Free State Brewing Co.
This is the TRP’s favorite brewery ever, hands down. Yes, we have a local bias, but after visiting 100s of beer destinations I can honestly sit here and tell you that this brewery is making some of the best beers in the industry across the board. Free State brewery was started in 1989 as the first legal brewery in Kansas in over 100 years. They were pivotal in changing the beer legislation in Kansas and were an “early participant in the rejuvenation of the north end of the downtown business district on Mass St. Led by the renovation and refurbishment of neighboring Liberty Hall and the Eldridge Hotel, the result has been a rebirth of the 600 block of Massachusetts St.”
Found on Free State’s Website:
We are proud of the history of brewing in Kansas, and we have done our very best to re-establish the tradition of fine hand crafted beers, produced close to home. Our 14 Barrel brewhouse is made up of some of the best equipment available to the small brewer, but we still think that the best ingredient is the care and respect that we have for each and every beer that we make.
And that they do! Two years ago Free State expanded their operations to a separate warehouse where they could brew at larger capacity and begin bottling for distribution. You can find 6-packs of the flagship beers, Copperhead, Ad Astra, Wheat State Golden and Oatmeal Stout at any of the local liquor stores in the area and they have just released their first seasonal in a 6-pack, the Oktoberfest, which I highly recommend.
Not only does Free State serve some of the best beers you can make, but their food is equally delicious. They focus on fresh local ingredients and the daily specials are always on point. I just can’t say enough good things about this place, so please, please, put this on your bucket list and get your ass over there! Tell ‘em The Roaming Pint sent you and be prepared for a fun-filled night among the Lawrence locals favorite spot.
