Bayern Brewing, Inc.

If you are looking for a corner of authentic Germany in the heart of Montana, then Bayern Brewing in Missoula is exactly the place to visit. As the oldest operating brewery in the state, it represents a unique blend of traditional production, a cozy restaurant, and a taproom that carefully preserves European brewing secrets in the USA.

The main feature of the establishment is its strict adherence to the Bavarian Beer Purity Law (Reinheitsgebot). No additives or preservatives are allowed here: the ingredients include only water, malt, hops, and yeast. This is a fully local enterprise where the entire production cycle — from brewing to bottling — takes place under one roof, guaranteeing the exceptional freshness of the beverage.

In addition to its commitment to tradition, Bayern Brewing is known for its responsible attitude toward the environment. The use of sustainable business practices makes this place not only a cultural and gastronomic hub but also an example of a modern approach to production. Visitors can expect a warm atmosphere and the chance to touch the living history of craft brewing.

For those planning a visit to this welcoming spot, we have prepared up-to-date contact information. You can always check for availability or book a table in advance.

At Bayern Brewing, every guest will find something to enjoy. The main attraction is, of course, tasting authentic German lagers. You can try the classic Pilsner, the famous Oktoberfest, or the gold-medal-winning strong Doppelbock. In total, the brewery offers three year-round and seven seasonal varieties, each with its own unique character.

For curious tourists, there is the opportunity to take a self-guided tour of the production facility. It is a great chance to see firsthand how quality brew is created and learn more about the techniques brought from Europe. The atmosphere of the facility, filled with the aromas of malt and hops, allows for a deeper immersion into the process.

Finish your visit at the Edelweiss Bistro — the local restaurant whose menu is designed to highlight the flavors of the beer. Traditional German dishes are served here, perfectly complementing the drinks. The combination of fresh-brewed beer and authentic cuisine creates a true sense of being at a real Bavarian celebration of life.

Finding Bayern Brewing is quite easy: it is located in the central part of the city at 1507 Montana Street. Missoula is a vibrant city in western Montana, widely known for the University of Montana, and the brewery is a key highlight on its culinary map.

If you are traveling by private car or taxi, your GPS will easily find the route using the coordinates: 46.8726312, -114.0201778. The drive from the city center takes just a few minutes. You can also reach the brewery via public transport, which runs regularly along Missoula's main streets, making the location accessible to everyone.

The story of the establishment began in August 1987, when a German family, the Schults — Reinhard and Trudy — decided to bring a piece of their homeland to Missoula. The name Bayern Brewing was a direct reference to their home region. That same month, Jürgen Knöller, a professional brewer who had completed a rigorous nine-year apprenticeship at a prestigious school in Munich, arrived in Montana to lead production.

In 1991, Jürgen Knöller bought the brewery from the founders and has remained its head ever since. From the very beginning, the company focused on traditional lagers and styles that were rare in the American market at the time, such as märzen (the foundation for Oktoberfest festival beer) and strong doppelbock.

Over the years, the brewery has changed locations three times, expanding and refining its processes to meet growing demand. Today, Bayern Brewing proudly holds the title of the oldest operating brewery in the state of Montana and is considered a true pioneer of the craft movement in the American West.

To fully enjoy your visit to Bayern Brewing, it is recommended to set aside 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time to take a leisurely look at the production area, sample several beer varieties, and have a hearty lunch at the restaurant.

If you plan to study the brewing process in detail or spend an evening with friends in the authentic atmosphere of the bistro, your visit might last longer. In any case, there is always a hospitable environment here, perfect for a relaxing break.

Bayern Brewing operates on a schedule convenient for tourists. The doors are open to visitors daily from 11:00 to 20:00, allowing you to stop by for an early lunch or an evening glass of beer after a walk around the city.

Despite the stable schedule, we recommend checking the official website before your visit. Occasionally, hours may change due to holidays or special festivals.

Missoula is a city with a rich history and many interesting locations. A stroll through the neighborhood after visiting the brewery will help you better experience the local atmosphere and see historic buildings, parks, and industrial monuments.