Short's Brewing Company Weekend: Craft Beer Crawl & Cabin Stays in Bellaire

Your Northern Michigan Craft Beer Adventure Starts Here

There's something magical about sipping a perfectly crafted Huma Lupa Licious while surrounded by the rolling hills and pristine lakes of Northern Michigan. Short's Brewing Company has transformed the tiny village of Bellaire into a craft beer pilgrimage site, drawing enthusiasts from across the Midwest who crave innovative brews and authentic small-town charm. At One Destination Properties, we've helped countless beer lovers discover that the best way to experience Short's isn't a rushed day trip—it's a full weekend immersion with a cozy cabin as your home base.

Whether you're planning a friends' getaway, a couples' retreat, or a solo adventure in hoppy exploration, this guide will help you craft the ultimate Bellaire Michigan brewery weekend that goes far beyond the taproom.

Why Short's Brewing Deserves a Full Weekend

Short's Brewing Company isn't your average brewery—it's a destination. Founded in 2004 by Joe Short, this fiercely independent craft brewery has grown from a tiny brewpub into a nationally recognized name while staying true to its Bellaire roots. The original Short's Pub on Bridge Street remains the heart and soul of the operation, serving up experimental small-batch brews you won't find anywhere else.

But here's what makes a Northern Michigan craft beer trip truly special: the brewery is just the beginning. Bellaire sits at the heart of Antrim County's Chain of Lakes, surrounded by forests, trails, and crystal-clear waters. When you book a cabin stay instead of driving back home, you unlock a completely different experience. Morning coffee on a quiet deck. Afternoon kayaking between brewery visits. Evening bonfires under star-filled skies.

If you're searching for cabin rentals near Short's Brewing Company in Bellaire, you'll find options that put you within easy reach of the taproom while offering the peaceful retreat every great beer weekend deserves.

Planning Your Bellaire Brewery Crawl Itinerary

Day One: Arrival and Short's Pub Immersion

Arrive in Bellaire by early afternoon to maximize your weekend. Check into your cabin, unpack, and head straight to Short's Pub for the full experience. The original location features rotating taps of experimental brews—many available only at this location. Order a flight to sample the range, from their flagship Soft Parade to whatever wild creation the brewers have dreamed up that week.

Pro tip: The pub serves excellent food that pairs beautifully with their beers. The pretzel bites with beer cheese and the Short's burger are local favorites. Pace yourself—you've got a whole weekend ahead.

Day Two: Expand Your Horizons

While Short's is the star attraction, Northern Michigan's craft beer scene extends beyond Bellaire's borders. Consider a scenic drive to nearby Torch Lake or Elk Rapids, where you'll find additional tasting rooms and waterfront dining. The beauty of having Short's Pub where to stay sorted means you can explore freely, knowing your comfortable cabin awaits.

For those planning around the summer season, our guide to Memorial Day weekend craft beer cabin getaways offers additional tips for making the most of the region's brewing culture.

For couples or solo travelers seeking a stylish base, the Designer Studio at Shanty Creek, Pool & Beach offers modern comfort with resort amenities. Located right in Bellaire, it's an ideal retreat after a day of brewery exploration.

Day Three: Brunch and Bottle Shopping

Before heading home, swing by Short's Pub one more time for their weekend brunch (yes, they have beer-infused brunch items). Stock up on bottles and cans from their retail section—many seasonal releases make perfect souvenirs or gifts for the beer lovers back home who couldn't join you.

Beyond the Beer: Bellaire Activities to Fill Your Weekend

A successful Northern Michigan craft beer trip balances brewery time with outdoor adventures. Here's how to round out your itinerary:

Water Activities
Bellaire's location on the Chain of Lakes means world-class kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are minutes from town. Rent equipment locally or bring your own—many cabin rentals offer convenient storage and lake access.

Hiking and Biking
The Glacial Hills Pathway offers miles of trails through hardwood forests, perfect for working up a thirst before your next brewery visit. Mountain bikers will find challenging terrain at nearby trail systems.

Golf
Shanty Creek Resort operates multiple championship courses that attract golfers from across the country. Book a morning tee time, then reward yourself with a cold Short's brew afterward. If golf and trails are calling your name, check out our guide to Summer Solstice at Shanty Creek for more activity inspiration.

Downtown Bellaire
Don't overlook Bellaire's charming downtown strip. Local shops, art galleries, and restaurants offer plenty of browsing opportunities between brewery visits.

Choosing the Perfect Short's Brewing Bellaire Cabin Rental

Your accommodation can make or break a brewery weekend. Here's what to consider when booking:

Group Size and Configuration
Traveling with a crew of beer enthusiasts? Look for properties that comfortably accommodate your full group without feeling cramped. Kitchens become essential for preparing group meals and storing your brewery haul.

Location Considerations
While being walkable to Short's Pub sounds ideal, Bellaire's compact size means even properties a few miles out put you just minutes from the action. What you gain in exchange—lakefront views, secluded forest settings, or resort amenities—often outweighs a slightly longer drive.

For groups seeking resort-style amenities, The Legend at Shanty Creek delivers ski and golf access along with pool facilities—perfect for mixing active pursuits with your brewery adventures.

Must-Have Amenities
Beyond basics, prioritize properties with outdoor spaces for evening relaxation. A fire pit for post-brewery wind-down sessions, a deck for morning coffee, and a full kitchen for preparing hearty breakfasts before your next tasting adventure all enhance the experience.

One Destination Properties offers a curated selection of affordable vacation rentals near Short's Brewing that check all these boxes without breaking the budget.

Essential Tips for a Responsible Craft Beer Weekend

Designate Drivers or Plan Ahead
Safety first. If your group plans to visit multiple locations in a day, designate a rotating driver or arrange alternative transportation. Many visitors find that focusing on one brewery per session—with outdoor activities in between—creates a more enjoyable pace anyway.

Pace Your Tastings
Flights are your friend. Rather than committing to full pints of everything, order tasting flights to sample the range without overindulging. Short's rotating selection means there's always something new to try.

Eat Well
Pair your beer adventures with proper meals. Short's Pub serves excellent food, and Bellaire's restaurant scene offers additional options. Starting with a hearty breakfast at your cabin sets you up for success.

Stay Hydrated
Northern Michigan summers can be warm. Alternate beer with water, especially if you're mixing in outdoor activities. Your future self will thank you.

When to Plan Your Bellaire Brewery Getaway

While Short's Brewing welcomes visitors year-round, each season offers distinct advantages:

Summer (June-August)
Peak season brings the best weather for combining brewery visits with lake activities. Book well in advance, as Short's Brewing Bellaire cabin rentals fill quickly during these months.

Fall (September-October)
Arguably the most beautiful time to visit. Fall color tours through Antrim County's forests pair perfectly with heartier seasonal brews. Crowds thin after Labor Day, making for a more relaxed experience.

Winter (December-March)
Shanty Creek's ski slopes add another dimension to winter brewery weekends. Warm up après-ski with Short's rich stouts and porters.

Spring (April-May)
Shoulder season offers budget-friendly rates and the first glimpses of wildflowers along hiking trails. Spring releases at the brewery bring fresh flavors after winter's heavier fare.

For those planning summer visits, our 4th of July lakeside cabin getaways guide highlights how to combine holiday celebrations with your brewery adventures.

Start Planning Your Short's Brewing Weekend

A Northern Michigan craft beer trip centered on Short's Brewing Company offers more than just excellent beer—it delivers an authentic small-town experience wrapped in natural beauty. The combination of innovative brewing, outdoor adventure, and cozy cabin accommodations creates memories that last long after the last pint is poured.

Ready to book your Bellaire Michigan brewery weekend? Browse One Destination Properties' vacation rentals near Short's Brewing to find your perfect home base. From intimate studios to spacious cabins that accommodate your whole crew, we'll help you find the ideal retreat for raising a glass to Northern Michigan's craft beer culture.

Cheers to your next adventure—we'll see you in Bellaire.