Craft Breweries and Wineries Near Sandusky: A Complete Guide

Sandusky, Ohio, is more than just a gateway to Cedar Point and Lake Erie—it’s also home to some of the best craft breweries and wineries in the Midwest. Discover a variety of locally crafted drinks, from hoppy IPAs and smooth lagers to rich, full-bodied wines, that will satisfy your palate.

If you’re planning a brewery and winery tour in Sandusky, finding the perfect place to stay is just as important as picking where to sip. Explorer Rest & Recreation is a boutique hotel in Sandusky that provides a relaxing, stylish retreat after a day of tastings. Centrally located near the best breweries and wineries, it’s the ideal spot for craft beverage enthusiasts looking for a memorable getaway.

Key Takeaways

• Sandusky is home to fantastic craft breweries and wineries, each offering unique, locally made beverages.
• You can explore both Lake Erie wineries and downtown craft breweries in a single trip.
• Explorer Rest & Recreation is the perfect place to stay, with boutique accommodations near all the best locations.
• There are brewery and winery tour options available, so you can enjoy responsibly.
• Enjoy the brewery and winery tours with friends, creating memorable moments together while exploring local attractions and dining options.

The Craft Beer & Winery Scene in Sandusky

The Lake Erie region has long been known for its award-winning wines, thanks to the area’s fertile soil and moderate climate. In recent years, Sandusky has also become a craft beer hotspot, with several independent breweries creating unique, small-batch brews that attract beer lovers from all over.

Whether you’re in the mood for a crisp white wine overlooking a vineyard or a bold IPA in a cozy taproom, Sandusky has something for everyone. And with Explorer Rest & Recreation located near these top-rated spots, you can explore with ease and unwind in comfort at the end of the day.

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Best Craft Breweries Near Sandusky

1. Twin Oast Brewing

📍 Location: Catawba Island, OH

Set on a stunning farm property, Twin Oast Brewing specializes in farmhouse ales and seasonal brews. With its beautiful beer garden, locally sourced ingredients, and refreshing craft beers, this spot is a must-visit for anyone touring the Lake Erie beer scene. The brewery is named after the historic oast houses, which were used for drying hops in traditional European brewing. Beyond beer, Twin Oast offers delicious farm-to-table food options, making it a great stop for lunch.

🍺 Try This: Oast Ale (signature farmhouse ale) or Ship Burner (smoked porter).

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2. Small City Taphouse

📍 Location: Downtown Sandusky

Located just minutes from Explorer Rest & Recreation, Small City Taphouse features a rotating selection of CLAG Brewing beers (which are brewed right next door!) as well as an extensive list of craft brews. They have over 80 beers on tap and also feature a wide selection of bourbon, scotch, and tequila. The owners’ dream was to create a “cool Asian restaurant with a whole lot of beer” and they definitely deliver on both of these. Pair your beer with some sushi, a blow of Pho, or one of the many other inspired Asian dishes on the menu. This is one you’ll want to come back to again and again.

🍺 Try This: KHAzilla vs. mANthra (imperial IPA) or the Bye Bird (Pilsner).

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3. Saucy Brew Works Sandusky

📍 Location: Sandusky, OH (Seasonal hours – closed for the winter)

A Cleveland-based brewery that expanded into Sandusky, Saucy Brew Works is a fantastic spot for craft beer lovers who also appreciate great food. Pair their IPAs and lagers with one of their signature pizzas for a satisfying meal. The interior has a modern-industrial design with large communal tables, perfect for groups and casual gatherings. In addition to its beer selection, Saucy Brew Works offers house-made coffee and cold brew, making it a versatile spot to visit any time of day.

🍺 Try This: Juicy Asap (hazy IPA) or Modern Crimes (porter).

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Top Wineries Near Sandusky

1. Quarry Hill Winery

📍 Location: Berlin Heights, OH

Set atop a hill overlooking Lake Erie, Quarry Hill Winery offers breathtaking views and an excellent selection of wines. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon wine tasting. The winery is part of a family-owned orchard, which means you can also enjoy fresh fruit and local produce while sipping on wine. Their outdoor patio is a perfect place to unwind, especially during sunset when the vineyard takes on a magical glow.

🍷 Try This: Quarry Hill White or Big Red Barn Blend.

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2. Firelands Winery

📍 Location: Sandusky, OH

One of Ohio’s oldest wineries, Firelands Winery has been crafting wines since 1880. With a beautiful tasting room, scenic vineyard views, and award-winning wines, this is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. The winery is known for its European-style wines, thanks to the unique microclimate created by Lake Erie’s moderating effects. Their tasting room features knowledgeable staff who can guide you through their wide selection, ensuring you find the perfect bottle to take home.

🍷 Try This: Gewürztraminer (aromatic white) or Pinot Noir Reserve.

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3. Paper Moon Vineyards

📍 Location: Vermilion, OH

For a laid-back winery experience with live music and great wines, Paper Moon Vineyards is a fantastic choice. Their cozy tasting room and outdoor seating make for a great social experience. The winery frequently hosts live music events, wine pairings, and food trucks, making it a vibrant and fun place to visit. They offer a variety of dry and sweet wines, ensuring there’s something for every taste preference.

🍷 Try This: Traminette or Cabernet Sauvignon.

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Creating the Perfect Brewery & Winery Tour Itinerary

To make the most of your craft beer and wine adventure in Sandusky, here’s a suggested itinerary that takes full advantage of the scenic beauty and unique experiences along the Lake Erie shores:

1-Day Itinerary

• Morning: Start at Firelands Winery for a scenic wine tasting.
• Afternoon: Head to Twin Oast Brewing for a refreshing beer and lunch.
• Evening: Wrap up at Small City Tap House with a relaxed atmosphere, unique brews, and a sushi roll or two.
• Stay Overnight at: Explorer Rest & Recreation for a cozy and comfortable retreat.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

• Visit Paper Moon Vineyards for an afternoon wine tasting.
• Enjoy dinner, another tasting, and maybe some live music at Quarry Hill Winery.
• Stay overnight at Explorer Rest & Recreation.

Day 2:

• Start the day with Twin Oast for an early lunch and brew.
• Check out Saucy Brew Works if you’re visiting during their open season.
• End your trip at Small City Taphouse for one last round before heading home.

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Why Explorer Rest & Recreation is the Best Place to Stay

If you’re planning a brewery and winery tour in Sandusky, staying at Explorer Rest & Recreation makes your trip even better. Here’s why:

• Central location: Close to all the best breweries and wineries.
• Boutique-style experience: Unlike chain hotels, enjoy a personalized, comfortable stay.
• Relaxing accommodations: Perfect after a day of wine tastings and brewery visits.
• Locally curated recommendations: Get insider tips from the Explorer Lodge staff.

👉 Book your stay today and experience the best of Sandusky’s craft beer and wine scene!

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FAQs

Are there any brewery and winery tours available in Sandusky?

Yes! There are guided tours available that provide transportation so you can enjoy tastings without driving.

Which winery has the best lake views?

Quarry Hill Winery offers stunning Lake Erie views from its hilltop location.

Can I visit multiple breweries and wineries in one day?

Absolutely! Many of these locations are close together, making it easy to visit 2-3 spots in a single day.

Where should I stay while exploring Sandusky’s breweries and wineries?

For a comfortable, centrally located stay, Explorer Rest & Recreation is the perfect choice!

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Sandusky is a hidden gem for craft beer and wine lovers, and with so many incredible breweries and wineries to explore, it’s the perfect weekend getaway destination. Plan your trip today, book your stay at Explorer Rest & Recreation, and experience the best of Sandusky’s craft beverage scene!