Sierra Nevada Brewery

Known for its copper-clad kettles, artisan-designed brewing equipment, and environmentally responsible campus.

Best Time to Visit Sierra Nevada Brewery

• Spring (March–May): Mild weather, blooming gardens, ideal for beer garden seating.
• Fall (September–November): Crisp air, scenic foliage (especially in the North Carolina location).
• Golden Hour: Late afternoon for warm light over the brewery grounds.
• Special Events: Seasonal beer releases, Oktoberfest celebrations, and live music nights.

Tickets Information for Sierra Nevada Brewery

• General brewery tours: Typically free or low-cost, depending on tour type.
• Specialty tours: Barrel-aging tours, sustainability tours, or immersive tastings (priced higher).
• Age requirements: Visitors must be 21+ to drink; tours usually allow younger guests with guardians.
• Reservations: Booking ahead is recommended for guided tours and dining during peak travel seasons.

Opening Hours for Sierra Nevada Brewery

• Taproom & restaurant: Usually 11 AM – 9 PM (hours may vary by season and location).
• Tours: Often start from late morning to early evening.
• Last admission: Some tours stop taking visitors 1–2 hours before closing.
• Advance booking: Online booking available on Sierra Nevada Brewery’s official website.

Things to See / Key Attractions Near Sierra Nevada Brewery

• The Brewhouse: Shining copper kettles and aromatic hops — incredibly photogenic.
• The Hop Yard & Gardens: Lush, sensory-rich outdoor spaces perfect for relaxing.
• Tasting Rooms: Explore rotating taps, limited releases, and fresh-from-the-source pours.
• Backstage Tours: Behind-the-scenes look at brewing, sustainability systems, and fermentation cellars.
• Hidden Gem: The outdoor fire pits at sunset — a cozy, atmospheric experience.

Visitor Tips for Sierra Nevada Brewery

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the brewhouse and grounds.
• Kids & families: Very family-friendly; outdoor areas are great for children to relax.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible paths, ramps, and restrooms available.
• Ideal visit duration: 2–3 hours (longer if dining or joining extended tours).
• Avoiding crowds: Weekdays or early afternoons are quieter than weekends.

How to Reach Sierra Nevada Brewery

• Nearest airports:
• Chico location — Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
• Mills River, NC — Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)
• Local transport: Taxis, rideshare, local buses (varies by city).
• Driving: Ample parking at both locations; easy access from major highways.
• Distance from major cities:
• 2–3 hours from Sacramento to Chico.
• 30 minutes from Asheville to Mills River.

Nearby Attractions & Where to Eat Near Sierra Nevada Brewery

Nearby attractions

• Blue Ridge Parkway (NC): Scenic drives, overlooks, and nature trails.
• Chico’s Bidwell Park (CA): One of the largest municipal parks in the U.S.
• Asheville Downtown (NC): Art galleries, indie shops, and historic architecture.

Where to eat

• Sierra Nevada Taproom & Restaurant: Must-try dishes made with fresh, local ingredients; excellent beer pairings.
• Local favorites:
• Chico: The Rawbar, Italian Cottage
• Asheville/Mills River: Tupelo Honey, White Duck Taco