Michigan Beer Gardens Crowned No. 1 and No. 2 in America

It’s no secret that Michigan is a dream for beer lovers. The No. 1 Beer City in America? That’s right here in the Mitten State. For at least the sixth year in a row, Grand Rapids took the top honor in a USA TODAY 10Best poll.

Now, Michigan has even more bragging rights.

Two spots in the state have just been voted the No. 1 and No. 2 Best Beer Gardens in America in a separate USA TODAY 10Best poll. A panel of experts narrowed the list to 20 standout beer gardens nationwide, and the final rankings were decided by public vote.

Hop Lot’s Wooded Setting and Four Season Appeal

Congratulations to Hop Lot in Suttons Bay, which landed at No. 2 again this year. Tucked just off M-22, Hop Lot feels more like a hangout in the woods than a traditional brewery.

👇BELOW: BEST MICHIGAN BEERS FOR SIPPING OUTSIDE👇

Hop Lot via Facebook

The space is built for lingering: picnic tables, fire pits, and yard games in the warmer months, plus heated igloos in the winter that somehow make sipping a cold beer in February feel like a great idea. The beer list leans classic, and the food menu actually complements it, with pretzels, wings, tacos, and hearty sandwiches.

And now for the No. 1 beer garden in America...

Watermark Brewing Crowned No. 1 Beer Garden in U.S.

That would be Watermark Brewing Co. in Stevensville!

Up from No. 3 last year, Watermark has steadily built a reputation as a place where something is always happening. Since opening in 2016, it’s become a go-to gathering spot, thanks to its spacious beer garden with fire pits, lawn games, and a steady rotation of food trucks.

Watermark Brewing Co. via Facebook

The events calendar stays packed, too, with live music, karaoke, and community fundraisers drawing crowds year-round.

For a state already known for its craft beer scene, this latest honor is just more proof that Michigan knows how to do beer gardens right.