Crafting Memories: The Top Asheville, NC Breweries to Visit with Children

Nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina, stands as a beacon for travelers seeking a harmonious blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and exquisite craft beer. Renowned as the "Beer City USA," Asheville's brewing scene isn't just about the brews—it's about the experience. Families flock to this charming city not only for its scenic landscapes but also for its family-friendly breweries that cater to both parents and children alike. In this guide, we'll explore what makes Asheville so appealing, what parents seek in a brewery, and the best family-friendly options to savor quality time with loved ones while enjoying exceptional craft beer.

What Makes Asheville, NC Appealing?

Asheville exudes a unique charm that captivates visitors from far and wide. Boasting a vibrant arts scene, eclectic culinary offerings, and a deep-rooted connection to nature, Asheville offers something for everyone. The city's stunning mountain vistas, lush forests, and winding trails beckon outdoor enthusiasts, while its bustling downtown area pulses with energy and creativity.

At the heart of Asheville's allure lies its thriving craft beer culture. With more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city, Asheville has earned its reputation as a beer lover's paradise. But what sets Asheville apart isn't just the sheer number of breweries—it's the unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and community. Breweries in Asheville area are more than just places to enjoy a pint; they're hubs of creativity, where artisans pour their passion into every batch, and locals and visitors come together to celebrate the craft.

How Many Breweries are in Asheville NC?

North Carolina boasts the largest number of craft breweries in the American South, with more than 350 breweries and brewpubs. The city of Asheville, NC is just shy of 70,000 people, but it is home to the most craft breweries in America with 18 breweries per 50,000 people. Today, Asheville's craft beer scene has about 30 breweries within the city and metropolitan area many of which are kid friendly and pet friendly brewery options.

What Do Parents Look for in a Brewery?

For parents exploring breweries with their children, certain factors take precedence to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable experience for the whole family. Safety is paramount, with parents seeking breweries that provide a secure environment where children can roam freely without worry. Additionally, family-friendly amenities such as spacious outdoor areas, games, and activities help keep little ones entertained while parents relax and indulge in a refreshing brew. A welcoming atmosphere and accommodating staff also play a crucial role, ensuring that families feel valued and comfortable throughout their visit making it a perfect place for all. 

What I used as a barometer for ranking the best breweries for families in Asheville, NC:

Family-friendly breweries go beyond just serving great beer; they offer a range of amenities and features designed to accommodate visitors of all ages. Here are some key items and features that make breweries welcoming for families:

1. Outdoor Spaces: Ample outdoor seating areas provide families with space to relax and enjoy the fresh air. This includes expansive patios, beer gardens, and picnic areas where children can run and play freely while parents socialize.

2. Games and Activities: Breweries often offer a variety of games and activities to keep children entertained. This may include giant Jenga, cornhole, board games, or designated play areas with toys and books.

3. Food Options: Breweries that partner with food trucks or have onsite kitchens offering kid-friendly menu items ensure that families can enjoy a delicious meal together. Some breweries even allow patrons to bring their own snacks or picnic baskets.

4. Non-Alcoholic Beverages: In addition to craft beer, breweries typically offer a selection of non-alcoholic beverages such as house-made sodas, iced tea, lemonade, or fruit-infused water, providing options for those who prefer not to drink alcohol or for children.

5. Family Events and Activities: Many breweries host family-friendly events and activities, such as live music performances, movie nights, craft workshops, or seasonal celebrations like pumpkin carving or holiday-themed events.

6. Pet-Friendly Policies: Breweries that welcome furry friends create a welcoming atmosphere for families with pets, allowing them to enjoy the experience together as a cohesive unit.

Best Family-Friendly Breweries in Asheville that Beer Lovers Give two thumbs up

1. Wedge Brewing Co.: Tucked away in the historic River Arts District, Wedge Brewing Co. offers a laid-back ambiance and expansive outdoor seating overlooking the scenic French Broad River. Parents can unwind with a pint of their favorite brew while kids play in the designated outdoor area. The brewery frequently hosts food trucks, providing delicious bites to complement their diverse selection of craft beers.

2. New Belgium Brewing Company: With its iconic rooftop bar and sprawling outdoor space, New Belgium Brewing Company is a favorite among families seeking a lively atmosphere and scenic views. Children can explore the brewery's whimsical "Liquid Center" while parents sample a variety of innovative brews, including their flagship Fat Tire Amber Ale.Flat and open space perfect for letting kids run off some energy and dog friendly as well.  It is a great place for a big group to gather.  New Belgium has plenty of shaded seating and tables with umbrellas as well as a huge indoor space.  We ate at a local food truck, Cecilia’s while at New Belgium.  The chicken empanadas were mouthwatering, and I ate 4.  Yes, they were that good.  I had the flavored seltzers while at New Belgium and those were delicious as well.  

3. Highland Brewing Company: As one of Asheville's oldest breweries, Highland Brewing Company holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Families can gather on the spacious outdoor patio, where live music and food trucks add to the festive ambiance. Parents can enjoy classics like Gaelic Ale while kids delight in the brewery's expansive lawn and games.  Highland Beer was a crowd and family favorite - and how could it not be with a massive indoor space with music venue and stage and a massive outdoor space for those beautiful weather days to take in the Smoky Mountain views and listen to great bands.  Highland Beer had food trucks when we were there that were phenomenal.  You can also hop right on a trail that is great for families if the weather is in your favor.  I loved the vibe in Highland Beer.  Kids and dogs were abundant at Highland Beer as well.  The outdoor space at Highland Beer had sand volleyball courts for local leagues to play in that are 21 and up.  There is picnic table seating everywhere and shade covers to stay cool in summer.  You definitely do not want to miss out on the merchandise area at Highland Beer.  Grab a shirt or a hat before you leave Highland Beer.   This was one of our top favorite spots and the delicious food options at the food trucks were fab.  

4. Green Man Brewery: Nestled in the heart of downtown Asheville, Green Man Brewery combines traditional brewing techniques with a modern twist. Families can soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the South Slope district while enjoying a diverse selection of beers, including their popular IPA and ESB. The brewery's outdoor beer garden provides ample space for children to play, making it an ideal destination for families looking to unwind after a day of exploration.

5. Sierra Nevada

   Catch live music inside or, when the weather’s right, jam to bands in the outdoor amphitheater at Sierra Nevada.  Keep tabs on festivals and other brewery fun. At the Sierra Nevada Mills River Taproom and Restaurant, you’ll find an abundance of both for families. Visit the Sierra Nevada Taproom to sample one of our 23 beers on tap, many produced just a few feet from the restaurant. The beers at Sierra Nevada are accompanied by artful, chef-driven food focused on small plate, sharable, whole animal and farm-to-table dishes sourced mainly from local suppliers. The brewery does a great job of being aware of reuse and recycle mentality and creating a sustainable company and location. They use the homegrown vegetables and herbs for our restaurant and small-scale pilot brewery. When you go to Sierra Nevada, grab a beer and head outside to the Sierra Nevada Back Porch and Beer Garden to take in the views of the beautiful forest or stroll through the Mills River Estate Garden.  Sierra Nevada is a great location for families to visit while in Asheville NC and a location your family will want to return to again and again.  Check out the Sierra Nevada website for information and location here.

6. Hillman Beer Asheville NC

   Hillman Beer had come with such great recommendations that we pulled right into Asheville NC and went directly to Hillman Beer before doing anything else.  Hillman Beer has a ton of seating in front of the restaurant, indoor seating and bar seating, as well as picnic tables out back overlooking a stream.  Like most places and breweries in Asheville NC Hillman Beer boasts a laid back and friendly vibe that you can feel upon walking in.  I loved the Family Tradition and devoured quite a few pretzels after driving 6 hours from Richmond, VA.   The boys grabbed a soccer ball from the car and kicked it around out back.  Hillman Beer is dog friendly as well.  You can find more info about Hillman Beer hours and location here.  

7. Asheville Brewing Company Asheville NC

   Kids love nothing more than pizza, and they’ll love it even more at this downtown brewery spot that also boasts a game room and family movie screenings in Asheville, NC.  Visit the North Asheville for pub food, fresh brews, cocktails, new movies with Asheville's cheapest ticket prices, and our adult-themed Game Room with TVs around the room and the largest screen in town to watch sports. Head to the Asheville downtown brewpub which houses all of the brewery production equipment (behind the scenes but ask for a tour). Up front you'll find great food, beer direct from the brew deck, a full bar, and a huge, covered patio that is enclosed and heated during colder months. Meanwhile, if you're in South Asheville, pick up pizza and beer from our home base there, or have it delivered to your doorstep. It’s a combination of food and beverages that meets the needs of families and visitors of all ages.   Find hours and addresses for Asheville Pizza and Brewing here.  

Check out these breweries and the many many others for special events and a beverage next time you are in the Asheville NC area!  There are so many great local breweries with tasting room options and a wide variety of beers. You cannot go wrong taking a sip of any of these flavors and kicking back with a friend or making a new friend and staying awhile.

List of Breweries in Asheville, NC 

Check out this list of all of the breweries in Asheville, NC to get a plan for your must visit breweries while in town.  There are amazing pet friendly and kid friendly breweries in Asheville NC here. Do you have a favorite brewery in Asheville, NC? Shout it out in the comments.

List of Breweries in Asheville, NC

Check out this list of all of the breweries in Asheville, NC to get a plan for your must visit breweries while in town. There are amazing pet friendly and kid friendly breweries in Asheville NC here.

Asheville's family-friendly breweries offer more than just great beer—they provide a space where parents can create lasting memories with their children amidst the backdrop of one of the country's most captivating destinations. From scenic riverfront views to bustling downtown vibes, Asheville's breweries cater to families seeking a balance of relaxation, entertainment, and exceptional craft beer. So, whether you're a local looking for a weekend outing or a visitor exploring the charms of Asheville for the first time, be sure to add these family-friendly breweries to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience that embodies the spirit of this enchanting mountain city. Cheers to crafting memories together in Asheville, NC!