When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Lonerider Brewing Company
Why Lonerider Brewing Company is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lonerider Brewing Company, established in 2009 in Raleigh, North Carolina, is more than just a brewery; it's a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts and a welcoming gathering spot for friends. With a passionate dedication to quality, Lonerider brews a diverse portfolio of beers that appeal to a broad spectrum of tastes, ranging from the juicy American IPAs to the smooth, rich Sweet Josie American brown ale. The brewery's focus on top-tier ingredients and craftsmanship has earned them multiple awards, including recognition from the Great American Beer Festival (GABF) and the U.S. Beer Open. The tasting room, open daily, creates an inviting atmosphere where friends can experience this award-winning selection while enjoying the relaxed, outlaw spirit that defines Lonerider. Beyond just their core brews, Lonerider fosters a sense of community through initiatives like the Brew It Forward contest for homebrewers, empowering aspiring brewers to create their own batches for charity, further enriching the social fabric of the local beer culture. Public tours available on a monthly basis offer visitors an inside look at the brewing process, enhancing the sense of connection and discovery. Whether sampling seasonal farmhouse ales with vibrant citrus hop notes or enjoying the classic Peacemaker American Pale Ale, Lonerider Brewing Company stands out as a dynamic and memorable destination to meet up with friends and celebrate the craft beer revolution in North Carolina.
Here's what people think of Lonerider Brewing Company
As of recent, Lonerider Brewing Company holds a 4.6-star rating based on 397 reviews.
Reviews for Lonerider Brewing Company reflect a strong positive reception, garnering an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 from nearly 400 reviews. Patrons frequently applaud the brewery for its welcoming tasting room environment, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and consistently high-quality beers. The diversity of the beer menu, including standout options like Sweet Josie and The Hops You Rode In On Session IPA, draws particular praise for their balanced flavors and creativity. Many reviewers highlight the brewery’s community-oriented spirit, especially through their Brew It Forward homebrewing contest and charitable initiatives, which contribute to a positive local impact. Positive reviews also emphasize the engaging tours available, which add educational value and an enjoyable experience beyond just tasting. On the other hand, some negative feedback occasionally notes that the tasting room can be crowded during peak times, which might affect service speed and availability of space. A few visitors mention that some specialty beers may have stronger or more acquired tastes, which may not suit everyone’s preferences. Despite these minor criticisms, the consensus views Lonerider Brewing Company as a thoughtfully curated craft brewery offering great beers and a lively atmosphere. Overall, the reviews consistently characterize Lonerider as a must-visit destination for craft beer lovers seeking quality brews with a unique local flavor and a community-focused ethos.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Elliot Joseph
Well it seems that they have improved the staff in the meantime the bad review. The bartender offered kindly some samples to taste. Limited choices of beers but good quality. Plus they have a selection of cigars too for the ones that like to smoke one outside.
Justin Singh
I love this spot! I have had good experiences at all the LR locations! Wake Forest, 5 points (now closed :( ), RDU airport, but my favorite will always be the original Gulf Court location. Keep doing good things!
Bretton Little
The best brewery tour I have ever been on was here but it has since moved to a new location. The tour guide even looked a little like the Lonerider logo! Was very educational about every step of the process and explained how each machine worked. The free samples were an added bonus! Sweet Josie Brown Ale is one of my favorite beers.
Benjamin Smith
Great brewery filled with great beers. Shotgun Betty and Sweet Josie are some good picks. Dog friendly and large outdoor seating for when the weather is nice. About seven tables inside along with bar seating when it’s raining or cold. If you enjoy board games they have a couple dozen around the bar for folks to borrow.
Pinaki Nakod
I’m posting this on behalf of my friend because his review was deleted—but I was there as well and can confirm our experience. We visited Lonerider Brewery on March 22, 2025, at 6 PM, and the service was terrible. The lady at the counter was extremely rude, which really put a damper on our visit. Despite that, I still left a tip just to avoid making my night worse. The place was empty, and the beer selection was very limited. In the service industry, a good bartender is crucial to the experience, and unfortunately, this place failed in that regard. There are plenty of better breweries out there with both great beer and great service. I wouldn’t recommend this one.
How to reach Lonerider Brewing Company
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Why Lonerider Brewing Company may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Lonerider Brewing Company with your friends? When it comes to gathering with friends or family, Lonerider Brewing Company in Raleigh, North Carolina, stands out as an exceptional venue that combines great beer, a welcoming atmosphere, and a unique experience that keeps guests coming back. With an impressive 4.6-star rating from nearly 400 reviews, this brewery has cultivated a reputation for quality, community, and fun. It’s much more than just a spot for a drink; it’s a place that naturally draws people together. Whether you’ve been craving a flavorful craft beer or want a lively yet relaxed environment to catch up with old friends, Lonerider delivers on all fronts. Their passion for brewing award-winning ale and the vibrant vibe at their Raleigh location creates an ideal backdrop for social meetups. Plus, with extended weekend hours and a diverse selection of beers on tap, including favorites like Shotgun Betty Hefeweizen and Peacemaker Juicy IPA, everyone in your group will find something to enjoy. What really makes Lonerider special is how it balances the spirit of an independent brewpub with a casual, friendly setting that encourages laughter, conversations, and making memories together.
What activities can you enjoy at Lonerider Brewing Company, and why is it perfect for a group meetup? The brewery’s main location in Raleigh offers a lively tasting room where friends can sample a rotating selection of expertly crafted beers on tap. The variety includes German-style Hefeweizens, Brown Ales, IPAs, Lagers, and even seasonal specialties, so your group can explore different tastes and styles. This tasting experience is capped off with a setting designed for social interaction: spacious indoor seating combined with a rustic, laid-back ambiance that invites everyone to settle in comfortably. Beyond tasting, Lonerider hosts public brewery tours on the second Saturday of each month, providing a fun and educational experience that’s perfect for groups interested in the craft behind the beer. Visitors can learn firsthand how award-winning ales are brewed, making the meetup not only about drinking but also about enjoying a shared cultural activity. For those seeking even more space and a party-friendly environment, Lonerider’s Wake Forest Hideout location offers an outdoor venue alongside indoor saloon-style seating, catering to larger groups, celebrations, or casual hangouts with live music or events. The Hideout’s extensive bar options—ranging from Lonerider’s spirits to a selection of ciders and wines—ensure everyone’s preferences are well catered to. This mix of activities makes Lonerider Brewing Company a versatile spot for any group occasion, whether it’s a casual after-work gathering or a weekend celebration.
What makes the environment at Lonerider Brewing Company ideal for hosting meetups with friends or family? The ambience at Lonerider perfectly balances welcoming warmth with energetic charm. The Raleigh brewery embraces an outdoorsy, independent spirit, appealing to those who enjoy overall authenticity and character in social spaces. With a cool, rustic design and unique touches that reflect the brand’s outlaw ethos, guests feel part of something special when they visit. This vibe helps foster a sense of camaraderie among groups, making it easy to share laughs, stories, and good times. Additionally, the brewery’s attentive staff are known for their friendly, knowledgeable service, helping guests navigate the beer menu or find the perfect brew to match their mood. The comfortable seating arrangements in both the Raleigh brewery and the Wake Forest Hideout allow groups to settle in for hours without feeling rushed, supporting long, relaxed visits. With weekend hours that stretch late into the evening—until 10 pm or 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays—Lonerider fits well into social plans that extend from afternoon into night. These elements combine to create a venue where meeting up with friends transforms from ordinary to memorable.
What beer selections are available, and why do they appeal to groups? Lonerider Brewing Company’s beer lineup is thoughtfully curated to please a wide range of palates. The flagship beers include Shotgun Betty, a smooth and refreshing Hefeweizen; Sweet Josie, a rich American Brown Ale; and Peacemaker, a juicy American Pale Ale with balance and hop complexity. For hop lovers, there’s also IPA for Outlaws and Hoppy Ki Yay, two flavorful IPAs that deliver bold bitterness and aromatic profiles. Those who prefer lighter options can enjoy the True Lyme Lyte Blonde Ale or Day to Day Lager, while the Imperial Light Lager and Cerveza (a Mexican-style lager) offer fresh takes on traditional styles. Seasonal releases add variety throughout the year, giving repeat visitors something new to look forward to. This diverse beer selection appeals especially to groups because it encourages tasting flights and sharing, sparking conversations around new favorite flavors. Craft beer novices and aficionados alike find accessible yet distinct choices, ensuring no one feels left out. The brewery’s commitment to quality ingredients and brewing excellence, recognized by national awards, means each beer is consistently delicious and crafted with care, enhancing the group’s overall experience.
How does the Wake Forest Hideout location add to the value of a visit? Lonerider’s Wake Forest Hideout serves as an excellent alternative or complement to the Raleigh brewery, particularly for groups who appreciate an expansive outdoor space paired with indoor comfort. This venue features an outdoor area designed for socializing, games, and larger gatherings, making it a fantastic spot for those who want to enjoy fresh air and sunshine while enjoying expertly poured Lonerider beers and spirits. Inside, the saloon-style seating offers a cozy, communal ambiance with twelve taps featuring Lonerider’s core lineup and rotating specials. The Hideout also stocks Lonerider Spirits including cider, vodka, and wines, broadening beverage options for guests with diverse tastes. Importantly, it offers rental space for events ranging from business meetings to private social gatherings, providing a versatile venue for any occasion. The extended weekend hours and vibrant atmosphere, combined with amenities like ample parking and friendly staff, make the Wake Forest Hideout a standout choice for groups seeking flexibility and variety in their meetup location.
What additional amenities and services does Lonerider Brewing Company offer to enhance group experiences? Beyond the beer and welcoming environment, Lonerider Brewing Company offers several amenities that enrich the visit and make organizing group meetups straightforward. Public brewery tours at the Raleigh location provide not just entertainment but a unique group activity that can be paired with tastings. Private tours can be arranged by reservation, ideal for groups wanting an exclusive experience. Both locations regularly host special events, including live music, tastings, and seasonal celebrations that provide entertainment and reasons to return. The availability of to-go cans and spirits means guests can extend the Lonerider experience beyond the brewery, perfect for parties or casual drinking back home. Group-friendly seating layouts, knowledgeable staff who can guide orders or pairings, and convenient hours mean planning a day or evening at Lonerider can easily accommodate varying schedules and tastes. These layered offerings make Lonerider Brewing Company a comprehensive destination for social gatherings, where friends and family can relax, explore craft beer culture, and celebrate together.