The USA TODAY 10BEST Readers' Choice Awards for 2026 have named top honorees in several beer categories, including brewpubs, brewery tours and new breweries. Winners were selected through expert nominations followed by public voting. Highlights include repeat victories for Lua Brewing and Tröegs Independent Brewing.
The USA TODAY 10BEST Readers' Choice Awards, which recognize excellence in travel, food and lifestyle, announced its 2026 beer category winners on March 4. A panel of beer experts nominated finalists, and readers voted over four weeks to determine the top picks.
In the best brewpub category, Lua Brewing in Des Moines, Iowa, claimed the No. 1 spot for the second consecutive year. The microbrewery and restaurant, located at 1525 High Street in the Sherman Hill neighborhood, offers German-inspired beers, sours, IPAs and collaborations with other breweries. It also won for best beer label with its Scars are Beautiful West Coast IPA, inspired by brewer Jess Klembara to honor cancer survivors. "My scars tell a story of survival, strength, and grace. May yours remind you of how far you've come," reads the label. General manager Pete Rose Holmgren emphasized quality ingredients and community: "We love the community of beer."
Dewey Beer Co. in Dewey Beach, Delaware, ranked second in brewpubs, marking its third year in the top five. The brewpub, opened in 2015, celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2025. Co-owner Brandon Smith noted, "It's pretty amazing to be considered a Top 5 three years in a row."
Tröegs Independent Brewing in Hershey, Pennsylvania, earned No. 1 for best brewery tour for the sixth straight year. The one-hour tours cover the mill room, hop cooler, brewhouse, fermentation cellars and packaging lines. Brewmaster John Trogner said, "Our tour program has greatly evolved, but the one constant has been a passion for sharing our craft with guests."
Among new breweries opened since 2023, Elder Piper Beer & Cider in Petoskey, Michigan, placed third—the only Michigan entry. Owner Eeva Redmond highlighted community support: "We’re a small town doing something big. That’s exciting."
Hill Farmstead Brewery in Greensboro Bend, Vermont, ranked 10th in best beer gardens. Opened in 2010, it has produced nearly 500 beers and features 15 on tap amid scenic countryside views.