It’s no secret Michigan is a place great for beer lovers. The Mitten State often tops national rankings for its breweries and craft beverages—and also its beer gardens.
Michigan Beer Gardens Up for Best in U.S.
Two Michigan beer gardens are once again competing to be the best in a USA Today 10Best Readers’ Poll. Last year, one finished No. 2 in the country and the other landed at No. 3. So naturally, the goal this time around is simple. Let’s get one of them to No. 1 in 2026!
A panel of experts narrowed the field to 20 standout beer gardens from across the country. From there, the final rankings are decided by public vote.
Hop Lot’s Wooded Setting and Four Season Appeal
Last year, Hop Lot in Suttons Bay finished as the second best beer garden in America, which probably surprised no one who has spent an afternoon there. Tucked just off M-22, Hop Lot feels more like a hangout in the woods than a traditional brewery.
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Hop Lot via Facebook
Hop Lot via Facebook
There are picnic tables, fire pits, yard games, and in the winter, heated igloos that make drinking a beer outside in February feel like a surprisingly good idea. The beer lineup leans classic, and the food menu includes things that actually pair well with a pint, like pretzels, wings, tacos, and sandwiches.
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Why Watermark Brewing Co. Keeps Drawing Crowds
Watermark Brewing Co. in Stevensville was right behind it last year, taking the No. 3 spot nationwide. Open since 2016, Watermark has built a reputation as a place where something is always happening.
Watermark Brewing Co. via Facebook
Watermark Brewing Co. via Facebook
The beer garden features fire pits and games, food trucks rotate through regularly, and the event calendar runs the gamut from live music and karaoke to charity events.
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Vote For Best Beer Garden in America
Now both beer gardens are back in the mix, and once again, locals get a say in how high they climb.
Voting in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Poll is open now. You can vote once per day through Monday, February 23 at noon, and the top 10 beer gardens will be announced Wednesday, March 5.
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Gallery Credit: Wendy Reed
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