By: Brendan Hader
The worst part of going to a brewery is having to leave. And if you’re having an especially good time, it’s even worse having to figure out a way to leave safely.
Just outside of Columbus in Canal Winchester, both of those problems are solved the moment you step on the premises of the world’s first craft beer hotel, the DogHouse.
Brewdog’s unique concept, which unsurprisingly has begun to be duplicated, offers guests the opportunity to combine the food, libations and casual vibes of a brewery with the luxury, convenience and comfort of a hotel.
For a hotel to be built inside a brewery, you can bet there are some “beery” good (I hate myself for that one even more than you do) amenities to distance itself from your everyday overnight stay.
It starts the moment you walk in when you’re greeted with a check-in beer of your choosing. The freebies continue each night between with stouts and cookies.
Plus, guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast (one that’s actually worth getting up for) complete with coffee, beermosas and that particular morning’s featured menu items.
After arriving at most hotels, you might be eager to drop your stuff off and explore whatever town you’re in. But at the DogHouse, the real fun begins when you walk into your room.
Whether you go with a standard option, upgrade to the Punk Suite with a patio view or splurge for the Brewmaster Suite featuring the inside of the brewery as the backdrop, you can have your very own tap system right where you sleep. The smell of bacon in the morning might only be topped by the smell of beer.
Aside from smart TVs and other modern conveniences, each room contains a record player with a collection of vinyl along with lighting and décor that match the overall relaxed ambience at the DogHouse.
Head into the bathroom and a fully stocked shower beer fridge awaits. From the in-room tap and shower fridge to the room’s minibar, hotel check-in bar, and the massive taproom, you will be properly hydrated during your stay.
Ah the taproom. With a robust food and drink menu, shuffleboard, pinball, board games, giftshop, and even a museum to learn about how the proverbial sausage is made, you could make a day of it without even stepping outside.
Virtual beer school and tours are also available through the week for an even more immersive experience, in addition to trivia nights, live music and other events to top off your stay.
And as the name suggests, dogs are allowed. In fact, the on-site dog park and canine-centric hotel packages encourage man’s best friend to join the fun.
So if you’re looking for an overnight or full weekend getaway, add the DogHouse to your list. Conveniently located about 90 minutes from Cincinnati, it’s a quick drive and close to the state capital should you want to explore. But don’t be surprised when the first time you leave the property is after checkout.
