How to Find Breweries in Richmond VA

Richmond, Virginia, has evolved into one of the most vibrant craft beer destinations in the Southeast. With over 40 breweries operating within the city limits and surrounding areas, the local beer scene offers an impressive diversity of styles, histories, and experiences. Whether you’re a local resident looking to explore new taps, a visitor planning a weekend getaway, or a beer enthusiast mapping out a regional tour, knowing how to find breweries in Richmond VA is essential to fully enjoying this dynamic culture. Beyond simply locating a place to drink, understanding where to look, what to consider, and how to verify authenticity ensures you discover the best offerings — from hidden neighborhood gems to award-winning flagship operations. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to identifying, evaluating, and visiting breweries in Richmond, leveraging both digital tools and on-the-ground insights to maximize your experience.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Define Your Goals and Preferences

Before you begin searching, clarify what you’re looking for. Are you interested in large-scale production breweries with taprooms open to the public? Or do you prefer small, experimental nanobreweries that offer limited releases? Do you prioritize outdoor seating, food pairings, live music, or family-friendly environments? Understanding your preferences helps narrow down your search and prevents wasted time visiting locations that don’t align with your expectations. For example, if you’re traveling with children, you’ll want to avoid breweries without play areas or non-alcoholic beverage options. If you’re a hophead, you’ll want to prioritize breweries known for IPAs and double IPAs. Take a few minutes to list your top three priorities — this will serve as your filter throughout the process.

2. Use Dedicated Beer Discovery Platforms

The most efficient way to find breweries in Richmond VA is through specialized beer discovery apps and websites. These platforms are curated by beer enthusiasts and often updated in real time by users and brewery staff. Start with Untappd, the most popular social network for beer lovers. Search “Richmond, VA” in the app’s location filter to see all active breweries, their ratings, recent check-ins, and popular beers. Untappd also shows you which locations are currently open, their hours, and whether they offer food or tours. Another excellent resource is BeerAdvocate, which provides detailed brewery profiles, user reviews, and style-specific ratings. For a more visual experience, use Google Maps and search “breweries near me” or “craft beer Richmond VA.” The map view displays locations with photos, ratings, user reviews, and even real-time crowd indicators. These platforms often include filters for amenities like outdoor seating, dog-friendly policies, and gluten-free options — crucial for making informed decisions.

3. Explore Local Beer Trails and Official Tourism Sites

The City of Richmond and the Virginia Tourism Corporation have developed official beer trails to help visitors navigate the region’s brewing landscape. The Richmond Beer Trail, promoted by the Richmond Region Tourism Board, features a curated list of 20+ breweries across the metro area. Each brewery on the trail offers a unique stamp or token upon visit, encouraging exploration. Visit the official website to download a digital or printable map. These trails are often updated seasonally and include special events, tasting passes, and discounts. Additionally, the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild maintains a comprehensive, searchable directory of all licensed breweries in the state, with Richmond-specific filters. These official resources are reliable because they’re maintained by industry associations and updated with current licensing and operational data — unlike user-generated lists that may include closed or inactive locations.

4. Leverage Social Media and Local Forums

While apps and official sites offer structure, social media reveals the pulse of the local beer community. Follow Richmond-based beer influencers on Instagram — accounts like @richmondbeerlife, @va.brews, and @thecraftbeercollective regularly post updates on new releases, pop-up events, and limited taps. Join Facebook groups such as “Richmond Craft Beer Lovers” or “Virginia Beer Enthusiasts.” These communities are invaluable for real-time insights: someone might post that a favorite brewery just released a new sour, or that a popular taproom is hosting a live jazz night this Friday. Reddit’s r/RichmondVA also has frequent threads about brewery recommendations, with locals offering honest, unfiltered opinions. Don’t overlook Twitter/X — many Richmond breweries post last-minute changes, special collaborations, or taproom closures here faster than anywhere else.

5. Visit Local Beer Shops and Bottle Stores

Independent bottle shops and beer retailers often serve as unofficial hubs for local beer knowledge. Stores like The Beer O’Clock, Beers of the World, and Richmond’s Best Beer carry selections from nearly every Richmond-area brewery. The staff are typically passionate beer aficionados who can recommend breweries based on your taste profile. Many of these shops also host tap takeovers or tasting events featuring local brewers. Ask them: “Which Richmond breweries are currently doing something exciting?” or “Which ones have the most consistent quality across their lineup?” These conversations often lead to discoveries you won’t find on apps — such as a small brewery that only distributes to local stores or a new collaboration between two local brands.

6. Use Google Search with Specific Keywords

General searches like “breweries in Richmond” yield too many results. To refine your search, use targeted keywords. Try:

- “best IPA breweries Richmond VA”

- “dog-friendly breweries Richmond VA”

- “Richmond breweries with food trucks”

- “new breweries in Richmond 2024”

- “Richmond craft beer tours”

Google’s autocomplete feature will suggest popular variations as you type, helping you uncover niche queries. Look for articles from reputable local publications like Richmond Magazine, Style Weekly, or RVA Magazine — these often publish annual “Best of” lists or seasonal guides that are meticulously researched. Avoid blogs with outdated content; check the publication date. Articles from the past 12–18 months are most reliable.

7. Check Brewery Websites and Direct Communication Channels

Once you’ve identified a few potential breweries, visit their official websites. These are the most accurate sources for current information: hours of operation, tour schedules, food policies, pet rules, and event calendars. Many Richmond breweries now offer online reservation systems for taproom seating, especially on weekends. If a brewery doesn’t have a website, or if the site looks outdated and lacks contact information, it’s a red flag. Reputable breweries invest in professional web presence. Look for links to Instagram, Facebook, and Google Business Profile — these should all be active and consistent. Call or message them directly if you have specific questions: “Do you offer growler fills?” or “Is your patio open during rain?” This direct approach ensures accuracy and often leads to personalized recommendations.

8. Map Your Route Using Public Transit and Parking Data

Richmond’s brewery scene is spread across multiple neighborhoods — from the historic Shockoe Bottom to the trendy East End and the artsy North Side. Planning your route is as important as choosing where to go. Use Google Maps or Apple Maps to plot multiple stops. Look for breweries within walking distance of each other to avoid driving between locations. For example, in Shockoe Bottom, you can visit Archer’s, Strangeways, and Three Notch’d all within a 10-minute walk. If you’re using public transit, check the GRTC Pulse bus route, which connects several key areas. Parking is another consideration — many breweries offer free parking, but others require street parking or paid lots. Apps like ParkMobile or SpotHero can help you locate and pre-pay for parking in advance, saving time and avoiding fines.

9. Attend Local Beer Events and Festivals

One of the fastest ways to discover multiple breweries in a single outing is by attending beer festivals. Richmond hosts several annual events, including the Richmond Craft Beer Festival in May, the Virginia Craft Beer Festival in October, and smaller seasonal events like “Brews on the River” and “Hopscotch Festival.” These events feature dozens of local breweries offering samples, often including exclusive releases not available elsewhere. Attending these festivals gives you the chance to meet brewers, ask questions, and collect contact information for future visits. Many breweries use festivals as launchpads for new locations — so you might discover a brand that’s opening a taproom next month.

10. Keep a Personal Log and Review Your Experiences

After visiting several breweries, start keeping a simple log. Note the name, location, signature beer, atmosphere, service, and whether you’d return. Use a notes app, spreadsheet, or even a physical journal. This helps you identify patterns: Do you prefer breweries with outdoor seating? Do you consistently enjoy sour ales over stouts? Over time, your log becomes a personalized guide that refines your future searches. Share your findings on Untappd or social media — not only does it help others, but it also creates a digital footprint that improves future search results for you. Google and other platforms use user-generated data to personalize recommendations, so your activity influences what you see next.

Best Practices

Verify Operating Hours and Seasonal Closures

Brewery hours in Richmond vary widely. Some open at 11 a.m. on weekdays, while others don’t open until 4 p.m. Many close on Mondays or Tuesdays. Seasonal changes are common — some breweries operate on reduced hours during winter or close for renovations. Always check the brewery’s official website or Google Business Profile for current hours. Don’t rely solely on third-party apps, which may not be updated promptly. A quick Google search for “[Brewery Name] hours Richmond VA” often yields the most accurate results.

Respect Local Culture and Etiquette

Richmond’s brewing community is deeply rooted in local pride. Many breweries are family-owned and deeply connected to neighborhood history. Avoid referring to them as “just bars” — they’re community spaces. Be respectful of staff, follow posted rules (e.g., no outside alcohol, no smoking near entrances), and tip generously if you receive excellent service. If you’re bringing a group, call ahead to confirm capacity limits. Many smaller breweries operate on tight staffing — large, unannounced groups can disrupt operations.

Support Local Distribution, Not Just Taprooms

While taprooms are fun, supporting breweries through local retailers helps sustain their growth. Many Richmond breweries distribute to grocery stores, liquor shops, and restaurants across the region. Buying a six-pack from a local store like Food Lion, Whole Foods, or Williamsburg Wine & Spirits contributes to their bottom line just as much as a taproom visit. Look for bottles with “Brewed in Richmond” labels — these often indicate local production and support.

Stay Informed About New Openings and Closures

The Richmond beer scene evolves rapidly. New breweries open every year, while others close due to economic pressures or ownership changes. Subscribe to newsletters from the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild or Richmond Region Tourism. Follow local beer bloggers on Substack or Medium. Set up Google Alerts for “Richmond brewery opening” or “Richmond craft beer news.” This ensures you’re never caught off guard by a new favorite or a beloved spot that’s shuttered.

Use Sustainable Practices

Many Richmond breweries prioritize sustainability — using solar power, composting spent grain, and offering discounts for bringing your own growler. Support these efforts by declining single-use plastics, reusing your growler, and opting for public transit or rideshare when possible. Your choices influence industry norms and help preserve the environment that makes Richmond’s beer culture thrive.

Engage with the Community

Leave thoughtful reviews on Google and Untappd. Mention specific beers, staff names, or events — generic reviews like “great beer” are less helpful. Respond to brewery posts on social media. Attend trivia nights or brewery clean-up days. The more you engage, the more you become part of the community, and the more personalized your recommendations become.

Tools and Resources

Untappd (App & Website)

Untappd is the most comprehensive tool for tracking and discovering breweries. Its map feature allows you to filter by distance, rating, and beer style. You can create custom lists like “Top 5 Richmond IPAs” or “Breweries with Live Music.” The app also alerts you when a favorite brewery releases a new beer nearby. Premium features include advanced analytics and badge tracking for beer enthusiasts.

BeerAdvocate (Website)

BeerAdvocate offers in-depth reviews, brewery profiles, and style ratings. It’s especially useful for comparing the quality of different breweries’ flagship beers. The “Top Breweries in Richmond” list is updated annually by user votes and expert ratings. Use it to identify consistent performers versus one-hit wonders.

Google Maps

Google Maps provides real-time data on location, hours, photos, and reviews. Use the “Open Now” filter to find active breweries. Click on individual pins to see user-uploaded photos of the taproom, food menus, and outdoor spaces. The “Questions & Answers” section often contains useful tips from recent visitors.

Richmond Beer Trail (Website)

Hosted by Richmond Region Tourism, this official trail lists 20+ participating breweries with maps, event calendars, and downloadable passport templates. Completing the trail often earns you a free gift or discount — a great incentive to explore widely.

Virginia Craft Brewers Guild (Website)

The state’s official brewing association maintains a fully searchable, licensed brewery directory. All entries are verified by the Virginia ABC. This is the most authoritative source for confirming a brewery’s legal status and production capacity.

Local News Outlets

Publications like Style Weekly, Richmond Magazine, and RVA Magazine regularly publish brewery features, opening announcements, and interviews. Their archives are treasure troves of historical context and insider knowledge.

Facebook Groups

Groups like “Richmond Craft Beer Lovers” and “Virginia Beer Enthusiasts” offer real-time updates, event announcements, and peer recommendations. Members often post photos of limited releases and share tips on parking or wait times.

Instagram

Follow hashtags like

RichmondBeer, #RichmondBrewery, and #VAbeer. Many breweries post daily updates on tap lists, food truck arrivals, and special events. Instagram Stories are particularly useful for live updates.

Google Alerts

Set up alerts for phrases like “new brewery Richmond VA,” “Richmond craft beer news,” or “brewery closing Richmond.” You’ll receive email notifications when new articles or posts appear, keeping you ahead of the curve.

Yelp

Yelp remains a useful tool for reading detailed reviews, especially regarding food quality, cleanliness, and service. Look for reviews with photos and multiple check-ins — these tend to be more reliable than one-off comments.

Local Bottle Shops

Independent retailers like The Beer O’Clock and Beers of the World offer curated selections and expert staff. Their recommendations are often more nuanced than algorithm-driven apps.

Real Examples

Example 1: Discovering Strangeways Brewing

A visitor from out of state used Untappd to search for “top-rated breweries in Richmond.” Strangeways Brewing ranked

3 with a 4.3-star average. The user clicked through and saw photos of a modern taproom with outdoor seating, live music events, and a rotating IPA lineup. They checked the brewery’s website and confirmed it was open on weekends with food trucks. They visited on a Saturday, tried the “Hazy IPA,” and enjoyed a live jazz set. The experience was so positive they added Strangeways to their personal log and shared it on Instagram, tagging the brewery. Within a week, the brewery reposted their photo — creating a personal connection.

Example 2: Finding a Hidden Gem — Bitter Sisters Brewing

A local resident searched “dog-friendly breweries Richmond” on Google Maps and found Bitter Sisters Brewing, a small operation in the East End. The Google Business Profile showed recent photos of dogs lounging on the patio and a “Pup & Pint” event every Sunday. The user visited and discovered a family-owned brewery specializing in sour ales and vegan snacks. They later learned from a Facebook group that the founders had started the brewery after losing their dog — a story that deepened their appreciation. They now visit monthly and bring their own dog.

Example 3: Using the Richmond Beer Trail

A group of friends downloaded the Richmond Beer Trail passport app and set a goal to visit 10 breweries in two weeks. They started with Three Notch’d in Shockoe Bottom, then moved to Hardywood in the West End, followed by 3 Stars in North Richmond. Each stop offered a unique stamp and a complimentary tasting flight. By the end of the trail, they had tried 37 different beers, met three brewers, and received a limited-edition T-shirt. The structured approach turned a casual outing into a memorable adventure.

Example 4: Avoiding a Closed Location

A tourist searched “Brewery 101 Richmond” on Google and found a listing with a 4.5-star rating. They drove there only to find a “Permanently Closed” sign. The issue? The brewery had shut down 11 months prior, but Google hadn’t updated the listing. The tourist then checked the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild’s directory — which showed the business had been revoked — and cross-referenced with Untappd, where the last check-in was over a year ago. This example underscores the importance of using multiple, authoritative sources.

Example 5: Leveraging Social Media for a Limited Release

A beer enthusiast followed @richmondbeerlife on Instagram and saw a post announcing that Hardywood was releasing a new barrel-aged stout at midnight. The post included a QR code linking to their website for pre-orders. The enthusiast set a phone alarm, logged in at 11:55 p.m., and secured a 4-pack before it sold out. They later posted their haul on Reddit, sparking a thread that led to a collaboration between two local breweries. Social media turned a routine beer purchase into a community event.

FAQs

How many breweries are there in Richmond VA?

As of 2024, there are over 40 operational breweries within the Richmond city limits and immediate surrounding areas. This number grows annually as new microbreweries open. Always verify current status through the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild directory, as some locations may close or rebrand.

Are Richmond breweries dog-friendly?

Many Richmond breweries welcome dogs on patios and outdoor seating areas. Popular dog-friendly spots include Bitter Sisters, Strangeways, and Hardywood. Always check the brewery’s website or call ahead, as policies vary. Indoor areas are typically restricted to service animals only.

Do Richmond breweries serve food?

Most have food trucks on-site, especially on weekends. Some, like Hardywood and Three Notch’d, have full kitchens. Others partner with local restaurants for delivery. Always check the brewery’s website or social media for current food offerings — menus change frequently.

What’s the best time to visit Richmond breweries?

Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) are least crowded and ideal for tasting flights and conversation with staff. Weekends, especially Saturdays, are busy but often feature live music, food truck festivals, and special releases. Arrive early to secure seating.

Can I tour Richmond breweries?

Yes, many offer guided tours. Hardywood, Strangeways, and Three Notch’d have regular tour schedules. Tours typically include behind-the-scenes access, tasting samples, and educational insights into the brewing process. Reservations are often required — book in advance via their websites.

Are there gluten-free beer options in Richmond?

Several breweries offer gluten-reduced or gluten-free beers, including Bitter Sisters, River City, and Bentspoke. Look for labels indicating “gluten-free” or ask staff for recommendations. Always confirm with the brewery if you have celiac disease — cross-contamination can occur.

Do I need to make reservations to visit a Richmond brewery?

Reservations are not always required, but highly recommended for groups of 6 or more, especially on weekends. Some taprooms now require online reservations for seating. Check the brewery’s website before visiting.

Which Richmond brewery has the best IPAs?

Strangeways Brewing, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, and Three Notch’d are consistently rated highest for IPAs. Strangeways’ “Hazy IPA” and Hardywood’s “Citra Session IPA” are local favorites. Taste tests and Untappd ratings confirm their popularity.

Can I buy Richmond beer outside the city?

Yes. Most Richmond breweries distribute their beer to retailers across Virginia and neighboring states. Look for their cans or bottles at Whole Foods, Total Wine, and independent bottle shops. Some also ship via online platforms like Drizly or CraftShack.

How do I know if a brewery is legitimate and not a fake or pop-up?

Verify through the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild’s official directory. Legitimate breweries are licensed by the Virginia ABC and listed with their production capacity and address. Avoid places with no website, no social media presence, or inconsistent information across platforms.

Conclusion

Finding breweries in Richmond VA is more than a simple search — it’s an immersive journey into a thriving, community-driven culture. From the historic streets of Shockoe Bottom to the industrial-chic taprooms of the East End, each brewery tells a story. By combining digital tools like Untappd and Google Maps with local knowledge from bottle shops and social media, you transform from a casual visitor into an informed participant in Richmond’s beer scene. The key is intentionality: define your preferences, verify your sources, and engage with the community. Avoid relying on outdated lists or unverified apps. Instead, use authoritative directories, check official websites, and support local businesses through purchases and reviews. As new breweries open and others evolve, staying curious and connected ensures you never miss a moment of this dynamic landscape. Whether you’re sipping a crisp lager on a summer evening or discovering a rare barrel-aged stout, the right approach turns every visit into a meaningful experience. Richmond’s beer culture isn’t just about what’s in the glass — it’s about who’s behind it. Go find them.