Summer is in full swing, which means it is patio season in west central Minnesota! What better way to celebrate than visiting some of our region’s finest local breweries and wineries?
At West Central Initiative, we’re dedicated to supporting these vibrant businesses and helping them grow and thrive in our communities. Grab your friends, find a sunny spot on the patio, and let us raise a glass to these fantastic local establishments!
ABC Brewing
ABC Brewing Co., located in the charming town of Battle Lake, has become a beloved destination for craft beer enthusiasts and food lovers. Passionate about serving the community, ABC Brewing offers an inviting atmosphere with handcrafted beers and mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas. Located in the heart of Minnesota lakes country, it provides a perfect family outing with a pirate ship play system for kids, exciting yard games, and sand toys.
Adults can unwind and enjoy live music, special events, and delicious food at the nearby picnic tables. Known for its dog-friendly environment and unique offerings like Car Night Thursdays and a pedal pub, ABC Brewing Co. ensures a memorable experience for all ages, making it the go-to spot for fun and relaxation in Battle Lake.
Bucks Mill Brewing
Bucks Mill Brewing, located in Detroit Lakes, was born out of a passion for home brewing and a desire to share exceptional craft beer with a broader audience. Founded by enthusiasts who delighted in the joy of seeing friends savor their home brews, Bucks Mill Brewing now offers a spacious 7,000-square-foot taproom perfect for gathering with friends and family, playing games, or catching your favorite team on TV.
The taproom, adorned with statement murals by local artist Hans Gilsdorf, features cozy private coves for an intimate experience. Head brewer Tyler Hawkins crafts a diverse range of beers using locally sourced ingredients, from traditional German-style lagers to fruited sours. Guests can enjoy at least 12 beers on tap, along with nonalcoholic options like kombucha and house-made root beer. The brewery hosts weekly and monthly events, including cribbage nights, pinball tournaments, trivia, and Traveling Art Pub sessions. This summer, Bucks Mill is serving people at community events like the Friday night Trucks and Tunes concerts and local Liger Baseball games. Come experience Bucks Mill Brewing – locally sourced, independently minded, and boldly flavored.
Continental Divide Brew Pub
Located in the historic town of New York Mills, Continental Divide Brew Pub offers a welcoming space where the community can come together and enjoy great food and drinks. Established in 2023, this unique eatery takes its name from the Continental Divide, where waters split to flow either south to the Gulf of Mexico or north to the Hudson Bay.
At Continental Divide Brew Pub, visitors can savor brick oven pizzas, delectable wings, and a variety of unique appetizers, all complemented by an extensive selection of craft beers, ciders, wines, seltzers, and cocktails. More than just a dining spot, it’s a gathering place for friends and family, reflecting the enduring spirit of camaraderie in New York Mills. Mark your calendars for the Grand Opening Bean Bag Tourney on Saturday, August 24 at 2:00 PM. Come together at the Divide and make lasting memories!
Copper Trail Brewing
Copper Trail Brewing, nestled in the heart of historic downtown Alexandria, offers a unique blend of camaraderie, craft, and community. Inspired by the warmth and fellowship of friends gathered around a fire, Copper Trail’s ethos, “Enjoy the Journey,” is embodied in every pint. Since its founding in 2016, the brewery has revived the local tradition of quality craft beer, becoming a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors.
The spacious 150-seat taproom, featuring craftsman and industrial-inspired decor, provides a welcoming atmosphere for all ages with games, a Little Free Library, and a wraparound patio for sunny days. Partnering with Pike & Pint Grill, Copper Trail introduced 205 Grill within the taproom, offering a menu of shareables, entrees, and bar snacks that complement their diverse beer selection. Whether you’re sampling the latest brew from their ever-changing tap list or enjoying a meal at 205 Grill, Copper Trail Brewing invites everyone to share in the journey of great beer and good company.
L’Etoile du Nord
Nestled in the Alexandria Lakes Country on Lake Irene, L’Etoile du Nord Farm Winery welcomes visitors every weekend from May through October. Its wines speak of the passion for the land and the fruit it provides. What started as a retirement project in 2011 blossomed into an award-winning portfolio of estate wines, ciders, and meads for Polly Perkins and David Christianson. Visit L’Etoile du Nord for a taste of wine and let the lakeside views capture your heart.
Swing Barrel Brewing
Swing Barrel Brewing Co., located in Moorhead, is more than just a brewery; it’s a story of friendship and passion for community, music, and craft beer. The brewery was founded by John and Sean who met at Minnesota State University Moorhead in 1999. The taproom offers a welcoming space where people can enjoy a diverse selection of well-crafted beers while soaking in live local music.
The brewer’s journey, from professional music careers and international teaching to a shared brewing passion, is reflected in every pint served. With a focus on building community, Swing Barrel invites everyone to come together, make new friends, and toast to the future in the lively, music-filled environment. Stop in this summer to help celebrate the brewery’s 4th birthday on August 24.
At West Central Initiative, we are proud to support these incredible local breweries and wineries. Their success is a testament to the power of community and the importance of supporting local businesses. So, this summer, head out to these fantastic establishments, enjoy a cold drink, and raise a glass to the spirit of west central Minnesota.
Cheers to summer!
Editor’s Note: West Central Initiative provides loans for entrepreneurs in our service area and offers several different loan packages. For information or other loan questions, contact Greg Wagner at greg@old.wcif.org.
