The Five Best Adirondack Breweries for Summer

Craft beer has taken the US by storm over the past few decades, and our remote region in Upstate New York has played a part! There is a lovely selection of Adirondack Breweries in the area to check out during your visit—a few are just along the route if you’re road-tripping up from Albany or New York City. These locally-owned establishments offer fantastic beers on tap, flights, food options, and lively atmospheres with events and live music. 

After a day filled with hiking and outdoor adventures, there’s nothing better than sitting down for that much-earned beer. At these Adirondack breweries, you’ll quickly see that the brewmasters and owners are dedicated to using the best seasonal and local ingredients, creative recipes, and sustainable practices whenever possible. If you’re a beer enthusiast, get ready to try some limited-production brews and discover that many of these Adirondack breweries don’t distribute statewide. You’ll likely encounter some unique pours!

If you’re heading up this way to explore the craft brewery scene, why not spend a long weekend at our luxury hotel in the Adirondacks? Friends Lake Inn offers beautiful accommodations with spectacular surroundings, as well as on-site farm-to-table dining and much more. You can make our hotel your home base for your excursions and rest knowing that you have a comfortable and welcoming space to return to and relax. We can’t wait to host you this summer; reserve your room today!

Adirondack Breweries, photo of a craft beer tasting

Adirondack Breweries to Check Out This Summer

Whether you’re stopping at these Adirondack breweries on your road trip to Upstate New York or settling in and heading out during your stay, we know you’ll find some exciting beers. From New England-style IPAs and fruity sours to dark Irish ales and coffee porters, there’s something for every palate! Here are five Adirondack breweries to check out this summer: 

  1. Bolton Landing Brewing Company: Just about 20 minutes from our Upstate NY Hotel, this lakefront brewery opened in 2016 by a father-son duo who wanted to continue in the Adirondack’s tradition of creating great American beers. All of Bolton Landing’s beers are brewed on-site in the seven-barrel brewhouse, which is open for tours and can be seen from the extensive outdoor patio space at the taproom. Take in the stunning views of Lake George, play a round of shuffleboard or cornhole, and enjoy a beer flight and tasty pub bites. 
  2. Paradox Brewery: The president and founder of Paradox Brewery discovered his passion for brewing when stationed as an Army pilot in Germany more than 40 years ago. His classic brews gained quite a reputation in the area, eventually leading him to open one of the most popular Adirondack breweries. The secret to these refreshing ales? They use a water source found 600 feet below granite in Adirondack Park. You’ll find a rotating menu at the brewery of eats from the smoker, ice cream treats, and a long tap list of fun beers to try. 
  3. Adirondack Brewery & Pub: Located on the Southernmost tip of Lake George, this is one of the best Adirondack breweries for a lively night out on the town. They use the fresh spring water from the bedrock of Lake George to craft the delicious ales. The pub is right next door to the brewery, where you’ll find a large outdoor covered deck and patio with firepits. Enjoy hearty lunch and dinner fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and barbecue plates. They host a ton of annual events, many with live music! 
  4. Northway Brewing Company: This is one of the Adirondack breweries worth a stop on your way into town. Located about 30 minutes south of our luxury hotel, take a quick break from the drive and grab a spot on the patio or up at the circular bar for a draft ale. 
  5. Dancing Grain Farm Brewery: Also on the way in or out of town in Upstate NY, this family-owned farm brewery offers a field-to-pint tap list. Ninety percent of the ingredients they use are grown right on the property. From cream ales and dark lagers to session-style IPAs and chocolate mint stout, you’ll love the options here! 
After exploring the nearby Adirondack Breweries, head back to our hotel to relax

Spend Your Romantic Adirondack Getaways Here!

While exploring the nearby Adirondack breweries is such a treat, as a guest at our Upstate NY Hotel, you’ll find we also offer a great selection of beer, wine, and craft cocktails on-site. We’ve got you covered at Friends Lake Inn for those who prefer to stay close to their lodging on their getaways. You’ll start your day with a fantastic breakfast (included with your accommodations) in the Birch Bistro, our casual cafe. Our Main Dining Room offers a beautiful setting for intimate dinners, perfect for romantic Adirondacks getaways.

Our selection of guest accommodations sets us apart from other lodging properties in the area—we have four styles to choose from, including our Lake Rooms, Tree Rooms, Bird Rooms, and our private cabin, which sleeps up to four for the most secluded option. All other rooms offer amenities like gas or wood-burning fireplaces, king beds, en suite baths with amazing fixtures and toiletries, and individually controlled heating and air conditioning. 

For those joining us with romance in mind, be sure to check out our lodging enhancements—it’s the best addition to your Adirondacks getaways! From a romantic dining package or seasonal flowers in your room on arrival, we can offer small touches to make your stay that much more memorable. Book your room today!Â