This Scenic Illinois Brewery Belongs on Your Summer Bucket List

Have you put together your Illinois summer bucket list yet? Well, we have a possible addition for you! There is one beer garden in Illinois that is definitely worthy of your bucket list. At Riggs Beer Company, you can enjoy a refreshing craft brew and the warmth and sunshine out in the German-style beer garden.

Riggs Beer Company is a family-owned brewery, taproom, and beer garden located in Urbana. It produces a variety of both American and German-style beers onsite. The taproom, which seats up to 95 guests, is always an excellent part of the brewery to hang out. And it's where you can watch the production process. Here you will also find a self-service bar with beer.

The outdoor German-style beer garden is an alternative to sitting indoors in the taproom. It can accommodate over 200 guests who can enjoy the warmth and sunshine outside.

Why This Illinois Brewery Is Perfect For Summer

When it comes to summer activities in Illinois, few experiences beat spending an afternoon outdoors with a cold drink in hand. Riggs Beer Company combines everything people look for in an outdoor brewery in Illinois: fresh air, open space, locally crafted beer, and an ultra-relaxed atmosphere. The expansive beer garden gives folks plenty of room to spread out and enjoy warm-weather afternoons, making this Illinois brewery destination an easy addition to your summer bucket list.

The beer garden is also quite family-friendly, so go ahead and bring the kids! There's a playground out there as well as lawn games to enjoy. And if you have a well-behaved dog, go ahead and bring him along, too. From your seat outdoors, you'll also have views of the wheat and clover fields where the grains used to brew the beer are grown.

If you get hungry, the brewery works with several local food trucks. You can either bring your own food or purchase food from a food truck parked outside the building.

What to Drink When You Visit

One of the things that makes Riggs stand out among breweries in Illinois is its mix of traditional German brewing techniques and approachable American styles. Beer lovers looking to expand their Illinois craft beer horizons can choose from favorites like Hefeweizen, American Lager, Red Lager, and IPL offerings... and don't sleep on the seasonal brews, either!

If you're new to German-style beer, go with a crisp lager or refreshing Hefe. They are both excellent starting points before expanding your palate to more adventurous brews.

What to Know Before Visiting

Riggs Beer Company is located in Urbana, making it a smart stop for visitors adventuring around east-central Illinois. The family-friendly atmosphere, playground, lawn games, and dog-friendly outdoor seating help set this Illinois beer garden apart from other traditional brewery experiences. Since food trucks rotate throughout the season, check the brewery's social media before visiting to see what you'll be noshing on later.

Have you had brews at this beer garden in Illinois? Do you have another favorite beer garden you would like to share with us and your fellow readers? If so, please do so in the comments. To learn more, visit the Riggs Beer Company website and Facebook page.

Do you enjoy German-style beer? If you said yes, make your way to Stubborn German Brewing Company located in Waterloo, Illinois.