Sidetracked Brewery: A Must-Visit Craft Beer Spot in Morganton, NC
It’s Monday, and you’ve had a rough day at work after a relaxing weekend. You need a place to unwind. Or maybe it’s a Friday or Saturday night, and you’re looking for the perfect hangout spot to enjoy quality time with friends. Perhaps you’re gearing up to watch your favorite team play and need a cold beer to pair with your game-day food. Whatever the occasion, I highly recommend checking out Sidetracked Brewery, located at 609 S Green St. STE 100 in Morganton, North Carolina, right next to the historic Morganton Railroad Station.
A Cozy Atmosphere with a Railroad-Inspired Theme
Owners Joseph and Jessica Ackerman have truly created something special with Sidetracked Brewery. From the moment you step inside, you’ll notice the warm, cozy ambiance. The industrial brick walls, exposed piping, and low ceilings give it an inviting, laid-back feel. Another standout feature is the brewery’s open-concept design, allowing guests to see the brewing tanks in action as Joseph crafts their wide selection of beers.
Staying true to its name, Sidetracked Brewery incorporates a railroad theme throughout the space—from vintage railway photos and signs to actual rail pieces embedded at the bar. If you’re a rail enthusiast like I am, you’ll appreciate these thoughtful details.
A Diverse Selection of Craft Beers
Sidetracked Brewery offers an impressive lineup of craft beers, including:
IPAs
Sours
Blonde Ales
Hefeweizens
Irish Red Ales
Irish Stouts
Seasonal & Specialty Brews
Some of their unique, must-try specialty brews include:
Butterbeer (a magical, creamy treat)
Girl Stout Cookie (a minty beer reminiscent of the beloved cookie)
Pickle Beer (for those who love a little tang)
They also have creatively named brews like Thomas the Dank Engine, Whistleblower Sour, Light Rail Blonde, Crosstie Brown, and Knucklethrower IPA. Personally, I’m all about sours and hefeweizens, so those are my go-to choices whenever I stop by. And if you’re a fan of cider, they offer some fantastic cider beers as well.
Events & Community Vibes
Beyond great beer, Sidetracked Brewery fosters a strong community atmosphere. When COVID-19 restrictions aren’t in place, they host fun events like:
Sign Language Classes
Cornhole Tournaments
Darts Competitions
Plan Your Visit to Sidetracked Brewery
If you’re looking for a new go-to craft beer spot in Morganton, NC, Sidetracked Brewery is a must-visit. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, their welcoming vibe, unique beer selection, and railroad-themed decor make it a standout destination.
Stop by and give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!
- Ben
