Tucked into the heart of Montana, Helena has quietly become one of the state’s best craft beer destinations. With six breweries in Helena calling the capital city home (plus a gem just outside of town), you can easily spend a weekend hopping between taprooms, each with its own distinct personality. Whether you’re hiking Mount Helena or exploring Last Chance Gulch, there’s always a fresh pint waiting for you.
1. Lewis & Clark Brewing Company | Drink It In Partner
For over 20 years, Lewis & Clark Brewing Co. has been crafting delicious beers in Montana’s capital city. Named after the famous explorers who followed the Missouri River west, this brewery has built a reputation as one of Montana’s most award-winning operations.
The brewery features a state-of-the-art facility with at least 12 beers on tap, including 9 year-round flagship beers and rotating seasonal offerings. The taproom is open daily from noon to 11pm, making it perfect for both lunch beers and late-night sessions.
Location: 1535 Dodge Ave, Helena, MT
2. Blackfoot River Brewing Company
Founded in 1998, Blackfoot River Brewing is located in downtown Helena adjacent to the city’s impressive trail network. This is Helena’s OG craft brewery, and it’s stood the test of time for good reason. The taproom offers hand-crafted beer and complimentary fresh popcorn, and the two-level space includes an upstairs deck that’s perfect for post-hike refreshments.
What makes Blackfoot special? They’re draft-only—you won’t find bottles or cans here. It’s all about the freshest beer possible, straight from the source. Hours are Monday-Thursday 2-9pm and Friday-Sunday 12-9pm.
Location: 66 S Park Ave, Downtown Helena
3. Mt Ascension Brewing
Mt Ascension Gastropub is a community-enhanced craft brewery in downtown Helena with epic views and craft cuisine. This is where brewery meets restaurant in the best possible way. The elevated food menu pairs beautifully with their beer lineup, and those mountain views? Absolutely worth the visit.
If you’re looking for a spot that works equally well for a casual beer or a full meal with friends, Mt Ascension hits the mark. Plus, they brew their own craft seltzers for the non-beer crowd.
Location: 317 Cruse Ave, Downtown Helena
4. Ten Mile Creek Brewery
Ten Mile brings its own flavor to Helena’s brewing scene. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this brewery has carved out a loyal following with quality brews and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you’ll strike up conversations with regulars at the bar.
Location: 48 N Last Chance Gulch, Helena Walking Mall
5. Speakeasy 41
With a name like Speakeasy 41, you know there’s a story here. This brewery adds a touch of Prohibition-era mystique to Helena’s modern craft beer scene. It’s proof that Helena’s brewing community isn’t afraid to have some fun with themes and concepts.
Location: 685 Barney St A, off of McHugh in Helena
6. Copper Furrow Brewing
Copper Furrow rounds out Helena’s impressive brewery lineup with its own distinct take on craft beer. Each Helena brewery brings something different to the table, and Copper Furrow is no exception—offering another great option for exploring the city’s diverse brewing styles.
Location: 2801 N Roberts St, Helena
7. Missouri River Brewing (Just Outside Helena)
Located in nearby East Helena, Missouri River Brewing is worth the short drive. When you’re brewery-hopping around the capital, don’t sleep on this neighboring gem.
Location: 451 Spencer Ct, East Helena
Taprooms & more featuring montana Craft Beverages
While you’re diving into Helena’s drinking scene, here are a few more places worth checking out:
Gulch Distillery brings craft spirits to the capital city, perfect if you want to mix in some locally-made whiskey or vodka between brewery stops.
The Tap Room Scene: Helena also boasts several excellent tap rooms showcasing Montana craft beer:
• Brothers Tapworks
• Headwaters Crafthouse
• Craig Taphouse
These spots are perfect for sampling beers from across Montana when you want variety without the brewery tour.
Plan Your Helena Brewery Tour
With six breweries in town and plenty of beer-friendly establishments, Helena punches well above its weight in the Montana craft beer scene. The city even hosts Helena Craft Beer Week each February, when local breweries partner to bring beer-themed events to Montana’s capital.
Start downtown with Blackfoot or Mt Ascension, work your way through the others, and cap off your evening at one of the tap rooms. Your taste buds (and your Montana brewery passport) will thank you.
Have you visited Helena’s breweries? Which one was your favorite?
