Forget Flying To Germany, Visit Georgia's Largest Beer Garden Near Atlanta For Craft Brews And Bavarian Charm

When knee-deep in deadlines at work, what fan of a certain malt beverage doesn't pine to be in a German beer garden, sipping a frothy dunkel or robust bockbier in a joyous, sylvan atmosphere? If you're in between passports or need a getaway stat, you can enjoy a Bavarian experience closer to home in the United States — which has long borrowed al fresco style points from Europe — at Georgia's Tucker Brewing Company. Toast a hefty Maß, a one-liter vessel of liquid gold, with friends in the state's largest beer garden. It may not boast frescoed stucco walls or views of countryside shops, but Tucker Brewing Company's vibrant patio, vast beer selection, and crave-worthy bites make it worth a stop. "Great food, great atmosphere and the service is second to none," raves one Yelper.

After visiting some of Atlanta's best free sites, like Centennial Olympic Park, or spending hours in America's largest aquarium, make time for this brewery that's named after the quiet Georgia suburb it's located in. The Seaboard Air Line Railroad put Tucker – which is roughly 15 miles north of Atlanta – on the map at the turn of the 20th century. As it grew, it retained its small-town charm.

When visiting Tucker, you can complement brewery fun by hiking to the shaded, multi-tier waterfall at Henderson Park East, or exploring Tucker Nature Preserve's half-mile, leafy trail and apiary, the latter of which features beekeeping demonstrations. Tucker Brewing Company is also just one of the independent businesses creating a culture of community in town. For example, if you end up staying longer and need food options beyond Tucker Brewery, Matthews Cafeteria has been serving up Southern favorites like biscuits and gravy, fried catfish, and pot roast since 1955. Tucker's lodging options include a DoubleTree, a Holiday Inn Express, and a Days Inn.

Probably the most important bit of information for some is that leashed, four-legged friends are welcome at Tucker Brewing Company (rated 5 bones on BringFido.com). There's plenty of room for humans and furry companions to kick back in the festive, 8,500-square-foot garden, which has become a major attraction for families. Kids can play cornhole, oversized board games, or test their soccer skills on a turf pitch. Sails with string lights shade the many picnic tables, allowing you to dine comfortably. Alternatively, you can catch a game on television in the indoor tasting room. 

It may be hard to decide which of the 10-plus brews on tap to order. Most of the beers don't notch above 5.5% ABV (alcohol by volume), and their reviews are solid. "They brew up legitimate German beer and are not just peddling a bunch of kitschy IPAs that taste like you just swallowed a June Bug," declares one Google fan. Styles range from a clean, Helles lager with hints of honeysuckle available year-round to the seasonal, tart Skip's Berliner Weisse.  If you can't make up your mind, try four 5-oz. pours in a flight. Pair your foamy libation with German-inspired fare such as crispy sauerkraut bites, a giant hot pretzel, currywurst, or a classic pork schnitzel with braised red cabbage. The brewery also offers a burger, fish and chips, and wings. 

Along with its beer specials, the appeal of Tucker Brewing Company includes several events. Its chock-full calendar lists live music on its outdoor stage, trivia nights, and car shows. For more laid-back fun outside of Atlanta, Loganville is just over 20 miles away.