Whether you’re toasting to the end of the work day or celebrating a happy occasion, you’ll find plenty of tasty drinks in fun, energetic atmospheres. From local wine and beer to extensive spirit and cocktail lists, Howard County will top off your gatherings, big and small, with an unforgettable beverage.
Drinks al fresco
Spread out and enjoy the views at Manor Hill Brewing, Howard County’s first farm brewery, and Maryland’s largest farm brewery by production. Time your visit to coincide with rotating food trucks and special events, like goat yoga! You can’t beat the vibe of the patio at The Rookery Bar & Lounge at Merriweather Lakehouse. Groove to live music, gaze at the peaceful waters of Lake Kittamaqundi, and pair your drink with one of their many tasty menu offerings (Want to keep the party going late into the night? Book a stay at the hotel.
Gather around the fire pit or massive live edge table at Frisco and the Reckless Shepherd Brewing Co., where every beer on the menu is brewed in house! Try the Cascade Falls IPA, a full flavored West Coast IPA with a citrusy aroma.
Frisco & the Reckless Shepherd
Inventive cocktails
The Smoky Old Fashioned at The Turn House isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience. Your bartender will use a handheld blowtorch to light hickory chips, hold your glass over the flame to infuse the smoke and extinguish the flame, and pour in rye whiskey sourced from Sagamore Spirits, a renowned Maryland distillery. Try their flavorful Pineapple Mezcal Margarita and Watermelon Cilantro Mojito along with the classic Maryland drink: an orange crush.
The Turn House Smokey Old Fashioned
Get a taste of the South at Po Boy Jim Bar & Grill, a New Orleans-inspired eatery serving hurricane cocktails that pack a punch.
Energetic indoors
Every Maryland bucket list should include visiting Guinness Open Gate Brewery, the first Guinness brewery to open in the States! Spend a day tasting Guinness beers, take a tour of the facility, order a Bavarian pretzel, or bangers and mash, and bring home a souvenir from the gift shop. Check out the inviting space at Lost Ark Distilling Co., Howard County's first craft distillery. Sample their handcrafted rums, bourbons, and specialty liqueurs, such as the sought-after Caramel Creames Liqueur.
Take advantage of the happy hour specials at Mad Chef and order a round of tasty small plates to enjoy with your drinks. For live music in a pub-like setting, head to The White Oak Tavern, where you can enjoy bourbon in a cocktail and in the decadent bread pudding. (Dogs are welcome on the Tavern’s patio—they even have a dog menu!)
Excellent wine
Wine connoisseurs will find themselves right at home here in Howard County. The chefs at Iron Bridge Wine Co. set out to create modern American cuisine with international influences, but most importantly, the menu must pair well with a great glass of wine. Their world-class wine list includes varieties from around the globe, and wouldn't be complete without at least one rosé for a pleasantly fruity and floral sip.
Have you ever dreamed of becoming a winemaker? Tin Lizzie Wineworks provides everything you'll need to make your own premium wines. Dave Zuchero, Head Winemaker and Instructor, will personally guide you through the winemaking process.
