Ludington's Craft Beer Scene: Must See Breweries, Bars & Markets


There are many breweries to visit along the Third Coast, between Grand Rapids and Traverse City, including several here in Ludington, Michigan. With two craft beer festivals, three breweries, a bar dedicated to providing only the best Michigan craft beers, and several local markets and specialty stores with impressive craft brew selections, we're proud to say Ludington is now considered a year-round craft beer destination!

Below is a round-up of each of the breweries, pubs and shops here in town.  Pack your growlers and head North along the Third Coast --- each of these locations is worth a visit for a sample, pint or flight!

Jamesport Brewing Company

Located in the historical Jamesport building in downtown Ludington, "The Pub" as most locals call it, has been providing the "Best Beer in Port" since it began in 2000.  Known for their stouts, IPAs and Scottish ales, they rotate their 14 taps with a variety of fan favorites from their mainstays, to their seasonals.  Be sure to try their Bourbon Barrel Scottish Strong Ale, Blueberry Wheat and Hefeweizen!

Visit while you're hungry - they're known for their delicious Jamesport Cheese Ale Soup (order up and go for the bowl) and excellent burgers!

Ludington Bay Brewing Co.

Ludington Bay Brewing opened their doors in May of '17 with the goal of creating a place where people can come and share memorable experiences over a carefully crafted pint.  One step inside the new tasting room and restaurant and you'll see they achieved their goal.  Folks can stop-in and observe the working brewery, then settle in at the bar, grab a table, or head for the patio and enjoy a great beer experience!

Jamie Adam, Sales & Events Manager at LBB, had just retired from her 22-year career with Palace Sports & Entertainment when she met with Ted - the owner of Ludington Bay Brewing.
"He'd just retired a few years earlier and isn't the kind of person to sit around and relax, and neither was I.  In all of his travels with Wolverine, he tasted beer from all over the world.  He said to me 'Ludington Bay Brewing Co. was born out of love for Michigan and one man's desire to share great beer with the people around him.'  And that's when I knew I had stumbled upon an incredible opportunity to work for a brand new brewery." 
Stop in and try a pint, or flight, of their carefully crafted beer.  And while you're at it, order from their full menu.  It's a delicious offering with a variety of options, designed to pair with many of their brews. 

Starving Artist Brewing

One taste, and you'll understand why owner and brewer Andy Thomas is giving so many craft beer enthusiasts something to talk about!  While he claims they're "only a small speck on the Michigan beer map," his production only brewery is drawing fans from all over the Mitten State (and Midwest!) for a taste direct from the taps.  Tours and tastings are available Fridays and Saturdays from Noon to 5PM (and if that doesn't work for you, check-out their site to schedule a tour).

Located in a barn between Ludington and Scottville, Starving Artist began in June of 2015.  With a solid line-up of year 'round brews in his arsenal, his "mad scientist" self and brewing partners also create some amazing seasonal/exclusive beers.  If you can't visit, head to Blu Moon Bistro for their special Moonshadow Milk Stout (amazing!) or enjoy Slim's Cream Ale at Chuck Wagon Pizza (perfect brew to go with a slice).

The Mitten Bar: A Michigan Ideology

Last spring, we pulled into Ludington, toured The Lamplighter, and then plunked down on a couple of stools at The Mitten and contemplated our future over a few pints.  The food - amazing tacos - and Michigan brews were so good, we decided it was time to return to Michigan and make Ludington home.  No joke - that's pretty much how it went!  Many of our returning guests mention The Mitten Bar as a favorite spot for great craft beer finds, and from our experience and the reviews we've heard, it's clearly earned the accolades!

Opened in 2011, owners Brian and Megan set out to create a space that "only sold Michigan crafted Beer, Wine and Spirits."  With 12 taps, they feature local beers as well as those from around the state of Michigan, plus an assortment of bottles and cans.  In addition to great beer and delicious food, this is also a great place to relax and enjoy live music!  The atmosphere and culture they've created truly celebrates Ludington and our great state, and is another 'must visit' on our list!  Check-out their Facebook page to learn more about upcoming events.

Biercamp Market: Featuring Big Hart Brewing Company

This downtown market encourages you to "sip while you shop" and with six rotating Big Hart Brewing Company brews on tap, it makes a visit to the market quite enjoyable!  This gem is located downtown, along the avenue, and is a great place to visit for specialty craft brews, meats, cheeses and hard-to-find ingredients.

Have a little extra time?  Browse their impressive craft beer selection, wander the aisles looking for a special taste of Michigan (or picnic supplies - their housemade brats and burgers are excellent!) and then stop by the deli to pick-up a fresh, made-to-order sandwich, salad or hot entree.  From there, head across the store to the bar where you can enjoy a pint with your meal.  

Pere Marquette Expeditions: A Craft Beer Mecca!

With over 400 unique craft brews available, this convenience store and paddle sport outfitter proudly shares "no one else has a greater selection in all of West Michigan."  Located on Pere Marquette Highway along the banks of the river, consider Pere Marquette Expeditions your one-stop shop for all your craft beer needs!

Plan your Stay – Join us at our Ludington, Michigan Bed and Breakfast

As you plan your craft beer tour in Ludington, consider staying at our cozy bed and breakfast in Ludington, Michigan.  Our B&B in downtown Ludington is walking distance to Jamesport Brewery, Ludington Bay Brewing, The Mitten Bar and Biercamp Market plus many other shops, restaurants and miles of Lake Michigan beachfront (or snow covered trails)!  We have 5 rooms that offer a variety of amenities based on your needs, and also provide a full, hearty breakfast each morning.  Give us a call or reserve your room online, and begin planning your visit to Ludington, Michigan today!

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