Headed to Lawrence, KS next week

Welcome in advance to Lawrence! It's a great little town and I think you'll enjoy. Free State is definitely the best brewery in town, and you'll find that it's often crowded. Their food is delicious, and I would recommend eating there if possible. Lately they've had both an imperial stout, Owd Mac's, and their very popular barleywine, Old Backus, on tap, but if they're gone when you arrive, they always have a nice, varied tap list. Another brewery that isn't much discussed is 23rd Street Brewery in southwest Lawrence. Their beer isn't transcendent, but I think it's good and I've never been unhappy with anything I've tried. They also have relatively good food, though the service can be a bit slow. Both breweries have drink specials as well.

I can't speak as much to good bars, since I tend to trek over to Kansas City so I can experience the excellent beer-specific bars there. Nothing really jumps out at me in Lawrence, though Dempsey's (a bar/restaurant), Henry's Upstairs, and the Red Lyon usually have something worthwhile on tap. As for stores, definitely hit up the Cork & Barrel at 23rd and Iowa for an outstanding mix six selection -- I think it's by far the best in the area. They recently expanded their entire beer space and it's impressive They don't often get in real rarities, but it's a great place to stock up on the locals, as well as Green Flash, Schlafly, etc. I also hear good things about Jensen's downtown, but have yet to stop in. Anyway, these are obviously just my opinions but hopefully they are helpful. I'd be interested in an IP trade for Surly, Town Hall or Steel Toe, so feel free to message me!

 

Yah cork n barrel has cold singles now and will sell you a single of anything they have in stock.
Best selection of taps in town for me has to be The Burger Stand at the Casbah, especially when they open the downstairs Louises has a great bottle selection too and big ole cheap schooners of beer.