Craft Beer in Columbia

Trip Ideas: Craft Beer in Columbia, South Carolina

From lagers and IPA’s to sours and seasonal pours, Columbia, South Carolina is a hub for all things hoppy and delicious. With 11 breweries and plenty of brewpubs to welcome thirsty travelers, the capital city makes for a perfect weekend escape for the self-proclaimed craft beer connoisseur. Start building your self-guided brewery tour with these local favorites.

Steel Hands Brewing

Steel Hands in Cayce is Columbia’s largest brewery equipped with an outdoor stage, patio and expansive taproom. The Coffee Lager has quickly become a crowd favorite, infused with local roaster, Loveland Coffee. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a day when this brewery isn’t bustling with visitors and locals alike, all anticipating what obsession-worthy brew Steel Hands will come up with next.

Columbia Craft Brewing Co.

Take a trip to Columbia Craft in The Vista and prepare to be surprised by the selection. These master beer crafters are quite creative. Using flavors like toasted marshmallow, coconut, or chocolate is not out of the ordinary here. Local pro tip: Before you go, check their social media to see what special brews they have on tap.

Swamp Cabbage Brewing Company

Swamp Cabbage Brewery has us sold with its quaint outdoor seating, Tiki bar vibes, and Sunday brunches. Whether you prefer a lighter beer, or if you like your beer oh-so-hoppy, Swamp Cabbage has a brew to satisfy. Find your perfect match while you relax at this dog-friendly Columbia spot, and keep an eye out for the stunning mural of Congaree National Park on the inside of the brewery. Fun fact: it was painted by a UofSC student.

River Rat Brewery

Located right near the action at Williams-Brice Stadium, River Rat Brewery boasts a wide selection of seasonal delights and core favorites like the 803 IPA and Astronaut Sauce, with a mouth-watering bites menu to match. Kick back with a cold one while you munch on some nachos with beer queso or the famous smoked wings, and enjoy the large, open outdoor patio (social distancing approved!). If you’re traveling with a pup, make sure to bring them along for the fun. Trust us, River Rat won’t just be the highlight of your trip, it will be your four-legged friend’s too.

CottonTown Brew Lab

Located in the historic Cottontown neighborhood, this beer garden hosts everything from beers to seltzers, and some local favorites like the TropiCarolina. Treat your tastebuds to one-of-a-kind brews like the Chunky Monkey Ice Cream Stout or Pineapple Upside Down Cake Sour. And because we know you won’t be able to get enough of CottonTown Brew Lab, be sure to grab a 6-pack to go so you can take the canned-goodness home with you.

Interested in hearing more about the brewpubs and bar scene? You’ll just have to book a trip to see for yourself.