During our summer 2023 New England road trip, we spent a few days just outside of Bangor, Maine in Holden at the Bangor KOA. As we often do, we opened up Google Maps and searched for “breweries near me,” and as luck would have it, we got a bunch of results, so we decided to do a “Bangor Brewery Crawl.” Our second stop was 2 Feet Brewing in downtown Bangor.
Sometimes the best travel experiences aren’t the ones you plan extensively or read about in glossy magazines. Sometimes they’re the small, unassuming places where locals gather, stories are shared, and you leave feeling like you’ve been welcomed into a community, even if just for an afternoon. That’s exactly how we felt when we visited 2 Feet Brewing.
Getting There and Getting Settled
Finding 2 Feet Brewing couldn’t have been easier. Tucked away on Columbia Street, it’s just about a block off one of Bangor’s main thoroughfares. We managed to snag street parking for the Jeep right down the street, though I suspect on busier days, you might need to venture to the parking garage a few blocks away. No big deal for us RVers who are used to walking a bit!
One thing to note: we didn’t see any great parking spots for RVs larger than a van in the area. If you do your own Bangor Brewery Crawl, you might want to consider leaving the RV at the campground and driving your tow vehicle or toad (towed vehicle) into town. We did just that, and left the camper (and teen) at the Bangor KOA.
The moment we walked through the door, we knew we’d found something special. This isn’t your sprawling brewery with soaring ceilings and Instagram-perfect industrial décor. Instead, 2 Feet Brewing feels exactly like what their website promises: cozy. Think neighborhood dive bar meets craft brewery, where everyone knows each other’s name and newcomers are welcomed with genuine warmth.
A Space That Feels Like Home
The interior of 2 Feet Brewing is delightfully compact. A bar runs along one side while the other houses a few tables, some coolers, and the essentials. Yes, it feels a bit crowded, but in the best possible way. It’s the kind of place where conversations flow easily between strangers and the bartender remembers what you’re drinking.
We snagged seats at the bar next to a local who became our unofficial Bangor tour guide for the evening. Between sips of beer, she shared recommendations for everything from other breweries to the best lobster spots and must-see attractions in Bar Harbor. This is why we love small, local breweries! They’re often community hubs where authentic connections happen.
The music played at just the right volume: present but not overwhelming. I could easily chat with Vince and our new friends without shouting.
The brewery also has outdoor seating under canopies, perfect for when the Maine weather cooperates (though you’ll need to head inside for service).
The Beer Flight That Made Our Day
For $7.50, we ordered a flight of three beers but ended up with four when the bartender poured one wrong. Talk about excellent customer service! Our tasting adventure included:
- Barn Burnah: A roasted jalapeño ghost pepper saison that packed more heat than I could handle, though Vince powered through it with a grin. If you like spicy beers, this one’s for you!
- Gose: Tart, slightly sweet, and absolutely delicious. I’m still kicking myself for not asking about the specific flavor profile, but sometimes the mystery adds to the charm.
- Bee Whisperer Braggot: Our local friend’s recommendation, and we’re so glad we listened! Made with honey from a local beekeeper, this mead-beer hybrid was the perfect balance of sweet and complex. Both Vince and I agreed this was our favorite of the flight.
- Hop Reach: An IPA from Allagash (one of Maine’s larger breweries), hoppy and satisfying. It was nice to see 2 Feet supporting other Maine brewers alongside their own creations.
With six taps total, they rotate their own brews with selections from other Maine breweries, plus Maine-made wines, ciders, and meads. There’s definitely something for every palate.
Sweet Surprises and Hearty Bites
We weren’t up for a full meal when we visited 2 Feet Brewing, since we already had lunch at Sea Dog Brewing for our first Bangor Brewery Crawl stop, but we couldn’t resist trying the cake of the day. It was a massive slice of black forest cake with cherries, strawberries, and cream cheese frosting for just $6. Let me tell you, this wasn’t some afterthought dessert. It was restaurant-quality delicious and easily shareable.
What impressed us most at 2 Feet was watching the bartenders manage both drinks and food preparation right at the bar. No separate kitchen here, just skilled multitaskers who somehow kept everyone happy and fed. The menu offered a surprisingly wide range of options, and from what we observed, other patrons were thoroughly enjoying their meals.
Kids and Dogs
If you’re traveling with kids, the outdoor seating area is your best bet. While dogs aren’t allowed inside, they’re welcome in the outdoor space where we also spotted some families with children. The indoor atmosphere leans more toward adult conversation and craft beer appreciation, which is perfectly fine for a parents’ night out but maybe not ideal for entertaining little ones.
Service with a Smile (When They Have a Moment!)
Our bartenders were incredibly friendly, though they were clearly in the weeds juggling food prep and drink service. It took a few minutes to get our order, but we weren’t in any rush. If you’re looking for lightning-fast service, this might not be your spot. But if you can bring a little patience and enjoy watching skilled professionals work their magic, you’ll appreciate the effort that goes into every drink and dish.
Seriously, I’m still amazed at how they managed to keep up with everything. The place was reasonably busy during our visit, and those bartenders were in constant motion.
Bang for Your Buck
The prices felt refreshingly reasonable. We paid $7.50 for a flight that turned into four beers, and $6 for that enormous piece of cake. In a world where craft brewery prices can sometimes make you wince, 2 Feet Brewing proves you don’t need to break the bank for quality drinks and good times.
Our Takeaway
Would we go back? Absolutely! 2 Feet Brewing reminded us why we love seeking out small, local breweries. It’s not about perfect Instagram shots or flawless service. It’s about authentic experiences, friendly faces, and that wonderful feeling of being welcomed into a community, even if just for an afternoon.
Just remember to bring your patience along with your appetite for great beer and good conversation. The reward is worth it.
Pro tip: We learned that 2 Feet Brewing is a stop on the Maine Beer Trail! We’re definitely adding that to our research list for our next Maine adventure. If you’re planning a craft beverage tour of the state, this cozy spot deserves a place on your itinerary.
Quick Facts
- Address: 80 Columbia Street, Bangor, ME 04401
- Website: https://twofeetbrewing.com/
- Best for: Adults looking for authentic local atmosphere, craft beer enthusiasts, patient travelers who enjoy community vibes
- Parking: Street parking available, public garage nearby
- Kid-friendly: Yes, but recommend using the outdoor seating
- Dog-friendly: Outdoor seating only
- Food: Prepared at the bar; they do not have a full kitchen
Have you discovered any hidden gem breweries in your travels? We’d love to hear about your favorite local finds. Let us know on Instragram.
