Knoxville’s craft beer scene has blossomed into one of the most vibrant in the Southeast. From downtown taprooms to cozy neighborhood brewpubs, the city offers a rich tapestry of flavors—from experimental sours to old-world lagers. Whether you're a seasoned beer geek or a relaxed weekend sipper, Knoxville’s breweries promise delightful discoveries. Let’s take a tour of the top breweries currently in business and uncover what makes each one special.
Crafty Bastard Brewery
Locations: Downtown (6 Emory Place) & West Knoxville (9937 Kingston Pike)
Founded in 2015 by Aaron McClain, Crafty Bastard is a Knoxville staple known for its playful and experimental brews. With sibling locations catering to different vibes, they frequently release adventurous beers—try the Picklebier Sour or the spicy Mayan Chocolate Chili Porter, ideal for those craving unique flavor combos. Live music and food trucks round out the community-focused atmosphere.
Last Days of Autumn Brewing
Location: 808 East Magnolia Avenue
A family-run favorite, Last Days of Autumn is celebrated for its rotating tap list of craft beers, seasonal food specials, and cozy live-music nights. Highlights include the flagship IPA Pardon My Garden, the rich 9 Pound Pete crème-brûlée milk stout, and diner-style pub fare like Taco Tuesdays and Shrimp Boils.
Printshop Beer Co.
Location: 1532 Island Home Avenue
Housed in a refurbished print shop with sweeping Tennessee River views, Printshop is beloved for its laid-back charm and well-balanced beers. Their flagship Southie Cream Ale is a local hit, while their creative fruited sour, Imperial Pineapple Upside‑Down Cake, stands out for its playful sweetness.
Next Level Brewing Company
Location: 700 North Broadway (near Old City)
Since opening in 2019, Next Level has quickly gained a reputation for flavorful, approachable beers—ranging from hoppy IPAs like Clinched Fist to decadent barrel-aged stouts such as Collusion. Their patio events and live music enhance the brewpub experience.
Pretentious Beer Company
Location: 131 S Central Street, Downtown
What makes Pretentious unique is its dual identity: a craft brewery and a glassblowing studio. Here, you can sip a hazy IPA like Diamond Grillz served in hand‑blown glass while watching artisans at work. Try the crisp Chug Life pilsner for something clean and refreshing.
Schulz Bräu Brewing Company
Location: 126 Bernard Avenue
For a taste of Germany in Knoxville, Schulz Bräu delivers. With a taproom adhering to the Reinheitsgebot and a large biergarten, this family-run brewery is perfect for authentic lagers like Hefeweizen, Munich Dunkel, and Doppelbock. Expect traditional German food, live music, and festive vibes.
Xül Beer Company
Location: 213 E 5th Avenue (Old Auto Showroom)
Set inside a retro VW showroom, Xül combines mid‑century cool with modern brewing creativity. It’s best known for decadent pastry stouts and inventive sours, all enjoyed in a sleek, design-forward taproom.
Abridged Beer Company
Location: 100 Lockett Road, West Knoxville
Abridged operates from a 1950s garage turned brewpub. Locals flock for the crisp Abridged Version Light Lager and Toppy Rock IPA, along with comfort food staples like oversized burgers. Their welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect gathering spot.
Balter Beerworks
Location: 100 Broadway SW, Downtown
A bustling downtown microbrewery, Balter features a full menu of beer, cocktails, and wine. They often host food pairings and events—ideal for when you want craft beer alongside elevated pub fare.
Alliance Brewing Company
Location: 1130 Sevier Avenue
From their South Knoxville location, Alliance mixes social events (like food trucks and yoga nights) with finely crafted session ales. Their approachable lineup and community energy make it a favorite gathering spot.
Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus
Location: 621 Lamar Street, Near Old City
Formerly Gypsy Circus Cider, Barrelhouse blends house-brewed ciders with craft beer taps—all served in a bright, industrial-inspired tasting room. It's a standout on the Knoxville Ale Trail.
Bearden Beer Market
Location: 4524 Old Kingston Pike (Bearden)
Part taproom, part bottle shop, Bearden Beer Market offers a rotating tap wall, rotating food trucks, and occasionally lawn games. It’s an inviting local destination worth the short drive from downtown.
The Knoxville Ale Trail & Beer Culture
The Knoxville Ale Trail is a celebratory passport-driven journey through these breweries, encouraging locals and visitors to explore more of East Tennessee’s beer scene. Many breweries participate by offering stamps, events, and inclusive taproom experiences. It’s a testament to a culture centered on community, creativity, and a shared love of great beer.
A Perfect Beer Itinerary
- Morning/Afternoon: Start at Printshop Beer Co. to sip Southie Cream Ale with river views.
- Midday: Drive to Abridged Beer Company in Bearden—enjoy lunch and a Toppy Rock IPA.
- Afternoon: Head downtown to Balter Beerworks for a food-paired craft experience, then stroll Gay Street and Market Square.
- Evening: Explore Schulz Bräu's biergarten with traditional German pours, then finish at Pretentious Beer Company to enjoy artisan-crafted glassware and flavorful IPAs.
Why Knoxville is a Brewery Destination
Knoxville stands out for its diverse brewing styles, creative experimentation, and community-first ethos. With expertly crafted German lagers, decadent stouts, funky sours, and hyper-local events, the scene appeals to both beer purists and adventurous drinkers alike. And the Ale Trail enhances that sense of connection, turning a day of brewery hopping into a local celebration.
Knoxville’s breweries offer something to explore around every corner. The city's mix of history, innovation, and warm Southern hospitality ensures every pint feels like a community gathering. So raise a glass, snap that passport stamp, and toast to the bold, ever-evolving craft culture that makes Knoxville shine.
Ready to make Knoxville your next craft beer destination? Contact Bessie Whiteside today to learn more or to start your Knoxville home search. Your next perfect home is just around the corner. Visit her at bessiesellsknoxvillehomes.com to get started.
