Vermont: America's Craft Beer Paradise Per Capita
Where Quality Trumps Quantity
Vermont doesn't have the most breweries in America—it has something better: the highest quality-to-population ratio anywhere in the country. With 14 breweries per 100,000 people (leading the nation) and Greater Burlington housing some of the most sought-after craft beers on Earth, Vermont punches far above its weight class. This is where Heady Topper became a legend, where Hill Farmstead earned a global pilgrimage, and where craft beer culture reaches its zenith.
The Numbers That Matter
- Breweries Per Capita: #1 in America (14 per 100,000)
- Burlington Area: Highest concentration of world-class breweries
- The Alchemist: Heady Topper revolutionized the hazy IPA
- Hill Farmstead: Rated among the world's top breweries
Burlington: The Crown Jewel
11 Brewery Trails, One Perfect City
Vermont offers 11 beer trails throughout the state, but the Burlington Trail captures the essence of Vermont brewing—walkable, bikeable, and packed with exceptional beer. The city's historic brick buildings and waterfront location create the perfect backdrop for New England's finest brewing.
Must-Visit Burlington Breweries
Foam Brewers Perched in a charming historic brick building near Waterfront Park and the Burlington Bike Trail, Foam represents modern Vermont brewing at its finest. Their constantly rotating taps feature innovative IPAs, crisp lagers, and experimental ales. The lake views and locally sourced snacks make this a Burlington essential.
Burlington Beer Company (BBCO) Located in a 120-year-old brick building in Burlington's South End, BBCO has been shaking up the local beer industry since 2014. Their hoppy ales and creative rotations draw crowds, but it's the quality consistency that keeps them coming back. Walking distance from Oakledge Park makes it perfect for post-hike pints.
Zero Gravity Brewery What started at American Flatbread Burlington Hearth restaurant grew into a 30-barrel brewhouse on Pine Street in 2015. The tasting room and beer garden showcase their evolution from brewpub to production brewery, with year-round favorites and seasonal experiments.
Switchback Brewing Their flagship Switchback Ale has been a Vermont staple for years, available at pubs and package stores statewide. The brand new beer garden and taproom (opened 2024) offer the full Switchback experience with expanded seating and exclusive releases.
The Vermont Pub & Brewery Established in 1988, this is Vermont's oldest craft brewery—and they played a pivotal role in legalizing brewpubs in the state. The historic significance is matched by solid brewing fundamentals and a menu that pairs perfectly with their British-influenced ales.
Queen City Brewery Founded in 2012 with a mission to create traditional beer styles, Queen City stands out with its robust collection of German-style beers. Their pilsners and lagers showcase brewing precision often overlooked in IPA-obsessed New England.
Beyond Burlington: Vermont's Legendary Breweries
The Alchemist (Stowe & Waterbury)
The Brewery That Changed Everything
When The Alchemist released Heady Topper in cans in 2003, they didn't just create a beer—they sparked a revolution. This unfiltered double IPA, with its iconic "DRINK FROM THE CAN" instruction, introduced the world to hazy, juicy IPAs and became one of the most sought-after beers in America.
The Experience:
- Stowe Visitor Center: Retail location with Heady Topper, Focal Banger, and limited releases
- Waterbury: Original location, now retail-only
- Availability: Vermont-only distribution. No shipping. You must visit.
- The Hunt: Finding Heady on tap outside Vermont is rare; finding it fresh is even rarer
Pro Tip: Follow their Instagram for can release updates. Heady sells out fast.
Hill Farmstead Brewery (Greensboro)
The World's Best Brewery (According to Many)
Tucked away in Vermont's remote Northeast Kingdom, Hill Farmstead requires effort to reach—and it's worth every mile. Founded by Shaun Hill on his family's ancestral farmland, this brewery has been rated among the top breweries in the world by RateBeer and Beer Advocate.
What Makes It Special:
- Saisons and Farmhouse Ales: French-inspired, ethereal, perfectly balanced
- IPAs: Edward, Abner, and the Society & Solitude series are legendary
- Limited Distribution: Mostly Vermont-only, with rare exceptions
- The Setting: Rolling hills, farm animals, pristine brewing
Visiting:
- Remote location (1.5 hours from Burlington)
- Limited hours, check website before driving
- Bring cash, prepare for lines during releases
- Worth the pilgrimage—this is bucket-list brewing
Lawson's Finest Liquids (Waitsfield)
From Basement Legend to Production Powerhouse
What started in Sean Lawson's basement grew into one of Vermont's most celebrated breweries. Sip of Sunshine, their flagship IPA, exemplifies the Vermont style—juicy, aromatic, dangerously drinkable.
The Waitsfield taproom and brewery showcase Vermont's natural beauty while pouring some of New England's finest IPAs and lagers.
Lost Nation Brewing (Morrisville)
The Gose Specialists
Lost Nation brought the obscure German gose style to Vermont and made it their signature. Their tart, salty, refreshing goses are perfect for Vermont's changing seasons, while their IPAs and lagers round out a diverse lineup.
The Morrisville location offers a full menu and beautiful outdoor seating—perfect for exploring Northern Vermont.
The Vermont Brewing Philosophy
Ingredient Obsession
Vermont brewers source locally whenever possible:
- Hops: Increasing Vermont hop farms supply fresh, wet hops
- Grain: Vermont grain initiatives connect maltsters with farmers
- Water: Vermont's pristine water sources provide ideal brewing conditions
- Adjuncts: Local maple syrup, fruits, and honey
The Hazy IPA Revolution
Vermont didn't invent the hazy IPA, but The Alchemist's Heady Topper popularized it. Characteristics of Vermont-style hazys:
- Unfiltered, cloudy appearance
- Juicy, tropical fruit flavors
- Low bitterness despite high hop content
- Soft, pillowy mouthfeel
- "Drink Fresh" philosophy
Small-Batch Excellence
Vermont brewers prioritize quality over scale. Many limit distribution to ensure freshness and maintain relationships with local accounts. This creates:
- Brewery Tourism: You must visit to taste the best beers
- Fresh Beer Culture: Beers consumed within weeks of brewing
- Community Connection: Brewers know their customers
Vermont Brewery Trails
Burlington Trail
What: Walkable/bikeable trail connecting Burlington's best Highlights: Foam, BBCO, Zero Gravity, Switchback How: Digital passport available, bike share program
Mad River Valley Trail
What: Scenic drive through central Vermont Highlights: Lawson's Finest, Lost Nation Bonus: Ski resorts, hiking, quintessential Vermont scenery
Northeast Kingdom Trail
What: Remote brewing pilgrimage Highlights: Hill Farmstead (worth the drive alone) Prep: Plan ahead, limited hours, bring cash
Best Times to Visit Vermont Breweries
Fall (September-November)
- Peak Foliage: Brewing + leaf peeping = perfection
- Fresh Hop Season: Limited wet-hop releases
- Harvest Beers: Pumpkin ales, Oktoberfests
- Comfortable Weather: Outdoor brewery patios at their best
Summer (June-August)
- Beer Gardens: Every brewery opens outdoor seating
- Longer Hours: Extended taproom times
- Food Trucks: Local food pairings
- Lake Champlain: Brewery hopping + swimming
Winter (December-March)
- Barrel-Aged Releases: Limited bottle releases
- Cozy Taprooms: Fireplaces and stouts
- Ski & Sip: Morning slopes, afternoon breweries
- Fewer Crowds: Locals-only vibe
Spring (April-May)
- Mud Season: Quietest time (for good reason—roads are rough)
- Seasonal Transitions: Brewers experiment between winter and summer styles
- Best Deals: Off-season lodging and brewery specials
Pro Tips for Your Vermont Beer Journey
Plan the Pilgrimage: Hill Farmstead and The Alchemist require advance planning. Check hours, bring cash, prepare for drives.
Burlington as Base Camp: Stay in Burlington, explore the surrounding areas. Everything is within 2 hours.
Drink Fresh: Vermont beers are meant to be consumed fresh. Heady Topper is best within 2 weeks of canning.
Can Limits: Popular releases have purchase limits. Don't be greedy—leave some for others.
Trade Bait: Vermont beers trade nationally. If you can't drink it all, bring some home to share.
Combine Activities: Pair brewery visits with skiing (Stowe), hiking (Green Mountains), or lake activities (Burlington).
Follow Social Media: Limited releases announced on Instagram/Facebook. Turn on notifications for favorites.
Designated Driver: Rural Vermont roads are winding. Brewery hopping requires planning.
Fall Foliage Timing: Book accommodations months in advance for peak foliage season (late September-early October).
Local Knowledge: Ask brewers for recommendations. Vermont beer folks are incredibly friendly and helpful.
Vermont Beer Festivals
Vermont Brewers Festival (Burlington) Summer gathering of Vermont's finest on the Burlington Waterfront
Fresh Hop Festivals Late summer celebrations of locally-grown hops
Hill Farmstead Society & Solitude Release Limited bottle release draws collectors from around the world
The Vermont Beer Culture
No Distribution Pressure
Many Vermont breweries limit or refuse distribution, focusing on quality over growth. This means:
- Fresher beer at the source
- Brewery-exclusive releases
- More experimental brewing
- Stronger local community
The Collab Spirit
Vermont brewers collaborate constantly. Guest taps feature fellow Vermont breweries, and collaboration releases are common. Competition is friendly; success is shared.
Brewery Hospitality
Vermont breweries embody New England hospitality. Expect:
- Knowledgeable, friendly staff
- Brewer interaction (smaller breweries)
- Local food partnerships
- Community gathering spaces
The Verdict
Vermont's craft beer scene is a masterclass in quality over quantity. From Burlington's walkable brewery district to Hill Farmstead's remote perfection, from Heady Topper's revolutionary haze to Lawson's Sip of Sunshine—Vermont delivers experiences found nowhere else.
The state that leads the nation in breweries per capita also leads in brewing excellence. You'll taste it in every pour.
Pack for changing weather, bring cash for Hill Farmstead, and prepare for some of the best beer of your life. Vermont is waiting.
Last Updated: 2025 Breweries Per Capita: #1 in USA (14 per 100,000) Can't-Miss Experience: Hill Farmstead pilgrimage + Heady Topper hunt Local Tip: "Drink from the can" isn't just a suggestion—it's the Vermont way