3 South Carolina cities make list of Best Beer Destinations in U.S.

Photo byTasting Table

Beer tourism is booming, and as beer enthusiasts prepare for upcoming celebrations, they are eager to discover the best cities to enjoy their favorite beverage. With summer in full swing, new data by Tasting Table reveals that Google search trends for "best beer cities in the US" have increased by 70% in the last 30 days, while searches for "beer tasting tours" have surged by 90%.

A recent study by Tasting Table has highlighted the best U.S. cities for beer lovers. The study evaluated key metrics such as the number of breweries, bars, beer-tasting tours, and the average cost of beer to rank the top 15 destinations offering the ultimate beer experiences in the country, combining both availability and affordability.

The study revealed that Greenville, South Carolina, is the #5 top destination for beer enthusiasts. The city offers 2.47 breweries per 10,000 residents, making it a notable spot for craft beer lovers. With 18.40 bars per 10,000 residents and 1 beer-tasting tour, Greenville provides a diverse and enjoyable beer experience. Notable breweries such as The Southern Growl, Fireforge Crafted Beer, and Liability Brewing Co., a Certified B Corp engaged in sustainable practices, highlight Greenville's vibrant beer culture. The average cost of a pint here is $5.00, balancing affordability with quality. Annual events like the Greenville Craft Beer Festival and Euphoria Greenville further enhance the city's beer scene. Despite being close to Asheville, Greenville stands out with nearly two dozen impressive breweries, earning its place among the top beer cities in the U.S. for 2024.

Charleston, South Carolina, ranks as the #17 top beer destination in the U.S. The city offers 1.16 breweries per 10,000 residents, fostering a dynamic craft beer scene. With 12.04 bars per 10,000 residents and 5 beer-tasting tours, Charleston ensures a wide range of beer experiences for visitors and locals alike. Notable breweries such as Revelry Brewing Co. and Edmund's Oast Brewing Co. contribute to the city's vibrant beer culture. Priced at an average of $6.75 per pint, Charleston delivers both quality and variety. Annual events like Charleston Beer Week and Charleston Beer Fest further enhance the city's beer scene. Charleston's distinctive beer culture and array of beer-related activities have cemented its status as a leading beer city in the U.S. for 2024.

South Carolina Shines with 3 Cities in the Top 100 Best Beer Destinations

South Carolina is well-represented in the rankings of the best beer cities in the U.S., with three cities making the top 100. Greenville leads the pack, ranking #5 nationally, thanks to its high density of bars and breweries, coupled with an affordable average beer price. Charleston also makes the list, securing the #17 spot with its charming blend of breweries and bars, along with its vibrant beer-tasting culture. Columbia ranks #26, showcasing its developing reputation as a noteworthy city for beer enthusiasts with its mix of bars and breweries. This representation highlights South Carolina's growing prominence in the national beer scene.

These are the country’s top U.S. destinations for beer enthusiasts, according to the study:

1. Asheville, NC
2. Pensacola, FL
3. Las Vegas, NV
4. Portland, ME
5. Greenville, SC
6. Lancaster, PA
7. Pittsburgh, PA
8. Cincinnati, OH
9. New Orleans, LA
10. Portland, OR