Looking for a fun way to explore Johnson City, TN? Check out the local brewery scene! From historic breweries to self-guided tours and events, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to grab some brewery merchandise and enjoy some delicious food while you’re at it. Discover Johnson City breweries today!
Overview of Johnson City Breweries
Johnson City is a small city nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Northeast Tennessee. Known for its rich history and natural beauty, Johnson City has also become a hub for enthusiasts. The city is home to several breweries, each with its unique history and offerings. In this section, we will explore the history of Johnson City breweries and the current brewery scene.
History of Johnson City Breweries
The history of Johnson City breweries dates back to the late 1800s. The region was known for its fertile land and abundant natural resources, making it an ideal location for agriculture and brewing. The first brewery in Johnson City, the Tri-City Brewing Company, opened its doors in 1888. The brewery produced a variety of beers, including lagers and ales, and quickly gained popularity.
However, the Prohibition era dealt a severe blow to the brewing industry, and many breweries were forced to close their doors. When Prohibition was repealed in 1933, only a few breweries managed to survive. One of these was the Johnson City Brewing Company, which had been operating since 1906. The brewery continued to produce beer until 1956 when it closed due to financial difficulties.
It wasn’t until the early 2000s that the movement began to take hold in Johnson City. New breweries began to open, and the city’s beer scene began to flourish once again.
Current Johnson City Brewery Scene
Today, Johnson City is home to several breweries that cater to a diverse range of beer enthusiasts. From traditional lagers and ales to more experimental brews, there is something for everyone.
One of the most popular breweries in the city is Yee-Haw Brewing Company. Founded in 2015, Yee-Haw has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The brewery’s flagship beer, the Yee-Haw Dunkel, is a smooth and flavorful dark lager that has won numerous awards.
Another popular brewery in Johnson City is the Johnson City Brewing Company. Founded in 2014, this brewery specializes in traditional German-style beers, such as hefeweizens and pilsners. The brewery also offers a variety of seasonal and experimental brews, such as the popular “Pumpkin Ale” that is released every fall.
JRH Brewing is another brewery that has gained a loyal following in Johnson City. Founded in 2016, JRH Brewing is known for its unique and experimental brews, such as the “Bourbon Barrel-Aged Coffee Stout” and the “Pineapple Sour Ale.”
In addition to these breweries, Johnson City also offers several brewpubs and taprooms that serve a wide selection of craft beers. These establishments often feature live music and other events, making them popular destinations for locals and visitors alike.
Best Johnson City Breweries
If you’re a beer enthusiast, you’ll be happy to know that Johnson City has a thriving brewery scene. There are several great breweries in the area, but we’ve narrowed it down to the top three. These breweries all offer unique experiences and exceptional beer, making them must-visit destinations for any beer lover.
Yee-Haw Brewing Company
Yee-Haw Brewing Company is one of the most popular and beloved breweries in Johnson City. They offer a wide range of beers, from traditional lagers to experimental brews. One of the most unique things about Yee-Haw is their commitment to using local ingredients in their beers. They work with local farmers to source the freshest hops and grains, resulting in some truly exceptional brews.
If you’re looking for something to eat while you’re at Yee-Haw, they have a great food menu as well. They offer a variety of tasty options, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Plus, their outdoor seating area is the perfect place to enjoy a cold beer on a warm day.
Johnson City Brewing Company
Johnson City Brewing Company is a relatively new addition to the Johnson City brewery scene, but they’ve already made a name for themselves with their exceptional beer and inviting atmosphere. They offer a variety of traditional and experimental brews, including some unique sour beers that are not to be missed.
In addition to their great beer, Johnson City Brewing Company also offers a variety of events and activities. They regularly host live music, trivia nights, and other fun events that are perfect for a night out with friends.
JRH Brewing
JRH Brewing is another great brewery in Johnson City that is not to be missed. They offer a variety of tasty beers, including some unique brews that you won’t find anywhere else. One of the things that sets JRH apart from other breweries in the area is their commitment to sustainability. They use solar panels to power their brewery and have implemented a variety of other eco-friendly practices.
If you’re hungry, JRH also has a great food menu. They offer a variety of tasty options, including pizzas, sandwiches, and salads. Plus, their outdoor seating area is the perfect place to enjoy a beer and a meal on a nice day.
Johnson City Brewery Tours
If you’re a beer lover visiting Johnson City, Tennessee, then a brewery tour is a must-do activity. You can choose between a self-guided or a guided tour, both of which offer a unique experience.
Self-Guided Johnson City Brewery Tour
If you prefer to explore the breweries at your own pace, then a self-guided tour is an excellent option. With this tour, you can customize your itinerary and visit the breweries that interest you the most. Here are some of the top breweries you can visit on a self-guided tour:
- Yee-Haw Brewing Company: Established in 2015, Yee-Haw has quickly become one of the most popular breweries in Johnson City. They offer a wide selection of beers, including stouts, IPAs, and lagers. You can also enjoy live music and events on their outdoor patio.
- Johnson City Brewing Company: This brewery is located in the heart of downtown Johnson City and offers a rustic atmosphere. They specialize in Belgian-style beers and offer a rotating selection of seasonal brews. You can also enjoy food from their on-site kitchen.
- JRH Brewing: This family-owned brewery is located in a historic building and offers a cozy atmosphere. They offer a diverse selection of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and sours. You can also enjoy live music and events on their outdoor patio.
Guided Johnson City Brewery Tour
If you prefer a more structured tour, then a guided brewery tour is an excellent option. With a guided tour, you can learn about the brewing process and history of the breweries from a knowledgeable guide. Here are some of the top breweries you can visit on a guided tour:
- Tri-Cities Craft Beer Tours: This tour company offers a guided tour of the top breweries in Johnson City. You’ll visit three breweries and enjoy a flight of beer at each location. The tour includes transportation and a knowledgeable guide.
- Johnson City Pub Crawl: This tour company offers a guided tour of the top bars and breweries in Johnson City. You’ll visit four locations and enjoy a drink at each stop. The tour includes transportation and a knowledgeable guide.
No matter which tour you choose, you’re sure to have a great time exploring the vibrant brewery scene in Johnson City. Cheers to good beers!
Johnson City Brewery Events
If you’re a enthusiast, you won’t want to miss the various Johnson City brewery events throughout the year. From the Johnson City Craft Beer Festival to brewery tastings and tap takeovers, there’s always something happening in the local scene.
Johnson City Craft Beer Festival
The Johnson City Craft Beer Festival is a must-attend event for any beer lover. Held annually in downtown Johnson City, this festival features over 40 breweries from across the region and beyond. Attendees can sample a wide variety of beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, while enjoying live music and food from local vendors.
One of the unique aspects of the Johnson City Craft Beer Festival is its focus on small, independent breweries. Many of the participating breweries are relatively unknown, making this festival a great opportunity to discover new and exciting beers.
Tickets to the Johnson City Craft Beer Festival typically sell out quickly, so it’s important to purchase them in advance. VIP tickets are also available, which provide early entry and exclusive access to special beers.
Brewery Tastings and Tap Takeovers
In addition to the Johnson City Craft Beer Festival, many local breweries host tastings and tap takeovers throughout the year. These events give beer lovers the opportunity to sample a variety of beers from a single brewery, often including limited or special releases.
At Yee-Haw Brewing Company, for example, visitors can enjoy a flight of beers and learn about the brewing process on a guided tour. JRH Brewing hosts regular tap takeovers featuring guest breweries from across the region.
Some breweries also offer food pairings with their tastings and tap takeovers, allowing visitors to explore the ways in which different beers can complement or contrast with various dishes.
Attending brewery tastings and tap takeovers is a great way to support local businesses while discovering new and exciting beers. Check with your favorite Johnson City breweries to see what events they have planned in the coming months.
Johnson City Brewery Food
For beer lovers, enjoying a pint of their favorite brew is always better with some delicious food to go along with it. Luckily, the Johnson City brewery scene has got you covered with an array of food options to satisfy your taste buds. From food trucks parked outside the breweries to partner restaurants, there’s no shortage of options to choose from.
Johnson City Brewery Food Trucks
Food trucks have become a popular addition to the Johnson City brewery scene, offering a range of cuisines to pair with your favorite beer. These mobile kitchens park outside the breweries, providing customers with a convenient way to grab a quick bite.
One of the popular food trucks is White Duck Taco Shop, which serves up a variety of tacos with unique flavors such as Thai peanut chicken and mushroom mole. Another popular option is Hawg Dawgs, which offers a range of hot dogs and sausages with creative toppings.
The food trucks change frequently, so it’s always worth checking out what’s on offer when you visit your favorite brewery. The food truck schedule is usually posted on the brewery’s website or social media pages.
Johnson City Brewery Restaurant Partners
If you’re looking for a more sit-down meal, many of the Johnson City breweries have partnered with local restaurants to offer food to their customers. This allows you to enjoy a full meal while still enjoying your favorite brew.
One of the popular brewery-restaurant partnerships is between Yee-Haw Brewing Company and White Duck Taco Shop. The brewery has a designated area inside where you can enjoy your food and drinks together. Another popular partnership is between JRH Brewing and Main Street Pizza Company, which offers a range of pizzas and salads.
The brewery-restaurant partnerships provide a great way to support local businesses and enjoy a delicious meal with your beer. Plus, the breweries often offer special deals or discounts for customers who dine at their partner restaurants.
Recommended Johnson City Brewery Food Options
- White Duck Taco Shop (food truck)
- Hawg Dawgs (food truck)
- Yee-Haw Brewing Company and White Duck Taco Shop (partnership)
- JRH Brewing and Main Street Pizza Company (partnership)
Johnson City Brewery Merchandise
As any brewery enthusiast knows, owning a piece of merchandise from your favorite brewery is a must-have. Johnson City breweries offer a wide range of merchandise, from t-shirts and hats to glassware and growlers. These items not only serve as souvenirs but also as a way to support the local businesses and show off your love for great beer.
Johnson City Brewery T-Shirts and Hats
One of the most popular merchandise items offered by Johnson City breweries is t-shirts and hats. These items come in a variety of styles and designs, often featuring the brewery’s logo or a specific beer. They are perfect for wearing to brewery events, out with friends, or even just lounging at home.
Some breweries, such as Yee-Haw Brewing Company, offer unique designs that pay homage to the city’s history and culture. For example, their “Yee-Haw Y’all” t-shirt features a cowboy hat and boots, a nod to Johnson City’s western roots.
Johnson City Brewery Glassware and Growlers
Another favorite among Johnson City brewery merchandise is glassware and growlers. These items are not only functional for enjoying your favorite beer at home but also make for great collectibles.
Glassware options range from pint glasses to snifters, each offering a unique drinking experience. Some breweries, such as Johnson City Brewing Company, offer branded flight trays with matching glasses for the ultimate tasting experience.
Growlers, on the other hand, allow you to take your favorite beer home with you. Most breweries offer 32- and 64-ounce options, with some even offering 128-ounce growlers for sharing with friends.
It’s important to note that some breweries, such as JRH Brewing, offer discounts on beer fills with the purchase of a branded growler. This not only saves you money in the long run but also supports the brewery by promoting their brand outside of the taproom.
In conclusion, owning Johnson City brewery merchandise is a great way to show support for local businesses and enjoy your favorite beer at home. Whether it’s a t-shirt, hat, glassware, or growler, there’s something for everyone. So next time you visit a Johnson City brewery, be sure to grab a piece of merchandise to take home with you.
