The Beverage that Keeps Giving Back
Beer & Travel
I’ve been lucky enough to travel to different states and regions, and my favorite part is diving into the local craft beers, food, and culture. Nothing says “connecting with the locals” quite like drinking what they brew and eating what they love. Plus, I LOVE beer—and I consider this very important research.
My Favorite Beer List
*Samuel Adams Cold Snap
*Shock Top
*Door County Cherry Wheat
*Third Shot Drop Amber - Pickleball Kingdom
*Dogfish Head Seaquench Ale
The Dinking Dad Craft Beer Visitation Center
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City, Missouri
Milwaukee has a deep-rooted beer culture that, to me, feels equal parts historic and effortlessly cool. From classic brewing traditions to modern craft innovation, I’ve found there’s no shortage of great spots to grab a pint and soak it all in. Places like Third Space Brewing, Lakefront Brewery, and Ope! Brewing Co. each bring their own personality with laid-back taprooms, welcoming vibes, and beers that are worth slowing down for. Catching up with friends when I can or down after a long day, or just exploring, Milwaukee’s beer scene makes it easy for everyone. Much like Kansas City, Milwaukee has a lengthy history so enjoy the architecture and enjoy the city’s vibrant energy. Be sure to get a brat with all the fiixins' too...just to say you did it. Cheese curds too!
Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City is a must-visit city for anyone who loves great beer, great food, and a lively atmosphere. I found the beer scene to be anchored by Boulevard Brewing Company, my personal favorite, where the brews are consistently excellent and the vibe perfectly captures KC’s laid-back but passionate spirit along with its rich history. While I was there, it felt absolutely mandatory to dive into Kansas City’s legendary barbecue, specifically burnt ends, which might just ruin all other barbecue for me forever. It is by far my favorite type of barbecue. To round out the experience, I made sure to check out Chicken N Pickle, the famous pickleball hotspot in North Kansas City, that combines courts, food, drinks, and a social scene that feels uniquely Kansas City. Might even see professional athletes catching a break here. Be ready for Cornhole, lifesize Battleship, and chill vibes. It is basically tailgating! It’s the perfect mix of beer, bites, and fun that makes KC such a special place.
Venice, Florida
Kansas City, Missouri
Venice, Florida
Venice, Florida is one of those laid-back Gulf Coast gems where beach days and cold drinks just naturally go together for me. A must-do stop is Sharky’s on the Pier, where grabbing a beer or tropical drink right on the beach especially at sunset feels like peak Florida living. Ber sure to snap a sunset pic. Trust me! It’s worth it. After soaking in the shoreline, exploring Downtown Venice is the perfect way for me to round out the day, with its walkable decorated streets, shops, and relaxed vibe. The area also has a solid craft beer scene, with local taps often featuring Florida favorites like 3 Daughters Brewing, making it easy for me to sample something refreshing while I’m out and about. One of my new favorites is Florida Avenue Brewing Company, specifically the Dead Parrot Light Lager. Light, with a little sea salt and lime added to it, it’s perfect for poolside visits. Venice keeps things simple in the best way for me: sun, sand, good drinks, and plenty of pickleball courts to choose from if I want to be active.
Bend, Oregon
Sister Bay, Wisconsin - Door County
Venice, Florida
The beer scene in Bend, Oregon is absolutely massive and feels like it was designed by people who love hops, sunshine, and a good time. With breweries seemingly on every corner, I find it easy to start with classics like Bend Brewing Company or 10 Barrel Brewing, but honestly, the options are endless and dangerously tempting. What really sets Bend apart for me is pairing great beer with the outdoors, especially tubing down the Deschutes River, floating through town, soaking up the views, and sipping on a cold one as I drift along. Wifey and I loved this! It’s equal parts adventure and relaxation, and somehow totally normal here. In Bend, great beer isn’t just a drink. It’s part of the lifestyle and the West Coast is always on the radar for me. I'm biased. 
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Sister Bay, Wisconsin - Door County
Sister Bay, Wisconsin - Door County
Gatlinburg is the perfect blend of mountain charm, great drinks, and just a little wild energy. I can grab a cold local beer at Gatlinburg Brewing Company, stop by Ole Red for beers, cocktails, and live music, and then venture into moonshine territory with flavored tastings at Old Smoky Moonshine because when you are in Tennessee, it’s basically required. Between sips, I’m surrounded by stunning Smoky Mountain scenery, fresh mountain air, and if I’m lucky (or unlucky), an occasional black bear sighting that reminds me who really runs the town. Gatlinburg is equal parts laid-back mountain escape and lively drink-in-hand adventure, making it hard not to fall in love with the place. Keep in mind, it is definitely a tourist attraction so expect crowds.
Sister Bay, Wisconsin - Door County
Sister Bay, Wisconsin - Door County
Sister Bay, Wisconsin - Door County
The beer scene in Sister Bay is laid-back, fun, and perfectly matched to Door County vibes, and I loved every bit of it. I couldn’t miss stopping at Peach Barn Brewery, where the beers are approachable, the atmosphere is relaxed, and it’s easy for me to lose track of time with friends. My favorites there were the Jimmy Cricket Belgian White Ale and one of my favorite sours of all time, the Highway 42 Cherry Sour. Just down the road, One Barrel Brewing Company is an absolute must for me. Great craft beer, a lively crowd, and a true local feel that makes me want to order “just one more.” And no trip feels complete without ending at the iconic Stabbur Beer Garden, where I can drink cold beers, hang out outdoors, and stare up at the legendary goats hanging out on the roof. It’s the kind of place where I slow down, soak it all in, and happily put back a few while enjoying everything Door County does best.