Raise a Glass to Waterloo Region’s Craft Breweries and Distilleries
by Cora Kuehl | June 2026
- Discover craft breweries and distilleries across Waterloo Region.
- Find unique tasting experiences, patios, tours and local flavours.
- Plan your next outing with stops in Waterloo, Kitchener, Cambridge, Ayr and Elmira.
When people think of Waterloo Region, tech and innovation usually come to mind first, but there’s a whole other side to explore, and it’s delicious. From laid-back breweries and cozy patios to craft distilleries serving up seriously creative drinks, the region is packed with spots worth adding to your beverage bucket list. Whether you’re a craft beer fan, a cocktail enthusiast, or just looking for a great place to hang out with friends, these local gems are pouring plenty of reasons to stop by.
Willibald Farm Distillery & Brewery
📍1271 Reidsville Rd, Ayr, ON N0B 1E0
For a true countryside escape, head to Willibald. Set on a beautiful rural property just outside the city, this destination combines a brewery, distillery, restaurant, and outdoor gathering space all in one unforgettable location. Grab a cocktail, sample a flight of beers, order something from the seasonal menu, and settle in for the afternoon. Between the scenic views, spacious patio, and farm-to-glass philosophy, it’s the kind of place that turns a quick visit into an all-day adventure.
Must Try: Chasing summer vibes? Willibald’s crisp seltzers and refreshing spritzes deliver the perfect mix of flavour, fizz, and sunshine in every sip.
Murphy’s Law Distillery
📍90 Earl Martin Dr Unit 2, Elmira, ON N3B 3L
If you’re looking for something a little different, Murphy’s Law Distillery is a must-visit. Known for its award-winning moonshine and fun, inventive flavours, this Elmira favourite brings plenty of personality to the craft spirits scene. Their guided tours take you behind the scenes of the distilling process, complete with stories, samples, and a few surprises along the way. It’s equal parts educational and entertaining, and definitely more fun than your average tasting.
Must Try: Their newest flavour, Banana Cream. Picture it mixed into an iced coffee on a hot summer day. Trust me, you’ll be thinking about it long after the last sip.
Rural Roots Brewing Company
📍21B Industrial Dr, Elmira, ON N3B 2S2
Rural Roots is the kind of place where you show up for one drink and end up staying all afternoon. With its welcoming small-town vibe and relaxed patio, it’s a favourite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. Beyond a great lineup of craft beers, you’ll find ciders, cocktails, wine, and non-alcoholic options, making it easy for everyone to find something they love. Add in community events, friendly faces, and plenty of patio seating, and you’ve got the perfect place to slow down and soak up summer.
Stockyards Brew Hall & Restaurant
📍25 Benjamin Rd, Waterloo, ON N2V 2J9
Part brewery, part coffee roastery, part restaurant, and part event space, Stockyards somehow manages to do it all. This Waterloo hotspot has quickly become one of the region’s go-to social hubs, offering everything from locally crafted beer and ‘Stock-tails’ to great food, trivia nights, live music, and special events. Whether you’re catching up with friends on the patio, or settling in for a night of entertainment, there’s always something happening at Stockyards.
Together We’re Bitter (TWB) Brewing
📍300 Mill St #1, Kitchener, ON N2M 3R8
If you love trying something new, TWB Brewing should be high on your list. Known for its constantly rotating beer lineup and experimental approach, this community-focused brewery keeps things fresh with creative brews and unexpected flavours.
The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and a little quirky, in the best way possible. Every visit feels like a chance to discover your next favourite beer, and that’s exactly why so many locals keep coming back.
Sparrow Brewing & Roasting Co.
📍54 Guelph Ave #4, Cambridge, ON N3C 1A3
Coffee lover? Craft beer fan? Good news, you don’t have to choose!
Sparrow Brewing & Roasting Co. brings together two of life’s greatest pleasures under one roof. Start your day with expertly roasted coffee, then swing back later for a locally brewed beer. The atmosphere is relaxed, friendly, and ideal for everything from casual meetups and remote work sessions to evening hangs with friends. It’s a unique concept that fits perfectly into Waterloo Region’s creative craft beverage scene.
Must Try: Hespeler Beaut – which is a nod to the area of Cambridge where you’ll find Sparrow Brewing & Roasting Co.
Waterloo Brewing Taphouse
📍400 Bingemans Centre Dr, Kitchener, ON N2B 3X9
As Ontario’s first craft brewery, Waterloo Brewing has earned legendary status, but don’t mistake history for being stuck in the past. The Waterloo Brewing Taphouse blends its brewing heritage with a lively dining experience, featuring a great food menu, exclusive small-batch beers, and one of the area’s best patio setups. It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon pint, a casual dinner, or a summer evening spent sampling something new straight from the source.
Must Try: Their June and July feature menu is built for match days, think crowd-pleasing bites, game-day favourites, and the perfect fuel for cheering on your team. ⚽🍻
Discover Waterloo Region, One Sip at a Time
What makes Waterloo Region’s craft beverage scene so special isn’t just what’s in the glass, it’s the experiences that come with it. From behind-the-scenes distillery tours and lively brewery patios to creative drink menus, live music, and countryside escapes, every stop has its own personality. So whether you’re planning a weekend adventure, showing visitors around, or simply searching for your next favourite patio, Waterloo Region has no shortage of great places to sip, relax, and discover something new. Cheers!
