If you like beer, food, and a reason to hit the road, you’re in luck—Lake County (and nearby Northwest Indiana) is quietly building a strong brewpub scene. I visited (or researched) a number of taprooms lately, and here are my top 5 picks you need to check out (and bring your friends).

1. 3 Floyds Brewing (Munster, IN)

You already know this one if you’re a beer geek—or if you’ve been to any Midwest brewfest. 3 Floyds is legendary. Their beers push boundaries (hello Zombies, etc.), and while you can stop by to pick up your favorite brew, we're all anxiously waiting for them to reopen their pub in Munster. 3 Floyds Brewing

What I like: bold experimentation, a loyal following, and just that “you’re in for something serious” vibe.

Tip: check their event calendar—special release days are wild (in the best way).

2. Off Square Brewing (Crown Point, IN)

This is a great “everybody’s welcome” kind of place. Easy to reach (just off I-65), good food, and approachable beers. South Shore CVA+1

What I like: solid mid-tier beers, friendly taproom, great for gatherings.

Tip: Arrive midweek—the patio is peaceful, and you can sample more without fighting crowds.

3. Crown Brewing (Crown Point, IN)

If you want a classic brewpub feel, Crown Brewing delivers. They’ve been around for a while and know their local crowd. Crown Brewing+1

What I like: consistency, community feel, and a menu that pairs well with the beer.

Tip: Go for a flight sampler so you can try several styles without committing.

4. Wildrose Brewing (Griffith, IN)

A newer-ish gem. Wildrose runs with a seven-barrel system, has indoor/outdoor space, and leans a bit more “craft-forward.” Indiana on Tap+2Town of Griffith+2

What I like: adventurous brews (IPAs, stouts), the patio, and the restaurant pairing.

Tip: Ask about seasonal or one-offs—they often brew stuff you won’t find anywhere else.

5. New Oberpfalz Brewing (Griffith, IN)

If you love German-style lagers, this should be on your list. Their Tap Room is in a renovated Main Street storefront, food on site, and they host tours. Yelp+4newoberpfalz+4newoberpfalz+4

What I like: classic styles done well, charm, and the fact that they treat lagers like rockstars.

Tip: Try their Helles Lager (if available)—it’s a shining example of what a lager should be.

What makes a “top brewpub” (my criteria)

• Beer variety + quality — Not just one style over and over

• On-site food or strong pairing options

• Atmosphere & space — patios, indoors, good seating

• Accessibility & location

• Unique or local character

If I were going to stretch to #6, I might throw in Fuzzyline Brewing (Highland, IN) — they lean sour / experimental, which gives a nice contrast with the lager + hop-focused options above. Fuzzyline Brewing Co

Now tell me, which  brewpubs are your favorite?