If You're Hoppy and You Know It: A Beer Lover's Guide to Williston, ND

Settling in with a beer after a long day is a great way to relax and unwind. It’s also a common way to connect with friends, blow off steam with coworkers, or make new acquaintances. A great beer in a social setting can be the highlight of an otherwise unremarkable day.  

Finding the right spot, however, is just as important as the beer itself. Whether you're a craft beer connoisseur, a newbie eager to try unique brews, or a beer enthusiast looking for a place to sit down with friends after a long day, North Dakota has plenty of options to choose from, including a brewery located directly in Williston, perfect for local residents looking for a night out.   

Our short list below includes some of the best locations in Williston to enjoy a brew with others.  

Williston Brewing Company: Your Local Brewery Headquarters 

When it comes to local breweries, you don’t have a glut of options. Williston Brewing Company is the only one in the city. Here, you'll find an extensive menu that includes everything you want for dinner with your brew: sandwiches, steaks, pasta, salads, pizza, and a host of other options.  

They have certain brews that have a devoted local following, including their 1280 IPA. They also make lagers, while many breweries only craft ales. Their Oil Bust Brew Lager has a lovely amber hue and is perfect for sipping over a lengthy visit. You can also find many classic German-style brews on tap here, including a Helles-style lager and a Hefeweizen. Not only is Williston Brewing Company home to a wide selection of beers, but it has one of the largest wine menus in the local area.  

Williston Bars and Pubs: Explore Local Drinking Spots 

While Williston might have only one brewing company, you have plenty of options when you're looking for bars, pubs, and other places to find your perfect beer match.  Many local establishments have multiple beers on tap, including craft brews and imports.  

• DK's Lounge: DK's Lounge is a dance and night club that boasts a range of regular activities and events. It’s the perfect destination for shaking things up, getting out of the house, and enjoying a night out, whether by yourself or with friends.  
• River's Edge Bar and Grill: This neighborhood sports bar and grill, which is locally owned by a veteran, boasts more than 300 different cocktail options, not to mention an extensive beer menu. They typically have 12 beers on tap. With 15 large-screen TVs, it's the perfect place to enjoy the game. You can also come by for regular events, including beer and trivia or bingo.  
• Cattails Lounge: At Cattails Lounge, you'll find more than just quality drinks. It offers a premium experience, fantastic ambiance, and a professional atmosphere perfect for business meetings, networking, or a high-end celebration. Its wide cocktail menu means you're not just limited to beers; you can find an incredible selection perfect for every palate.  
• Slater's: At Slater's, you'll find cold drinks, great service, and incredible events, including regular karaoke, open mics, and live music events.  This popular local dive bar was once known as The No Place bar, but a change of ownership led to a change of name as well. It is incredibly busy, especially on the weekends, so this is the place to be if you want to meet people and enjoy live entertainment. 
• Tavern at the Grand: Located inside the Grand Williston Hotel and Conference Center, the Tavern at the Grand offers a wide selection of appetizers, steaks, burgers, pizza, and other selections alongside a wide range of draft beers, whisky, bourbon, and cocktails. The Tavern strives to provide an excellent culinary experience for all its guests, whether they're drinking or simply sampling the wide range of menu options.  

While Williston may not be the heart of brewing in North Dakota, there are plenty of places where you can settle in for a drink, kick back and relax, or just see what the local bar has to offer.  Especially if you’re looking for a draft beer in a social environment, there’s something for just about every beer connoisseur in Williston.  

North Dakota Brewing Companies: Expanding Your Search 

If you’re on the hunt for your next favorite local beer, you may have to explore outside of Williston to find a wider range of breweries. There are, however, several notable options throughout North Dakota. Whether you make it part of a weekend away or a larger tour of the state, check out some of these breweries in your search for the perfect brew.  

• Laughing Sun Brewing Co: Located in Bismarck, Laughing Sun has been voted "Best of the Best" by the Bismarck Tribune. It hosts live music every Friday and Saturday night from 8-11 p.m.  
• Drekker Brewing Co: At Drekker Brewing Co, located in Fargo and Nodak, weird is the way. They're constantly coming up with new brews, experimenting with unusual flavors, and creating something new, from "juicy IPAs" to "the funkiest sours imaginable."  
• Icewind Brewing Co: Icewind Brewing Co, located in Mapleton, offers a variety of drink options, including hard seltzers, lagers, sours, and more. They also craft seasonal flavors that are sure to catch your attention.  
• Gideon's Brewing: At Gideon's Brewing, you'll find a locally-owned, veteran-owned craft brewery with a rotating selection of small-batch beers and hard seltzers. The beer selection changes regularly, so you'll often find something new or get to revisit a surprising seasonal favorite. Gideon's Brewing has an inviting atmosphere that encourages visitors to become friends as they connect with one another over a pint.  

If you're using these brewing companies to help expand your travel plans, make sure to keep an eye on their hours so that you arrive at a convenient time, and of course, don't forget to drink responsibly.  

Home Is Where You Store Your Growlers 

To truly enjoy the breweries and bars in and around Williston, a comfortable home base is key. Your home should feel like a haven after a long night out. The Reserve at Elk Crossing has 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments with the amenities that will make you feel right at home.  

From private garages to walk-in closets, there’s plenty of space for you in our community. You might even find neighbors who enjoy the same kind of beers as you or host a tasting for your friends in your spacious apartment. Reach out to our team today to learn about available homes. Come home to The Reserve at Elk Crossing!