Founders Brewing Co

The brewery that is considered responsible for starting the craft beer revolution in Beer City is Founders, which has achieved such success that its beer is available in bars across the world. But its hometown taproom is well worth a visit, offering beers you won’t find anywhere else alongside food and regular live music events.

Due to several years of explosive growth, Founders is now one of the largest craft breweries in the world, with distribution in 30 countries and 37 states. Majority owned by three local Grand Rapids residents, all of their distribution is currently done on a massive building on a single square block (really more the equivalent of 4 square normal city blocks) just outside of downtown, although the company is currently building a satellite facility a mile away. Much of their strong growth in recent years has been on the back of my favorite of their beers – and one of my favorite overall beers, the highly flavorful and (relatively) low alcohol content All Day IPA. We learned from our visit that it is the number one selling session IPA in the world and the number 4 selling IPA overall.

Long known for its scrumptious handcrafted sandwiches, Founders Brewing Company revamped its menu in April 2024 – and expanded its kitchen to accommodate a more diverse and ambitious food offering. The new menu was curated by Executive Chef Pete Engelhardt to include a range of creative appetizers, burgers and entrées alongside longstanding fan favorites. Honey Glazed Salmon, Founders Porter Braised Beef, a Root Veggie Bowl and a Burger topped with Founders KBS-infused Bacon Jam (if you know, you know) are among the new selections earning raves from guests.

Voted as the third best brewery in the world in 2013, Founders Brewing Co is renowned for its craft beers and is also an active supporter of the Grand Rapids Whitewater Restoration Project and Brewers for Clean Water initiative. Apart from freshly crafted beers, the pub also features amazing live music and open mic during the week. Address: 235 Grandville Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, United States Phone: 1 616 776 1195 Timings: 11:00 am to 02:00 am (Monday to Saturday), 12:00 pm to 12:00 am (Sunday)Website:http://foundersbrewing.com/

See behind the scenes at the area’s best known craft beer maker with a tour at Founders Brewing. Now stretching the length of a city block after a half-dozen expansions, a Founders tour includes bits of the company’s history, the beer-making process and plenty of peeks at its bottles, kegs and giant fermenters where all their hop-and-malt magic is made. If you’re visiting the taproom, you’ll be able to get pours of Founders well-known staples as well as some taproom-exclusive brews.

While Founders doesn’t have that quaint, eclectic craft brewery vibe many of us craft brewery lovers have come to expect, it still remains on the list for many as a must-visit brewery as an OG in the beer scene. Known for its big boozy beer options, you’ll also find plenty of light beers. A restaurant as well as a brewery, there’s plenty of food choices alongside its well made brews, many unique and truly sip-worthy, making Founders one of Grand Rapids’ best breweries.

Local and visitor favorites include: New Holland Brewing - The Knickerbocker, known for its Dragon's Milk barrel-aged stout; Grand Rapids Brewing Co., which dates back to 1893 and features a World Beer Championship gold medal winner – the Rosalynn Bliss Blonde; and Founders Brewing Co., best known for its All Day IPA and KBS, a barrel-aged chocolate coffee stout. According to past visitors, all three offer great atmospheres paired with tasty brews and delicious food.

In many respects, Founders Brewing Company is the brewery that put Grand Rapids on the map as being a beer destination. Today, Founders can hardly be described as a micro-brewery — and many of the most devoted fans of craft beer no longer consider it a part of the scene — however, it’s still a noteworthy place to visit if you love great beer. Its infamous All Day IPA is considered one of the most drinkable beers in Michigan, and for many, it’s a summer staple.

I think of two things right away when I hear Grand Rapids Michigan, the first is KBS at Founders Brewing Company and second the famous Stella’s stuffed hamburgers that got named the best burgers in America in 2012 by GQ!. Stella’s had to wait until the last day because I know how much I like a great hamburger. I had to accept the fact there are other restaurants and that I would have been back there every day instead of trying new places.

At this stop, effortlessly transition from the morning’s coffee to beer with a Breakfast Stout, made with coffee from the previous stop. Of course, there are so many other beers on tap at the massive and impressive taproom to try that haven’t reached national distribution. Without Founders and its ripple effect, the Grand Rapids beer scene would be a fraction of it is today, understandable after Founders’ meteoric rise the past decade.

If you’re a beer drinker in Michigan, there’s no way you haven’t heard of Founders Brewing Co. As one of the top downtown Grand Rapids breweries, Founders is a household name because it’s the reason why the city became known for its craft brewery in the first place. Its popularity can be traced back to the widely known All Day IPA, the top-selling craft beer can in the United States, and the Kentucky Bourbon Stout.

Basking in the charm of a mid-20th century truck depot in downtown Grand Rapids, Founders Brewing Company has evolved into one of Michigan’s biggest craft breweries. Its character-rich history gives it a unique vibe, adding to the allure of its excellent brews. This isn’t just a place to grab a drink – it’s a space where craft beer enthusiasts can enjoy educational experiences, tastings, and many exciting events.

Founders Brewing Co., located in downtown Grand Rapids, is one of the most renowned breweries in the nation. Known for its bold, flavorful beers like All Day IPA and KBS, Founders offers a vibrant taproom experience with a spacious beer garden. Visitors can enjoy a diverse menu of pub fare, live music, and a wide selection of craft beers, making it a must-visit spot for beer enthusiasts exploring Grand Rapids.

About Founders Brewing Co:Founders Brewing Co. is probably the most well-known Michigan brewer. Established during the craft beer boom of the late 1990s, Founders staved off a near-death experience with bankruptcy to become Michigan’s largest brewery and one of the oldest. Best Known For: The brewery is known far and wide for its All Day IPA, an easy-drinking beer available across the United States.

Justin and I returned to Grand Rapids last weekend for a special beer release at Founders Brewing Co. and to explore a bit more of the downtown. We arrived to a full house at Founders but found a table to share with two random guys who happened to be from metro Detroit too (small world!). After a good lunch and tasty beer, we headed to our next destination: Grand Rapids Public Museum.

Founders Brewing Co. - Grand Rapids’ most successful microbrewery gives locals and travelers alike a chance to indulge in more than a dozen of its unique ales inside the newly expanded taproom, or outdoors in the recently completed beer garden. Sip on widely known favorites like the Pale Ale or the All Day IPA along with limited and seasonal offerings like KBS, the Nitro T8R …

Is one of the most renowned and influential craft breweries in the United States. Best known for staples like the All Day IPA and the KBS (Kentucky Breakfast Stout), the brewery has garnered numerous awards over the years. Beyond the beer, Founders is also celebrated for its atmospheric taproom in Grand Rapids, which serves as a gathering place for beer enthusiasts.

As the 15th-largest brewery in the country, Founders Brewing is one of Michigan’s finest and most well-known breweries. A favorite of beer enthusiasts everywhere, it’s also one of our favorites and a must-visit destination for craft-brew lovers. The food is made with the same quality and care as the beer, making this brewery more than just a spot for a drink.

**The granddaddy of all Grand Rapids craft breweries, Founders Brewery opened its taproom at its current location, 235 Cesar E. Chavez Ave SW, in 1998 with its founders Mike Stevens and Dave Engbers behind the bar serving the beer themselves. This hometown brewery has been going strong ever since and now distributes its beer throughout the nation and beyond.

If you and your significant other enjoy craft beer, consider proposing at Founders Brewing Company. This historic brewery is ideal for beer enthusiasts and fun-seeking couples due to its award-winning craft beers and cozy atmosphere. Propose to your significant other during a private brewery tour or while enjoying a beer flight with delicious sandwiches.

This is a really a happening place for drinks since Founder’s Brewing is one of the most famous beer companies in the state and even has a pub at the airport, but it’s worth a stop for lunch. The Charese’s Reuben is a favorite, as is the beer cheese dip. The bread is locally sourced and they serve large portions, best paired with one of their beers.

Enjoy craft beers like the Breakfast Stout, Solid Gold, and Centennial IPA at Founders Brewing Co. Try traditional European and Belgian beers like the Farm Hand and Rapid IPA at Brewery Vivant. Head a couple blocks west of Downtown for brewed artisan ales like the Aquamarine Dream, Calabaza Blanca, and Paradise Found at Jolly Pumpkin Grand Rapids.

When Founders expanded it's Granville Avenue homebase, it took the phrase “go big, or go home” quite literally. Founder’s open-air concept was always a hit in the summertime, but the new outdoor patio kicks things up a few more notches. Firepits, benches, a curving bar ledge and tables for hanging with friends, it’s the ultimate patio celebration.

Known for its award-winning beers like the Kentucky Breakfast Stout (KBS) and All Day IPA, Founders Brewing Co. has become a staple in the craft brewing scene. This Grand Rapids restaurant is among the top 10 largest craft breweries in the country and proudly boasts a host of beers listed in the world's top 100 beers according to Beeradvocate.com.

The taproom at Founders Brewing Co. — Photo courtesy of Experience Grand Rapids. You can’t talk about craft beverages in Grand Rapids without mentioning Founders. Mike Stevens and Dave Engbers brewed their first beers under the Founders label in 1997, right as America’s first microbrewing boom took a turn toward bust, with beer sales in decline.

Founders Brewing Co is the premier destination for craft beer lovers and those seeking a unique, memorable experience. Unwind in a spacious and contemporary taproom with lofty ceilings that overlook the brewery’s facilities. Here you can savor exclusive craft brews accompanied by scrumptious sandwiches and sides – perfect for any occasion!

The 2008 financial crisis hit the Midwest particularly hard. Mounting job losses throughout the state of Michigan impacted tourism to Grand Rapids and the nearby beach towns along Lake Michigan. City planners recognized an economic opportunity in the city’s growing craft beer scene, led by Founders Brewing Co. which opened in 1997.

With several award-winning brews, Founders Brewing Company is known for their complex, world-class ales. Founders is the big name for breweries in Grand Rapids and the forerunner of the West Michigan brewery explosion. They proudly claim to continue to “push the liquid envelope” by innovating new brewing concepts and flavors.

Founders Brewing is a beloved Grand Rapids brewery known for its innovative, award-winning beers and cozy taproom. The brewery’s year-round offerings include popular brews like Dirty Bastard ale and Rubaeus raspberry ale. Guests can enjoy live music, a deli with locally sourced dishes, and views of the brewing operation.

There’s obviously Founders Brewing Co., which is fantastic and the big gun in town. But my first favorite is actually a place called Brewery Vivant. It does Belgian- and French-style beers, so it's definitely different from Founders, and it also has an incredible menu with French food, such as poutine and duck au vin.

Grand Rapids is home to Michigan’s strongest beer scene, thanks largely to the presence of the world-renowned Founders Brewing Co. But when Mike Stevens and Dave Engbers launched Founders Brewing in 1997 the brewing landscape was quite different than it is today. There wasn’t anything like craft beer in the city.

On top of the list is Founders Brewing Company, the largest brewery in the entire Michigan state. Apart from its best-selling canned craft beer, FBC is known for being a beer staple in the Grand Rapids community and a must-visit destination for travelers and craft beer enthusiasts. View this post on Instagram

The city is home to Michigan’s strongest beer scene, thanks largely to the presence of the world-renowned Founders Brewing Co. But when Mike Stevens and Dave Engbers launched Founders Brewing in 1997 the brewing landscape was quite different than it is today. There wasn’t anything like craft beer in the city.

235 Grandville Avenue SWGrand Rapids, MI 49503(616) 776-1195 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. Founders Brewing Co. is a relaxed and inviting German beer hall-style establishment on Grandville Avenue. It offers hand-crafted sandwiches, light bites, various beers on tap, and a patio and beer garden.

You've probably heard of Founders, and you can't pass through Grand Rapids without experiencing the taste of "Pure Michigan". Their crafty brews can best be described by their website, which reads "We don't brew beer for the masses." Visting for brunch?. Try their "breakfast" beer, the Imperial Stout!

Next, we’re going to talk about a brewery that started locally and has definitely made waves on a national and international level. We’re talking Founders Brewing over on the south side of town. Founders was established in 1997 and if you know beer, you have probably had one of Founders’ many beers.

Founders Brewing is one of the city’s biggest and most prominent breweries, though there are plenty of other equally amazing suds spots. If you crave funky sour beers, then you’ll be delighted to know that Jolly Pumpkin has a location within the city. The best way to explore the breweries?.

Founder’s Brewing Co. is one of Michigan’s biggest craft breweries (and in the US) and is recognized around the US. For the last five years, Ratebeer.com has ranked them among the top breweries in the world. Plus, beeradvocate.com has rated some of their beers in the top 100 in the world!

Summer is a perfect time to enjoy dinner outside on the patio and deck of Ghost Isle Brewing!. Add an order of chicken wings in your choice of barbecue sauce or dry-rubbed, slow-cooked baby back ribs in Ghost Isle BBQ Sauce with your favorite Ghost Isle brew for a great summer evening.

Craft Pass GR: Check in your beers and earn both a cute tote bag after 6 visits and discounts on your future visits to each brewery!. Each spot has different rewards. If you decide to pick up your tote at Founders instead of having it shipped you’ll also receive a special treat!

235 Grandville Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503Phone: 616-776-1195 Visit Website. A post shared by Founders Brewing Co. (@foundersbrewing). Founders Brewing Co. is located south of downtown on Grandville Avenue SW and is one of the most popular breweries and restaurants in town.

No discussion of Grand Rapids’ beer scene is complete without mentioning Founders Brewing Co. Established in 1997, Founders has grown from a small craft brewery to one of the largest in the country, all while maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation.

Sitting at the number three spot with a 4.1258 rating out of 5 is the well-known Founders Brewing Company. In 1997, co-founders Mike Stevens and Dave Engbers brewed their first batches of beer in the downtown Grand Rapids area. View this post on Instagram

Founders Brewing Co. is one of the most popular breweries in Grand Rapids. They offer a wide variety of beers, from their famous All Day IPA to their seasonal flavors. If you're looking for a brewery with a great atmosphere, Founders is the place for you.

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (1,468 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: American, Bar- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 235 Grandville Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-4037- Read more on Tripadvisor

Founders Brewing Co. is one of the most well-known craft breweries not only in Grand Rapids but across the nation. Known for its robust porters and decadent stouts, Founders invites visitors to explore their extensive taproom and seasonal selections.

The Founders Brewing Companypatio and beer garden is a staple while visiting Grand Rapids. Snack on telera bread pizza or sandwich while sipping beer on tap. If you are wondering what our 'favorite' summer beer on tap is, try the Green Zebra.

One of Grand Rapids' craft brewing pioneers, Founders Brewing Co. has grown from its modest 1997 roots to a recognized global brand. Despite numerous expansions and moves, Founders has remained an iconic landmark in the city’s downtown.

Founders Brewing Company, known worldwide as one of the world’s best breweries, is in downtown Grand Rapids. Today, their craft beer is rated number two in the world. Additionally, eight of their craft beers have won at least 13 medals.

Everyone in Grand Rapids is incredibly proud of their breweries, especially Founders. This brewery has outdoor patio seating, as well as a lively interior, even in the middle of the day!. If you love craft beer, don’t miss this one.

Places like Founders Brewing and Brewery Vivant show Grand Rapids' love for craft beer. Whether you know a lot about beer or not, Grand Rapids is a great place to explore. It's a top spot for Grand Rapids brewery tours.

They have such a diverse menu of their own in-house brews and classier versions of popular bar grub. This leads me to discuss their beer cheese dip. If you like cheese at all, you can’t leave without ordering this!

This award-winning brewery is one of the reasons Grand Rapids is called "Beer City." Founders continues to earn top rankings in the world of beer. Now one of the top ten largest craft breweries in the country.

Founders Brewing: A Grand Rapids favorite, nothing says Summer quite like a Founder’s beer on their patio. They offer ample seating, ample beer, and occasional live music, so you’re sure to have a good time!

Many of the breweries offer special guided tours of facility at an additional cost or you create your own list or breweries to visit by following the Ale Trail, I highly suggest Founders Brewing Company!

A trip to Grand Rapids isn’t complete without a stop to the iconic Founders Brewery. Founders really put Grand Rapids on the beer scene map. Every time I go to Founders, there is always a big crowd.

Grand Rapids is known for its craft beer scene, so you won't want to miss out on a visit to Founders. Enjoy some of their award-winning brews along with wood fired pizzas and other pub favorites.

Located in downtown Grand Rapids, Founders Brewing Company is known worldwide and is rated as one of the world’s best breweries. But it wasn’t always that way. Initially, the brewery struggled.

When it comes to the selection of beers they brew alone, Founders is almost a vacation within itself for those who love to try a variety of different beers. The choices are almost endless.

It started with beer in 1997, when Founders Brewing Company helped to kickstart the city's suds revolution. Now known as Beer City USA, Grand Rapids is home to 40 craft breweries.

Founders Brewing Co. - Kentucky Breakfast Stout (KBS) - This is a highly rated imperial stout brewed with coffee and chocolate, and aged in oak bourbon barrels.

At Founders Brewing Co., you’ll find a friendly spot with a great selection of local beers. It’s perfect for hanging out with friends.