photo credit | Melynda Harrison

by megan hoffman

Calling all beer enthusiasts! If you haven’t tried the brews in Southeast Montana yet – you’re missing out. Wheats, ales, IPAs, stouts and more are brewed right here and are sure to leave an impression as big as the skies. 

*Disclaimer: As required by common sense and courtesy, we strongly urge you to secure a designated driver before departing on a “tasting tour” of Southeast Montana.  

MILES CITY

One of the newest additions to Southeast Montana’s brewery tasting tour, Otium Brewing opened in the spring of 2021. Try one of the year-round staples: the Labora Honey Cream Ale, Ora American Stout and Otium Irish Red Ale or opt for one of four rotating beers.  

Head over to Tilt Wurks Brewhouse for your next stop. Larger than the traditional tap room, you’ll find beer alongside gastro-pub food. With names like Bang Back Blueberry Wheat and Pinball Pilsner, plus flavors like peanut butter and chocolate stout, patrons will be “tilt-alated” with the options.

BILLINGS

While downtown Billings boasts its own walkable brewery trail – six breweries, two distilleries and a cider house – the west end of town is becoming its own little beer mecca.  

Canyon Creek Brewing features two bars, two patios and enough room for your next big party. Come in any day of the week to find your favorite new beer. Bonus: if you make it in between 2 and 4 p.m. you’ll be able to catch the happy hour specials. Stay into the evening hours for a meal from a local food truck. 

Venture down the road to By All Means Brew Lab, one of Billings’ newest breweries. While you may come for the beer – you’ll end up staying for the atmosphere and food. Order some of the fare – inspired by Modern Latin cuisine – and sit outside by the fire to enjoy one of Montana’s perfect summer nights.  

After you’ve spent the day shopping in Billings, stop into Freefall Brewery in the Rimrock Mall for a couple cold beverages to unwind. From Mexican and Vienna Lagers to several seltzers on tap, Freefall offers up brews with real Montana craft malt to make sure you’re getting the best the state has to offer. 

LAUREL

High Plains Brewing walks their talk when it comes to family-friendly atmosphere and small-town vibe. The original brews – High Plains Honey Porter, Haywire Honey Wheat and Boney Dog IPA—remain popular, while patrons enjoy seasonal variations and, most recently, some barrel-aged brews. 

WIBAUX 

Established in 2008, Beaver Creek Brewery was the one that started it all in Southeast Montana and has evolved into a self-proclaimed “regional destination for connoisseurs of beer, music and good times.” Stop by for a pint, homemade specialties and some authentic music.  

GLENDIVE

photo by Andy Ausin

A two-generation family operation, Cross Country Brewing claims a renovated oil service building on Glendive’s south side as home. Cross family members each bring his or her own talent set to the business, including “Mom” or Lonnie as the tap room manager. 

Originally printed in the November 2021 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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