August Schell Brewing Co (Craft Beer & Brewery in New Ulm MN)

August Schell Brewing Co in New Ulm, Minnesota, is a living piece of brewing history. Since 1860 it has been the country’s second‑oldest brewery and the longest‑running family‑owned operation of its kind. Here, German lager traditions are treated with the reverence of a cathedral and the curiosity of a laboratory, producing classics such as a silky German‑style Dark Lager and the award‑winning Grain Belt that could make a purist weep with joy.

The Bierhalle is a social arena where locals and visitors alike clink glasses without pretension, while a well‑guided tour weaves together the brewery’s industrial milestones and the town’s own story (the founders, who had worked together for years, decided early on that quality would trump hype). Beyond the copper kettles lies an expansive gift shop stocked with quirky merchandise and, in summer, a garden setting that feels like a picnic in a perfectly kept park. Every pint, every laugh, and every souvenir reinforces a simple truth: craftsmanship, tradition, and a good dose of humor make for a brew worth celebrating.

Why we love this brewery

What visitors love

Visitors praise August Schell Brewing Co's informative and entertaining tours, which offer a glimpse into the brewery's rich history and family ownership legacy. The facility also boasts an excellent gift shop and delicious beer offerings.

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