Last updated July 28, 2026.
From handcrafted ales and lagers to creative ciders, taproom experiences and one-of-a-kind beer festivals, Rowan County’s original craft beverage scene offers plenty of ways to sip, explore and discover something new.
Located in the heart of North Carolina’s Piedmont region between Charlotte and the Triad, Rowan County is home to locally owned breweries, cideries, bottle shops and restaurants that celebrate creativity, community and craftsmanship. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, searching for a unique date night idea, or simply looking for a new place to enjoy a locally made beverage, Rowan County offers plenty of opportunities to raise a glass.
Explore this guide to discover local breweries, craft beverage destinations and annual events that showcase the growing craft beer culture throughout Rowan County.
Rowan County Craft Beer & Beverage Snapshot
Rowan County’s craft beverage scene stretches across several communities, offering visitors a variety of ways to experience locally made drinks. From breweries creating their own recipes to taprooms showcasing North Carolina favorites, there are plenty of places to add to your itinerary.
Craft breweries, cideries, taprooms and beverage destinations featured in this guide include:
- New Sarum Brewing Company
- Grove Cartel Brewing Company
- Old Armor Beer Company
- Tipsy Hare Ciderworks
- Towel City Tavern
- Bottle & Can
Annual craft beverage events include:
- Bell Tower BREWFEST
- Brew & Choo at the N.C. Transportation Museum
New Sarum Brewing Company | Salisbury, N.C.
109 N. Lee St., Salisbury, N.C.
Located in historic Downtown Salisbury, New Sarum Brewing Company has been crafting original beers since 2012.
The brewery’s name pays tribute to Salisbury’s sister city connection with Old Sarum, England, reflecting the company’s appreciation for history and tradition. Each recipe begins with research into a specific beer style and its origins before incorporating creative techniques to develop a distinct flavor profile.
Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of handcrafted beers in the taproom while experiencing live music, community events and a welcoming atmosphere.
Why add New Sarum to your itinerary:
- Locally brewed craft beers in Downtown Salisbury
- Rotating beer selections inspired by classic styles
- Live entertainment and events throughout the year
- A relaxed taproom experience
Grove Cartel Brewing Co. | China Grove, N.C.
211 N. Main St., China Grove, N.C.
Photo by Grove Cartel Brewing Company.
Located in the heart of China Grove, Grove Cartel Brewing Co. brings together handcrafted beer, hometown pride and a unique dining experience.
Founded by two South Rowan graduates, Grove Cartel was created with the goal of bringing a brewery and restaurant experience to their hometown. The building itself stands out with original artwork from local graffiti artist Abstract Dissent, creating a memorable backdrop for enjoying a fresh brew.
On the second floor, visitors can also check out Meadow's at Grove Cartel, the second location of Meadow’s Italiano, serving fresh wood-fired pizza, handmade subs inspired by New York-style delis and more - making it easy to turn a quick stop into a full meal.
Why add Grove Cartel to your itinerary:
- Locally owned South Rowan brewery
- Craft beer paired with food
- Wood-fired pizza and subs at Meadow’s upstairs
- Unique local artwork and atmosphere
- A welcoming stop for groups and gatherings
Bottle & Can | Salisbury, N.C.
116 W. Innes Street, Salisbury, N.C.
Photo by Bottle & Can Salisbury on Facebook.
Not every craft beer experience starts at a brewery. At Bottle & Can, visitors can discover a curated selection of craft beers, ciders and select wines.
This woman-owned bottle shop and taproom showcases breweries from North Carolina, across the country and beyond. It’s a great place to try something new, grab a beverage to take home or relax with friends.
Why add Bottle & Can to your itinerary:
- Wide craft beer selection
- North Carolina breweries featured
- Taproom experience
- Knowledgeable staff and unique finds
Old Armor Beer Company | Kannapolis, N.C.
211 West Ave., Kannapolis, N.C.
Just beyond Rowan County’s southwestern border in Kannapolis, Old Armor Beer Company offers another craft beer destination worth exploring.
Owned and operated by combat veterans, Old Armor combines a passion for brewing with a commitment to community. The Downtown Kannapolis brewery provides a welcoming space where visitors can enjoy handcrafted beers and connect with fellow beer enthusiasts.
Why add Old Armor to your itinerary:
- Veteran-owned brewery
- Downtown Kannapolis location
- Variety of handcrafted beer styles
- Community-focused atmosphere
Tipsy Hare Ciderworks | Kannapolis, N.C.
213 West Ave., Kannapolis, N.C.
Photo by Tipsy Hare Ciderworks on Facebook.
Craft beverage lovers looking to try something beyond beer can visit Tipsy Hare Ciderworks in Downtown Kannapolis.
Inspired by their motto, “Creative Cider for Creative People,” Tipsy Hare creates unique ciders using techniques and traditions from around the world. It’s a fun addition to any craft beverage adventure.
Why add Tipsy Hare to your itinerary:
- Creative cider offerings
- Downtown Kannapolis location
- Unique flavors and seasonal selections
- Alternative option for craft beverage fans
Towel City Tavern | Kannapolis, N.C.
126 West Avenue, Kannapolis, N.C.
Photo by Towel City Tavern on Facebook.
For visitors who enjoy pairing craft beverages with great food, Towel City Tavern offers a unique downtown dining experience.
This two-story restaurant combines barbecue, house-brewed beers and a rooftop terrace overlooking Atrium Health Ballpark, home of the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers.
Why add Towel City Tavern to your itinerary:
- House-brewed beers
- Barbecue and craft beverage pairings
- Rooftop terrace views
- Downtown Kannapolis atmosphere
Craft Beer Events in Rowan County
Rowan County’s craft beverage culture goes beyond breweries and taprooms. Throughout the year, visitors can experience special events that bring together local breweries, live entertainment, food vendors and unique experiences.
Bell Tower BREWFEST | Salisbury, N.C.
Held annually at Bell Tower Green in Downtown Salisbury, Bell Tower BREWFEST celebrates the art of craft beer while showcasing the city’s vibrant downtown community.
The ticketed event features breweries from across North Carolina, allowing attendees ages 21 and older to sample a variety of craft beer styles while enjoying live music, food vendors and downtown experiences.
The festival extends beyond the park with participating downtown businesses joining the celebration through Sips in Shops, creating a walkable experience where guests can sip, shop and explore Salisbury.
What to expect:
- Craft beer tastings
- North Carolina breweries
- Live music
- Food vendors
- Downtown Salisbury shopping experiences
Visitors can also take advantage of our Bell Tower BREWFEST Stay & Play Package, which offers free event tickets when booking an overnight stay in Rowan County.
Brew & Choo | N.C. Transportation Museum | Spencer, N.C.
Photo by the N.C. Transportation Museum.
Combining two favorite North Carolina traditions - craft beer and trains - Brew & Choo is one of Rowan County’s most unique annual events.
Hosted at the historic North Carolina Transportation Museum, the festival invites visitors to explore the museum grounds while enjoying local breweries, food trucks, live entertainment and family-friendly activities.
Beer tastings are available for guests ages 21 and older, while families can enjoy lawn games, interactive activities and historic train exhibits.
Ride the Rails with New Sarum
One of Brew & Choo’s signature experiences is the beer-tasting train ride. Guests can purchase a special train ticket featuring samples from New Sarum Brewing Company while riding aboard a historic train.
Brewery representatives join the ride to share the stories behind each beer, creating a one-of-a-kind experience that combines craft brewing, history and railroad adventure.
