Here in Nebraska we like to get together with friends and soak in the good life with a good drink in hand. Whether you are a beer lover or a self-proclaimed wine-o, you will find yourself in good company at one of our local breweries or wineries. Kearney offers a selection of taphouses, pubs and a fantastic brewery.
Or if you are looking for a new adventure, take a daytrip to one of the wineries and vineyards in our area. Sip some Nebraska-made wine on the patio while watching a legendary Nebraska sunsets.
Follow along as we tour central Nebraska and sample amazing Nebraska- made beer and wine.
McCue’s Nebraska Taproom
All Nebraska. All the Time. This is the moto at Kearney’s newest taproom McCue’s Nebraska Taproom, located Downtown ‘On the Bricks’. Featuring a menu of craft beer, wine and spirits made right here in Nebraska. How cool is that?! They even have kombucha on tap, a carbonated, non-alcoholic tea packed with vitamins, probiotics and antioxidants. This taproom is located in a renovated grocery store, which was also called McCue’s and operated from the 1920’s through the 1970’s. With industrial décor, vintage character and a variety of beverages to try, you will definitely want to sit back and stay awhile.
Thunderhead Brewing
Established 20 years ago, Thunderhead Brewery knows a thing or two about what makes a good beer! Here you will find beer that has been handcrafted by an experienced staff of beer lovers. Offering a delicious menu of pilsners, porters, stouts, IPAs, fruit beers, honey beers, barrel aged favorites, and even a firkin from time to time. We haven’t even mentioned the food! Stone oven pizzas, calzones and legendary hand-made pretzels means there is something for foodies and beer lovers alike. Cheers!
Want more Thunderhead? They are open for free tours at their brewery in Axtell, 18 miles south of Kearney. Tours are conducted on Saturdays from 2:00-5:00pm. Learn how their beer is made and when you’re done purchase some to take home with you. Or find their beer at multiple locations across the state.
Platte Valley Taphouse
Your neighborhood beer destination. You will find a variety of beers on tap, great drink specials, and fun times with friends! Platte Valley Taphouse has 17 beers on tap ranging from SOP South of The Platte Mexican lager to the sweet Red Rock Ale to Apricot Blonde, the perfect beer for summer. And hey, why not enjoy some eats with your drinks? There are delicious pizzas made to order or snack on their famous pretzels. With a large patio and a friendly environment, you will want to kick back and enjoy a cold one at The Platte Valley!
And now for the wine lovers…
Cedar Hills Vineyard and Gardens
Enjoy the wide-open spaces of Cedar Hills Vineyard and Gardens located 45 minutes northeast of Kearney. Offering a selection of award-winning Nebraska wines on tap. Cedar Hills hosts dinners and other events, including Arts & Crafts with Wine & Drafts nights. There are camper pads available with full hook-ups and your stay includes a complimentary wine tasting. Relax on 80 acres of property, enjoy some wine, wood-fired pizza, beautiful scenery, wildlife and starry night skies at Cedar Hills!
Mac’s Creek Winery and Brewery
Mac’s Creek Vineyards & Winery is family owned and operated for almost 20 years. Located one-half mile north of Lexington, as short trip (35 miles) west of Kearney. The 12-acre vineyard specializes in wines made using grapes acclimated to a shorter growing season and the brutal cold temperatures of a Nebraska winter. Mac’s Creek Winery uses ten different types of grapes to create their award-winning wines. They are known for their wine but they also brew delightful beers and cider. With events ranging from Sunset Dinners to yoga in the vines, this a perfect getaway when in Central Nebraska.
George Spencer Tasting Room
Located on a 10-acre vineyard, the George Spencer Tasting Room is a beautiful spot to drink a glass of wine with good company. In the Tasting Room you will find a selection of Nebraska-made wines, offering 4-6 wines for sampling, wine by the glass or purchase a bottle to enjoy there or to take with you. There is also an assortment of Nebraska made beer and spirits. On the grounds you will find the Tasting Room, an event venue named The Barn and even a Bed and Breakfast. Sit out on the patio and enjoy live music on the weekends during the summer months.