Live Oak Brewing Company: Old-World Flavor on the Edge of Austin

Live Oak Brewing Company is one of Austin’s most respected breweries—and for good reason. While the city’s beer scene has exploded with IPAs and hazy experiments, Live Oak stays true to traditional European styles, brewed with care and precision.Set under a canopy of oak trees near the banks of the Colorado River, this brewery is a peaceful retreat with world-class beer and plenty of Hill Country charm.

What They’re Known For

Live Oak focuses on timeless German and Czech styles—brewed with imported ingredients and classic techniques like open fermentation and decoction mashing. If you think lagers are boring, Live Oak will change your mind.

  • Live Oak Hefeweizen – Widely considered one of the best in the U.S.; bursting with banana and clove notes.
  • Pilz – A crisp, golden Czech-style pilsner with a floral hop finish.
  • Big Bark Amber Lager – Malty, smooth, and perfectly balanced.
  • Grodziskie – A rare Polish smoked wheat beer that’s light, smoky, and unforgettable.
  • Limited Lagers – Rotating small-batch brews available only at the taproom.

The Brewery Experience

The taproom is cozy and welcoming, but the real magic happens outside. The beer garden is shaded by towering live oak trees, complete with picnic tables, hammocks, and space to spread out. It’s dog-friendly, family-friendly, and a favorite hangout for both locals and travelers.

Food trucks are often on-site, and the brewery hosts laid-back events throughout the year. It’s the kind of place where a “quick pint” easily turns into an all-afternoon affair.

The Story Behind the Brewery

Founded in 1997 by Chip McElroy, Live Oak was one of the earliest players in the Central Texas craft beer movement. At a time when most breweries were chasing hop trends, Live Oak stayed rooted in tradition, choosing quality over flash.

After years in a cramped East Austin facility, they moved in 2015 to their current 20-acre riverside home near Austin-Bergstrom Airport—offering more space to brew, relax, and grow the Live Oak legacy.

Location & Visiting Info

Address: 1615 Crozier Ln, Del Valle, TX 78617
County: Travis County
Region: Hill Country
Website: www.liveoakbrewing.com
Tours: Self-guided; no official tours needed to enjoy the taproom or trails.

Why It’s Worth a Stop on Your Texas Adventure

Just minutes from the airport, Live Oak is an easy first (or last) stop on any Austin adventure. It’s a must-visit for beer purists, but the atmosphere is welcoming to everyone—even if you don’t know your Kölsch from your Märzen.

With its shaded beer garden and refined brews, it’s a relaxing break from city noise and a refreshing reward after a long road trip.

Insider Tips

  • Try the Grodziskie—a rare style you won’t find in many places.
  • Bring a hammock or blanket and stretch out under the trees.
  • Visit before a flight—it’s just 5 minutes from Austin-Bergstrom Airport.
  • Check the tap list—many beers are taproom-only.

Final Thoughts

Live Oak Brewing Company proves that tradition never goes out of style. Their dedication to old-world brewing and their peaceful setting make them a standout in Austin’s crowded beer scene.

Whether you’re catching a flight, escaping the city, or touring Hill Country breweries, this stop is a breath of fresh air—and some of the finest beer in Texas.

PARTNERS IN FUN

At Jolly Outlaw, we’re building a unique community of outdoor adventurers and Texas explorers. As we grow, we’re looking for partners in fun who want to join us in creating authentic experiences, all while getting consistent, long-term exposure to an engaged and adventure-seeking audience.

PARTNERS IN FUN

At Jolly Outlaw, we’re building a unique community of outdoor adventurers and Texas explorers. As we grow, we’re looking for partners in fun who want to join us in creating authentic experiences, all while getting consistent, long-term exposure to an engaged and adventure-seeking audience.