Devil's Club Brewing Company

Located in the heart of the historic center of Juneau, Devil's Club Brewing Company is a place where traditions meet bold experimentation. This is more than just a modern craft brewery; it's a true community hub housed in the legendary Hellenthal Building, built in 1916. Once home to Alaska's first cinema and grand theatrical productions, today the building is filled with the aromas of malt and hops.

Devil's Club Brewing Company. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The establishment is named after a local thorny plant, which in the USA, and especially in Alaska, is considered a symbol of resilience and the wild. The brewery quickly earned recognition from travelers and locals alike, taking first place among the city's bars according to Tripadvisor. Authenticity is key here, so the taproom interior preserves the spirit of the old city, offering guests a cozy atmosphere to relax.

Devil's Club Brewing Company specializes in creating innovative beers that reflect the unique landscape of Southeast Alaska. From classic ales to experimental new releases, every drink tells a story, making this brewery a must-visit for any craft beer enthusiast.

For those planning a visit, current contact information is provided below. You can book a table or check the availability of specific beers by phone or via the official website.

The main reason to visit Devil's Club Brewing Company is, of course, the tasting experience. There are 20 taps constantly rotating through a wide variety of styles, from refreshing light lagers to bold, experimental ales inspired by the Alaskan wilderness. Be sure to order a tasting flight to experience the innovative flavors developed by the brewing team.

In addition to drinks, the establishment offers an excellent food menu. Visitors particularly praise the sandwiches and original snacks, which perfectly complement the brews. The taproom kitchen focuses on high-quality ingredients and hearty dishes, making the brewery a great spot for a satisfying lunch between tours.

History buffs will enjoy simply being inside the Hellenthal Building. High ceilings and elements of original architecture are reminders of the venue's theatrical past. You can also purchase branded merchandise — such as t-shirts, caps, or glassware with the brewery's logo — which make great souvenirs of your trip to Juneau. The friendly atmosphere encourages chatting with the bartenders, who are always happy to share details about the brewing process for each batch.

Finding the brewery is easy, as it is located at 100 N Franklin St, right in the heart of Juneau's historic district. The brewery occupies the prominent Hellenthal Building, which is a major landmark for locals and tourists alike.

If you are arriving by cruise ship, the walk from the terminal to the taproom takes only a few minutes through the city's picturesque streets. Most downtown hotels, such as the Silverbow Inn or Four Points by Sheraton, are within 200–300 meters, making the brewery an ideal final stop for a walking tour.

For those traveling by taxi or public transport, simply tell the driver "Downtown" — the brewery is within walking distance of the main stops. Juneau is quite compact, so it is easy to navigate even without a map by simply heading toward historic Franklin Street.

The history of Devil's Club Brewing Company began relatively recently, in 2018, when three friends and Alaska residents decided to combine their talents. Jake Riddle, Evan Wood, and Ryan Lindsay spent four years developing a business plan and unique recipes before opening their doors on April 20, 2018. Each founder brought their own expertise, ranging from culinary skills to deep marketing knowledge and international brewing experience.

The building itself has much deeper roots. The Hellenthal Building was constructed in 1916 and originally served as the home of the Palace Theater — Juneau's first cinema and variety theater. Today, the industrial gleam of the brewing equipment sits alongside the historic charm of the century-old structure, creating a unique atmosphere of generational continuity.

The company's name is a tribute to the rugged northern nature. Devil's Club (Oplopanax horridus) is a thorny plant endemic to the forests of Southeast Alaska. It is known for its resilience and medicinal properties, which the creators believe perfectly symbolizes the region's adventurous spirit and wild energy.

It is generally recommended to set aside 1 to 2 hours to visit this atmospheric spot. This is plenty of time to leisurely enjoy a few samples from a tasting flight, grab one of their signature sandwiches, and soak in the building's history.

If you are visiting with a large group or during peak hours (for example, when large cruise ships are in port), your stay might be a bit longer due to the venue's popularity. In any case, this is a place designed for relaxed leisure rather than a rushed visit.

The brewery is open to guests daily, making it a convenient stop on any day of your trip. The operating schedule is as follows:

From Monday to Saturday, the taproom welcomes visitors from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. On Sunday, the hours are slightly shorter, from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Please note that the kitchen may close slightly earlier than the bar itself, so it is best to arrive early for a full dinner.

Exploring the area around Franklin Street is a great way to discover Alaska's historical heritage. After your tasting at the brewery, you'll find that some of the city's most interesting cultural and architectural landmarks are just around the corner.