Want to visit one of the oldest craft breweries in Minnesota? Check out Lift Bridge Brewery in Stillwater, MN.
As someone who loves craft beer, I can say Lift Bridge is one of the best. I don’t know why but I was surprised to learn Lift Bridge was the 12th craft brewery to open in Minnesota. That was in 2008. I feel like there should have been a lot more by that time but I guess not.
Craft breweries became popular on the West Coast in the 90’s but took many years for the crazy to move into the Midwest. Now according to a Yahoo Finance article published in July 2023, 20 States with the Most Craft Breweries, Minnesota is listed as number 15.
With 233 breweries and counting, there are seemingly endless options but Lift Bridge is a must-try when in Minnesota.
Keep reading for more information.
Where is Lift Bridge Brewery located?
Lift Bridge Brewery has two locations—one in New Richmond, Wisconsin, and the original location in Stillwater, Minnesota. I’ve only been to the Stillwater location so the rest of this post is specific to the Stillwater location only.
They are located at 1900 Tower Dr. W which is north of Highway 36 between, Washington Avenue and Greeley Street.
The brewery is small in size but there is a good amount of seating. Long picnic tables allow for bigger groups to sit together and smaller tables line the perimeter. There are also some limited bar stools at the bar.
The first time I visited the brewery they only had a few stools for visitors to do tastings. They have come a long way with seating since then.
A small stage in the corner is set up to allow for live music, mostly on weekends.
What kind of beer do they have?
Lift Bridge offers something for pretty much every taste. They have pilsners, ales, IPAs, and seasonal favorites. My personal favorites are the Fireside Flannel which is a brown ale with a hint of smoke. And the Hop Dish which is a very hoppy IPA.
A local Minnesota favorite, which can be found in many bars and restaurants is their first-ever beer tapped, Farm Girl. A Saison or golden ale. This is a solid choice for most flavor pallets with its slightly sweet flavor appealing to many.
Lift Bridge recently signed on to become a key partner for the Twin Cities Oktoberfest. Their Oktoberfest beer is one of my favorites. If you are in Minnesota in early October, check out the Twin Cities Oktoberfest.
They also offer more unique options like Pineapple Blonde, Grapefruit Blonde, and Lime Time Pilsner.
Does Lift Bridge Brewery have other things to drink than beer?
If beer is not your thing, Lift Bridge Brewery has you covered too. They currently brew six hard seltzers. There are standard flavors like citrus and various berries but they also have a Blue Agave Margarita. I have not tried the hard seltzers but hope to try them soon.
Looking for something with no alcohol? They have you covered too!! My personal favorite is the Lift Bridge Root Beer. Their root beer is way better than a standard A&W. No offense to A&W, I love A&W but Lift Bridge Root Beer takes it to a new level. Worth a taste!!
They also have a Mini Donut Cream Soda and a Black Cherry Soda.
Do they have food?
Unfortunately, they don’t have a kitchen so they don’t have food on a daily basis. They do however bring in local food trucks to offer guests something to eat. Check out their events page to find out what food trucks will be onsite.
Do they have patio seating?
For my regular readers, you know my spiel about Midwesterners and patios. For those who are new, welcome, and Midwesterners love patio season. It’s probably because of the seemingly endless cold winters. Once the sun starts to warm up and the snow starts to melt, we love to find a patio to sit on.
So it’s not a surprise, most of the places I visit do in fact have a patio. Lift Bridge Brewery is no exception.
Their patio has the same or maybe even more seating than inside. The only downside, the patio seating takes up most of the already limited parking spots. Add in a food truck and you will need to park on the street.
No worries though, there is plenty of on-street parking available.
Can I buy their beer in stores?
Since Lift Bridge has been around for so long, they have built up enough of a following that they do in fact sell many of their beers in liquor stores. And not just in the Minneapolis/St Paul metro area. They sell their beverages all over the Midwest!
Check out their beverage finder on their website for availability in your area.
Why I think you should try Lift Bridge Brewery.
Two big reasons are, to support small businesses and support local. But with Lift Bridge Brewery it’s so much more than that. Their beer is fantastic!!! The taproom is cozy and everyone feels like a local. Walking in the door, you feel at home.
Go there to meet up with old friends and stay because you made new ones.
Happy travels and remember the world is full of adventures all around you. Get out there and explore!
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