Cleveland Craft Breweries Shine on USA Today's 10 Best Lists in 2026

Great Lakes Brewing, Twin Oast, and Fat Head's Brewery recognized in beer garden, brewery tour, and label design categories.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Several Cleveland-area craft breweries were honored in USA Today's 2026 rankings of the top beer destinations in the United States. Twin Oast Brewing was named one of the 10 best beer gardens, Fat Head's Brewery received recognition for its Bumble Berry can art, and Great Lakes Brewing Company was ranked among the top brewery tours in the country.

Why it matters

The accolades highlight the growing reputation and popularity of Cleveland's craft beer scene, which has become a source of pride and economic activity for the region. These national rankings help drive tourism and further cement Cleveland's status as a premier destination for craft beer enthusiasts.

The details

Twin Oast Brewing's beer garden in Port Clinton was praised for its scenic agricultural setting, wide-open views, and impressive beer selection and food menu. Fat Head's Brewery, which has locations in Middleburg Heights, North Olmsted, and Canton, was recognized for the creative and eye-catching design of its Bumble Berry can art. Great Lakes Brewing Company in Cleveland was lauded for the variety of its tour offerings, including a deep dive into the city's brewing history.

  • The USA Today rankings were announced on March 5, 2026.

The players

Twin Oast Brewing

A craft brewery located in Port Clinton, Ohio, near the shores of Lake Erie, known for its spacious beer garden and agricultural setting.

Fat Head's Brewery

A regional craft brewery with locations in Middleburg Heights, North Olmsted, and Canton, Ohio, recognized for its creative and eye-catching can art designs.

Great Lakes Brewing Company

A long-established craft brewery in Cleveland, Ohio, known for its variety of tour offerings that highlight the city's brewing history and showcase its popular beer brands.

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What’s next

The recognition of these Cleveland craft breweries in the USA Today rankings is likely to drive increased tourism and interest in the local beer scene, potentially leading to expanded distribution and growth for the featured breweries.

The takeaway

Cleveland's craft beer industry has become a source of civic pride and economic activity, with local breweries like Great Lakes, Twin Oast, and Fat Head's earning national acclaim for their innovative products, unique experiences, and commitment to the city's brewing heritage.