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A Craft Beer Lover’s Guide to the Finger Lakes: Top Breweries to Visit

Writer's picture: Sara AbernethySara Abernethy

The Finger Lakes region of New York is a dream destination for lovers of scenic beauty, outdoor adventures, and exceptional local flavors. While its reputation as a wine country is well-known, the Finger Lakes also boasts a flourishing craft beer scene that’s sure to delight beer enthusiasts. As the second-largest craft brewery market in the U.S., New York State is a powerhouse in the beer industry, and the Finger Lakes offers some of the best examples of the creativity and craftsmanship that define this movement.

With more than 500 breweries statewide, New York’s craft beer industry contributes billions to the economy, supports over 20,000 jobs, and continues to grow each year. The Finger Lakes is at the forefront of this growth, blending farm-fresh ingredients, sustainable practices, and a commitment to innovation. If you’re planning a trip to the area, be sure to include these incredible breweries on your itinerary.

1. Ithaca Beer Company

  • Location: 122 Ithaca Beer Dr, Ithaca, NY 14850

  • Highlights: Established in 1997, Ithaca Beer Company is a cornerstone of the Finger Lakes craft beer scene. Their iconic Flower Power IPA is a must-try, and the brewery’s spacious taproom and beer garden are ideal for enjoying a pint with a farm-to-table meal.


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  • Nearby Stay: Finger Lakes Mill Creek Cabins offers rustic luxury accommodations just a short drive away.

2. Liquid State Brewing Company

  • Location: 620 W Green St, Ithaca, NY 14850

  • Highlights: Liquid State Brewing, located in Ithaca’s West End, serves up a creative lineup of ales, stouts, and sours. With a vibrant taproom atmosphere and frequent live music, it’s a perfect stop for both craft beer lovers and culture enthusiasts.Visit Website

  • Available At: Cedarwood Event Venue features Liquid State beers for a premium event experience.

  • Location: 620 W Green St, Ithaca, NY 14850

  • Highlights: Liquid State Brewing, located in Ithaca’s West End, serves up a creative lineup of ales, stouts, and sours. With a vibrant taproom atmosphere and frequent live music, it’s a perfect stop for both craft beer lovers and culture enthusiasts.Visit Website

3. Lucky Hare Brewing Company

  • Location: 6085 Beckhorn Rd, Hector, NY 14841

  • Highlights: Lucky Hare Brewing is known for its bold, small-batch beers, including hop-forward IPAs and barrel-aged stouts. Their rustic setting on the east side of Seneca Lake is a favorite for those looking to pair great beer with beautiful views.Visit Website

  • Available At: Cedarwood Event Venue offers Lucky Hare beers, making it a great choice for your special events.

  • Location: 6085 Beckhorn Rd, Hector, NY 14841

  • Highlights: Lucky Hare Brewing is known for its bold, small-batch beers, including hop-forward IPAs and barrel-aged stouts. Their rustic setting on the east side of Seneca Lake is a favorite for those looking to pair great beer with beautiful views.Visit Website

4. Grist Iron Brewing Company

  • Location: 4880 NY-414, Burdett, NY 14818

  • Highlights: Combining stunning views of Seneca Lake with a diverse range of craft beers, Grist Iron Brewing is a go-to spot for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re into crisp pilsners or rich porters, their menu has something for everyone.


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  • Nearby Venue: New Park Event Venue is a short drive away, offering a unique setting for weddings and celebrations.

5. Two Goats Brewing

  • Location: 5027 NY-414, Burdett, NY 14818

  • Highlights: With spectacular views of Seneca Lake and a cozy, laid-back atmosphere, Two Goats Brewing is the quintessential Finger Lakes brewery experience. Don’t miss their signature Amber Ale and rotating seasonal offerings.


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6. Scale House Brewery

  • Location: 5930 Willow Creek Rd, Cayuga, NY 13034

  • Highlights: This charming brewery serves up a great selection of ales and IPAs in a welcoming, intimate setting. Be sure to pair your beer with one of their famous stone-fired pizzas for a complete Finger Lakes experience.


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7. Wagner Valley Brewing Co.

  • Location: 9322 NY-414, Lodi, NY 14860

  • Highlights: Sharing a location with the renowned Wagner Vineyards, Wagner Valley Brewing offers a wide selection of craft beers, from smooth wheat ales to robust doppelbocks. It’s a perfect destination for those who appreciate both beer and wine.


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8. Hopshire Farm & Brewery

  • Location: 1771 Dryden Rd, Freeville, NY 13068

  • Highlights: Hopshire Farm & Brewery embodies the farm-to-pint philosophy, crafting beers with locally grown hops and honey. Their Shire Ale and Bee’s Knees Honey Ale are crowd favorites that truly capture the essence of the Finger Lakes.


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9. War Horse Brewing Company

  • Location: 623 Lerch Rd, Geneva, NY 14456

  • Highlights: Located at Three Brothers Wineries & Estates, War Horse Brewing combines bold, flavorful beers with a unique and playful aesthetic. Their IPAs and lagers are especially popular, and the brewery’s energetic vibe adds to the experience.


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10. Big Alice Brewing Finger Lakes

  • Location: 4180 NY-89, Seneca Falls, NY 13148

  • Highlights: Big Alice Brewing is committed to sustainability and creativity, offering a rotating menu of innovative and seasonal beers. Their serene location along Cayuga Lake provides a relaxing environment to enjoy a pint or flight.


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From hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts and crisp lagers, the breweries of the Finger Lakes offer something for every beer lover. Make your visit unforgettable by exploring these incredible spots, each contributing to the vibrant craft beer culture of the region. Cheers to your next Finger Lakes adventure!


Craft Beer Finger Lakes


liquid state brewing
Liquid State Brewing

lucky hare brewing beer
Lucky Hare Brewing

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