New brewery recommendations in Silver Spring/DC area?

Downtown Silver Spring has become a really nice little brewery area! Astro Lab makes very solid haze (and at least one great saison!) and Silver Branch has some of the best traditional styles in the area, plus an awesome taproom. They're within easy walking distance from each other, throw in Denizens and you've got an incredible day.

Hellbender, not too far away in Northeast DC, is older than your request but has done an awesome job with their space during the pandemic and I think have improved their offerings quite a bit. Bluejacket in SE has also really tightened up their liquid over the last year or two.

Elder Pine in Gaithersburg and Saints Row/True Respite in Rockville are also new and worth checking out. Cheers!

 

Not sure what route you'll be taking, but Cushwa near the intersection of I-70 and I-81 near Hagerstown makes some great hazy ipas. I'd recommend them over True Respite if hazies are your thing. I also second the Elder Pine suggestion. The beer and atmosphere make it well worth the drive.

 

You hit the highlights. I'd only add that if you're stopping at Hellbender then also stop at 3Star just up the road.