ABOUT US
ABOUT OUR HISTORY
History is famously known for repeating itself so when Fort Smith Brewing Company began, we dedicated our mission to the idea of pioneers – stemming from the early roots of westward expansion and the love of great beer. One thing to know about Fort Smith Brewing Company is that it’s Fort Smith’s ONLY brewery, brewing all our classic brews and beers on site.
Fort Smith, Arkansas has always been a pioneer in the brewing industry. Back in 1850, Joseph Knoble Brewery was the first brewery in Arkansas, brewing success until the age of prohibition. Like most breweries in the states at that time, prohibition forced Joseph Knoble out of business and doors were shut for over 70 years! It wasn’t until 1992 that Fort Smith saw another brewery, with Weidman’s Old Fort Brew Pub brewing in the very same building Joseph Knoble occupied years ago.
Weidman’s was ahead of its time, helping to usher in the modern brewpub era in Arkansas and hosted one of the first beer festivals in the region, with more than fifteen breweries attending the first annual Mid-South Beer Festival from across the South. By the turn of the century, big-name brands drastically altered the industry with the introduction of thirty-pack lagers that were cheaper than six-packs of microbrews. After nearly a decade of business, Weidman’s Old Fort Brewery formally stopped distribution in 2002, amid a gloomy market for many microbreweries.
In 2017, Fort Smith finally had a new brewery. This time Fort Smith Brewing Company opened its doors in the heart of Chaffee Crossing, focusing on the reinvigoration of the historic Arkansas National Guard training facility. David Weidman reached out to Fort Smith Brewing Company early on to support the new brew pub, and to offer its brewing equipment that once brought Weidman’s Old Fort Brewery its regional success. To this day, Fort Smith Brewing Company utilizes the same locally fabricated brewing equipment. Much like what Joseph Knoble used in the 1800s, this equipment used gravity to move liquid through the brewing process. Fort Smith Brewing Company pioneers change and continues its mission of crafting the future of microbrewing by providing individuals with unique experiences that promote growth within our community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my pet to the brewery?
YES. We are dog and cat friendly. Relax and enjoy a beer with your four legged friends inside the brewery or outside on the patio.
Can I bring my kids to the brewery?
YES. Please bring your kids, your family, and your friends! All are welcome here.
Do you serve food at the brewery?
YES. We offer a wide selection of small bites and full meals. Click here for our food menu.
How do I schedule my event at the brewery?
You can call, email or visit us at the brewery to talk to someone about your next event. Email us directly at [email protected] to get started.
How do I book the brewery bus?
You can call, email or visit us at the brewery to talk to someone about renting the bus. Email us directly at [email protected] to get started.
When is the brewery open?
Fort Smith Brewing Company is open every Tuesday to Thursday 5pm to 10pm, Friday to Saturday 12pm to 10pm, Sunday 12pm to 8pm and is closed on Mondays.
RECENT MENTIONS
Fort Smith Brewing Company Celebrates Fifth Anniversary
Published September 9, 2022
“It’s a big feat to be a local five-year manufacturer in Fort Smith, Arkansas,” Willard said. “It’s the same season as Octoberfest in Germany so it’s a great way to celebrate and enjoy that with everybody.” Read More Here
NWA beer updates: New breweries, expansions, anniversaries and more
Published September 9, 2022
Here are a few updates of interest for fans of Arkansas-made beer. Read More Here
March at Chaffee Crossing for Veteran suicide awareness
Published February 21, 2022
Operation Tears of the 22 will host its first “Weight of My Brother Ruck March” in the Chaffee Crossing historic district on Tuesday, Feb. 22. Read More Here
LIVE! in NWA: Versatile Guitarist Ben Harris Adds New Gig As SoNA GM
Published January 30, 2022 Read More Here
Pints with a pastor, priest bring new ways to communicate religion with community
Published January 9, 2022 Read More Here
United Way gifts plaques to businesses that support local troops hurricane aid return
Published December 7, 2021 Read More Here
Entertainment district opens at Chaffee Crossing; new apartments planned
Published September 29, 2021 Read More Here
Fort Smith Brewing Company: Four years of being ‘community watering hole’
Published September 24, 2021 Read More Here
Fort Smith brewery opening drive-in theater during the pandemic
Published April 14, 2020 Read More Here
Brewery names beers for local historical figures
Published April 30, 2018 Read More Here
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FORT SMITH BREWING CO. 7500 FORT CHAFFEE BLVD., FORT SMITH, AR 72916
[email protected] (479) 242-3722
Eat & Drink on the Patio or in the Brewpub
Tue – Thu 5 – 10PM, Fri – Sat 12 – 10PM, Sun 12 – 8PM
Order Beers for Delivery Thursday – Saturday 12 – 8PM (except Thanksgiving and Christmas)
Click Here to Order Online