With so many breweries right here in Austin, it’s easy to get into a beer rut. We tend to visit the same handful of spots when we’re in the mood for a cold one. But with fairly mild temps and wildflowers everywhere—it’s nice to bust out of Dodge and explore the outskirts of town. Here you’ll find a few lesser-known breweries that are a bit outside the city limits—but are totally worth the trip.
Note: This list makes an assumption that you’re already familiar with Jester King Brewing, but if that one is still on your bucket list, go there first. Do you have suggestions on other breweries on the outskirts of Austin that should be on our radar? Shoot an email to Hello@365ThingsAustin.com
Acopon Brewing (Dripping Springs)
Acopon Brewing is a small but mighty brewery in downtown Dripping Springs that specializes in British beer classics—some of which are served on cask, which is rare in Austin. If English-style ales aren’t your cup of tea, fear not, they also brew really tasty IPAs and other styles that will keep any beer drinker happy.
Location:
211 W. Mercer St.
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Hours:
Monday-Tuesday: 1–7 p.m.
Wednesday-Thursday: 2–8 p.m.
Friday-Saturday: noon–8 p.m.
Sunday: 1–6 p.m.
Ghost Note Brewing (Dripping Springs)
Ghost Note Brewing is located on a beautiful piece of land off Ranch Road 12, a few miles south of downtown Dripping Springs. The beer is awesome and the property has a ton of tree-shaded picnic tables, a stage for live music, a play area for the kids, and a food truck with standard bar food items on the menu.
Location:
23663 Ranch Road 12 @ Ghost Note Lane
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Hours:
Friday: 2–9 p.m.
Saturday–Sunday: noon–9 p.m.
Roughhouse Brewing (San Marcos)
Hitting one of the two aforementioned breweries and then heading to Roughhouse Brewing (don’t forget your DD) allows for a gorgeous drive through the Texas Hill Country. Once onsite, you’ll be greeted by a friendly staff and an environment that feels more like you’re at a friend’s ranch than a brewery. The beer is excellent, with farmhouse ales and traditional lagers that use ingredients and well-water collected onsite from the Roughhouse property.
Oh, did we mention they have a cave?
Location:
680 Oakwood Loop
San Marcos, Texas 78666
Hours:
Monday and Thursday: 4–9 p.m.
Friday: 2–9 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
