SUTTONS BAY, MI — Nestled in a wooded grove along scenic M-22, a local brewery has made quite a name for itself over the past decade.

Earlier this year, Hop Lot Brewing Company was named #2 beer garden in the country with USA Today‘s 10best and was the only Michigan organization to make the list.

The family-friendly beer garden outside the bar has organically transformed into a magical Northern Michigan experience, allowing guests to enjoy the outdoor beauty of Northern Michigan year-round.

“Our goal from day one has been to deliver a space that truly captures the Northern Michigan outdoors and leaves our guests with an unforgettable experience,” co-owner Drew Lutke told MLive.

The expansive outdoor space includes four outdoor fireplaces, a 75’X75′ sandpit for kids, a lawn play area with several corn hole boards, an outdoor bar, and a stage for live music that occurs mostly during the summer season.

Throughout November, guests can enjoy college football on Saturdays and pro football on Sundays on a large projector screen with sound inside a large beer tent. The tent will be removed in December and set up again in the spring.

Next week, the open space will be transformed into a winter wonderland featuring 18 igloos that guests can reserve for free. Guests can: Click here to book a 90-minute time slot.

The on-site bar provides weather protection and a produce area.

On the beverage side of things, Hop Lot has a few seasonal rotating beers and main staples 90 MPH Backward hazy IPA, like Bayshore Brown beer and North Porter.

For the winter season, the brewery will bring back its Imperial Russian cider Leelanau Exchange, with this year’s version featuring a complex blend of espresso, vanilla and cocoa nibs. They will also bring back winter favorite Woad Warrior; A sweet, full-bodied Scottish ale with deep caramel and stone fruit notes.

Don’t like beer? There is also a dry and sweet cider and white and sparkling rosé wine. For non-drinkers, a variety of Northwoods sodas and Bailey’s Farms kombucha are offered.

No beer garden is complete without mouth-watering food. From shareable plates like smoked white fish dip, roasted street corn queso, and soft pretzels to a variety of burrito bowls and sandwiches, Hop Lot has a delicious menu. You can smell the meat, pulled pork, sausages and chicken being smoked and grilled every day. Click here to see the full menu.

Indoor and outdoor seating is on a first come, first served basis. Pets are not allowed due to local health code department regulations.

Hop Lot’s location 658 SW Bay Shore Drive in Suttons BayJust off the M-22, just south of Suttons Bay town centre.

Hop Lot recently updated its winter hours; They will be closed on Wednesdays.

• Sunday: Noon to 20.00
• Monday-Tuesday: Noon to 20:30
• Thursday: Noon to 20:30
• Friday, Saturday: Noon to 21.00

For more updated information about the brewery you can check them out. Facebook page or website.