Breaking Down the Best of Central Ohio Breweries in 2023

When it’s time for a night out, we know you want to make it count. That’s why we’ve compiled some of the best Central Ohio breweries in one place, along with a little bit about what makes them so great. So kick back and get ready for five of the best breweries in Ohio.

If you want to skip to our recommendations, here’s a quick chart to help you decide on the best spots!

5 of Our Favorite Breweries in Central Ohio
Recommendation Chart

Also Worth Checking Out: Our top 5 “mystery brews” — we haven’t tried these beers yet, but we’re crazy curious about them. Will you let us know what you think if you beat us to ’em?

5 of the Best Breweries in Ohio

Rockmill Brewery

Mystery Brew: Saison Noir

Rockmill Brewery is steeped in a sophisticated understanding of what makes great food and beverages. Moreover, they know Ohio brewing and what makes a local beer truly special. That’s because Rockmill Brewery is located at the headwaters of the Hocking River — filtering their water (beer is almost entirely water, but try telling that to a cop) through the region’s naturally occurring Black Hand Sandstone.

Perhaps it’s these waters that give Rockmill Brewery that X factor. Something does. Among a formidable list of Ohio breweries, Rockmill is well-loved by locals and out-of-towners alike for its cultivated minerality, wood-fired pizzas, and of course… it’s 16 unique and sensational drafts.

Combustion Brewery

Mystery Brew: Blood Orange Cider

You gotta love a taproom that has the hookup on food trucks, and with 30 food trucks holding regular hours outside their location, Combustion Brewery definitely does. But what about the drinks, you say? Well.

Combustion Brewery is definitely tapped into the times (so sorry) with their eclectic selection of creative brews. Check out the “Blood Orange Cider” for a tasty, tropical infusion.

Outerbelt Brewing

Mystery Brew: Gravel Donuts

When you think of spots to build a brewery, inside a former Lowe’s may not come to mind. But it did for Outerbelt Brewing, and that’s why they hold the title of largest craft brewery in Fairfield County.

It isn’t just size that makes this Lancaster, Ohio brewing taproom one of the preferred watering holes in the area, though. Since kicking off in mid-2019, Outerbelt has been on a mission to provide craft beer flavors that rival those of the biggest breweries in the country. And despite the pandemic, they seem to be off to a strong start!

Double Edge Brewing Company

Mystery Brew: Dodging Comets

They say that it’s wise to be wary of a double-edged sword, but when it comes to Double Edge Brewing Company, you can probably let your guard down a bit. This special watering hole has live music, food truck events, and growlers and crowlers so you can always take the party home with you. A huge bonus: you can grab a glass and walk into downtown Lancaster’s designated outdoor refreshment area (DORA) to explore the historic district!

Looking to get some fresh air and stretch your legs even more? Check out these 5 fun hikes in Central Ohio.

BrewDog

Mystery Brew: Cannon Blast Pale Ale

If you’re looking for a place to drink and a hotel to crash at afterward, you just might be in luck. Believe it or not, Franklin County’s BrewDog has its own craft beer hotel! Add to that a dog-friendly vibe and phenomenal drinks and you get an Ohio brewing company with some real style.

Pro Tip: If you’re drinking at Brewdog and the hotel books up, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Lancaster offers a discounted rate of $99/night to anyone in town for the Route 33 Brew Trail. Just mention it when you call!

Are you a foodie looking for the next great spot? Check out these 8 Great Under-the-Radar Restaurants

What’s Your Vote for Best Brewery in Ohio?

Did we get it on our list? Let us know where YOU go to kick back and have a cold one. You can find us on Facebook or at our IG handle: @visitfairfieldcounty

Cheers!