Ask anyone where to grab a beer and they’ll tell you to go to Pinthouse. This brewpub, which has four locations across town, pairs mouthwatering pizza with equally enticing beer. India Pale Ales are a specialty, and their bright, citrusy Electric Jellyfish has become a hometown favorite. Pinthouse Brewing, the most recent addition to the PHP family, is gorgeously designed with an upscale menu, spacious taproom and outdoor patio.

Housed in a giant warehouse on the east side, Central Machine Works is a popular spot with an ambiance that alone is worth a visit. Bright orange picnic tables are scattered throughout the space, which includes an art gallery and outdoor area great for a sunny Austin day. Its small-batch, traditional beers are complimented by a German-inspired food menu. Plus, you can always expect cool community events, from outdoor screenings and live music to yoga classes and vintage markets.

If farmhouse ales are your jam, head to Jester King. Started by homebrewer Jeffrey Stuffings and his brother Michael Steffing, an emphasis is placed on spontaneous fermentation and regional ingredients, with lots of room for experimentation. Even if you don’t normally reach for tarter beers or ciders, there’s plenty more to enjoy while soaking in the Hill Country views. Sitting on 165 acres, the brewery is home to an event hall, kitchen, two-mile nature trail and farm with adorable goats.

What’s not to love about Lazarus? The brewery lives by the holy trinity: coffee, beer and tacos. Alongside a full service espresso bar and menu of Mexican food favorites, the cozy taproom uses a 10-barrel system with 16 taps, where head brewmaster Matt Couch offers an impressive range of beers that can only be experienced on-site. Visit Lazarus on bustling East 6th Street, and look out for a brand new location coming to North Loop this summer.

If you don’t already know the name, you’ll likely recognize Austin Beerworks’ colorful can design from shelves all over town. Founded in 2011 by four friends, the Beerworks team is heavily involved in each aspect of production, “from grain to glass.” Stop by their North Austin tap room any day of the week to experience a variety of beers fresh from the tank, including six core classics and tempting seasonal releases.

While technically in Del Valle, Live Oak is about 15 minutes away from downtown Austin and right next to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, making it an ideal stop for those looking for a pre- or post-flight hang out. Step onto 22 acres, featuring a beautiful shady biergarten and 12-hole disc golf course. Selling beer since 1997, the meticulously crafted lagers are a stand out, but our favorite is the award-winning, Bavarian-style Hefeweizen containing sweet notes of vanilla and banana.

Tucked away between the trees next to coffee bar and sister restaurant Better Half, you’ll discover Hold Out Brewing. Although a newer addition to the city’s beer scene, the sleek alehouse has already become a community staple, known for collaborating with other crafters like St. Elmo and Lazarus. The varied selection makes it easy to keep everyone in your crew satisfied, while providing a charming, laid back atmosphere. Pro tip: go during the weekend for a special brunch menu.

For many Austinites, a visit to ABGB is the best part of the week. Open to all ages with a dog-friendly patio, the community-centric spot serves fare made with locally-sourced ingredients and hosts live music every Wednesday through Sunday night. As for beer, the menu is split between its “Always” mainstays, featuring pilsners and hoppier pale ales, and a rotating “Sometimes” selection of inventive creations and collabs. Hosting a get together? Order a keg to go.

Helmed by second generation brewer Christine Celis, the original building opened in 1992, making this Austin’s first official craft brewery. The Belgian-style witbier is the star, honoring the traditional 1965 recipe of founder Pierre Celis, while Christine brings updated flavors and modern techniques. The family-friendly destination has a large patio, live music and multiple food trucks, and drinking under the tap room’s stunning copper kettle centerpiece will leave a lasting impression.

Joining the craft scene in 2016, St. Elmo has quickly made a name for itself. Located in the eponymous South Austin neighborhood, it’s a casual spot for good ol’ fashioned revelry, with weekly trivia, live bluegrass sets and more. Keep track of the changing menu on Instagram, or stick to the tried and true Carl Kölsch that’s “perfectly refreshing for the 8-month Texas Summer.” They’re also currently serving up fried chicken from the beloved Spicy Boys food truck.