Featured photo by @beerdbrewing on Instagram
If you’re a New England native, odds are you’ve been to Mystic, Connecticut.
Personally, I grew up going there for the day with my family.
It’s so close to so many things. Beaches, shipyards, an iconic aquarium, and not to mention the world famous Mystic Pizza.
Surprisingly enough, for how small and quaint the little town is, there are also a great amount of breweries with a wide variety of beers nearby, too.
Of course, most of these places aren’t directly in Mystic, but I’ve made sure to include breweries that are all within a half hour drive, to make sure that they’re easily accessible to everyone and anyone stopping through.
Here are all of the best breweries near Mystic, CT.
Outer Light Brewing Company
266 Bridge St, Groton, CT
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Outer Light is committed to serving beer that’s reflective with life’s simple pleasures. Whether it’s the summer, winter, or autumn, Outer Light is committed to capturing your most favorite experiences and putting them into a can, bottle, or growler.
Their rotating tap changes throughout the year to reflect the seasons and newer brews with plenty of great options, but is always stocked with their staple beers that returning customers and locals can’t get enough of.
Beer Recommendations:
- Juicy Bull$#!t: NEIPA; brewed with El Dorado, Citra, and Mosaic. 6.1% ABV.
- Punching The Ocean Double IPA: Brewed with Gallery, Citra, and Mosaic, giving it a hazy and flavorful taste. 8.5% ABV.
Bank & Bridge Brewing
54 W Main St, Mystic CT 06355
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Peace, love, beer, and positive vibrations!
This veteran owned production brew pub is the Downtown Mystic hub for great beer and food. Open seven days a week, this local reggae inspired brewery hosts a multitude of events such as happy hour, live music, and paint and sip nights.
Beer Recommendations:
- Manatee: A smooth porter, “really smooth,” with notes of coffee. 6.5% ABV.
- Valley Boi Seltzer: Their signature, mango flavored, hard seltzer. 4% ABV.
Food Recommendations:
- Truffle Honey Fried Chicken Sandwich
- The Tatum Smashburger
Barley Head Brewery
12 Water St #1A, Mystic, CT 06355
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This nanobrewery and bar has a constantly rotating draft selection of new beer, ensuring that there’s always a new option every time you visit.
Each month, this great stop features a new local artist, with a full art show dedicated to the person on the second Thursday of every month. If you’re in the area on one of these Thursday nights, this is a wonderful opportunity to explore the local art scene while sipping on some delicious craft brews.
Beer Info:
- Many of the beers from their constantly changing draft list are made with local barley and hops.
- They also have locally crafted wine and cider available for purchase.
Food Info:
- You are able to bring your favorite takeout options right into the brewery
- Snack on a hot pretzel right inside.
Beer’d Brewing Company
225 Leonard Dr, Groton, CT 06340
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These guys are making it their mission to make craft beer for everyone. Not just the beer nerds, but those who are looking to dip their toes into the craft beer scene, too.
The result? A great spot with a rapidly growing and loyal following all around the state. They have a pretty popular list of staples that get frequently cycled in and out of rotation throughout the year, so be on the lookout for your favorite brews if you’re a returning customer!
Beer Recommendations:
- 8 Days a Week: American Pale Ale with tropical fruit aromas, and hints of graham cracker. 6.7% ABV
- Frank & Berry: Double India Pale Ale with notes of berries and citrus. 9.1% ABV.
Grey Sail Brewing
63 Canal St, Westerly, RI 02891
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Though this popular brewery has a RI address, it’s only a 15 minute drive from Mystic!
Grey Sail has been voted Best of Rhode Island for three years in a row, and it’s no secret as to why. With both seasonal and year round offerings, this great place makes it easy for you to discover what you love and enjoy it among friends.
Beer Recommendations:
- Pour Judgement Pilsner: Made with 100% Czech Saaz. 6% ABV.
- Flying Jenny: Pale ale, made with select specialty malts. 5.3% ABV.
Food Info:
- Food at the taproom available by Vetranos Wood Fired.
Thomas Hooker Brewing Company
16 Tobey Rd, Bloomfield, CT 06002
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If you want a piece of Connecticut at it’s best, make sure your brewery tour takes you to Thomas Hooker’s.
First established in 1996, Thomas Hooker Brewery was one of the OG’s when it comes to Connecticut’s craft beer scene.
Their Bloomfield tap room features dozens of local favorite brews and quality ales, as well as a full food menu with tons of delicious bites to choose from.
Beer Recommendations:
- Super Duper Double Citra: Double IPA, 8% ABV.
- Blonde Ale: Saaz hops, 5% ABV.
Food Recommendations:
- Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza
- Loaded Potato Pizza.
These Guys Brewing Company
78 Franklin St, Norwich, CT 06360
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Stemming from a passion and love of great beer, These Guys Brewing Company was born. Combining the typical fare of a brewpub with a creative foodie flare, this hot local spot has become a crowd favorite for everyone passing through Norwich.
The brewery is located in an old saloon and rumored speakeasy, and has been preserved to reflect that classic historical charm. They pride themselves on serving the highest quality beer with a wide range of flavors to all of their customers.
Beer Recommendations:
- Kaiser Willy Imperial Stout: A toasty, chocolatey rich stout. 9% ABV.
- Time-out Corner: Boozy and full bodied barleywine, 10% ABV.
Food Recommendations:
- Short Rib Arrancini
- Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Deconstructed Chicken Pot Pie
