Location Spotlight: Georgetown

Have you done a beer day in Georgetown yet? A quick drive up 35 from downtown Austin (estimated time between 40 minutes and 8 hours, depending on traffic) puts you in the county seat of Williamson County. The historic towntown square houses several beer-centric businesses that are worth checking out, and a few miles outside of downtown you’ll find two(ish) breweries – one that’s been there for several years, and another that opened a bit more recently. Let’s take a deep dive into the best places to get craft beer in Georgetown, Texas!

Rentsch Brewery

Starting with the oldest brewery in Georgetown, Rentsch opened in 2015 about 3 miles north of downtown. Rentsch is known for their German style beers and large outdoor beer garden, featuring an impressive twisting oak tree providing shade to the picnic tables. Their brewing facility is quite large as well – in fact, they have partnerships with other breweries that don’t have locations of their own to brew at the Rentsch facilities; namely, Strange Land Brewery and Lass Haüs Ales. Additionally, Rentsch owns the brewing rights to Rojo, the Big Red flavored beer formally brewed by Islla St in San Antonio. You can find all of these beers along with a rotating selection of food trucks at their taproom! View our brewery spotlight of Rentsch, written all the way back in 2015 here.

Barking Armadillo Brewing

With an unfortunately timed opening in March 2020, Barking Armadillo had to quickly close back up again. But we’re here in 2023 and this brewery successfully survived the pandemic thanks to an outpouring of support, and now the taproom is a lively establishment west of 35. Featuring both indoor and outdoor seating, arcade games, board games, food trucks, frequent events, live music, and a varied beer selection, Barking Armadillo is my personal top pick in the Georgetown area if you’re looking for a place to hang.

Mesquite Creek Outfitters

Moving on from breweries, there are a number of establishments in Georgetown with great craft beer selections – starting with the most well known, Mesquite Creek Outfitters, which is actually a clothing store. You have to see it to believe it, this large building with high ceilings has a great wooden bar, lounge seating around a fireplace, and outdoor theming that makes you feel like you’re at a lodge in the woods. Carry your beer to the back half of the store to browse clothing and other supplies for your next hunting trip. The owners are proud supporters of Veteran Outdoors, a nonprofit group that provides outdoor activities for wounded veterans. As for the beer, it’s a nice selection of local brews from around the state, with flights and growler fills available.

600 Degrees Pizzeria and 600 Degrees Marketplace

Pizza and beer have always gone hand in hand, and there are several popular spots around Austin such as Aviator, Tony C’s, and of course Pinthouse. From the owners of Slapbox comes another option in Georgetown, 600 Degrees. They have over 50 beers available across all styles, and of course delicious pizza, wings, and their special pork shanks. The second location is just around the corner and is to go only – including beer (and wine) available in cans and bottles. The marketplace does have a few tables outside though if you don’t want to wait until you get home.

District Six

District Six is not your classic sports bar – they offer a quality selection of drinks and snacks to munch on while watching the game (yes, that game). Their beer selection is a mix of mainstays and local drafts with 33 taps available, a number of traditional and signature cocktails, and wine options; there’s certainly going to be something to please everyone. For a good time, head on over!

Barrels & Amps

Barrels & Amps is a grungy bar and taproom on the square often hosting music and comedy events. They have over 50 beers available between draft and cans, along with a full menu and liquor options. Come by in the afternoon for lunch or in the evening for a show, either way you’re likely to enjoy your stay.

Rentsch Brewery Outpost

For our final stop in this visit to Georgetown, we’re going back to where we started with Rentsch’s new second location. Open just over a year as of writing, the cozy taproom around the corner from District Six will supply you with much the same beer selection as their full facility, but now with a poppy themed billiards table. They also have darts, board games, and offer flights – what more do you need? Check them out!