7 Essential Breweries in Norfolk

Photo courtesy of COVA Brewing Co.

Are you stationed in Norfolk or PCS’ing soon? Here’s the ultimate list of breweries for you to try out:

O’Connor Brewing Company

The 20-year-old brewery is the brainchild of Kevin O’Connor who created the first batches on St. Patrick’s Day, marking the start of craft beer in coastal Virginia. Since then, O’Connor has brewed World Cup Award winners and is a favorite among locals for their large selection of beers, collaborations, and events that will give you major FOMO. 

Address: 211 West 24th Street, Norfolk, VA, 23517
Hours: Tap Room Mon to Thurs: 3 pm – 9 pm, Fri: 3 pm – 10 pm, Sat: 12 pm – 10 pm, Sun: 12 pm – 7pm


Smartmouth Brewing Co.

In 2012, Porter Hardy took a hobby of home brewing and changed it into a full-time job, leaving behind his profession as a lawyer. They always have a great tap selection and if you’re lucky enough you may even get to try one of their Limited Releases. Plus, who doesn’t love dogs? The brewery is adjacent to Dogtown, a well known doggie daycare!

Address: 1309 Raleigh Avenue, Norfolk, VA, 23507
Hours: Mon to Thurs: 4pm-9pm, Fri 3pm-10pm, Sat 12pm-10pm, Sun 2pm-8pm


Elation Brewing

Nothing says Norfolk quite like grabbing a pint in the heart of Norfolk on Colley Ave. Elation Brewing boasts a large selection with plenty of variety, a large indoor space to enjoy a beer and kick back, and a stage area for local entertainment. Elation is a must do!

Address: 5104 Colley Ave, Norfolk, VA, 23508
Hours: Sun to Wed 12pm-9pm, Thurs to Sat 12-10pm


Benchtop Brewing Company

Power couple Talia and Eric left their respective fields in 2018 to open Benchtop Brewing. Built upon an amazing bond with the community, Benchtop is strongly rooted in their trust to always produce a creative and innovative beer experience. Enjoy a beer while overlooking the beautiful Elizabeth River Trail that winds past the tasting room and research facility.

Address: 1129 Boissevain Ave, Norfolk, VA 23507
Hours: Mon 5pm – 9pm, Tues to Thurs 3pm-9pm, Fri & Sat 12pm-10pm, Sun 12pm-7pm


COVA Brewing Co.

A new-comer to the area, COVA not only serves delicious brews using a tab-card self service system, but they offer a variety of coffee and tea beverages in their coffee shop. With a weekly rotation, offering some of the 757’s best food trucks and an outdoor area that includes fire pits and a selection of seating for any size group, COVA is a must visit!

Address: 9529 Shore Dr, Norfolk, VA, 23518
Hours: Mon to Thurs 7pm-9pm, Fri 7pm-10pm, Sat 8pm-10pm, Sun 8pm-6pm


Bold Mariner

A few blocks away from the beaches of Oceanview, set in a scenic house with two-story wrap around porches and the iconic blue tin roofs, is one of the best local breweries in the area. Bold Mariner offers a large selection of brews, delicious food from their partner Bar-Q, and events that bring the community of Oceanview together. Bonus Points: Bold Mariner is Veteran Owned and Operated!

Address: 1901 East Ocean View Ave, Norfolk, VA 23508
Hours: Mon to Wed 3pm-9pm, Thurs 12pm-9pm, Fri & Sat12pm-10pm, Sun 12pm-9pm


Maker’s Craft Brewery

With one of the largest outdoor seating area of any brewery in the area, Maker’s Craft features a wide selection of beers and a killer line up of live music. As the brain child of Rick and Michele Mariani, Maker’s Craft brings together the experience and knowledge to provide visitors with delicious brews and wonderful memories.

Address: 735 E 23rd St Norfolk, VA, 23504
Hours: Tues to Thurs 4-9pm, Fri & Sat 11:30am-10pm, Sun 12pm-7pm, Closed on Mondays


The Brew Hop Pass

Exciting news! Visit Norfolk has launched The Brew Hop Pass, a three day pass that allows you to visit up to four of Norfolk’s breweries and get the true 757 craft beer experience.The pass can be purchased online ($26.95) and the ticket will appear instantly on your phone as a mobile pass. The pass will activate the moment you redeem it and will last for 72 hours from the first use.

Did we forget any breweries? Comment below and let us know your favorites!

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