Popularized in 19th century Bavaria, beer gardens have become a social staples across the world in recent years. Wisconsin certainly is no stranger to a frosty brew and has these budding beer-centric establishments perfect for fall, with a host of blossoming gardens to explore.
Estabrook Beer Garden – Milwaukee
Established in 2012 as the first public beer garden in America in more than 100 years, Estabrook melds German traditionalism with home-grown Wisconsin charm. Resting on a bluff overlooking a waterfall and the Milwaukee River, Estabrook Park is a lush public meeting space and an essential spot for nature lovers and beer lovers alike. Come take a walk, grab a Munich-import in a ½ liter glass and enjoy the fall at one of Wisconsin’s most unique public hangouts.
Memorial Union Terrace – Madison
Known for its brightly colored chairs and picturesque lakefront setting, the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Memorial Union Terrace is Wisconsin’s famous college-style beer garden. If you’re into live music, cheap suds and a Badgers atmosphere, the terrace is a youthful beer garden to take you back to your early drinking days and keep the fun going. Take a dip in Lake Mendota, catch a set from a great local or touring band and split a pitcher of Wisconsin beer with friends!
Capital Brewery – Middleton
Hand-crafted beers, live entertainment and the company of your friends, family and dogs are some of the simple pleasures Capital Brewery offers. A spacious patio attached to Capital’s beer-making facility, the bier garten is old-school place for throwing back a few after a long day of work or relaxing on a weekend afternoon. If you want to see how beer is made and then enjoy its perks, Capital Brewery is perfect for you!
Otto’s Beer and Brat Garden – Minocqua
An old German-style beer hall, Otto’s is a relic of the Northwoods equipped with a menu of eighty brews, a slew of delicious sausages and of course a beer garden! With suits of armor, buffalo heads and beer steins adorning the hall and a spacious patio to enjoy a pint, conversation and the Minocqua Fall, make sure Otto’s isn’t the last call on your beer-friendly Wisconsin trip.
Stone Cellar Brewpub – Appleton
A gem of the Fox Valley, Stone Cellar pairs a rustic underground vault with an open-air beer garden that’ll keep you relaxed and happy into the fall. With a vine-wrapped brick setting and a series of home-brewed beers to choose from, Stone Cellar presents a beer garden vibe all of its own. Plus, promoting extensive sustainability practices and showcasing a plethora of local food options on its menu, Stone Cellar takes community ideals to the next level—with delicious results.
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