- Attraction: Back Channel Brewing Co.
- Location: 4787 Shoreline Dr, Spring Park, MN 55384
- Industry: Brewery
- Website: https://www.backchannelbrewing.com/
Picture this: you’re drinking a freshly tapped IPA from an authentic Nordic ale bowl while gazing across the shimmering waters of Lake Minnetonka.
Back Channel Brewing Co. transforms this daydream into reality as a destination brewery positioned directly on the lakefront, serving high-quality small-batch beers with a special emphasis on lagers, IPAs, and imperial stouts.
What started as a transformed dental office in 2017 has become the first brewery on the upper lake, creating a unique gathering place where Minnesota traditions meet innovative brewing.
The brewery burst onto the craft beer scene when five friends—Melissa and Josh Leddy, Joe Meehan, Matt “Olie” Olson, and head brewer Marc Makarem—decided to bring quality beer to the west side of Lake Minnetonka.
Their unconventional approach to brewing and serving has earned them recognition far beyond Minnesota, especially for their famous beer bowl experience that pays homage to the state’s Nordic heritage.
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The SKAL Bowl Tradition: In an ode to Minnesota’s Nordic heritage, Back Channel celebrates fresh IPA releases much like their fellow Vikings with an ale bowl, known in Nordic language as a SKAL.
This unique serving method signals to customers that a fresh IPA is readily available, since beer bowls are used exclusively for freshly tapped kegs.
You’ll find the bowl experience lasts throughout the first week of every IPA release, giving you plenty of opportunities throughout the year to participate in this distinctive tradition.
Ever-Changing Tap Selection: The brewery has crafted 44 different beers since opening, with many making multiple appearances on the rotating tap list. Rather than relying on flagship brews, you’ll discover something new each visit as they specialize in constantly evolving offerings.
All their beers are named after famous Minnesotans or people with significant ties to the state, creating a hidden trivia game for those in the know.
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Their imperial stouts deliver massive chocolate and coffee aromatics with deep malt and caramel notes, while their lighter offerings like Click Thrice provide the perfect “lawnmower beer” experience with balanced hops and malt.
Nordic Cold Plunge & Sauna: The brewery features an on-site sauna and cold plunge experience operated by Excelsior Saunas, open Monday through Sunday from 9 AM to 9 PM with 75-minute sessions for $49.
This wellness addition creates the ultimate Minnesota experience, combining craft beer culture with traditional Nordic rejuvenation practices.
Atmosphere & Setting
Lakefront Paradise: The brewery sits directly on Lake Minnetonka with four boat slips, allowing visitors to literally sail up to the taproom during summer months.
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Keep Exploring →You’ll enjoy both indoor taproom seating and expansive outdoor patio space with unobstructed lake views. The enormous patio features a giant screen for sporting events, creating an ideal gathering spot for watching games while enjoying craft beer.
Family & Pet-Friendly Environment: Leashed dogs are welcome both inside the taproom and on the outdoor patio, making it a perfect destination for the whole family.
You’ll find oversized games like giant Jenga to keep everyone entertained, creating a relaxed atmosphere where conversation flows as easily as the beer.
Community Hub: Wednesday evenings transform into trivia nights with DJ and trivia host Shane, featuring two 45-minute games with gift card prizes for winning teams.
The brewery also hosts unique events like puzzle competitions, car shows, and regularly donates proceeds on Tuesdays to local organizations and families in need.
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Food & Dining: Different food trucks rotate through the parking lot regularly, featuring options like Montebello and Thai Thai, ensuring variety during each visit.
You’re also welcome to bring food from nearby restaurants like Josefina in Wayzata, giving you flexibility in your dining choices. Small bites including pretzels and beef sticks are available directly from the brewery.
Pricing & Value: Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 12 PM to 3 PM, featuring $5 tap beers, $3 non-alcoholic beer, and $3 pretzels. The pricing reflects mid-tier brewery standards while delivering exceptional quality and a unique lakefront experience that justifies the cost.
Practical Details: Parking fills up quickly, especially during peak times, but spots are generally available if you’re patient.
The spacious layout provides comfortable seating both indoors and on the expansive outdoor patio, making it easy to find your perfect spot whether you prefer lakefront views or a cozy indoor atmosphere.
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Keep Exploring →Best Times to Visit: Check their website for the daily-updated tap list to see when fresh IPAs are available in bowls. Bowl availability is announced on their social media channels, so following their Instagram and Facebook helps you time your visit perfectly.
Back Channel Brewing Co.
📍 4787 Shoreline Dr, Spring Park, MN 55384
