7+ Rock Hill Breweries You Must Experience For Incredible Local Craft Beer

Slow Play

If you’re on the hunt for the best breweries in Rock Hill, then Slow Play Brewing is a must-visit. This beloved establishment has become a staple for locals and visitors alike, thanks to their creative concoctions and fun events. 

Not only do they offer a wide range of handcrafted beers, but they also host weekly events that make for a great night out. Whether you’re a fan of Karaoke, trivia or just good company, Slow Play has got you covered.

Try the YoCo Buzz Honey Witbier, a collaborative effort that incorporates local honey for a unique and flavorful brew. Also on tap are popular favorites like West Coast IPAs, lagers, ales, and even a Gose.

Don’t forget about the delicious food truck, Cibi, serving up delicious bites to accompany your beer. We grabbed the roasted Brussels with our sandwich and they were delicious!

Middle James Brewing

Middle James started as a craft brewery in Pineville, NC but has since opened a location at the brand-new Power House in Rock Hill, SC. They serve up 20 taps of their own house-made craft beer in addition to options for cider and seltzer.

The Fly Kid Kolsch and the Highly Dramatic New England IPA are the most popular beers at Middle James Brewing. The IPA is made slightly differently each time in small batches that are now up to version 21. 

We tasted everything from the tap menu, including the Mint City Gold Pale Ale and the Peanut Butter Milk Stout. We really enjoyed the Great Musa Hefeweizen.

Middle James Brewing at The Power House has a huge, airy space inside with large TVs prioritizing sports games. They also have outside seating and a huge space for live music. 

The Power House also hosts 5 food vendors on the lower floor. Visitors are welcome to order food using the codes provided on the table for pick up and bring them back to their tables.

Parking in front of The Power House can be limited. Visitors can use the covered parking for the Power House next door for free for the first 2 hours. Just scan the QR code at the entrance and be sure to pay if you exceed the free parking limit.

Rock Hill Brewing Company

Rock Hill Brewing Company is among the best breweries in Rock Hill, South Carolina. Located in the heart of downtown Rock Hill, this brewery boasts a large and airy space. Filled with seating inside and out, it’s perfect for relaxing with friends over a cold glass of beer. 

The brewery is also connected to Millstone Pizza. Patrons can indulge in delicious pizza while sipping on any one of the many craft beers brewed in-house. 

Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for beer with your pizza Rock Hill Brewing Company is a great option.

Legal Remedy

Rock Hill, SC originally burst onto the brewing scene with Legal Remedy Brewing. Founded by five passionate individuals, including one lawyer, this brewery originally had to overcome numerous setbacks to make its grand opening happen. However, after almost two years, Legal Remedy Brewing finally came to fruition. 

Now, 9 years later, it’s one of the best breweries in Rock Hill.

The name Legal Remedy was inspired by the idea that “beer is good for what ales you” – it’s a legal remedy – and they truly live up to that moniker. 

The beer is brewed and canned on-site, and it can now be found in bottle shops and grocery stores all across the state. 

Their restaurant, recently taken over by new co-owners, is also looking to redefine its role in the community. Drawing inspiration from the pub culture in co-owner Mark Murphy’s native Ireland, they hope to create a space that brings people together. 

We always have to make a stop at Legal Remedy when in Rock Hill. Their pimento cheese “poutine” fries are a must!

Off the Tracks Brewing

Off The Tracks Brewing is a must-visit on any beer lover’s itinerary when in Rock Hill, South Carolina. They are a locally owned collaboration between Fort Mill’s Amor Artis Brewery and Hobo’s restaurant.

Its convenient location just minutes away from Winthrop University makes it the perfect pitstop for students and tourists alike looking for a brewery in Rock Hill.

Once inside, be sure to peruse their food menu which boasts a delectable array of options from wings and sandwiches to wood-fire pizza. But let’s get to the main event – the beer. They offer everything on draft from hazy IPAs, to hefewizens, and even seasonal options like an Oktoberfest marzen.

And if you’re looking for something different to sip on, their house-made hard seltzers are a nice change of pace.

Off The Tracks Brewing shares a side yard with Hobo’s and guests are welcome to bring their brews and food outside to enjoy the nice weather. They also offer yard games like cornhole, as well as outside seating and even firepits.

Lake Wylie Brewing

Proudly originating in Fort Mill near Lake Wylie, the new location for the Rock Hill brewery known as Lake Wylie Brewing Co. boasts an impressive selection of 15 beers on tap and a theme inspired by the surrounding waterway.

From porters to pilsners and everything in between, they offer a diverse selection of brews for all taste preferences. Two of their most popular beers are the Dam Release IPA and the Sandbar Blonde, named after Lake Wylie and the Catawba River.

The brewery features a dog-friendly outdoor space with rotating food trucks, plus a range of exciting events. Sip and shop at their quarterly vendors market or test your knowledge at their weekly trivia night.

You can even catch live music Friday and Saturday, with a once-a-month show featuring larger bands. Local bottle shops also sell their beer, and you can pick up 4 packs at the brewery itself.

Keep up to date on their latest events and brews by following them on Facebook and Instagram.

Dust Off Brewing Co (Closed 10/22/2023)

Unfortunately, this brewery announced they will be closing as of October 22, 2023.

Named after the owner’s history in the National Guard, Dust-Off Brewing is located just steps away from Old Town Rock Hill. Owner Josh Williams served as a med-evac pilot for 18 years. Once he retired he began experimenting with home-brewing craft beer.

He officially opened Dust Off Brewing Co 5 years ago this September (2023), paying homage to his experience in service. The phrase “dust off” is a call sign med-evac pilots use. Everything from the beers , design, and decoration inside the brewery is a salute to veterans who served.

Dust Off Brewing crafts an eclectic tap list in order to offer something for everyone’s palate. Their most popular beers are the Hazy Day IPA, Paratrooper Pale Ale, and Willy P Witbier. You can also find seasonal flavors, Sours, Belgians, and more. Popular flavors are also canned for distribution and can be found at several bottle shops and liquor stores in town.

Open 7 days a week, Dust Off Brewing has front and back pet-friendly patios in addition to ample seating inside. While they don’t currently have a kitchen, they regularly host food trucks and visitors can bring the food inside.

More than just a brewery

Dust Off Brewing also strives to be a place for the community to come together. 

From the website: “We here at DUST OFF Brewing Co. are focused on making the brewery the center of neighborhood life, and not simply just a place to eat and drink. We strive to be your “Third Place”, which is a cornerstone of gatherings and friendships.” 

In addition to craft brews, they host numerous events throughout the year. From the monthly First Fridays vendor market, to Sunday Run Club, and even live music over the summer there is always something. In the past, they have also hosted Lowcountry Boil & Bluegrass, Candle Making Workshops, and a 4th of July Eating Contest. Check their Facebook page for updates on upcoming events.

Sleeping Giant Distillery

With the rise of craft breweries across the country, it’s no surprise that Rock Hill, South Carolina has become a hub for beer enthusiasts. But tucked away in downtown Rock Hill’s historic district is a hidden gem that offers a unique experience for those who prefer something a little stronger.

Sleeping Giant Distillery, family-owned and operated since its opening, is the first distillery to grace York County since the Prohibition era focusing on rum. The distillery’s location in a stunning 1900s building only adds to its charm and authenticity. The building once served as a storehouse for a local cotton company and still has a few authentic pieces from its past.

Sleeping Giant offers tours and a tasting of their rum for $10 and each shot comes with a house-made mixer that pairs perfectly with the craft spirit. We really enjoyed the pairings and thought they complemented the rum perfectly. In fact, the mixers are so popular that Sleeping Giant puts them on their website for everyone to access!

Fort Mill Breweries

Looking for more brewery options near Rock Hill? Head over to the neighboring town to expand your tour into Fort Mill, SC. With options like the retro video games at Replay Brewing, the classic vibes at Amor Artis, and even the canteen at Anne Springs Close Greenway, you can’t go wrong.

Windy Hill Cider – York

Nestled in the heart of York County, just a quick half hour away from Rock Hill, lies the beautiful Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery. This second-generation family-owned farm welcomes visitors to pick their own delicious apples, indulge in fresh apple cider donuts, take hayrides, and explore their pumpkin patch. 

But that’s not all – the hard cider bar serves up drinks that are sure to impress, and live music on weekends keeps the atmosphere lively. With November just around the corner, guests can also look forward to enjoying pumpkin donuts.

Hours and U-pick reservations change seasonally and throughout the year, so check Windy Hill’s website for the most updated information. In general, reservations for U-pick apples are reserved well in-advance. However the cider bar and adjoining store with the apple cider donuts and other goodies are always open during regular hours.

Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery is truly a gem, especially for those looking to explore the YoCo Brew Trail beyond the local breweries in Rock Hill, SC.

Courtney’s Brewery – Clover

Courtney’s BBQ and Brewery in Clover, South Carolina is the perfect spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy some delicious food and beer. The family-owned business has been around for 25 years, and recently added a brewery to their already impressive establishment just a year ago. 

Their pork is sourced from their own pig farm, which has been in the family since 1823! In addition to their mouth-watering pork belly, smoked for over 16 hours with hickory wood, they also offer a variety of meats for sale such as sausage, pork chops, bratwurst, and ground pork. 

What’s unique about Courtney’s is that they offer three house-made barbeque sauces, so you can choose your favorite to top your meal. 

To add to the fun, they have live country music on Friday nights and their bar is open for football games on Sundays. If you’re into beer, they offer flights for $10 and a variety of IPAs, pilsners, and lagers. 

You can also find locally made crafts, Nants Farm Creamery milk, Choice Beverages, and Miller Farm Honey at this establishment. 

Plus, minutes down the road is the Indigo Iris Flower Farm if you are looking for more things to do in Rock Hill and the surrounding Clover and York County areas.

Lore Brewing Co – Indian Land

Lore Brewing Co has quickly become one of the best breweries in York County since opening its doors in October of 2019. 

Located in Indian Land and just half an hour’s drive from Rock Hill, this destination brewery has a fitting name of “Lore,” short for folklore, which is reflected in their unique and captivating branding. All of their beers are named after a creature or story from fairytales, and their tagline, “Share your lore” invites patrons to become part of the magical world they have created. 

With weekly events such as themed trivia and board games, Lore Brewing Co is a family-friendly establishment with a full food menu, including happy hour specials. 

Dogs are welcome outside on their patio, which is connected to the inside during Spring and Fall when the garage door is opened for all to enjoy the fresh air.

In addition to their house-made brews, Lore Brewing offers house-made seltzer, guest cider, wine, and cocktails made with spirits from local distillers like Sleeping Giant in Rock Hill, which is also a stop on the YoCo Brew Trail. 

Lore Brewing Co’s best sellers include their “Light as a Feather” American light lager, with a light and crisp flavor, as well as their seltzer called Mermaid Farts. Come for the beer and stay for the lore at this enchanting brewery.

Map of Breweries in Rock Hill

Where to Stay in Rock Hill, SC

Make a weekend out of your trip around the craft brewery scene of Rock Hill. You can even hire YoCo LoCo to bring you on a tour of breweries so you don’t have to worry about driving!

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Rock Hill for the weekend, here are a few options:

Staybridge Inn & Suites is one of the highest rated hotels in Rock Hill. With amenities like a breakfast buffet, indoor pool, fitness center, and proximity to things to do in Rock Hill, it’s a great option to be comfortable during a weekend stay.

If you are looking for more of a local, quiet stay, East Main Guest House is just one of several charming bed & breakfast hotels in Rock Hill. See them all here.

🤩 Check availability and prices

Rock Hill Breweries List

Final thoughts on breweries in Rock Hill, SC

With Rock Hill’s craft beer story ever-evolving, the selection of local craft breweries in York County is only getting bigger and better. 

In addition to exploring Rock Hill and the broader York County area’s breweries, like Slow Play and Legal Remedy Brewing, you can join the YoCo Brew Trail and get an official passport filled with stamps as you visit each location. 

Don’t forget to subscribe to our email list to be notified when our blog post about where to find the best beers in Fort Mill goes live – coming soon!

Until then, grab your growler or six-pack from one of Rock Hill’s craft breweries, find a comfortable seat, relax and sip on something special. Cheers!