Vermont is known for its craft beer scene, but finding breweries where your four-legged friends are welcome can take a little extra planning. Fortunately, there are plenty of dog-friendly breweries in Vermont where you can enjoy a locally brewed beer without leaving your pup at home.
When we adopted Stella at just nine weeks old, one of our biggest priorities was finding opportunities to socialize her. We’d previously adopted Mona right at the beginning of the COVID shutdowns, and raising a puppy without the usual socialization opportunities was challenging, to say the least. This time around, we wanted to introduce Stella to as many new people, places and experiences as possible.
Naturally, exploring Vermont’s dog-friendly breweries became part of the plan. And with so many incredible craft breweries scattered throughout the state, it’s a pretty enjoyable way to spend an afternoon for everyone involved.
Whether you’re looking for a brewery where dogs can join you inside year-round or a sunny patio to enjoy with your pup during the warmer months, I’ve rounded up some of our favorite dog-friendly Vermont breweries.
A Note About Dogs at Vermont Breweries: Not all breweries can welcome dogs indoors, particularly those operating full-service kitchens. Vermont’s food safety regulations generally restrict animals from indoor food preparation and dining areas, although certain exceptions may apply. Policies, ownership and operating locations can change, so I recommend confirming current dog policies directly with each brewery before visiting.
Vermont Breweries That Welcome Dogs
These breweries have historically welcomed well-behaved, leashed dogs inside their taprooms, making them particularly appealing when the weather isn’t cooperating. Confirm current indoor access before visiting.
Four Quarters Brewing Local favorite: Four Quarters Brewing | Winooski, Vermont
Located in downtown Winooski, Four Quarters Brewing has long been a favorite for bringing our dogs along for a beer. The brewery has welcomed pups both indoors and in its spacious outdoor biergarten, making it an appealing option regardless of the season.
There’s something about visiting a brewery where you’re almost guaranteed to encounter another dog or two. Between the friendly atmosphere, interesting beer selection and opportunity for plenty of puppy socialization, Four Quarters has always been an easy choice.
Queen City Brewery Local favorite: Queen City Brewery | Burlington, Vermont
If you’re looking for a relaxed, neighborhood brewery where dogs feel right at home, Queen City Brewery on Pine Street has historically been a great option.
On previous visits, I’ve seen dogs relaxing beside their owners, curled up on dog beds and occasionally making friends with other four-legged visitors. Queen City specializes in traditional European and American beer styles, and its location near Pizza 44 makes it convenient to pair a pint with something to eat.
Switchback Brewing Company Local favorite: Switchback Brewing Company | Burlington, Vermont
is one of Burlington’s best-known craft breweries, and its Flynn Avenue taproom has historically been particularly welcoming to dogs.
The brewery has even celebrated its four-legged visitors on social media, giving the pups their own moment in the spotlight. Between the relaxed atmosphere and a lineup that includes the iconic Switchback Ale, it’s a favorite for a casual afternoon in Burlington’s South End.
1st Republic Brewing Company | Essex, Vermont
At 1st Republic Brewing Company, dogs have traditionally been part of the brewery experience.
The brewery and homebrew shop has built a loyal following around its craft beer, welcoming atmosphere and love of dogs. When we originally reached out about their dog policy, their response summed it up nicely: dogs are what make the brewery.
Hill Farmstead Brewery Local favorite: Hill Farmstead Brewery | Greensboro, Vermont
Few Vermont breweries have earned the international reputation of Hill Farmstead Brewery, but tucked away in the Northeast Kingdom, it still feels very much connected to its rural Vermont surroundings.
Hill Farmstead has a particularly meaningful history with dogs. Charlie, the brewery’s beloved golden retriever, was such an important part of its story that the brewery named a low-alcohol beer in his memory.
The brewery’s countryside setting makes it a beautiful destination for a Northeast Kingdom road trip. Check its current rules about where dogs are permitted before making the drive.
Bent Hill Brewery | Braintree, Vermont
If you appreciate breweries that require a little adventure to reach, Bent Hill Brewery is worth knowing about.
Located along a dirt road in the hills of Braintree, Bent Hill offers a distinctly rural Vermont brewery experience. The brewery has historically welcomed friendly, leashed dogs, and you may even encounter resident pups when visiting.
The brewery is also known for its plant-based food offerings, making it an interesting stop for those looking for something different from traditional pub fare.
A little local advice: Vermont dirt roads and mud season aren’t always the best combination, so plan accordingly.
Rock Art Brewery | Morrisville, Vermont
Family-owned Rock Art Brewery has been part of Vermont’s craft beer scene for decades.
The brewery has historically welcomed friendly dogs in designated areas, including its porch and first-floor tasting space. Resident brewery dog Ridge has also been part of the welcoming committee.
If you’re exploring the Morrisville or Stowe area, Rock Art is a worthwhile addition to your brewery itinerary.
Dog-Friendly Vermont Breweries With Outdoor Seating
When the weather warms up, Vermont’s brewery patios and beer gardens become some of my favorite places to spend an afternoon. These breweries have historically welcomed dogs in designated outdoor areas, although seasonal availability and individual policies vary.
Long Trail Brewing Company Local favorite: Long Trail Brewing | Bridgewater Corners, Vermont
Situated along the Ottauquechee River, Long Trail Brewing Company has one of the prettiest brewery settings in Vermont.
During warmer months, dogs have been welcome in the outdoor seating areas, with the river providing an especially scenic backdrop. The property is also a favorite with families, making it an easy stop when traveling through the Woodstock and Killington region.
Indoor access is restricted, although the brewery has previously offered dog-friendly seating in its seasonal Sugar Sheds.
Foam Brewers Local favorite: Foam Brewers | Burlington, Vermont
If you’re looking for a brewery with a view, Foam Brewers is hard to beat.
Located directly on Burlington’s Lake Champlain waterfront, Foam is known for its creative beers, lively atmosphere and outdoor seating areas. Dogs have historically been welcome in designated outdoor spaces, including a covered area.
It’s one of my favorite brewery locations for enjoying a sunny afternoon, especially when you can combine your visit with a walk along the waterfront.
Black Flannel Brewing Local favorite: Black Flannel Brewing | Essex, Vermont
Located at the Essex Experience, Black Flannel Brewing previously offered a dog-friendly outdoor patio where pups could join their owners for a beer.
The brewery was known for its diverse beer selection and food offerings. Note: Black Flannel has since closed, so this is one to remove from your current brewery itinerary.
Zero Gravity Brewing Local favorite: Zero Gravity Brewing | Burlington, Vermont
Zero Gravity Brewing is another popular stop along Burlington’s Pine Street corridor.
The brewery’s beer hall has offered dog-friendly seating on both covered and uncovered patios, making it a great option during the warmer months.
With a wide selection of beers, including its popular Green State Lager, it’s a convenient stop while exploring Burlington’s South End.
Idletyme Brewing Company Local favorite: Idletyme Brewing | Stowe, Vermont
Idletyme Brewing Company has one of my favorite outdoor brewery spaces in Vermont.
Located directly along the Stowe Recreation Path, Idletyme offers a spacious patio and outdoor bar area that’s particularly enjoyable during the warmer months.
Dogs have historically been welcome in designated outdoor areas, making it an easy stop after a walk along the bike path or a day exploring Stowe.
Vermont Breweries That Have Not Allowed Dogs
Not every brewery is able to accommodate dogs, even when there’s outdoor space available.
Two breweries that have historically restricted dogs are Fiddlehead Brewing in Shelburne and The Alchemist in Stowe. The Alchemist has previously cited its licensing requirements as a reason for its no-dogs policy.
Because brewery policies can change, it’s always worth checking directly rather than assuming a brewery is dog-friendly based on its outdoor space.
Tips for Visiting Vermont Breweries With Your Dog
As much as I love bringing our dogs along, not every dog enjoys the brewery experience. Busy taprooms, unfamiliar people, other animals and unexpected noises can be overwhelming, especially for puppies still learning to navigate new environments.
A few things I’ve learned from bringing Mona and Stella along on our adventures:
- Start small. Choose a quieter time of day for your first few brewery visits, especially with a puppy.
- Bring a leash and water. Even when breweries provide water bowls, I prefer having our own supplies.
- Respect other dogs and their owners. Not every dog wants to socialize, and that’s perfectly fine.
- Know your dog’s limits. Sometimes a short, successful outing is better than trying to stay for another beer.
- Check policies before visiting. Dog-friendly seating may be seasonal, restricted to certain areas or subject to change.
Enjoying Vermont’s Craft Beer Scene With Your Four-Legged Friends
One of the things I love about Vermont is how easy it can be to incorporate our dogs into everyday adventures. Whether we’re taking a scenic drive, exploring a new town or stopping at a brewery, having Mona and Stella along makes the experience that much more enjoyable.
Vermont’s craft breweries are also wonderful places to connect with people. We’ve met plenty of fellow dog owners over the years, exchanged recommendations and enjoyed conversations that probably wouldn’t have happened without a dog curled up at our feet.
Of course, the best brewery experience is one where everyone feels comfortable, including the dogs. A little preparation goes a long way toward making these outings enjoyable for both two-legged and four-legged visitors.
Do you have a favorite dog-friendly brewery in Vermont that belongs on this list? I’d love to hear about it. We’re always looking for another excuse to take the pups on an adventure.
The places in this guide, on the map
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Directions to Four Quarters Brewing (opens in a new tab)
Brewery · Winooski, VT
Bring your dog along; pups are welcome indoors and in the spacious outdoor biergarten.
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Directions to Queen City Brewery (opens in a new tab)
Brewery · Burlington, VT
A laid-back brewery for lager lovers... If you get hungry, order takeout from Pizza 44 and eat at the bar. Don't miss…
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Directions to Switchback Brewing Company (opens in a new tab)
Brewery · Burlington, VT
The South End brewery is a great stop for unfiltered beers, a relaxed taproom with live music often and a dog-friendly atmosphere.…
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Directions to Hill Farmstead Brewery (opens in a new tab)
Brewery · Greensboro, VT
Get a bottle of a barrel-aged stout to enjoy on site... and cans to go! Bring a cooler.
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Directions to Long Trail Brewing (opens in a new tab)
Brewery · Bridgewater, VT
Settle in for a locally brewed beer and a leisurely meal near the Ottauquechee River.
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Directions to Foam Brewers (opens in a new tab)
Brewery · Burlington, VT
Go for sunset! Enjoy one of Burlington's best breweries with a western view. Walk the Burlington Bike Path before or after.
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Directions to Black Flannel Brewing (opens in a new tab)
Brewery · Essex, VT
Is shishitos are on the menu , get them! Leave time for visiting more businesses in the Essex Experience.
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Directions to Zero Gravity Brewing (opens in a new tab)
Brewery · Burlington, VT
Zero Gravity isn't just beer... it's also a coffee and waffle bar, and a full restaurant. Make it part of your Pine…
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Directions to Idletyme Brewing (opens in a new tab)
Brewery · Stowe, VT
Don't miss the cheddar fritters, fried pickle spears - ideally served with a cold Danube outside in the summer! Apres ski here…
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