If you think brewery outings are only for adults, think again. Indianapolis and its suburbs are blossoming with breweries that not only welcome kids but cater to families, transforming what could be just another dinner out into a genuine experience for all ages. Today’s craft beer scene is far from the dimly-lit, adults-only taprooms of the past—instead, many local breweries offer vibrant, relaxed atmospheres where laughter, games, and good food are the norm.
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But what actually makes a brewery kid-friendly in Indianapolis? The best family breweries offer more than just a kids’ menu. They create environments where little ones are engaged (and not just tolerated), with features like dedicated play areas, board games, high chairs, and changing tables. Some even host special family events or have expansive outdoor spaces to burn off energy. Here’s a closer look at the top spots—and what to expect—so you can plan your next family adventure with confidence.
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Sun King Brewery
Sun King has set the standard for a community-minded brewery in Indy—and families are a key part of that community. All taprooms are family-friendly, offering board games, activities, and a range of food options thanks to in-house or partner vendors (like Nacho by La Margarita at the downtown location).
Insider Tip: On Tuesdays and Thursdays in the summer, families can catch a free outdoor movie during Movies at Midtown, right outside Sun King’s Carmel. Order food and drinks from Sun King and enjoy them out on the lawn for a perfect family night out under the stars.
Location: Multiple (Downtown Indy, Carmel, Fishers, etc.)
Bier BreweryÂ
If you’re searching for the ultimate kid-friendly brewery near Indianapolis, Bier Brewery in Noblesville is hard to beat. Designed for families to relax and stay awhile, the spacious outdoor Biergarten features a fantastic wooden playground (with a wheelchair-accessible ramp) and a shaded, wooded nature play area. Kids can balance on logs, build with big branches, and invent their own games, while parents unwind at picnic tables. With lawn games like giant 4-in-a-Row, cornhole, ping pong, bocce ball, curling, and more, there’s truly something for all ages—and plenty of space to spread out even on busy days.
Related Article: Why Bier Brewery Noblesville Is Indy’s Most Family-Friendly Brewery
Insider Tip: For the best experience, grab a shaded picnic table in the wooded area behind the playground. It’s the perfect spot to watch the kids while staying cool. Bring your own board games or a soccer ball to make the most of all the open space.
Location: Noblesville
Upland Brewing Co.
Upland’s kid-friendly attitude shines at locations across the city, with dedicated kids’ menus (think cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, and mac & cheese) and casual, cozy settings. Many locations boast large patios, and some even host special events like “Breakfast with Santa.”
Locations: Multiple (Fountain Square, 82nd St, Carmel, College Ave)
Books & Brews
Part bookstore, part brewery, Books & Brews is built for families who love to read, play, and connect. Kids can browse shelves of books, borrow a board game, and enjoy special events. The casual, open-seating environment makes it easy for families to relax—no need to worry about noise!
Insider Tip: Check their events calendar for special family-friendly nights and offers.
Location: Indianapolis and Brownsburg
Mashcraft Brewing
MashCraft is a favorite spot for families, with a welcoming, spacious atmosphere and lots of kid-friendly features. Kids can enjoy board games, card games, sidewalk chalk, and special craft events—even though there’s no official play area, there’s plenty of space for them to move around. The Fishers location is especially fun, with a family-friendly patio and two outdoor pickleball courts. The menu has lots of kid-approved choices like tater tots, pretzels, and chicken tenders, and there are often special events just for families.
Insider Tip: Arrive early on weekends to snag a good table and get first pick of the games or pickleball courts.
Locations: Greenwood, Downtown Indy (Delaware St), Fishers
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Taxman Brewing Company
Taxman combines Belgian-inspired brews with farm-to-table dining in a family-friendly setting. The official kids’ menu includes favorites like chicken tenders, mac & cheese, and pretzel with beer cheese. All locations offer seasonal, dog-friendly patios, and the CityWay location often features live music, adding to the festive vibe for families.
Insider Tip: Reservations are encouraged, especially before or after major downtown events.
Locations: Bargersville, CityWay (Downtown), Fortville
Honorable Mentions: More Family-Friendly Brews
- Liter House (Broad Ripple): German-inspired, with a kids’ menu and regular family events.
- Oaken Barrel (Greenwood): One of Indiana’s oldest brewpubs, with a dedicated family section and kid-friendly menu.
- Broad Ripple Brewpub: The state’s first brewpub offers darts, outdoor games, and a welcoming menu.
- Flix Brewhouse (Carmel): Cinema + brewery, with a kids’ menu and “Flix Junior” sensory-friendly movie screenings.
- St. Joseph Brewery (Downtown): Located in a former church, with a kids’ menu and outdoor seating.
- Four Day Ray (Fishers): Colorful beer garden, kids’ menu, and $1 ice cream make this a family favorite.
- Grand Junction Brewing Co. (Westfield): Convenient for Grand Park outings, with a scratch kitchen and dog-friendly policies.
- Field Brewing (Westfield): All ages welcome, with a healthy, locally-sourced kids’ menu.
