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Niagara Falls Brewery Crawl: Top Craft Beer Spots on Both Sides

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the best craft beer spots in Niagara Falls?

A: Niagara Brewing Company, Counterpart Brewing, and Silversmith Brewing are among the top-rated craft breweries on both the Canadian and American sides of Niagara Falls.

Niagara Falls boasts a thriving craft beer scene on both sides of the border. From the Canadian side’s Niagara Brewing Company and the historic Silversmith Brewing in Niagara-on-the-Lake to the American side’s Counterpart Brewing and Woodcock Brothers, you can easily build a family-friendly brewery crawl that pairs great beer with stunning views, local food, and plenty of non-alcoholic options.

Key Takeaways

Visit Niagara Brewing Company in Ontario for a wide selection of house-made beers and a kid-friendly pub menu directly across from the falls.
On the US side, Counterpart Brewing in Niagara Falls, NY, offers a rotating tap list and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a post-falls break.
For a scenic detour, head to Niagara-on-the-Lake to sample Silversmith Brewing and Oast House Brewers, both steeped in local history and surrounded by vineyards.

You’ve seen the falls, taken the boat tour, and maybe even braved the mist. Now it’s time to experience another side of Niagara: the region’s burgeoning craft beer scene. From the American side in Niagara Falls, NY, to the Canadian breweries in Ontario and the charming historic town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, a brewery crawl here is the perfect way to unwind, taste local flavors, and enjoy family-friendly stops that appeal to everyone.

The Canadian Side: Breweries Right at the Falls

Start your crawl in Niagara Falls, Ontario, where Niagara Brewing Company is a must-visit. Located just a short walk from the falls, this welcoming taproom pours a rotating selection of year-round and seasonal beers. Try the Misty Haze IPA or the smooth Railway City Blonde Ale, and pair them with hearty pub fare like poutine or loaded nachos. The space is bright and family-friendly, with a dedicated kids’ menu and non-alcoholic craft sodas. It’s the ideal first stop because you can grab a sampler flight and plan the rest of your day.

Just a few minutes’ drive away, Counterpart Brewing (on the US side) but we’ll get to that – actually, for Canadian side also check out Taps Brewery & Distillery on Lundy’s Lane. While primarily known for its whiskey, Taps also crafts a rotating lineup of beers and serves a full menu in a spacious, casual setting. Kids can watch the brewing process while parents sample flights.

The American Side: Niagara Falls, NY Gems

Cross the Rainbow Bridge (don’t forget your passport!) and explore the growing beer scene in Niagara Falls, New York. Counterpart Brewing is a standout, located on Niagara Street in a restored warehouse. Their ever-changing tap list features IPAs, stouts, and sours, with names like “Falls to the South” that nod to local geography. The taproom is dog-friendly on the patio and offers board games, making it a relaxed spot for families. No food on site, but they welcome outside food – grab a pizza from a nearby joint and make an afternoon of it.

A short drive north in Wilson, NY, Woodcock Brothers Brewing Company is well worth the 20-minute trip. Housed in a historic train station, this brewery serves up classic ales and lagers alongside a full-scale restaurant with everything from burgers to fish fry. The outdoor beer garden is perfect for kids to run around, and the train-car seating adds a fun touch. It’s a favorite for locals and a great example of the region’s small-town craft beer hospitality.

Niagara-on-the-Lake: Wine Country’s Beer Scene

Just 15 minutes from the Canadian falls, the picturesque town of Niagara-on-the-Lake is famous for its wineries – but its breweries deserve equal attention. Silversmith Brewing Company is a must. Housed in a 19th-century former blacksmith shop, their rustic taproom offers beers like the crisp “Silver Creek” lager and the bold “Brewhouse” IPA. They also have a small menu of snacks and pretzels, and the historic setting makes for excellent photos.

A few blocks away, Oast House Brewers brings a farm-to-glass philosophy. Their sprawling outdoor patio is shaded by hop vines, and their beers – like the house sour “Peach Sour” or the malty “Benchmark” dark ale – are paired with wood-fired pizzas and shared plates. This is a true family-friendly stop: kids love the open space and the chance to see hop bines growing. Both Silversmith and Oast House are walkable from the main drag, so you can easily make it a mini pub crawl.

Practical Tips for Your Brewery Crawl

Designate a driver – Many breweries offer tasting flights, and crossing the border requires a safe driver. Consider using a ride-share or booking a local tour company that handles transportation.

Check hours in advance – Some smaller breweries like Counterpart close early on weekdays; Silversmith is only open Thursday through Sunday in the off-season.

Bring your passport – A cross-border crawl is fun, but you’ll need proper ID to re-enter either country.

Plan for food – Not every brewery serves full meals. Pack snacks or plan lunch stops at places like Woodcock Brothers or Oast House where the food is central.

Include non-beer fans – Every brewery here offers craft soda, cider, or wine options, so no one feels left out.

A Niagara Falls brewery crawl isn’t just for hop heads – it’s a delicious way to explore the region’s character, one pint (or pretzel) at a time. Whether you stick to one side or hop the border, you’ll find warm hospitality, great stories, and beers that taste like the place they come from. So raise a glass to the falls, then plan your own custom tour. Cheers!

Part of our complete guide: The Foodie's Guide to Niagara Falls: Must-Try Dishes & Culinary Experiences