There’s no denying that the craft beer industry has seen unprecedented growth over the past few years. As of June 2019, there were approximately 7,500 active craft breweries in the United States (according to the Brewers Association) with roughly 3,000 new breweries in the planning state. That’s a lot of beer!
But people aren’t just drinking more craft beer – they’re actually traveling for it. The phenomenon has also been trending in recent years, giving way to a brand-new category within the tourism industry. Beer enthusiasts are planning entire vacations around their favorite breweries and specifically seeking out beer-focused events and festivals. There are even beer-themed hotels, like BrewDog’s DogHouse Columbus, which features an in-room craft beer tap and a “shower beer” mini-fridge in the bathroom.
Friends raise a glass while tracing along the Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail.
And it’s not just the beer-lovers chasing these types of travel experiences. Wine-themed trips targeting oenophiles have long attracted thirsty tourists to destinations like California’s Napa Valley, the Tuscany region of Italy, and South American vino capitals like Mendoza in Argentina.
Thankfully, you don’t need to travel across the country (or the globe) to sip on some seriously delicious beer and wine. In fact, we have a slew of top-notch producers located right here on the Treasure Coast. From popular local labels like Sailfish Brewing Company and Islamorada Beer Company in Fort Pierce, to buzzworthy newcomers like Ocean Republic Brewing in Stuart – there are plenty of places to wet your whistle right here in our own backyard.
Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail features the best selection of local brews, wine, and cider.
So what’s the best way to experience them all? Follow the Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail, of course! As Florida’s newest wine and beer trail, the current line-up includes 10 local breweries, one winery, and even a cidery. From micro-breweries to large-scale productions, the Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail was designed to introduce locals and visitors to the vibrant, diverse group of entrepreneurs who are helping redefine the Treasure Coast, one perfect pint at a time.
Whether you’re planning an upcoming getaway around the new Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail, or you’re simply looking to sample some local brews during your next visit, here’s how to conquer the trail in a few easy steps.
STEP 1: Get Your Treasure Map
Download and print the most updated version of the trail map here. You can also pick up a map at any of the participating breweries, winery or any of the following locations:
- St. Lucie Chamber of Commerce (2937 West Midway Rd, Fort Pierce, FL)
- Seven Gables Visitor Center (482 North Indian River Dr, Fort Pierce, FL)
- St. Lucie County Office of Tourism (2300 Virginia Ave, Fort Pierce, FL)
- Indian River Chamber of Commerce (1216 21st St, Vero Beach, FL)
- Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce (700 Main St, Sebastian, FL)
- Martin County Office of Tourism (2401 SE Monterey Rd, Stuart, FL)
STEP 2: Collect Stamps Along the Way
Now that you’ve procured your map, you can set out on your imbibing adventure. Visit each of the participating locations on the course, purchase a craft beer or wine, and get your stamp on the corresponding location on the treasure map.
Remember – this isn’t a bar crawl intended to be completed in one go, so take your time and space visits out during your visit. And also travel with a designated driver or use a transportation or taxi company to get you safely from place to place.
STEP 3: Redeem Your Treasure
After your map is filled with stamps from each location, you can redeem your treasure at the last location on your trail – but you must visit every location on the trail in order to claim your prize!
Once completed, you can redeem your prize by presenting your stamped treasure map to a staff person at your final location the trail. A government-issued ID showing your date of birth (reminder: you must be 21 or older to participate) must also be presented. Once validated, you will receive your official prize.
STEP 4: Spread the Word
While you’re on your journey, share your photos on social media using #tcwineandaletrail for a chance to win even more Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail swag!
The Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail Map makes following the course a breeze.
Disclaimer: Consuming alcoholic beverages along the Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail is intended only for responsible adults of legal drinking age in the United States of America (21 years old or older). It is purely intended for entertainment purposes. The Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail does not advocate or encourage the abuse of alcoholic beverages. Please drink responsibly and with moderation. Do NOT drink and drive. We do not, under any circumstances, accept responsibility for any damages that result to you or anyone else due to the consumption of alcoholic beverages or the use of the trail map, website, or any other promotional materials and any information within it.