Portland, Maine's Craft Beer Scene Continues to Thrive

The top 10 most popular craft breweries in the city, according to TripAdvisor reviews.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 11:01pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeating pattern of a single craft beer bottle or glass in vibrant neon hues, conceptually representing the energy and creativity of Portland's thriving beer culture.Portland's craft beer scene continues to draw visitors from near and far, with a diverse array of local breweries offering innovative and flavorful creations.Portland Today

Maine's craft beer industry is booming, with over 100 breweries across the state as of 2024. Portland, the state's largest city, is at the heart of this thriving scene, home to a diverse array of both established and up-and-coming craft breweries that draw both locals and tourists alike. A look at the 10 most popular Portland breweries, based on TripAdvisor reviews, reveals a mix of familiar names and some pleasant surprises.

Why it matters

Portland's craft beer scene has become a major draw for the city, contributing to its reputation as a vibrant, creative hub. The continued growth and popularity of these local breweries not only supports Maine's economy, but also reflects the state's reputation for high-quality, innovative beer production.

The details

From longtime staples like Allagash and Shipyard to rising stars like Austin Street Brewing, Portland's craft beer landscape offers something for every palate. These 10 breweries, ranked by TripAdvisor reviews, showcase the depth and diversity of the city's beer culture, attracting visitors from near and far to sample the latest creations.

  • As of April 2026, there are over 100 breweries across the state of Maine.
  • In 2024, Maine had the second-highest brewery per capita number (14.3) in the country.

The players

Allagash Brewing Company

A renowned Maine brewery known for its Belgian-style ales and innovative brewing techniques.

Shipyard Brewing Company

One of Maine's oldest and most established craft breweries, known for its diverse portfolio of beers.

Bissell Brothers

A popular Portland brewery that has gained a loyal following for its hop-forward, experimental beers.

Austin Street Brewing

A rising star in the Portland craft beer scene, known for its focus on quality ingredients and unique flavor profiles.

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What they’re saying

“Maine's craft beer scene deserves all the recognition it gets and more. It keeps thriving and pushing forward year after year without slowing down.”

— Chris Sedenka, Author

What’s next

As the craft beer industry in Maine continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see which new breweries emerge and which established ones maintain their popularity among both locals and visitors.

The takeaway

Portland's thriving craft beer scene is a testament to the state's commitment to quality, innovation, and community-driven values. The diverse array of breweries, each with its own loyal following, has cemented Maine's reputation as a premier destination for beer enthusiasts.