Raise a glass at Alaska’s local breweries, where fresh pours and frothy tops steal the show.

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Alaska might be known for its peaks and fjords, but it’s also home to one of the most exciting craft beer scenes in North America. From crisp lagers brewed with glacier-fed water to bold IPAs inspired by the rugged landscape, the best breweries in Alaska are as adventurous as the state itself. And at the heart of this brewing renaissance is Anchorage: Alaska’s largest city and an epicenter of innovation in craft beer.

Thanks to the pure water sources and wild-grown ingredients, breweries in Anchorage have earned national recognition for quality and creativity. You might be drawn to a cozy taproom serving rich porters or a rooftop brewery pouring seasonal ales with sweeping mountain views. Either way, the variety here is just as expansive as the wilderness outside.

With Princess Cruises®, guests can explore Alaska wineries and breweries while enjoying the scenery that defines an Alaska cruise route.

Why Alaska is a must-visit destination for beer lovers

There’s something distinctly Alaska about the Anchorage approach to brewing. Maybe it’s the glacier-fed water sources that lend a crisp, clean profile to every pint. Or perhaps it’s the use of local ingredients (like spruce tips, wild berries and fireweed) that infuse each brew with a sense of place. Whatever the case, Alaska offers a beer experience you simply won’t find anywhere else.

The state’s craft beer culture thrives on community. From Anchorage to tiny Talkeetna, you’ll find taprooms where guests and locals swap stories over small-batch stouts and seasonal ales. But what makes it even better is pairing these brewery visits with the awe-inspiring adventures of a Princess cruise. 

Imagine tasting a hoppy Solstice IPA after a day spent panning for gold in Alaska or sipping a spruce-tip pale ale after hiking above an Alaskan waterfall. With excursions that blend beer, culture and outdoor discovery, Princess lets guests fully savor the flavors of the region without ever missing a view.

Top breweries in Anchorage

In Skagway, the Gold Fever Experience introduces guests to two iconic Alaska traditions. Meet working sled dogs, cuddle adorable puppies and then try your luck at panning for gold in a replica prospector’s camp. It’s the perfect combination of culture and fun.

Glacier Brewhouse – A local favorite

A staple in downtown Anchorage, Glacier Brewhouse is known for its award-winning beers and warm, rustic ambiance. Its handcrafted ales, like the signature IPA and oatmeal stout, pair perfectly with a menu built around local seafood and wood-fired pizzas. Stop by for a relaxed lunch or a post-adventure dinner to capture the best of Alaska’s flavors.

49th State Brewing Company

Set in the heart of downtown with panoramic views of the Cook Inlet and Alaska mountains, 49th State Brewing Company is a can’t-miss stop. Known for its adventurous menu (try the yak burgers!) and popular Solstice IPA, the brewery combines bold flavors with one of the best rooftop patios in the city.

Tent City Taphouse

Just steps from the Anchorage Museum, Tent City Taphouse brings a modern gastropub vibe while honoring the city’s roots as a makeshift tent settlement. With an extensive tap list showcasing both local and regional brews, guests can sample a wide range of styles: hazy IPAs, sours and stouts. Come for weekend brunch and try their mimosa flights alongside smoked salmon hash for a true taste of Anchorage’s food and drink scene.

Best breweries in Alaska beyond Anchorage

Alaskan Brewing Company – Juneau’s iconic brewery

As one of the first craft breweries in the state, Alaskan Brewing Company helped put Alaska on the beer map. Located in Juneau, this iconic brewery is home to the award-winning Alaskan Amber and a rotating lineup of seasonal releases. Its tasting room offers a relaxed atmosphere to sample classics and limited editions, making it a favorite stop on the Juneau Brews & Scenic Views excursion.

Homer Brewing Company – A community gem

Set against the backdrop of Kachemak Bay, Homer Brewing Company reflects the town’s artsy, laid-back vibe. This small brewery is known for its unfiltered, English-style ales. It invites guests to relax in the beer garden or take a growler to go while exploring nearby coastal trails. Pair a visit with a stroll through the town’s galleries and harborside shops for the classic experience of Alaska in the summer.

Silver Gulch Brewery – Fairbanks’ cold-weather craft haven

Located in Fox, just outside Fairbanks, Silver Gulch Brewery is one of the northernmost breweries in the United States. With a wide range of beers (including the malty Epicenter Ale and the crisp Coldfoot Pilsner), it’s a must-visit for those exploring things to do in Fairbanks. The brewery’s spacious taproom and hearty menu make it a popular gathering place year-round.

Denali Brewing Company – Talkeetna’s craft powerhouse

Just off the path of many Alaska land and sea cruise itineraries, Denali Brewing Company in Talkeetna is beloved for its big flavors and local flair. Signature brews like Twister Creek IPA and Single Engine Red reflect the region’s authentic charm, while the taproom’s food menu highlights Alaskan ingredients. On a sunny day, the beer garden is a lively spot to relax between hikes or flightseeing tours of Denali National Park.

Alaska wineries and distilleries for a change of pace

Ursa Major Distilling – Fairbanks

Located just north of downtown Fairbanks, Ursa Major Distilling is known for its handcrafted spirits and commitment to quality. This small but mighty distillery uses local ingredients and pure water to produce expressive vodkas, gins and liqueurs. Tours and tastings give guests insight into the distilling process, making it a rewarding stop for those exploring Fairbanks.

Port Chilkoot Distillery – Haines

Set in the coastal town of Haines (reachable via Haines cruises or a scenic ferry from Skagway), Port Chilkoot Distillery captures the essence of its surroundings in every bottle. Using organic grains and glacial water, this small-batch distillery produces award-winning gin, rye whiskey and bourbon. Its charming tasting room, located in a repurposed military building, is just steps from hiking trails and views of Alaska lakes and inlets. Check it out with the Port Chilkoot Distillery Tour & Tastings excursion.

How to plan your brewery tour in Alaska

Best times to visit

Summer and early fall are typically the best seasons for brewery visits. From May through September, Alaska’s craft beer scene is in full swing, with many breweries offering expanded hours, seasonal releases and outdoor seating. This also aligns perfectly with Princess’ Alaska cruise season, giving guests plenty of opportunities to explore both land and lager.

September, in particular, offers a quieter, more relaxed vibe that is ideal for sampling new beers without the midsummer crowds. Planning for that window? Check out our guide to an Alaska cruise in September for more inspiration.

What to expect at Alaska breweries

Alaska breweries are known for their welcoming atmosphere, where staff are just as passionate about sharing their knowledge as they are about brewing. Many offer guided tastings, behind-the-scenes tours and flights that let you explore a range of styles. Keep an eye out for limited-edition beers brewed with seasonal or foraged ingredients — it’s something you won’t find anywhere else.

Expect casual spaces with plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow travelers and locals alike, especially in smaller towns that double as stops on cruises to Skagway, cruises to Sitka or cruises to Ketchikan.

Tips for a successful brewery tour

To make the most of your craft beer experience in Alaska, a little planning goes a long way. Keep these tips in mind.

• Book ahead: For popular spots (especially those paired with Princess shore excursions), it’s smart to reserve tours or tastings in advance.
• Travel together: Brewery-hopping with fellow guests makes for a fun and safe experience. Ask your cruise director about small-group options.
• Balance your day: Combine brewery visits with outdoor adventures for a balanced day of excitement. You can pair a brewery stop with a hike, wildlife tour or even an excursion to see bears in Alaska.

Raise a glass to Alaska’s craft culture

From taprooms in Anchorage to remote breweries tucked into coastal towns, Alaska offers a beer scene that is both bold and varied. And with Princess, guests can explore the best breweries in Alaska while enjoying the natural beauty, local flavors and excursions that define every itinerary. 

Ready to raise a glass to adventure? Cruise with Princess and discover the best breweries in Alaska.