, Michigan | Small-Town Brewery with Outdoor Space & Local Charm
Located along US-2 in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, LaTulip Brewing Co. offers a relaxed stop for travelers and locals alike. This family-owned brewery focuses on small-batch drinks in a casual setting.
The indoor space is cozy, while the outdoor area provides plenty of room to unwind. Guests can enjoy beer along with cider, wine, and other refreshing options.
With events, a welcoming vibe, and a laid-back roadside feel, it’s an easy place to take a break. It’s a simple but memorable stop for anyone exploring the Upper Peninsula.
🍻 4. Escanaba & Gladstone Hub
This stretch brings a more active cluster of breweries, making it one of the easiest areas to hit multiple stops in a short distance. Escanaba and Gladstone offer a mix of local favorites and established spots with a steady, welcoming vibe.
Hereford & Hops – Escanaba, Michigan | Historic Brewpub with Steakhouse Dining & Classic Craft Beer
Located in downtown Escanaba, Hereford & Hops blends craft brewing with a classic steakhouse experience. This longtime brewpub is known for its welcoming atmosphere and tradition of great food and beer.
The brewery offers a variety of house-made beers alongside a full menu of hearty dishes. Guests can even enjoy the unique “grill your own steak” experience that sets it apart.
Inside, the space carries a warm, historic charm rooted in its past as a former hotel. It’s a memorable stop that combines history, flavor, and a true Upper Peninsula vibe.
Upper Hand Brewery – Escanaba, Michigan | Modern Craft Brewery with Bold Flavors & U.P. Roots
Located just outside Escanaba, Upper Hand Brewery focuses on crafting bold and approachable beers inspired by the Upper Peninsula. The taproom offers a relaxed setting where visitors can explore a wide variety of styles.
The lineup includes everything from crisp lagers to hop-forward IPAs and seasonal specialties. Each brew highlights balance, creativity, and regional character.
With its laid-back atmosphere and rotating selection, it’s a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. The brewery captures the adventurous spirit of northern Michigan in every pour.
🍻 Keep Exploring the UP
The Upper Peninsula isn’t just about the destination, it’s about the journey between each stop. With Hop Passport, you can enjoy 50% off your first two beers while discovering more hidden breweries along the way.
👉 Keep your UP adventure going and collect stamps with Michigan Hop Passport.
Saunders Point Brewing Co. – Gladstone, Michigan | New Lakeside Brewery with Relaxed Small-Town Feel
Located in Gladstone, Saunders Point Brewing Co. is a newer addition to the local craft beer scene. The brewery offers a fresh and inviting space for both locals and visitors.
The atmosphere is casual and easygoing, making it a comfortable stop to enjoy a drink. Guests can expect a growing lineup of beers as the brewery continues to evolve.
With its small-town charm and welcoming vibe, it’s a great place to slow down and relax. This up-and-coming spot adds something new to the Upper Peninsula beer trail.
🍻5. Marquette Area (Main Craft Beer Hub)
At the center of the trail, Marquette stands out as the Upper Peninsula’s most active craft beer destination. With multiple breweries close together, it’s the best place to explore a wide range of styles in one stop.
Ore Dock Brewing Company – Marquette, Michigan | Community-Focused Brewery with Creative Energy
Right in downtown Marquette, this lively brewery blends craft beer with a strong sense of community and creativity. The space feels like a hub where locals and travelers gather for music, art, and good conversation.
Inside, you’ll find a mix of Belgian-inspired and American-style beers, including their well-known Reclamation IPA. The rustic interior, built with reclaimed materials, adds character to every pour.
Upstairs, the brewery transforms into an event space filled with live performances and gatherings. It’s the kind of place where every visit feels like something memorable is about to happen.
Barrel + Beam – Marquette, Michigan | Farmhouse Ales in a Scenic Setting
Tucked just outside the city, this brewery offers a peaceful escape surrounded by the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Its cozy, cabin-style setting makes it feel more like a retreat than a typical taproom.
Barrel + Beam specializes in farmhouse ales, barrel-aged beers, and naturally carbonated creations. Each sip highlights traditional brewing methods blended with creative experimentation.
The welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for slow afternoons or special gatherings. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet drink or attending an event, it’s a place that encourages you to linger.
Drifa Brewing Company – Marquette, Michigan | Cooperative Brewery with Local Spirit
Located in South Marquette, Drifa Brewing stands out as Michigan’s first cooperatively owned brewery. It’s a place built by the community, for the community, with a strong local vibe.
The brewery offers a rotating selection of craft beers that reflect both creativity and collaboration. Every visit feels like stepping into a shared passion project.
Its laid-back atmosphere invites conversation and connection among guests. If you’re looking for something authentic and community-driven, this spot delivers.
Kognisjon Bryggeri – Marquette, Michigan | Experimental Small-Batch Brewing
Kognisjon Bryggeri is where innovation takes center stage in Marquette’s craft beer scene. This small-batch brewery is known for pushing boundaries with bold and inventive styles.
Each beer showcases a unique approach, often experimenting with flavors and techniques that surprise the palate. It’s a must-visit for those who enjoy trying something different.
The modern space reflects its forward-thinking mindset, offering a fresh contrast to more traditional breweries. Expect a tasting experience that keeps you curious from start to finish.
Superior Culture – Marquette, Michigan | Kombucha Taproom with a Twist
For something beyond beer, Superior Culture brings a refreshing twist to the local scene. This kombucha taproom offers a variety of rotating flavors, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.
The drinks are vibrant, tangy, and perfect for those seeking lighter or alternative options. It’s a great stop to mix things up during your brewery tour.
The relaxed, welcoming vibe makes it easy to settle in and explore new flavors. It’s a unique addition to Marquette’s growing craft beverage culture
Lake Superior Smokehouse Brewpub – Harvey, Michigan | Smoked Flavors with Lakefront Charm
Just outside Marquette in Harvey, this brewpub pairs craft beer with rich, house-smoked barbecue. The combination of bold flavors and hearty meals makes it a standout stop.
The menu is built around smoked meats, perfectly complemented by a selection of local brews. It’s the kind of place where comfort food meets craft beer culture.
With its relaxed setting near Lake Superior, the atmosphere feels both rustic and inviting. It’s an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring the shoreline.
Vierling Restaurant & Marquette Harbor Brewery – Marquette, Michigan | Historic Brewpub with Harbor Views
Located along the waterfront, this historic brewpub blends classic charm with modern craft brewing. It’s a beloved spot where history and hospitality come together.
The in-house brewery serves a range of beers that pair beautifully with a full food menu. It’s perfect for a relaxed meal with a scenic backdrop.
Large windows offer views of Lake Superior, adding to the overall experience. Whether you’re dining or just grabbing a pint, the setting makes it unforgettable.
🍻 2. Turn the Drive Into a Brewery Trail
Long scenic drives become even better when there’s a great brewery waiting at the next stop. Hop Passport helps you make the most of every mile with exclusive savings across the Upper Peninsula.
👉 Start your next UP adventure stop with Michigan Hop Passport and make the journey count.
🍻 6. Ishpeming → Negaunee → Alpha
Moving inland, this stretch of the trail passes through historic mining towns with a strong local identity and rugged character. It’s a scenic transition where smaller communities and craft breweries reflect the authentic spirit of the Upper Peninsula.
Jasper Ridge Brewery – Ishpeming, Michigan | Classic Yooper Brewpub with Comfort Food Roots
Tucked in the heart of Ishpeming, this long-standing brewpub has been serving locals and travelers for decades with a warm, welcoming feel. It’s the kind of place where burgers, beer, and community come together effortlessly.
Their beers are crafted with a strong sense of local pride, offering familiar favorites that pair perfectly with hearty, homemade dishes. The menu leans into comfort food, making it easy to settle in and stay awhile.
With nearly 30 years of history behind it, Jasper Ridge feels like a true Upper Peninsula staple. It’s a go-to stop when you want something authentic, casual, and full of local flavor.
Upper Peninsula Brewing Company – (Historic Marquette, Michigan) | Legacy of Early Craft Brewing in the U.P.
Rooted in Marquette’s early brewing history, this name represents one of the region’s original beer producers. Its legacy dates back to the late 1800s, when beer gardens and community gathering spaces were part of everyday life.
Though the original operation no longer exists, its story reflects the deep brewing traditions that helped shape the Upper Peninsula. It’s a reminder of how far the craft beer scene in this region has come.
Today, the preserved building stands as a historic landmark tied to Marquette’s brewing past. It adds a layer of character and history to any brewery tour through the area.
Alpha Michigan Brewing Company – Alpha, Michigan | Small-Town Brewery with a Big Community Heart
Located in one of the smallest villages in America with a brewery, this spot delivers a truly unique small-town experience. It’s more than just a taproom—it’s a gathering place where everyone feels like a local.
Alpha Michigan Brewing Company is built around the idea of giving back, with a portion of proceeds supporting local causes and community efforts. Every pint here carries a deeper purpose beyond great taste.
Set inside a repurposed historic building, the space is filled with character and stories from the past. It’s a hidden gem that proves the best brewery experiences often come from the smallest places.
🍻 7. Keweenaw Peninsula Detour
For those willing to venture farther north, this detour adds one of the most remote and rewarding stretches of the trail. The Keweenaw Peninsula offers dramatic landscapes, fewer crowds, and a true off-the-grid craft beer experience.
Red Jacket Brewing Company – Calumet, Michigan | Historic Brewpub with Old-World Charm
Step into history in downtown Calumet, where this brewpub has been welcoming guests in a building dating back to the early 1900s. The space is filled with character, from its ornate woodwork to vintage décor that tells stories of the region’s copper boom era.
Red Jacket Brewing Company crafts small-batch beers on-site, including rich oatmeal stouts, classic ales, and rotating seasonal pours. Each brew leans into traditional methods, offering a taste that feels both nostalgic and carefully crafted.
The food menu brings everything together with hearty pub fare like burgers, sandwiches, and comfort-driven entrees that pair perfectly with a pint. It’s the kind of place where history, flavor, and atmosphere blend into a truly memorable Upper Peninsula stop.
🍻 8. Final Stretch: Iron Mountain → Ironwood
Closing out the trail, this final stretch heads west through quiet forests and wide-open roads toward the far edge of the Upper Peninsula. It’s a peaceful finish where the journey slows down and each last stop feels well-earned.
51st State Brewing Company – Kingsford, Michigan | Craft Beer, Wood-Fired Pizza & Bagel Shop Vibes
Located in Kingsford, this family-owned brewery brings together great beer, fresh food, and a lively local atmosphere. It’s a spot where craft brewing meets comfort, creating an easygoing place to hang out and unwind.
Their lineup ranges from crisp lagers to bold IPAs, giving every type of beer lover something to enjoy. Pair your pint with wood-fired pizza or their unique sourdough bagels made fresh in-house.
The combination of brewery and bagel shop makes it feel refreshingly different from your typical taproom. It’s a fun, flavorful stop that adds a little creativity to the Upper Peninsula beer trail.
Cold Iron Brewing Company – Ironwood, Michigan | Northwoods Brewery Built on Community & Craft
Set in downtown Ironwood, this brewery sits near outdoor trails and scenic parks, making it a perfect stop after a day of adventure. Its mission centers on bringing people together through craft beer and a welcoming environment.
Cold Iron focuses on small-batch brewing, offering a diverse tap list that ranges from smooth cream ales to bold IPAs and rich porters. Each beer reflects a balance of creativity and classic brewing styles.
Inside, the warm mix of wood, metal, and local character creates a relaxed, inviting space to kick back. Whether you’re passing through or staying awhile, it’s a place that captures the spirit of Michigan’s western Upper Peninsula
🧭 Planning Your Next Brewery Adventure?
If your brewery trail doesn’t stop here, there’s even more of Michigan waiting to be explored. Beyond this route, you’ll find vibrant beer scenes, new flavors, and local favorites spread across nearby regions—all just a drive away.
👉 Continue your journey with nearby brewery destinations:
– Traverse City breweries known for scenic views, craft variety, and a strong destination vibe
– Grand Rapids breweries offering one of the most established and diverse beer scenes in the Midwest
– Saginaw breweries bringing a laid-back atmosphere with hidden gems worth discovering
Wherever you head next, there’s always another great stop waiting and a Hop Passport to go with it. 🍺
Cheers! 🍻 #DrinkLocal
