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If you’re looking for the best Fort Mill breweries, you’re in the right place!
Whether you are planning a visit to Fort Mill, South Carolina, or even if you’re just popping in for the day, you’re in for a real treat.
I grew up in York County and take every chance I get to explore how much the area has grown and changed when visiting home. During my last visit, I had the pleasure of tasting the fine craft beers and talking to the owners at each of these local breweries in Fort Mill.
This guide is your ultimate roadmap to the best breweries in Fort Mill. Keep reading to taste your way on this adventure with us.
Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Visit York County. All opinions are my own.
Best Breweries in Fort Mill
Untamed Waters Brewing
Originally 1873 Brewing, this location changed ownership in 2023 and rebranded to Untamed Waters Brewing. The new owners Jordan and Alison plan to bring new life to the Fort Mill brewery scene.
Stepping into the brewery, I was instantly greeted with the warm, inviting scent of a chocolate malt stout brewing on my first visit, a hint of the unique beer experiences that await.
At Untamed Waters Brewing, Jordan and Alison’s passion for unique spins on beer and their love for the great outdoors shine through. Their name is a nod to their love for natural bodies of water, a testament to Florida’s natural beauty, and an amusing wordplay on the manipulation of water to make beer.
Popular beers are already being declared, too, with staples like the Juice Angler New England IPA, Driftwood Double Brown, and Smooth Water Cream Ale among many more rotating taps (I counted 12 during my most recent visit)
They’re not just focused on brewing, though.
They’re already becoming an integral part of the community, hosting fun weekly events like music bingo, trivia nights, and live music plus special beer releases that coordinate with neighborhood events like the Strawberry Festival and May the 4th Comicon.
The owners also invited local artist Jake Summerour to paint the new color-drenched mural bringing the ethos of Untamed Waters to life.
You can also book your own events at Untamed Waters, from parties to receptions.
Amor Artis Brewing
Your next stop on the YoCo Brew trail is Amor Artis Brewing – so get out your passports!
Established in 2018, Amor Artis has stood the test of time and is now the oldest operating brewery in the area. When you walk into their taphouse on Main Street, you will immediately be charmed by the warm bright space decorated with hanging plants in the center.
Co-owned by the Tolsen family – Khara, her husband Travis, and his brother Steve, it’s a place where love for the craft of brewing is evident in every pint. Head brewer Jessie Hooper, backed by a team passionate about their work, ensures each brew is unique and high-quality.
Even the name – Amor Artis – comes from the Latin for Love Craft and shows the immense focus this team puts on the art and craft of beer.
Local Beer – By Locals
Amor Artis Brewing is proud of its local roots. Travis and Steve are Fort Mill locals, and Khara serves in the Coast Guard. Their commitment to the local community extends to their ingredients – 99% of which are locally sourced, helping support area farmers and contributing to the unique tastes of their local beers.
Taste their flagship beers to see for yourself. Popular brews like Cruisin, Fort Milsner, and the Venti Cold Brew Blonde Ale are always on tap. For pumpkin spice lovers, don’t miss the PSL version of the cold brew blonde ale available in the fall!
But it’s not just about the beer. Amor Artis Brewing is a hub of community activity. Enjoy a good workout with their run club on Mondays or join the bike group on Wednesdays. Get ready for some fun with monthly trivia, bingo, and yoga sessions.
For those without much time to hang out, grab any fresh brews in their mix-and-match cans and bring it home with you. We brought home a medley of flavors and have been thinking about the Salt Malone watermelon ale ever since…
The Print Shop by Amor Artis
The Print Shop by Amor Artis is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts exploring the Fort Mill breweries scene (and getting your passport stamped on the YoCo Brew Trail). Located just a short walk from the main brewery, this additional space was once home to the company’s label printers, a nod to its past reflected in the name.
The beers available are similar to those at the main location, usually with different options on tap, offering a unique tasting experience for repeat patrons.
One of the standout features of The Print Shop is the permanent food truck, The Dining Car. Serving seasonal food, this culinary gem pairs its dishes with the brews on tap and offers a brunch service every Saturday and Sunday from 11-3.
The Print Shop, as with the main brewery, serves as more than just a place to drink beer. It’s a community spot, hosting events like ‘Pints and Padres’ on the first Tuesday of each month, a gathering for fathers to discuss issues and come home refreshed. Additionally, they host a girls’ night out every third Thursday from 6-9, featuring local vendors.
Replay Brewing
Stepping into Replay Brewing in the Kingsley shopping area is like stepping back in time. From the moment you walk into the doors, the neon lights, nostalgic pinball machines, and bright colors immediately transport you to simpler times.
Replay Brewing Company is an integral part of the Fort Mill breweries scene. A family-friendly establishment, the brewery offers a diverse range of beers to satisfy both urban and rural tastes, from light lagers to flavorful IPAs.
Most notable among their offerings are the flagship ‘Tilt,’ a hazy IPA, and ‘Java the Hutt,’ a distinctive coffee blonde ale.
Replay is not just about the beer. It’s a community-centered brewery, participating in collaborations with other local breweries in Fort Mill, and offering a robust event schedule. The calendar includes trivia nights and a run club, as well as a kid-free ‘adult swim’ night.
Visitors can also enjoy the dog-friendly patio, board games, and a vintage Nintendo 64, meaning there is tons to do while sipping their craft beer.
Food offerings are limited but include an array of appetizing bar bites.
Model A Brewing – Tega Cay
Model A Brewing is located just outside of Fort Mill on the banks of Lake Wylie in Tega Cay. There are 3 locations: the flagship brewery, concessions at the local ballfield, and the Model A Beach Club on Lake Wylie’s shore.
As Tega Cay’s first (and only at the time of writing) brewery, Model A was born from the idea that Prohibition is Over – it’s even written on the wall. Beers range from the Speakeasy Czech Pilsner to the incredibly popular Strawberry Kolsch – a highly anticipated seasonal release. While taps are constantly rotating, the crowd favorites All Night Blonde Ale and Tega Haze IPA are always available.
Beyond the beers Model A also offers a full menu with bar bites, burgers and sandwiches, and even a range of salads.
They pride themselves in being a family-oriented destination complete with two vintage arcade games and a wall of board games to choose from. While sipping on the All Night Blonde, I saw no less than 10 families stop by to enjoy the brewery even on a rainy day. The team is also dedicated to their community, regularly hosting give-back nights benefitting local schools.
In the summer the garage doors are pulled open to celebrate the sunshine, limited beer releases, and live music. Pets are allowed on the patio in this season as well.
Model A Brewing has won a stunning 18 awards in the short 3 years since they opened, including from the SC Brewers Guild and the US Open Beer Championship.
Other Stops for Fort Mill Beer on the YoCo Brew Trail
Anne Springs Close Greenway Canteen
The Greenway Canteen is a delightful bonus stop on the YoCo Brew Trail in Fort Mill, South Carolina. Located within the Anne Springs Close Greenway, which is spread over 2100 acres of protected land, the canteen is only steps away from miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails.
It offers a variety of local draft beers and seasonally inspired cocktails to refresh after a day of exploring. We enjoyed a refreshing Watermelon Cooler after days of tasting beer at all of these Fort Mill breweries.
If you’re feeling peckish, there are grab-and-go sandwiches and salads available daily, with a fuller lunch menu from Wednesday to Saturday, and a special Sunday Brunch.
The Greenway Canteen is not only known for great food and drinks but also for its sustainable initiatives. It incorporates rainwater collection, low-flow plumbing, and solar energy. Natural daylight is used to reduce energy consumption, and high-efficiency HVAC systems are implemented.
The nearby trails lead to a swinging bridge, a nature center, and Lake Haigler, where you can launch a kayak or enjoy a nature walk around the stunning lake.
The Greenway Canteen truly harmonizes leisure, sustainability, and local brews, making it unique among stops on the YoCo Brew Trail.
Other Breweries Near Fort Mill
Rock Hill Breweries
Just a few miles away from Fort Mill, the city of Rock Hill, South Carolina boasts an impressive array of six additional breweries, each with their unique brews and charm.
Each Rock Hill brewery provides a unique atmosphere, from cozy, intimate spaces like Off the Tracks Brewing, to expansive taprooms with live music like Middle James, providing a varied experience for beer enthusiasts. Make sure to check out their websites for the latest tap lists and possible special events during your visit.
While you’re in the area, make sure to check out other things to do in Rock Hill as well!
Lore Brewing Co – Indian Land
Lore Brewing Co, owned by Dave and Danielle, is a standout destination in Indian Land, having opened its doors in October 2019. The name ‘Lore’ is derived from folklore, with each beer creatively named after a creature, story, or fairytale and each comes with its own unique story.
The tagline “Share Your Lore” underlines the brewery’s ethos as a place where patrons can share their stories and create new ones. Their ultimate goal? To be a destination brewery.
While beer is the main focus at Lore, the brewery strives to cater to a wide range of tastes. They craft their own seltzers (including the popular Mermaid Farts) and also carry a guest cider, wines, and local spirits, notably from Sleeping Giant in Rock Hill.
For foodies, Lore Brewing offers a full food menu to accompany your drink of choice.
When it comes to beer, be sure to try their popular brews: the ‘Gin & Juice’ Hazy IPA or ‘Light as a Feather’ American light lager. Both are customer favorites and certainly worth a taste.
Courtney’s Brewery – Clover
Courtney’s BBQ and Brewery, based in Clover, holds a special place in the York County food and drink scene. A family-owned entity, it has been a significant part of the community since its establishment in August 1999.
The business expanded just a year ago, adding a brewery to its long-standing BBQ reputation. Courtney’s Brewery is housed in the historic Pinebark Grocery building, a local fixture since 1946, right after World War II.
With a combination of delicious food, craft beers, and live music, it offers an experience that goes beyond your usual BBQ joint. Friday nights come alive here with local artists like the Clover Boys, John Riley, and Palmetto Drive performing southern rock and country music, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Their brewery allows you to select a flight for $10, offering you the opportunity to taste a variety of their brews and select your favorites. Stop by for a plate of traditional barbeque and a pint of locally brewed beer.
Windy Hill Cider – York
Nestled in the heart of York, South Carolina is Windy Hill Orchard & Cider Mill, a local favorite and a must-visit for cider enthusiasts. This family-owned and operated business has been delighting customers with their rich, flavorful hard cider since 1996. Seasonal delights, like freshly made apple cider donuts and hard cider flights, draw visitors from near and far during their operating hours.
The Orchard offers more than just cider; it’s a full-fledged experience that includes U-pick apples in the orchard, a pumpkin patch, engaging hay rides, fire pits, and live music to entertain the whole family.
Their farm stand boasts fresh apple cider, bottled hard cider, and a selection of local farm goods. Be sure to check their website for the U-pick apples calendar, which changes each year.
For those seeking a unique culinary experience, mark your calendar for their annual oyster roast in January – an event that sells out every year. Stay updated on their seasonal hours and events by checking their website, as their offerings change annually.
Working Theory Beer Co – York
This is York, South Carolina’s first ever brewery and just opened April 2024! We were able to swing by and check out this brand new spot and had a great time.
There are 8 taps serving their own home brews, plus a rotating cider from Windy Hill and a guest brewery. The wine selection is excellent, and non-alcoholic options are also available from Boylan Sodas and a classic Jarritos Cola.
The crowd favorites are already apparent: Nebula is their hazy IPA, Co-op for American Lager, and the cream ale dubbed Sidewalk Chalk. What surprised me though was the spiced Belgian Ale – Trail Rations – which was subtle enough to work even on a hot day.
The city of York has been working hard to bring events to town, and it has been working. From Silver City when airstreams descend on the town for a weekend, to the summer concert series, Working Theory is there just around the corner from Main Street to welcome guests and locals alike.
Map of Breweries near Fort Mill
Where to Stay in Fort Mill, SC
If you’re planning a trip to explore Fort Mill’s craft brewery scene, you’ll need a comfortable and convenient place to stay. Check out these top hotels in the area to make the most of your visit without the stress of driving back to Charlotte.
You can even consider booking a brewery tour with YoCo LoCo Tours so you can relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about driving.
Cambria Hotel Fort Mill
For a comfortable mid-range option, consider Cambria Hotel Fort Mill. It offers spacious rooms, a bar and restaurant, and an outdoor pool – perfect to unwind after a day of brewery hopping. It’s conveniently located near many of Fort Mill’s top attractions, making it an excellent base for your stay.
avid hotels Fort Mill
If you’re seeking budget-friendly accommodations, avid hotels Fort Mill is a great choice. It offers modern, functional rooms at an affordable price, plus free breakfast, and has a great customer rating on Booking.com. Plus, it’s just a short drive from the brewery trail and downtown Fort Mill.
🤩 Check prices and availability
Wrapping up this list of Fort Mill Breweries
Beer lovers must visit the vibrant craft brewery scene in Fort Mill and the surrounding York County area. The diversity of breweries, coupled with the variety of unique brews, provides an exciting experience for your taste buds.
In addition, it’s not just the beer that makes it special, but the community, scenery, and spirit of craft brewing in this region. So what are you waiting for? Plan your adventure today!
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We promise to keep you updated with all things brewing and more from Fort Mill and beyond. Cheers!
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This blog post is brought to you through the generous sponsorship of the Visit York County, South Carolina tourism board. All opinions are my own.
