+Veterans United Craft Brewery, 8999 Western Way #104, Jacksonville, FL 32256
You’d never find it if you weren’t looking. You’ll almost feel like your GPS is taking you on a ride. But faithfully there, is some of the best beer brewed on site in Jacksonville.
I’m not in the military, but my dad was in the Navy. Whether you have a connection or not, everyone is welcomed in this comfortable atmosphere. A group of veterans formed the brewery and keep the motif alive with aptly named brews and décor of military memorabilia.
Fridays there is live music, there are board games such as battleships, people bring take out to eat over a beer, and it’s dog friendly.
The beers really are top notch, Jeff was buying Scout Dog from the grocery store of the rest of our stay and I was raving bout the Buzzin’ Bee. Maybe it’s because my dad was a Seabee, but really it’s probably that awesome honey aftertaste. The taproom is open Wednesday through Saturday and $7 tours on Saturday a include tasting glass and sample pours.
+Rain Dogs, 1045 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32204
Riverside is a happening little neighborhood and this dive has one of the best atmospheres you could hope for in a bar. By definition (of the bar), a rain dog is a dog caught in the rain, with its whole trail washed away by the water so he can’t get back home. The art on the wall is equally as deep, dark, and fitting.
We came on a night with live music, the band was jamming with an instrument I’d never even seen before.
As if it couldn’t get any better, there is a Simpsons pinball machine.
A glass of red wine in hand, this is my happy place.
+Engine 15 Brewing Co, 1500 Beach Blvd #217, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
A popular brewery with two locations, one downtown and the other by the beach.
The lively atmosphere has indoor and outdoor seating, and is stacked with arcade games (no pinball!). Skimming the brews, you may hiccup when you read the name of one of their most population libations, the nut sack double brown ale’s tagline reads: give our nut sack a taste.
Don’t blush, it’s a great brew and all the other ones are very tame!
+Budweiser Brewery Experience, 111 Busch Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32218-5546
Since the 1960s, Bud has been brewing beer in Jacksonville, one of a dozen locations throughout the US. Grab your complimentary sample and take yourself on a free self guided brewery tour.
Learn about the brewing process which takes 30 days or more to produce one of the worlds most famous beers.
Delve into the story of the company, from its origins to prohibition, and even advertisements throughout the decades – those who aren’t interest in drinking might like to know the history of such a successful corporation. Guided tours, beer school, and a big gift shop are among the paid programs you can participate in.