People have been visiting wineries for years. They go to a beautiful setting, sample a few of the options, then purchase a glass or bottle of their favorite to enjoy on the vineyard’s patio or while listening to live music. Breweries have expanded the tasty-adult-beverage tourism industry with taprooms of their own. There are options for tasting flights, brewery tours, trivia nights, and some views that rival those of vineyards. The variety of styles of beer also compares with the many different types of wine available in the world. An ice cold pilsner is ideal for a hot day in the sun just like a pinot grigio. Sitting by a crackling fire on a cold winter night? Put down the hearty cabernet sauvignon and try a strong stout. There is a beer to pair with every type of meal – or you can just drink what you like. Take an afternoon to visit one or more of the breweries that have popped up near Five Gables Inn.
Boothbay Craft Brewery, Boothbay
There is something for everyone here: beer, cocktails, and a farm-to-table restaurant. Beer enthusiasts can expect to find a wide range to brews from the German inspired Route 27 Lager to a New England IPA called Thirsty Botanist to the smooth and silky Black Rocks Stout. It is common to find 12 different beers on tap each season. The restaurant also boasts a full drink menu with wines and fun cocktails. Try the Puffy Coat which is a unique winter version of a Mai Tai or turn your drink into a dessert float with beer and ice cream. The menu features classic comfort food such as chicken pot pie and savory wood-fired pizzas. You will feel right at home in the tavern style restaurant that invites you to linger over a conversation with a friend. Keep your eye out for the hidden door to the speakeasy bar and game room. Open evenings Thursday through Saturday and for brunch on Sunday.
Footbridge Brewery, Boothbay Harbor
An old historic house sits in the middle of the longest wooden footbridge in the country. That iconic Boothbay scene is the inspiration for the name of the brewery. With a bit of luck and hard work, they hope to stand the test of time the same as the bridge and house. The one things that remains the same is that the brewery strives to use as many Maine-sources ingredients as possible. Beyond that, visitors will always be surprised by new offerings on tap. There are often a dozen or more varied styles available with themed names like Fisherman’s Thumb, Tugboat Stout, and Shrimp Run. Red, white, and bubbly wines are also available for non-beer drinking friends. The mouthwatering food menu includes daily specials, typical bar food, wraps, and paninis. If you are using the Untappd app, make sure to check in a beer at the brewery for a venue badge. Open noon to 8pm, Thursday through Monday.
Oxbow Brewing Company, Newcastle
The rural farmhouse brewery with a rustic tasting room is the perfect place for an outdoor adventure. Guests are invited to wander through the orchard and farm. There are often six beers available on tap without another large assortment in bottles and cans. Make a day of the trip by spending time hiking or biking their backwoods trails before rewarding yourself with a drink at a picnic table. The name for the brewery comes from the winding tidal rivers on the property without numerous horseshoe-shaped oxbows. Light snacks are available at the brewery which is open in the afternoons Thursday through Sunday.
Bath Ale Works, Wiscasset
A son emailed a father with a couple brewery names and a dream was born. The Powers family moved from Maryland to their summer home in Maine and kept pursuing that dream thanks to the encouragement of the Midcoast community. With 12 beers on tap it can be difficult to choose which to try first. Thankfully, fleet paddles of four 4-ounce pours are available to sample more of their options. The brewery hosts trivia every Monday and has a beer garden open during the warmer months. Watch for special beer releases and events to celebrate their one year anniversary. Open in the afternoons Thursday through Monday.
Bath Brewing Company, Bath
This community-driven brew pub centers around traditional American, English, and German style
brewing methods. The main floor features a welcoming pub atmosphere while the second floor boasts a traditional dining and lounge area. The menu of modern pub fare is available on both floors. The taplist changes frequently so it can be a good idea to check ahead if you are hoping for a particular type of beer. The brewery and restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday.
