How far would you go to score the perfect pint of beer? If jumping on a plane to enjoy Oktoberfest in Germany isn’t in the cards for you, we have a much easier option in mind. You won’t have to travel too far from home — or empty your wallet — to enjoy a cold one with friends and family at these top beer festivals, perfect locations to visit on your next RV rental road trip.
Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer: Chicago, Illinois
Not your typical beer festival, the Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer is considered the largest of its kind in the world. It features the most exotic barrel-aged beer, mead, cider, and perry on the planet. Breweries from all over the world compete in the National Barrel-aged Beer Competition in hopes of earning high honors. Festival entry includes three beer-tasting sessions. Keep in mind that only guests 21 years of age and older are admitted.
Great American Beer Festival: Denver, Colorado
Every October, people from across the U.S. travel to Denver for the Great American Beer Festival. With 4,000 beers over three days, there’s no shortage of signature brews to try. While at the event, be sure to check out PAIRED, where award-winning chefs from across the country create the perfect accompaniment to more than 50 beers. Act fast — tickets sell out quickly for this event. There is an exclusive member pre-sale prior to public launch, so you may want to consider joining if you’re passionate about your signature beer.
21st Annual Great Pumpkin Beer Festival: Seattle, Washington
There are two main things that the Pacific Northwest does well — pumpkin flavors and beer. Appreciate both at one of the country’s best beer festivals, the 21st Annual Great Pumpkin Beer Festival in downtown Seattle. Featuring over 80+ pumpkin and seasonal beers, you can get yourself a full mug and watch as a several-hundred-pound pumpkin is scooped, scorched, and filled with pumpkin beer, sealed, conditioned, and then tapped for all to enjoy.
D.C. Beer Fest: Washington, D.C.
For the true foodie at heart, this beer festival is the ultimate palette experience. D.C. Beer Fest in Washington, D.C. has dozens of craft breweries that feature spring seasonal beers, plus food trucks, dueling pianos, cover bands, DJs, and more throughout the park. Guests can meet the owners and head brewers to get the inside scoop on their delicious brews. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you for trying out this event.
The Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival: Atlantic City, NJ
The Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival, held annually in March, is a lively celebration of craft beer and live music. This beloved event brings together beer enthusiasts and music lovers to enjoy an impressive selection of brews from local and national breweries, paired with performances from top artists, creating an unforgettable experience on the Jersey Shore.
Great Taste of the Midwest: Madison, WI
Great Taste of the Midwest festival, held annually in Madison, Wisconsin, is one of the nation’s premier craft beer events. Taking place each August, it features an incredible selection of over 1,400 beers from hundreds of craft breweries across the Midwest. Set in the picturesque Olin Park along the shores of Lake Monona, this festival offers beer enthusiasts a chance to sample rare and unique brews while enjoying live music, delicious local food, and stunning views. It's a must-visit event for anyone passionate about the vibrant Midwestern craft beer scene.
Grab Your Brew Crew
It’s time to round up your crew and snag an RV rental from Cruise America! With beer festivals located across the country, there’s bound to be something near you. If you plan on taking a road trip to visit one of these bucket list events, designate a driver or plan to take public transportation to and from the event, as onsite parking is often not available. Safe travels!
