5 Baby-Friendly Breweries in Charlotte
Little ones are welcome at these family-friendly breweries in Charlotte.
If you are a parent who enjoys socializing and craft beer and outdoor spaces, Charlotte's brewery scene is enticing. And many of Charlotte’s newest brewing companies are family-friendly. These are five I believe to be sunny, fun spaces for parents and kids. Many of these places host yoga nights and occasional live music, too. (Of course, always choose your designated driver and be responsible).
SEE ALSO: A note on whom and what are welcome at Charlotte's breweries
1. The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery
I went here with my family of four, including my baby, on a Saturday afternoon to celebrate a friend’s birthday. The outdoor area is large with rows of picnic tables. There is plenty of space for children to run in a side yard, and there are multiple cornhole set-ups. Inside has a full-menu with an abundance of sandwich and salad choices, but there are also outdoor ordering stations and a outdoor dining menu that includes sausages and such. I can promise you won't be the only family there on a Saturday afternoon. They open at 11 a.m., seven days a week, so you can go before naptime. 4150 Yancey Road in LoSo (Lower Southend).
Photo by Wes Faulk
Me (left), and the birthday girl and my son at Olde Meck Brewery.
2. Free Range Brewery
Located in NoDa, the Free Range crew has set up an area specifically for children with a magnetic chalkboards, board games, books and art supplies. Its website describes the area as a “small kids’ area with a variety of materials that promote quiet, creative and contemplative play.” No kitchen on site, but food trucks can be found stopping in. 2320 N. Davidson St.
3. Legion Brewing
Located in Plaza Midwood, Legion doesn’t have a large outdoor space for running and playing, but the Saturday afternoon I was there, there were plenty of parents there with babies. I even saw a few strolling outside in the parking lot with the tots. They also have board games available if you and the kids feel like a round of Scrabble. There is no kitchen or food made in-house, but you are welcome to bring your own. Pick up a sandwich at The Common Market across the street or get a hotdog at The Diamond. 1906 Commonwealth Ave.
4. Sycamore Brewery
It’s a hotspot right now, and is the new home of Food Truck Friday in Southend. (The original plan was 12 trucks each Friday, but will kick off with four due to limited space). Monday through Thursday, the small in-house kitchen serves up pressed sandwiches. Enjoy rows of picnic tables and space for kids and strollers to move about. It’s also pet-friendly. 2161 Hawkins St.
5. Birdsong Brewing Co.
Birdsong Brewing Co. is located on the edge of NoDa. It also has good outdoor space and ample space inside for moving about. They offer up free peanuts, and you are welcome to bring your own food (I recommend a burger from nearby Brooks Brothers). It is TV-free, so plan on conversation. Dogs are welcome too.
