GRAND RAPIDS, MI — For the fifth consecutive year, Grand Rapids has earned the title of Best Beer City in the nation, according to the 2025 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice awards.
The city outpaced St. Louis, Missouri; San Diego, California; and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to secure the top spot in the prestigious ranking.
Recognized for having Michigan’s strongest beer scene, Grand Rapids owes much of its success to the globally renowned Founders Brewing Co., alongside other local breweries like the Belgian-inspired Brewery Vivant, noted USA Today. Craft beer has been a staple of the city’s identity, with Grand Rapids having received similar accolades, including the Beer City USA title, from various sources since at least 2012.
According to Experience Grand Rapids, the region’s destination marketing agency, there are over 40 craft breweries within a 30-minute drive of the city.
“We are thrilled to top the Beer City list again in 2025,” said Kate Lieto, vice president of marketing at Experience Grand Rapids. “Despite stiff national competition, the Grand Rapids brewing community simply can’t be beat. We are so proud of the people who have built this industry in our region. Beyond helping to drive the regional tourism economy, their dedication has helped build the character of this community. This continues to be a strong asset that our team uses to brand and promote our destination.”
Here are the top ten beer cities in the U.S., according to USA Today:
- Grand Rapids, Michigan
- St. Louis, Missouri
- San Diego, California
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Columbus, Ohio
- Portland, Oregon
- Asheville, North Carolina
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Charlotte, North Carolina
- Denver, Colorado
The USA Today poll also highlighted additional beer-related attractions in West Michigan, including the Grand Rapids “Beer City Ale Trail,” which lists over 80 local breweries. The region’s vibrant beer culture is further supported by numerous beer festivals, events, and promotions. Exceptional beer stores, such as Siciliano’s Market, also contribute to the city’s celebrated beer scene.
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