8 best breweries in Albany New York
Albany, NY is a thriving hub for craft beer enthusiasts, boasting a variety of breweries that cater to all tastes. From traditional ales to innovative IPAs, breweries in Albany NY showcase the best of local and national beer cultures. These breweries not only offer unique and delicious brews, but also provide visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, creating an unforgettable experience for all.
1. Druthers Brewing Company
Crafting exceptional beer experiences since 2015.

Druthers Brewing Company is a popular destination for beer enthusiasts, offering a diverse selection of brews that are consistently rated highly by customers. The beers on tap are described as excellent, solid, good, yummy, and great, reflecting the high quality and variety of options available.
The brewery experience at Druthers is top-notch, with knowledgeable staff and a welcoming atmosphere. The unique and flavorful beers are a standout feature, attracting a loyal following of customers who appreciate the care and attention that goes into each brew. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, there is something for every palate at Druthers Brewing Company.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
2. Fort Orange Brewing
Albany’s largest taproom with a variety of craft beers.

Fort Orange Brewing is a fantastic location with exceptional staff that make visitors feel welcome and valued. The beer selection is consistently good, although the variety could be expanded. Unfortunately, the food truck experience was disappointing, but this is not a reflection on the brewery itself. Overall, Fort Orange Brewing is a great place to visit if you're in the area and looking for a relaxed spot to enjoy a beer or two.
One of the standout features of Fort Orange Brewing is the friendly and familiar atmosphere that you won't find in many other places. From the moment they opened, the staff have made visitors feel like part of the family, creating a warm and inviting environment for all to enjoy. The quality of the beer is also impressive, making Fort Orange Brewing a popular destination for beer lovers in the area.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
3. The City Beer Hall
Historic venue with a lively atmosphere and free pizza.

The City Beer Hall is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts, boasting an impressive rotation of taps that feature an ever-changing array of unique and exciting options. This constant turnover ensures that every visit offers something new and fresh to discover, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to broaden their beer-drinking horizons.
The beer selection at The City Beer Hall is truly exceptional, with a carefully curated mix of offerings from local breweries and rare finds from further afield. Whether you're a seasoned beer aficionado or just looking to explore new flavors and styles, you're sure to find something to love on their extensive and varied menu. With so many fantastic options to choose from, every visit is a new adventure for the taste buds.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
4. Nine Pin Cider Works
Crafting quality ciders from 100% New York apples.

Nine Pin Cider Works is a well-loved destination that offers visitors a delightful combination of delectable food, refreshing drinks, and entertaining events. The cidery boasts an impressive array of ciders, featuring unique flavors that cater to all types of palates. Among the standouts is their ginger-infused cider, which adds a spicy kick that complements the natural sweetness of the apples.
The knowledgeable and friendly staff at Nine Pin Cider Works are happy to guide patrons through their extensive selection, ensuring everyone finds a cider that suits their tastes. In addition to the exceptional drinks, Nine Pin also hosts a variety of events, such as live music and drag shows, that make for unforgettable experiences. Overall, Nine Pin Cider Works is a must-visit destination for cider enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
TOPICS
- Mid-Range
- Gluten-Free
- Downtown Spots
5. Madison Pour House
A hidden gem with the best pub menu around

A wide range and high quality of beers are available at this establishment, with 40 beers on tap and an additional 60 offered in cans and bottles. Such a diverse selection ensures that there is something for everyone, regardless of personal taste preferences. The knowledgeable staff is able to provide recommendations based on individual preferences, enhancing the overall experience.
The staff at this bar are celebrated for their friendly demeanor and extensive knowledge of the beer selection. They are always ready to assist customers in finding the perfect beer to suit their tastes. Whether a customer is a seasoned beer connoisseur or a casual drinker, the staff's expertise and helpfulness make for an enjoyable and informative visit.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
6. Lionheart Pub and Brewery
Solving the world's problems, one beer at a time.

This establishment offers a great selection of home-brewed beer that is sure to satisfy any palate. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, making it an ideal spot to spend an evening with friends. The jukebox provides a fun and laid-back soundtrack, while the pool table and dart boards offer a chance to engage in some friendly competition.
For those who appreciate finer spirits, this bar also boasts an impressive collection of top-shelf options. Additionally, the venue hosts live music events, adding to the overall entertainment value of the establishment. Whether you're looking to enjoy a few drinks with friends or discover new craft beers, this bar is an excellent choice.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
7. Fidens Brewing Company
Bold. Confident. Unique craft beer experience.

Upon visiting Fidens Brewery in Albany, one is immediately struck by the inviting atmosphere and impressive selection of beers. The brewery is an ideal destination for IPA and DIPA enthusiasts, offering a range of delicious options that are sure to satisfy. The spacious and open concept building features a large bar and ample seating, making it an excellent spot to relax and enjoy a drink with friends.
In addition to their impressive beer selection, Fidens Brewery also offers a small range of wines, ciders, and soda, catering to a variety of tastes. The kitchen serves up a selection of tasty snacks and meals, with the roasted beet salad and rice lager coming highly recommended. The friendly and attentive staff ensure that visitors have a great experience, making Fidens Brewery a standout destination in Albany.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
8. Pint Sized (Albany)
Ultimate destination for beer lovers in Albany.

Pint Sized in Albany is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts, boasting a trendy atmosphere and an impressive selection of drinks. The bar's extensive range of brews includes unique beers, ciders, canned wines, and seltzers, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Whether you're a hophead or a cider fan, you're sure to find a drink that suits your tastes.
The staff at Pint Sized are knowledgeable and passionate about craft beer, making them the perfect guides for your drinking experience. They offer growler fills and have a great selection of cans, bottles, and six-packs for sale. Whether you're looking to enjoy a drink on the spot or take some home with you, Pint Sized has you covered. The bar's hipster vibe and quality drink selection make it a standout destination for beer lovers in Albany.
TOPICS
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
- Personal Celebrations