Grand Rapids has done it again!

100.5 FM The River logo
Get our free mobile app

Grand Rapids Once Again Crowned Best Beer City in the U.S.

For at least the sixth year in a row, GR has taken the No. 1 spot in USA Today and 10Best's "Best Beer City in America" poll.

UP NEXT: Discover When Grand Rapids Ice Cream Stands Open in 2026

Greyline Brewing, City Built Brewing, Kusterer Brauhaus, Founders Brewing Company, Broad Leaf Brewing, Arvon Brewing, Brewery Vivant/ Facebook
Greyline Brewing, City Built Brewing, Kusterer Brauhaus, Founders Brewing Company, Broad Leaf Brewing, Arvon Brewing, Brewery Vivant/ Facebook
loading...

To nab the top spot, Grand Rapids had to duke it out with 19 other beer-centric cities chosen by a panel of experts. The 20 cities were chosen for their: "stellar selections of established and up-and-coming breweries, beer bars, brewpubs, beer festivals and even thriving homebrewing communities where novice brewers can get their foot in the door."

👇BELOW: GRAND RAPIDS A TO Z - THE MUST VISIT SPOTS AROUND THE CITY👇

GR was up against some big cities too, like San Diego and Atlanta! It was then put up to a public vote to determine the top ten beer cities in the U.S. - and Grand Rapids was once again victorious!

READ MORE: Looking for a Friday Fish Fry? Check Out Grand Rapids Ultimate Guide

USA Today praises Grand Rapids for having the strongest beer scene in Michigan, due to its more than 80 area breweries, beer-related events, and beer stores.

10 Best Beer Cities in America 2026

Here is the full ranking:

  1. Grand Rapids - Michigan
  2. St. Louis - Missouri
  3. Yakima - Washington
  4. San Diego - California
  5. Pittsburg - Pennsylvania
  6. Charlotte - North Carolina
  7. Asheville - North Carolina
  8. Milwaukee - Wisconsin
  9. Columbus Ohio
  10. Denver - Colorado

And here's more national recognition for Grand Rapids: In a different poll, HopCat was voted the No. 8 beer bar in America!

Grand Rapids A to Z: The Must Visit Spots Around The City

26 places to visit around Grand Rapids, one place for every letter of the alphabet.

Gallery Credit: Tommy McNeill

More From 100.5 FM The River