Omaha Brewery Tour: Craft Beer, Taprooms, and Sudsy Adventures

Get ready to embark on an exciting journey through Omaha’s burgeoning craft beer scene, where breweries, taprooms, and beer bars await to tantalize your taste buds and quench your thirst for sudsy adventures. Let’s delve into the world of craft beer, sampling a wide variety of brews, learning about the brewing process, and experiencing the vibrant culture that surrounds Omaha’s craft beer community. We’ll also take a peek at Omaha’s Kanpai!Con for those who want to experience the geeky side of the city.

Omaha’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, with an array of breweries and taprooms popping up across the city. From traditional ales to experimental brews, there’s something for every beer enthusiast to enjoy.

Local Breweries

Omaha’s craft beer scene is teeming with diversity, boasting a plethora of breweries that cater to every palate and preference. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or just dipping your toes into the world of craft brews, Omaha’s breweries offer an array of experiences to explore. Let’s delve deeper into some of the must-visit breweries in the city:

Zipline Brewing Co.

Situated in the heart of downtown Omaha, Zipline Brewing Co. is a beloved fixture in the city’s craft beer landscape. Step into their spacious taproom, where exposed brick walls and industrial accents create a laid-back atmosphere perfect for savoring their lineup of handcrafted brews. From their flagship Copper Alt to experimental seasonal releases, Zipline Brewing Co. offers a diverse range of beers to satisfy every taste bud. Take a guided brewery tour to learn about their brewing process and sample their latest creations straight from the source.

Infusion Brewing Company

Nestled in the historic Benson neighborhood, Infusion Brewing Company is a local gem known for its innovative approach to brewing. Head to their cozy taproom, where rustic decor and communal seating set the stage for an immersive beer-drinking experience. Be sure to try their popular Vanilla Bean Blonde or hoppy West Coast IPA, and don’t miss their rotating selection of limited-edition brews that push the boundaries of traditional beer styles. Join in on one of their trivia nights or live music events for a lively evening of entertainment paired with exceptional beer.

Brickway Brewery & Distillery

Located in Omaha’s bustling Old Market District, Brickway Brewery & Distillery is a must-visit destination for beer and spirits enthusiasts alike. Step inside their historic building, where exposed beams and vintage signage transport you back in time to the city’s brewing heyday. Sample their award-winning craft beers, brewed on-site using locally sourced ingredients, or opt for a tasting flight to experience a variety of flavors. Take a guided tour of their brewery and distillery operations to learn about the art of craft brewing and distilling, and don’t forget to pick up a bottle of their handcrafted spirits to take home as a souvenir.

Whether you’re trying to experience Omaha on a budget or want to splurge on your trip, each of these breweries offers a unique glimpse into Omaha’s vibrant craft beer culture, where passion, creativity, and community converge to create memorable experiences for beer lovers of all kinds.

Taprooms and Beer Bars

While breweries are the heart of Omaha’s craft beer scene, the city also boasts an abundance of taprooms and beer bars that offer a diverse selection of brews from near and far. From intimate neighborhood pubs to bustling beer halls, Omaha’s taprooms and beer bars provide a welcoming environment to sip and savor the finest craft beers. Let’s explore some of the top spots to quench your thirst for quality brews:

Krug Park

Tucked away in the historic Benson neighborhood, Krug Park is a haven for beer enthusiasts seeking a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Step inside this charming beer bar, adorned with vintage decor and dim lighting, and peruse their extensive beer menu featuring a curated selection of craft beers from local and international breweries. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing lager or a bold imperial stout, Krug Park has something for everyone. Join in on one of their beer tasting events or trivia nights for a fun and educational experience, and be sure to pair your brews with their mouthwatering selection of pub fare and protein-packed snacks.

Beercade

For a unique blend of craft beer and arcade gaming, look no further than Beercade. Located in the heart of the Blackstone District, Beercade offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane with its retro arcade games and impressive beer selection. Grab a pint from their rotating tap list, featuring a rotating selection of local and national brews, and challenge your friends to a game of pinball or classic arcade favorites. With its lively atmosphere and laid-back vibe, Beercade is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a few drinks while reliving your favorite childhood memories.

Crescent Moon Alehouse

As one of Omaha’s oldest and most beloved beer bars, Crescent Moon Alehouse has been serving up craft beer and good times for over 25 years. Located in the historic Blackstone District, Crescent Moon Alehouse boasts a cozy and eclectic ambiance, complete with a spacious outdoor beer garden perfect for enjoying sunny days and warm evenings. Explore their extensive beer menu, which features a rotating selection of over 60 craft beers on tap, including local favorites and rare finds from around the world. Join in on one of their beer and wine tasting events or beer dinners to expand your beer knowledge and palate, and don’t miss their famous Reuben sandwich, voted one of the best in the country.

Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just beginning your craft beer journey, Omaha’s taprooms and beer bars offer a welcoming and vibrant environment to explore new flavors and connect with fellow beer lovers.

Sudsy Adventures

Beyond the simple act of sipping on a pint, Omaha’s craft beer scene offers a myriad of sudsy adventures that promise to delight beer enthusiasts of all stripes. Whether you’re keen on learning about the brewing process firsthand or eager to indulge in delectable beer and food pairings, there’s no shortage of exciting experiences to be had. Let’s dive into some of the sudsy adventures awaiting you in Omaha:

Brewery Tours

Dive deep into the world of craft brewing with a behind-the-scenes brewery tour. Many of Omaha’s breweries offer guided tours that provide insight into the art and science of brewing beer. Witness the brewing process up close as you explore the brewhouse and fermentation tanks, and gain a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into each batch of beer. Be sure to check out tours at breweries like Zipline Brewing Co., Infusion Brewing Company, and Brickway Brewery & Distillery for an immersive experience.

Tasting Flights

Expand your palate and discover new favorite brews with tasting flights at local breweries and taprooms. Sample a diverse selection of beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, as you embark on a flavorful journey through Omaha’s craft beer landscape. Many breweries offer customizable tasting flights, allowing you to mix and match beers to suit your preferences. Take your time savoring each sip and don’t hesitate to ask the knowledgeable staff for recommendations and insights into the tasting notes and characteristics of each beer.

Beer Pairing Dinners

Elevate your dining experience with a beer pairing dinner at one of Omaha’s acclaimed restaurants. Indulge in a multi-course culinary journey curated by talented chefs, with each dish thoughtfully paired with complementary craft beers. From hearty pub fare to gourmet cuisine, these beer pairing dinners offer a unique opportunity to explore the interplay between food and beer flavors. Keep an eye out for special beer pairing events hosted by local breweries and restaurants, where you can enjoy expertly crafted dishes alongside perfectly matched beers.

Special Releases and Events

Stay up-to-date with Omaha’s craft beer calendar to catch special releases, beer festivals, and other exciting events happening throughout the year. From limited-edition brews and barrel-aged specialties to beer festivals celebrating local breweries and their creations, there’s always something new and exciting to taste and experience. Don’t miss out on the chance to be among the first to try exclusive beer releases and mingle with fellow beer enthusiasts at these lively and dynamic events.

What to Expect on the Brewery Tour

As you embark on your brewery tour of Omaha, here’s what you can expect to experience:

• Sampling: Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a wide variety of beers, from hoppy IPAs and crisp lagers to rich stouts and sour ales. Learn about different beer styles, flavors, and brewing techniques as you sip your way through Omaha’s finest brews.
• Learning: Dive deeper into the world of craft beer with behind-the-scenes brewery tours and educational tasting sessions led by passionate brewers and beer enthusiasts. Gain insight into the brewing process, ingredients, and history of craft beer as you learn from the experts.
• Exploring: Venture out into Omaha’s diverse neighborhoods to discover hidden gems and local favorites in the craft beer scene. From bustling brewery districts to quaint taprooms tucked away in historic buildings, there’s always something new and exciting to explore.
• Community: Experience the sense of camaraderie and community that permeates Omaha’s craft beer scene. Chat with fellow beer enthusiasts, swap stories with brewers, and immerse yourself in the welcoming and inclusive culture that defines Omaha’s craft beer community.

Kanpai!Con: A Cultural Experience Like No Other

While you’re indulging in Omaha’s vibrant craft beer scene, be sure to carve out some time to experience Kanpai!Con, an annual convention that celebrates Japanese pop culture in all its glory. Held at the Hilton Hotel Omaha from March 29–31, 2024, Kanpai!Con promises a weekend packed with fun-filled activities and memorable experiences for fans of anime, manga, and Japanese video gaming. Here’s what you can look forward to at Kanpai!Con:

Cosplay Competitions

Don your most creative costumes and participate in the cosplay competitions at Kanpai!Con. Whether you’re channeling your favorite anime character or showcasing your own original creation, the cosplay competitions offer a chance to strut your stuff on stage and vie for prizes. Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your cosplay skills and impress fellow attendees with your costume prowess.

Meet-and-Greets with Special Guests

Rub shoulders with special guests from the world of anime, video games, and movies at Kanpai!Con. Get up close and personal with industry insiders, voice actors, and other notable figures as they sign autographs, participate in panel discussions, and share behind-the-scenes insights into their work. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the scene, meeting special guests at Kanpai!Con is sure to be a highlight of your convention experience.

Gaming Tournaments

Put your gaming skills to the test in the gaming tournaments hosted at Kanpai!Con. Whether you’re into video gaming, arcade gaming, or tabletop gaming, there’s a tournament for every type of gamer. Compete against fellow attendees for glory and bragging rights, or simply cheer on your favorite players from the sidelines. With a variety of gaming tournaments to choose from, Kanpai!Con offers endless opportunities for friendly competition and camaraderie.

Anime Screenings

Sit back and relax as you enjoy screenings of your favorite anime series and films at Kanpai!Con. Whether you’re discovering new titles or revisiting classic favorites, the anime screenings offer a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Japanese animation. Grab some popcorn, find a cozy seat, and lose yourself in the captivating stories and stunning visuals of anime at Kanpai!Con.

Dealer’s Room

Explore the bustling dealer’s room at Kanpai!Con and shop for anime merchandise, collectibles, and other geeky goodies. Browse a wide selection of merchandise from vendors offering everything from manga and figurines to cosplay accessories and artwork. Whether you’re hunting for rare collectibles or picking up some fun souvenirs, the dealer’s room is a treasure trove of anime-related merchandise waiting to be discovered.

Don’t miss out on the chance to experience Kanpai!Con and immerse yourself in a weekend of fun, friendship, and unforgettable memories. Register in advance online for discounted tickets and secure your spot at Omaha’s premier Japanese cultural appreciation convention.

A Sudsy Adventure Like No Other

Embark on a sudsy adventure through Omaha’s craft beer scene and discover the rich tapestry of flavors, styles, and experiences that await. From local breweries to trendy taprooms, there’s no shortage of ways to indulge your love of craft beer in Omaha. So, grab your pint glass, gather your friends, and get ready for a brewery tour like no other in the heart of the Midwest!