Louisiana's Craft Brewing Scene
You already know we have world-class cuisine in Louisiana. While you're tasting, why not sample our craft beer throughout the state?
You already know we have world-class cuisine in Louisiana. While you're tasting, why not sample our craft beer throughout the state?
At a Glance
- Louisiana’s craft beer scene features breweries from across the state, producing locally inspired beers that reflect Louisiana’s food, culture and flavors.
- Find can’t-miss breweries in cities like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Shreveport, Lake Charles, Monroe and Alexandria.
- The Louisiana Libations Trail is a statewide cultural trail connecting the state’s craft breweries, wineries and distilleries.
Sample Suds Across Louisiana
One would expect a state as passionate about food as Louisiana to be just as passionate about how to wash it down. And like its world-acclaimed food, Louisiana is ready to share its homegrown beverage of choice — craft beer — with the world.
What started as a short brewery trail has grown into the Louisiana Libations Trail featuring more than 40 breweries (plus wineries and distilleries) statewide. Now, you'll find craft brewers in every corner of the Bayou State, from big cities to small towns.
A Visit to Louisiana's Craft Breweries
Along with the delectable flavors on tap, many Louisiana craft breweries offer tours and the chance to talk with the owners and their brewmasters (often the same person). Avid suds samplers will relish hearing how ingredients are chosen and sourced, along with the various processes and scrupulous timing that go into the brewing of local craft beers.
You’ll walk away from these experiences with a wealth of brewing knowledge and an appreciation for the attention to detail that goes into each vat, keg and pint.
Why Louisiana-Made Brews Are So Special
In Louisiana, brewmasters frequently draw on their passion for food and design their beers to accent beloved state flavors. For example, Karlos Knott, the founder of Bayou Teche Brewing in Arnaudville, will be the first to tell you he intentionally formulated his pale ale, LA 31 Bière Pâle, to complement Louisiana seafood. Bayou Teche also features an on-site restaurant, Cajun Saucer Steller Pizza, where you can get pies like Smokey and the Boudin and the Six Million Dollar Muffaletta.
Explore More Craft Breweries Throughout Louisiana
Northern Louisiana
Broken Wheel Brewery
Flying Tiger Brewery
Utility Brewing
Central Louisiana
- Broken Wheel Brewery in Marksville
- Huckleberry Brewing Company and Twenty 8 West Brewing in Alexandria
- Fighting Hand Brewing Company in Pineville
Southern Louisiana
- Abita Brewing Company in Abita Springs
- Gnarly Barley in Hammond
- Port Orleans Brewing Company in New Orleans
- Parish Brewing Co. in Broussard
- Crying Eagle Brewing Company in Lake Charles
Travelers flock to Louisiana to eat iconic foods, dance to live music and "pass a good time." For more on Louisiana’s breweries, plus information on the state’s distilleries and wine producers, check out the Louisiana Libations Trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Louisiana’s craft beer scene like?
Louisiana has a growing craft beer scene with breweries throughout the state, from major cities to smaller communities. Brewers create beers designed to complement Louisiana cuisine and may draw inspiration from flavors associated with Cajun and Creole cooking, seafood and other regional foods.
Where can I find craft breweries in Louisiana?
Craft breweries can be found throughout Louisiana, including in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette-area communities, Lake Charles, Shreveport, Monroe, Ruston, Alexandria, Hammond and other destinations.
What are some of the best craft breweries to visit in Louisiana?
Louisiana has craft breweries across the state, including Abita Brewing Company, Bayou Teche Brewing, Parish Brewing Co., Flying Tiger Brewery, Utility Brewing Co., Gnarly Barley, Port Orleans Brewing Company and Crying Eagle Brewing Company.
Can you tour breweries in Louisiana?
Yes! Many Louisiana craft breweries offer tours, tasting experiences or opportunities to learn about the brewing process. Depending on the brewery, visitors may be able to meet brewers, learn how ingredients are selected and sourced, and see how beer is produced.
Where can I find craft breweries near New Orleans?
New Orleans and the surrounding region have numerous craft breweries, including breweries in the city and on the Northshore. Visitors can also travel to Abita Springs to visit Abita Brewing Company.
Do Louisiana breweries serve food?
Yes! Many Louisiana breweries offer food on-site or are located alongside restaurants, food trucks or other dining options.
What is the Louisiana Libations Trail?
The Louisiana Libations Trail is a statewide trail featuring Louisiana craft breweries, wineries and distilleries. Visitors can use the trail to discover local producers, sample Louisiana-made beverages and explore the food, culture and communities surrounding them.
