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Sip and Savour: Exploring the Breweries of the1000 Islands Region in Canada



Nestled on the border of Canada and the United States, the 1000 Islands region is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, charming small towns, and a plethora of outdoor activities. But what many people don't realize is that this picturesque area is also a hidden gem for beer enthusiasts. From craft brews to unique flavours, the breweries in the 1000 Islands region are ready to quench your thirst and delight your taste buds. So, hop on board as we take you on a friendly and fun journey through some of the best breweries in the area.


1. Gan Brewing Company



Our first stop on this beer adventure is the Gan Brewing Company, located in the heart of Gananoque. This family-owned and operated brewery is a testament to the passion and love for craft beer. You'll find a variety of styles here, from their flagship Naughty Otter Lager to special treats like their Revival Stout. The tasting room offers a cozy and friendly atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to sample their creations while chatting with the welcoming staff.


Established: 2011

Beer types: IPA, Scottish Ale, Pale Ale, Blonde Ale, Pilsner, Lager and Stouts

Bear formats: Cans & Growlers

Indoor dining: Yes, limited to light snacks

Outdoor dining: Yes, there is a seasonal patio

Other info: They have their own fun line of merchandise available onsite and online!

  • For more information, visit the Gananoque Brewing Company website: https://ganbeer.com/

  • Find Google Map Directions here


2. ArBrū Brewery



Approximately 25 minutes east of Gananoque, ArBrū Brewery located in Mallorytown, is nestled within the 1000 Islands and is your ticket to beer paradise! With a vibrant selection of craft brews, this dog-friendly spot is where you can savour delicious beers and chat with the cheerful staff. And guess what? This brewery is completely OFF-GRID and relies on solar power for their operation.


Their mission is "To create sustainable delicious beer using renewable technology completely off-grid". The cozy taproom invites you to kick back, relax, and make the most of your visit to this picturesque region. Cheers to great times and even greater beer at ArBrū Brewery!


Established: Unknown

Drink types: IPA, Belgian Wheat, Summer Blonde, Red Ale, Lager, Cider & Wine

Indoor dining: Yes, wood-fired pizza, pretzels and nachos

Outdoor dining: Yes, there is a seasonal patio and fun dome experiences (must be booked) in the winter!

Other info: They have happy hour, open mic and comedy nights throughout the year. Merchandise including apparel and glassware is available online and on location and they also have spaces available for private events.


3. Riverhead Brewing Company



Heading west along the St. Lawrence River, you'll arrive in Kingston, home to the Riverhead Brewing Company. This brewery not only serves up fantastic beer but also boasts a prime location overlooking the waterfront. Sip on a Riverhead Red or try one of their creative small-batch brews while taking in the scenic view. It's the perfect place to relax with friends and family.


Established: Unknown

Beer types: Lager, Oatmeal Stout, Sour Beer, IPA and Seltzers

Beer formats: Cans & Growlers

Indoor dining: Yes, Great selection of yummy appetizers and pizzas including a build your own pizza option!

Outdoor dining: No

Other info: They also offer Take-Out and Delivery!


4. Skeleton Park Brewery



On this journey, Kingston continues to be a beer lover's paradise with Skeleton Park Brewery. This quirky and fun establishment takes its name from a local park known for its historical gravesite. They are all about resurrecting old-timy beer recipes and brewing small batches of 1800s era beer recipes while using ingredients that would have been used during these times! It's not only about the beer here; the atmosphere and friendly staff add to the overall experience.


Established: 2015

Beer types: Amber Ale, English Ale, Pilsner, Grodziskie, Grätzer-style Ale, Irish Stout and Single Malt Lager

Beer formats: Kegs, Growlers, Squealers, Individual Cans and Mix Pack Cases of Cans

Indoor dining: No, this brewery does not offer food so their tap room is just for beer drinking

Outdoor dining: There is a patio for beer drinking patrons but they do not serve food

Other info: They have live music and beer tasting events and have a great line of merch including apparel, glasses and stickers!


5. Something in the Water Brewing Company



Something in the Water Brewing Co. in Kingston is one of 2 locations (the other is in Liberty Village in Toronto) It is is another must-visit brewery destination in the 1000 Islands region. This brewery focuses on quality and unique flavors, and their beers often push the boundaries of traditional styles. From hazy IPAs to barrel-aged stouts, they will provide a delightful surprise with each visit. They also make a valiant effort in accommodating non-beer drinkers with an extensive list of cocktails and sparkling water. The taproom is an inviting space where you can socialize and sample their ever-changing lineup.


Established: 2020

Beer types: Pilsner, Red Ale, Summer Ale, Sweet Brunch Stout, Pale Ale, Berliner Weisse, Milkshake Beer, Stout, Rice Lager, Sour Beer, IPA, Ciders, Cocktails, Spirits, Wine and Non-Alcholic Sparkling Water

Beer formats: Cans and subscription boxes that arrive every two weeks.

Indoor dining: Yes, they offer really unique and delicious sandwiches and snacks

Outdoor dining: Yes, a street patio is offered in the summer

Other info: Along with their core selection of beers, they also have seasonal options. They have an extensive offering of quirky cocktails as well. They also offer unique events like onsite meditations and trivia nights!


6. MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company



Now we are heading out of the city and into farm country! A short drive northeast from Kingston, you'll find the MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company in Bath, Ontario. Set on a picturesque farm, this brewery is known for its locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. Their flagship beer, the Crosscut Canadian Ale, is a crowd-pleaser. You can even take a brewery tour to learn more about their craft and enjoy their beers in the rustic barn turned taproom.


Established: 2011 (with ingredient farming starting back in 1784!)

Beer types: Pilsners, Ales and Stout

Beer formats: Kegs, Growlers, Cans and 6 packs of cans.

Indoor dining: Yes, limited menu of nachos

Outdoor dining: Yes, seasonal patio

Other info: Apparel, glassware and accessories are also available on their website. They offer delivery in the area as well!


7. Spearhead Brewing Company



Spearhead Brewery in Kingston is the ultimate hub for beer enthusiasts with a zest for fun! This brewery is where you'll find an array of exciting brews that cater to every palate including award winning wheat beers, stouts and ales. The friendly and lively vibe, along with creative beer options, makes it the perfect spot to relax and unwind. At Spearhead Brewery, the adventure in every pint is a guarantee as you sip back on brews that have been created with dedication to "centuries-old traditions". Cheers to good times!


Established: 2011

Beer types: Pale Ale, Wheat Beer, Red Ale, IPA, Golden Ale, Pilsner, Lager, Wine, Cocktails and Akwa brand sparkling water

Beer formats: Individual Cans that also come in 6, 12 and 24 packs

Indoor dining: Yes, menu includes snacks, sandwiches, charcuterie boards and flatbreads

Outdoor dining: Yes, there is a seasonal patio on-site

Other info: They offer brewery tours and hold open mic, live music and happy hour events.


8. Daft Brewing



Heading to the downtown core, Daft Brewing in Kingston is where good times meet great brews! With an eclectic selection of craft beers, this spot oozes personality and with their quirky can designs and fun beer names like "Thirst Trap", "Never Nude" and "Dad Bod". Their whimsical flavors and inviting atmosphere make it the ideal hangout for a fun-loving crowd. When you're in Kingston and looking for a memorable beer adventure, Daft Brewing is the place where your taste buds will dance, and your spirit will soar!


Established: 2019

Beer types: IPA, Sour Beer, Pale Ale, DIPA, Hefeweizen and Cider

Beer formats: Cans

Indoor dining: Yes, sandwiches, hot dogs, chips & dip, garlic bread, fish and chips, charcuterie and other great snacks

Outdoor dining: Yes, seasonal patio on-site

Other info: They offer delivery on Fridays within the parameters of Kingston (see map here). They also have cool glassware, hats, shirts and other accessories available.They also have a comedy night and a yearly home brew competition event.


9. Kingston Brewing Company



As Kingston's oldest brew pub, established in 1986, the Kingston Brewing Company in Kingston is your passport to beer paradise! Housed within a brick and stone building that dates back to the 1800's, the laid-back traditional pub atmosphere is a perfect place to get some fantastic brews that hit the spot. Their unique but classic ales make it a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. It's not just a brewery; it's an experience filled with good vibes, laughter, and excellent company. Come for the beer, stay for the fun!


Established: 1986

Beer types: Cream Ale, Dark Lager, IPA, Pale Ale, Cask Ale, Cider, Wine, Cocktails and Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Beer formats: Tap and Cans

Indoor dining: Yes, they have an fabulous selection of starters, salads, burgers, sandwiches, pub faves and desserts

Outdoor dining: Yes, seasonal patio

Other info: This is the place you want to go to if you want to feel like you are in a traditional European pub. It is located in the heart of downtown Kingston so it is surrounded by things to do and places to see including the Kingston's famous waterfront park.


10. Hard Way Cider Company



Our final stop on the tour is is a little bit different than the rest. Hard Way Cider in Kingston a go-to destination for cider lovers seeking a delicious twist! With a friendly vibe and a range of unique cider flavours, this spot is all about fun and flavour. Sip on refreshing apple goodness, take in the lively atmosphere, and enjoy the good times. Hard Way Cider is where you can experience Kingston's finest cider with a smile using traditional brewing methods – making your taste buds dance and your day a blast! Cheers!


Established: 2016

Cider types: Apple, Raspberry, Peach, Rum, Tequila and Bourbon

Cider formats: Cans

Indoor dining: Yes, they have a good menu of food and snacks to choose from

Outdoor dining: Yes, seasonal patio onsite

Other info: Shipping is available in Ontario for a flat rate. FREE local delivery every Tuesday and Thursday within 25km of the Kingston location. They also have a merchandise and apparel line and hold trivia and private events on-site.


The 1000 Islands region in Canada is not only a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts but also a haven for beer (and cider) lovers. Each brewery on this friendly and fun journey offers a unique experience, from the creative concoctions to the welcoming atmosphere. So, if you're planning a visit to this breathtaking area, don't forget to include a beer tour on your itinerary, and let the local breweries show you the delicious side of the 1000 Islands! Cheers!



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