Hey, craft beer lovers! If you’re looking for a little vacation inspiration, the Sunshine State may be calling your name. While you’re soaking up that Florida sun, you’ll also find plenty of palate-pleasing suds to sip along the St. Petersburg/Clearwater craft beer trail.
Don’t miss these must-visit breweries, and St. Petersburg’s up-and-coming craft beer scene.
Saint Somewhere, Tarpon Springs
Literally bringing a whole new meaning to the term “boutique brewer,” this warehouse-turned-brewhouse specializes in Belgian-style ales. Try the Serge, which draws its inspiration from author Tim Dorsey’s series of Florida-based novels featuring a main character of the same name.
Cycle Brewing, Downtown St. Petersburg
This brewery holds the distinction of being downtown St. Petersburg’s very first brewhouse. Here, you’ll find 12 rotating taps to enjoy in the front-of-house tasting room. Try the Please, a porter brewed with local coffee, or the RareR D.O.S., a barrel-aged stout.
Dunedin Brewery, Dunedin
Florida’s oldest craft brewery serves up both food and live entertainment — plus, who can turn down a brewery with a happy hour? The must-try at Dunedin is the Apricot Peach Ale, the brewery’s signature beer.
Lagerhaus, Palm Harbor
A fifth generation Austrian brewmaster oversees this craft brewery’s creations, where the beers are nothing short of traditional. If you’re feeling adventurous (and brought a designated driver with you), try the .44 Magnum, which packs one serious punch with a 22 percent alcohol content.
Get a taste of St. Petersburg’s craft beer culture with a video tour:
Craft Beer Trail Final.mp4 from St. Pete / Clearwater on Vimeo.
(Main image: Jeff Dow/Lindsey Gira)
