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When winter rolls around, darkness may come early, giving me more opportunities to cozy up and celebrate the season. Curling up beside the fake fire on our TV with a glass of a local brew or spirit is a favorite way to unwind. Arkansas has a rich and growing craft beverage scene, from breweries creating bold winter ales to distilleries perfecting smooth, small-batch spirits that make winter a season to appreciate.
In the last few years, my husband and I have taken mini road trips to explore some of the best distilleries and breweries across the state. Whether warming up with bourbon in the Ozarks, sampling stout in Little Rock, or discovering hidden gems in smaller towns, Arkansas offers a little something for everyone. There’s something magical about sipping a locally made drink while chatting with the people who poured their hearts into making it.
Join me as I share some must-visit spots to make your winter feel a little brighter—and a lot toastier! Select your favorites to enjoy at home or give them as gifts this holiday season.
Holiday Spirits in Northwest Arkansas
- Breweries:
- Ozark Beer Company (Rogers) – With notes of dark chocolate, coffee, and caramel with a roasty finish, their Cream Stout is perfect for winter enjoyment. Join them for several holiday events, including Santa at the Brewery, Cheers & Beers and Ozark After Dark: Ugly Sweater edition.
- Bentonville Brewing Company (Bentonville)
- Fossil Cove Brewing (Fayetteville)
- Natural State Beer Company (Rogers)
- Rapp’s Barren Brewing (Mountain Home)
- Distilleries:
- Fox Trail Distillery (Rogers) – The Gingerbread Boy cocktail made with Brown Butter-Washed Wild Parallel Straight Bourbon, Gingerbread Syrup, Jerry Thomas Bitters, Whipped Cream, and Cinnamon is a surefire favorite all season long.
- Axe and the Oak Distillery (Fort Smith)
- Core Brewing & Distilling (Springdale)
Northeast Arkansas Holiday Spirits
- Breweries:
- Native Brew Works (Jonesboro) – This private micro-brewery operates in a dry county so they are limited on what they can say about their business online, but it is absolutely worth a visit. Not only are their microbrews top notch, but the food is also incredible and it’s one of our favorite spots in Jonesboro. Christmas festivities include the annual Keg Tree lighting ceremony, cookie exchange and Christmas trivia night.
- Distilleries:
- Postmaster Spirits (Newport) – The old post office in Newport was converted to a distillery and restaurant and they released their orange-flavored “Trump Tonic” in 2019. The popularity of the “politically incorrect and equal-opportunity offending” beverage has grown. Come hungry because their nightly chef crafted menu and to-die-for desserts are also a big draw.
Southwest Arkansas
- Breweries:
- Slate Rock Brewing (Amity) – Slate Rock’s malty, medium bodied Gold Rush IPA pays homage to local history and is a favorite amongst the locals. Their brews are available at several area restaurants and in growlers to go. Pro tip: be sure to try their made-from-scratch root beer. It’s sweet, spicy and delicious!
- Distilleries:
- 316 Distillery (Camden) – 316 has been handcrafting a variety of distilled spirits since 2022. Their tasting room is open Thursday through Sunday.
Southeast Arkansas
- Distilleries:
- Delta Dirt Distillery (Helena-West Helena) – Delta Dirt is not only special because their sprits are flavorful but because they are America’s only Black-owned farm-to-bottle distillery. They produce award-winning vodka, gin and other spirits using produce and grain within the surrounding community on land that has been worked by the Williams family since the late 1800s.
Central Arkansas
- Breweries:
- Flyway Brewing (North Little Rock) – Flyway is known for their nature-inspired craft beers that pay homage to the Arkansas Delta and its wildlife. Their year-round offerings and seasonal releases have won the hearts of beer-loving outdoors lovers.
- Lost Forty Brewing (Little Rock)
- Superior Bathhouse Brewery (Hot Springs)
- Gravity BrewWorks (Big Flat)
- Point Remove Brewing (Morrilton & Russellville)
Photo and cover photo courtesy of Rock Town Distillery.
- Distilleries:
- Rock Town Distillery (Little Rock) – As Arkansas’ first legal distillery since Prohibition, Rock Town was at the forefront of distilling in Arkansas and still has a strong foothold. Their small-batch spirits are crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Their spirits and liqueurs will add a fine touch to your holiday cocktails.
- Crystal Ridge Distillery (Hot Springs)
- Hot Springs Distilling (Hot Springs)
As Richie and I wrap up our holiday adventures, one thing is clear: Arkansas’ breweries and distilleries are not just about great drinks—they’re about community, creativity, and a true sense of place. These local spots offer the perfect opportunity to experience the craftsmanship and pride that go into every sip, making them a must-visit for anyone looking to embrace the season. Whether it’s a cozy tasting room in the Ozarks or a lively taproom in Little Rock, there’s something special waiting for everyone.
As you plan your winter outings, don’t forget to enjoy your holiday spirits responsibly. Designate a driver, use a rideshare service, or even stay overnight near your favorite spots to make the most of your experience. And remember, the holidays are all about sharing, so why not bring a bottle or six-pack home for friends and family? Cheers to making this winter warmer, one handcrafted drink at a time!
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