The Highway Brewing Co.

In the heart of the historic center of West Branch, you'll find a unique establishment—The Highway Brewing Co. This isn't just a brewery; it's a true symbol of the revival of local traditions, housed within the walls of a carefully restored old fire station. Opened in 2018 by husband-and-wife team Ethan and Erin Restainer, it quickly became a favorite spot for both locals and travelers crossing the USA.

The Highway Brewing Co.. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

What makes this place special is the harmonious blend of its industrial past and modern comfort. The interior is decorated with original glass garage doors and a massive brick bar, serving as reminders of the building's original purpose. The brewery operates on a compact 3-barrel system, allowing the brewers to constantly experiment and offer guests the freshest drinks.

In addition to craft beer, The Highway Brewing Co. is famous for its full kitchen and cozy atmosphere. It's the perfect spot for those who appreciate high-quality local products, historic architecture, and the warm hospitality of small American towns.

To check the current menu, book a table, or arrange a brewery tour, you can contact the staff directly. The Highway Brewing Co. actively stays in touch with guests through social media and their official website, where news about seasonal beers is posted.

Below is detailed contact information to help plan your visit:

The main reason to visit The Highway Brewing Co. is to taste their signature craft beers. Six core varieties are always available on the menu, including the Highway 55 wheat beer with hints of orange zest, the aromatic Chief Ogama IPA, and the rich Angry Bride amber ale. For those who want to try everything at once, tasting flights are available.

For spirits lovers, the establishment offers a unique cocktail list made exclusively with Michigan spirits. The culinary side is just as impressive as the bar: be sure to try the signature pretzels or choose one of the hearty main courses that perfectly complement the craft flavors.

Finding the perfect spot to relax is a treat in itself. You can sit in the main hall to watch the bar in action or head up to the second floor. From there, through huge historic windows or from the outdoor roof terrace, you'll get a great view of bustling Houghton Avenue. If you're interested in the secrets of production, don't forget to ask about the possibility of a brief tour of the brewing area.

The brewery is located at 209 W Houghton Ave, in the heart of the historic downtown area. Finding the establishment is easy—it is situated on the main street and stands out due to its distinctive former fire station architecture. For those traveling by car along Michigan's highways, this spot makes an excellent pit stop.

Public parking is available in the city center, making it convenient for drivers. If you are staying within the city limits, the brewery is easily reachable on foot or by local taxi. Thanks to its central location, The Highway Brewing Co. is an excellent landmark for exploring West Branch.

The story of The Highway Brewing Co. began not in an industrial plant, but in a typical dormitory at Michigan Technological University. Founder Ethan Restainer became interested in homebrewing under the influence of his Danish roommates, who introduced him to the world of high-quality craft beer. The first batches were brewed in tiny containers holding just one gallon.

After returning to his hometown, Ethan and his wife Erin decided to bring their passion to life. For their project, they chose the old West Branch fire station building, which stood empty and in need of restoration. The Restainer families have lived in the region for generations, so it was extremely important for them to preserve the building's historic character and turn it into a new hub for neighbors and tourists alike.

The brewery officially opened its doors in January 2018. The restoration was carried out with deep respect for the past: original brick walls and industrial style elements were preserved inside. The name "The Highway" symbolizes the connection between people, just as roads connect different cities and destinies.

For a standard visit, including a tasting of several craft beers and a full lunch or dinner, it is recommended to set aside 1.5 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere of the historic building and leisurely sample the menu.

If you plan to take a brewery tour to see the production process from the "inside," you should add another 30–45 minutes to your schedule. Weekend evenings can be quite lively, so your stay might be slightly longer due to the venue's popularity with locals.

The brewery operates on a steady schedule from Wednesday to Sunday. The doors are open to guests from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Please note that the establishment is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

As hours may change on holidays or for private events, it is recommended to check the official website or call ahead for information.

A stroll through the city center after visiting the brewery will allow you to further experience the Michigan atmosphere. Within walking distance, you'll find cozy restaurants and interesting cultural sites that introduce you to the region's history.

Here is a list of nearby places worth visiting: