About River Hops Brewing
River Hops Brewing is an independent brewery and taproom on Central Avenue in downtown Fort Dodge. It began pouring in July 2018 from 15 taps. The building dates to the 1950s and was a radio station and a savings and loan before that.
Much of the room is reclaimed. Its website says the brick around the bar came from the Hydroelectric Dam, the wooden beams from a farmstead near Barnum and the brewery windows from a house in town. Even the furniture had a previous life.
The beer list runs from easy drinking light lagers to barrel-aged porters. Recent pours include an ESB, a schwarzbier, a Belgian style saison and a blood orange light lager. There are cans, non-alcoholic drinks, and local wines and meads too.
Seats by the big front windows look out on a green space across the street. The venue also hosts weddings, showers and other celebrations, and can make a custom labeled beer for the occasion. It is one of the most reviewed beer spots in Fort Dodge on this site.
From River Hops Brewing's own website and its Google listing, read October 28, 2026.
Been here? Write the first Brewery.fyi review.
Amenities
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Map
Questions people ask
How many beers does River Hops Brewing have on tap?
The website lists 15 taps. It also mentions cans, non-alcoholic drinks, and locally made wines and meads.
Can I host a private event at River Hops Brewing?
Yes. The website offers event hosting for weddings, showers and other celebrations, including beer with a personalized label.
Do I tip at River Hops Brewing?
No. The website says it is a no-tip taproom. Staff are paid better wages and share in a percentage of net sales.
Is River Hops Brewing wheelchair accessible?
Google lists a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot.
Which breweries are close by?
ShinyTop Brewing is 0.3 miles away in Fort Dodge. Tractor Lift Brewing in Humboldt is 15 miles away.
Answers come from River Hops Brewing's website and its Google listing, read October 28, 2026.
Before you visit River Hops
Check riverhopsbrewing.com for the current beer list and taproom events. A flight is a good way to sample several styles in one sitting. Leave the tip money at home, since the taproom does not take tips.
Some days the room is set aside for private and special events. Confirm on the website before you make the trip.
ShinyTop Brewing is 0.3 miles away. It makes an easy second stop.