Maine Craft Beer Industry

Maine's craft beer industry continues to be an absolute powerhouse.

As of this publication, there are over 100 breweries in the state. In 2019, Maine had the second-highest number of breweries per capita (9.6) in the country. Even a global pandemic couldn't ravage an industry that heavily relies on tourism.

Now that the country continues to discover the wonders of Maine, more and more tourists are expected to visit Maine this year. It's just more great news for an industry whose economic impact is akin to that of a small principality.

Maine's Best Craft Breweries

With tourism at a string level, I decided to take a look at travel site TripAdvisor's Maine page, where there is a list of the most popular breweries. I wanted to get a sense of where the "outsiders" (and Mainers, of course) like to drink.

I must say, it's a great list. Of course, there are the usual suspects like Allagash, Shipyard, Bissell Brothers, and Maine Beer, to name a few. But there are also a few surprises, like Bigelow Brewing and 2 Feet, which also make it to the top billing.

Maine's Best Breweries are Statewide

Honestly, good job by the amateur reviewers. The list provides a diverse look at Maine's brewing industry. It includes breweries from across the state—some small, some nationally known, some old, some newer, and some I hadn't even heard of when I started putting the list together. It's wonderful to see that breweries across Maine are receiving the recognition they deserve.

As for the remaining 80+ breweries not in the Top 20, you could probably make a case for each one to be on the list. I can think of a few off the top of my head that would be in my Top 20. There's no question that we are spoiled here.

Which brewery is your favorite?

Top 20 Maine Breweries According to TripAdvisor

Maine has more breweries than people. That's probably not a real stat, but it definitely feels like it. Here are the Top 20 breweries according to TripAdvisor

Gallery Credit: Chris Sedenka

LOOK: These are the best lake towns to live in

Stacker examined data from personal finance website WalletHub to determine the best lake towns to live in across the U.S.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

More From B98.5