Good independent micro beers and ales can be found primarily in northern California, Oregon, Colorado and around Grand Rapids, Michigan. 

There’s a reason we’ve been named “Beer City USA” more than once! The rule of thumb is if you’re at a brew pub (or just a brewery, or a taproom) anywhere in the greater Grand Rapids area and can’t find a beer you like, then you just don’t like beer. Yesterday afternoon I had a lovely four-flight sampler tray of local beers, not one of which was an IPA. I’m not a fan of overly hoppy beers, and regardless of where I go I never have to order one since there are always several other options.

*Studiously NOT getting into any of the rest of the argument happening here. I just like the beer.