The lineup of beer purveyors across the country is growing every day, including in Northern Ohio’s meetings-friendly destinations, where the following breweries are on tap for group tours, tastings and/or events.
Cleveland’s Great Lakes Brewing Co., the first craft brewery in Ohio, has been serving lagers and ales for more than 25 years.
“Beyond the traditional brewery tour, Great Lakes Brewing Co. also takes each guest through a journey of Cleveland’s history and the local connections behind the different brews’ names, including Eliot Ness and Burning River,” said Mike Burns, senior vice president of convention sales and services for Destination Cleveland. “A history lesson is even more fun with a beer in hand.”
At Cleveland’s Market Garden Brewery, groups can take a guided tour of the production facility, which also accommodates group gatherings.
At Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Sandusky, the on-site B-Lux Grill & Bar features a drink menu with a selection of Ohio-based brews on tap. Options include Mad Tree Thundersnow ale from Cincinnati and North High Tree Tapper from Columbus. The resort can also arrange either sit-down or buffet settings along with professional bar service in all meeting areas.
Among the popular places for a craft beer in Akron are Thirsty Dog Brewing Co. and Hoppin’ Frog Brewery.
“Both of these artisans have won national and international recognition by judging experts and customers alike,” said Jim Mahon, vice president of marketing and brand management for Akron/Summit CVB.
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In Canton, Maize Valley Beers is part of Maize Valley Winery.
From the fields to the table, Maize Valley offers an eat-local, drink-local experience with a craft brewery, winery, Tasting Room Cafe, marketplace and private party room for groups of up to 50 people, according to Mary Vlahos, vice president of sales for Visit Canton.
“Host an event during the fall festival season and participate in teambuilding packages like the eight-acre corn maze, a great opportunity to work together and test navigational and trivia skills,” she said.
Toledo’s beer options include Maumee Bay Brew Pub, which is considered the city’s cornerstone of craft brewing, and Black Cloister Brewing Co., which operates group tours and reserves communal tables for groups.
“Step into their taproom in downtown Toledo’s Warehouse District and you’ll feel right at home with their hospitality and exceptional crafts,” said Cathy Miller, director of tourism for the Destination Toledo CVB.
In Bowling Green, Beer Works is a popular spot and can accommodate groups.
“The brewery is surrounded by a quaint downtown full of shops and eateries for a real downtown experience,” said Wendy Chambers, executive director of the Bowling Green CVB.
