Boise Breweries & Tasting Rooms Worth Visiting
From Payette Brewing to Barbarian Brewing, here’s your local guide to Boise’s craft beer scene.
Boise may be known for its foothills, river views, and outdoor lifestyle—but let’s be honest, we also take our craft beer very seriously. Whether you’re a hop-head, a sour lover, or someone who just wants a cold pint and a sunny patio, Boise breweries deliver big flavor with laid-back vibes.
Here’s a curated list of Boise breweries and tasting rooms worth visiting, featuring local favorites, unique beer styles, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you say, “Yeah… I could stay awhile.”
Payette Brewing Company
The OG of Boise craft beer
If Boise breweries had a mayor, it might be Payette Brewing. Located near downtown with one of the city’s largest beer gardens, Payette is a must-stop for both locals and visitors.
Why we love it:
Spacious outdoor patio with mountain views
Rotating food trucks (always a win)
Flagship beers like Outlaw IPA and 12 Gauge Imperial Stout
Perfect for post-Greenbelt rides or casual meetups
Payette Brewing is approachable, reliable, and always buzzing—classic craft beer Boise Idaho energy.
Barbarian Brewing
For the adventurous beer drinker
Barbarian Brewing isn’t afraid to push boundaries. Known for their creative sours, wild ales, and experimental flavors, this is where Boise’s beer scene gets a little weird—in the best way.
Expect things like:
Barrel-aged sours
Fruited beers with unexpected twists
A cozy, underground tasting-room vibe
If you like your beer bold, funky, and conversation-starting, Barbarian earns a top spot on the best beer Boise list.
Mother Earth Brew Co. (Boise Taproom)
West Coast roots, Boise soul
While Mother Earth originated in California, their Boise taproom has fully earned its local stripes. The space is modern, welcoming, and packed with solid beer options for every palate.
Highlights:
A wide range of IPAs, lagers, and seasonal releases
Friendly, knowledgeable staff
Easygoing vibe that works for groups or solo tastings
It’s a great “everyone will find something they like” stop.
Woodland Empire Ale Craft
Small, scrappy, and proudly Boise
Woodland Empire feels like that cool local secret you’re happy to share—but also kind of want to keep to yourself. Their beers are inventive, balanced, and often delightfully unexpected.
What makes it special:
Small-batch creativity
Funky labels and even funkier flavor profiles
A true neighborhood brewery feel
This is one of those Boise breweries that reminds you why local matters.
Boise Brewing
Where community meets craft
Boise Brewing lives up to its name by being deeply rooted in the local scene. With community-supported brewing (yes, that’s a thing) and a friendly taproom, it’s an easy place to settle in.
Fan favorites include:
Solid IPAs and seasonal brews
Trivia nights and local events
A welcoming, no-frills atmosphere
It’s casual, comfortable, and very Boise.
Cloud 9 Brewery
Clean beer, cozy vibes
Cloud 9 flies a bit under the radar, but it shouldn’t. Their beers are well-crafted, approachable, and perfect for those who prefer balance over extremes.
Why stop by:
Relaxed tasting room
Consistently good, drinkable beers
Great place to actually talk (not shout) with friends
Sometimes you just want a good beer—and Cloud 9 delivers.
Why Boise’s Craft Beer Scene Just Works
Boise breweries reflect the city itself: creative, community-driven, and not trying too hard. Many tasting rooms are bike-friendly, dog-friendly, and patio-approved—making them perfect extensions of Boise’s outdoor lifestyle.
Whether you’re new to town or a long-time local, exploring craft beer in Boise Idaho is one of the easiest (and tastiest) ways to feel connected to the community.
Cheers to Boise 🍻
Looking for more local guides, neighborhood favorites, or lifestyle tips around Boise? This city has a lot to sip, see, and explore—and the beer is just the beginning.
