Spiral Brewery

Updated July 16, 2025

Description

Spiral Brewery in Hastings, Minnesota, is not just another craft brewery—it’s a heartfelt revival of a local tradition that dates back over a century. Hastings once boasted four bustling breweries before Prohibition hit in 1919, wiping out a vibrant scene practically overnight. Fast forward to 2018, and Spiral Brewery emerged with a mission to reconnect the town with its brewing roots, and boy, did it deliver.

Walking into Spiral’s taproom feels like stepping into a place where community really matters. It’s the kind of spot where kids, dogs, and grown-ups all feel welcome without the usual awkwardness you sometimes get at breweries. The communal tables encourage you to strike up a conversation with your neighbor, while quieter corners offer a perfect nook for working on your laptop or getting lost in a book. I remember the first time I visited, I ended up chatting with a local artist about the best hiking spots nearby—totally unexpected but absolutely delightful.

What sets Spiral apart is its genuine inclusivity and accessibility. It proudly identifies as women-owned and creates a safe, welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ folks, including serving as a transgender safe space. Accessibility isn’t just lip service here, either. The entrance, restrooms, seating, and parking are all wheelchair accessible, making it clear that this brewery wants everyone to enjoy their experience.

The brewery offers a solid lineup of beers that reflect creativity and community spirit rather than just chasing trends. There’s a bar onsite, and while they don’t do delivery, you’ll find plenty of free parking nearby, both in a lot and on the street, which is a blessing considering how frustrating parking can be in many small towns.

Spiral Brewery’s reputation speaks for itself with overwhelmingly positive feedback from visitors who appreciate its inviting atmosphere, quality brews, and commitment to community values. Sure, no place is perfect, and a few folks might not vibe with the style or the crowd, but that’s just part of the charm—this is a place with character and heart.

Key Features

• Women-owned brewery with a strong community focus
• Family and dog-friendly taproom—bring the whole crew!
• Communal seating encourages socializing, plus quiet spots for work or reading
• Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating
• LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space
• Onsite bar with a creative, locally-inspired beer selection
• Free parking available both in a lot and on the street
• Accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments

Best Time to Visit

Honestly, Spiral Brewery is a spot that works year-round, but if you want to catch it at its liveliest, late spring through early fall is your best bet. The patio opens up a whole new vibe when the weather’s nice—sunshine, fresh air, and a cold pint in hand, what more could you ask for? I’ve had some of my most memorable afternoons there during those warmer months, watching the sun dip behind the Mississippi River while chatting with friends.

Winter visits aren’t a bad idea either if you’re into cozying up indoors with a robust stout or a seasonal ale. The taproom’s warm, inviting atmosphere makes it easy to forget the cold outside. Just be prepared for a bit of a quieter crowd, which can be perfect if you’re looking to unwind and savor the flavors without distractions.

How to Get There

Getting to Spiral Brewery is pretty straightforward, whether you’re coming from downtown Hastings or passing through on a road trip. If you’re driving, you’ll appreciate the free parking options—both in their lot and on the street. The brewery’s location is easy to find, and the accessible parking makes it convenient for everyone.

If you’re relying on public transportation or rideshares, it’s worth planning ahead since Hastings is a smaller town and options might be limited compared to a big city. But that’s part of the charm, right? A little planning goes a long way to enjoying a relaxed afternoon or evening at the brewery.

For those who love biking, Spiral Brewery is bike-friendly too. The surrounding area has some lovely trails, so you could easily make a day of it—pedal over, grab a refreshing beer, then head back feeling accomplished and refreshed.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s the scoop if you’re planning a trip to Spiral Brewery:

• Bring your whole crew. Kids and dogs are welcome, so no need to leave anyone behind. Just keep in mind the taproom’s social atmosphere—sometimes it’s buzzing, sometimes it’s chill.
• Try to visit during off-peak hours if you want a quieter experience. Weekday afternoons or early evenings on weekends tend to be less crowded.
• Don’t hesitate to chat with the staff. They’re super knowledgeable and passionate about their beer and the community. Plus, they’ll often have the inside scoop on new brews or upcoming events.
• Check out the patio when the weather’s nice. It’s a great spot to soak up some sun and enjoy the local vibes.
• Bring cash just in case. While they do accept cards and mobile payments, some smaller events or special releases might be cash-only.
• Plan your transportation ahead. Especially if you’re coming from out of town or if you plan to indulge in a few pints. Safe travels, always.
• Keep an open mind. The brewery is about community and creativity, so you might find some experimental brews or unique events that push the boundaries of what you expect from a traditional brewery.

Visiting Spiral Brewery isn’t just about grabbing a beer; it’s about stepping into a space that’s deeply tied to Hastings’ past and its future. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, it’s a spot that invites you to slow down, connect, and maybe even make a new friend or two. Trust me, once you’ve been there, you’ll find yourself wanting to come back—not just for the beer, but for that genuine sense of belonging.

Key Highlights

• Women-owned brewery with a strong community focus
• Family and dog-friendly taproom—bring the whole crew!
• Communal seating encourages socializing, plus quiet spots for work or reading
• Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating
• LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space
• Onsite bar with a creative, locally-inspired beer selection
• Free parking available both in a lot and on the street
• Accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments

Location

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