Free State Brewing Company holds a unique place in Kansas history as the state's first legal brewery after Prohibition, opening its doors at 636 Massachusetts Street in Lawrence in 1989 after advocates successfully lobbied the state legislature to permit brewpubs. The brewery operates in a converted 1950s bus depot on Lawrence's most active commercial street, a block from the University of Kansas campus, which has made it a central institution in the city's cultural and civic life since its founding. The beer program is built around flagship ales that have become synonymous with Free State in Kansas: Ad Astra Ale, a smooth American amber, is the signature and the beer most associated with the brand. Seasonal releases including a celebrated pumpkin ale each autumn and a winter warmer have developed their own anticipatory audiences. All beers are brewed in visible tanks inside the building, with production tours available. The food menu is a full American brewpub kitchen: fish and chips prepared with house beer batter using the lightest lager in the lineup, a Free State burger built with Kansas beef and local toppings, and a rotating seasonal menu that reflects Lawrence's proximity to Kansas City food culture. The dining room spans the full depth of the bus depot building, with the bar at the front, dining room extending back, and the brewery visible through glass at the rear. Service is reliably friendly. Reservations are accepted and recommended for larger groups on weekends; call (785) 843-4555. Free State is a mandatory stop for visitors to Lawrence and a landmark for any Kansas craft beer itinerary.
Signature dishes
- Ad Astra Ale (signature house beer)
- Fish and chips with house beer batter
- Free State burger
- Seasonal pumpkin ale (fall)
Good to know
- Known for
- Kansas's first legal brewery after Prohibition, opened in 1989 on Massachusetts Street. Award-winning beers brewed on-site.
- Hours
- Mon–Thu 11am–10pm, Fri–Sat 11am–midnight, Sun noon–9pm
- Reservations
- Accepted; call (785) 843-4555
Location
636 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044
38.9704, -95.2361 View on map
Highlights
- Kansas's first legal brewery after Prohibition, a historic landmark on Lawrence's Massachusetts Street
- Ad Astra Ale amber, the signature beer and most emblematic of the Free State lineup
- Celebrated seasonal releases including the pumpkin ale each autumn
- Housed in a converted 1950s bus depot one block from the University of Kansas campus
Tips for visiting
- The Ad Astra Ale is the signature order and the best introduction to the Free State lineup on a first visit
- Arrive in late September or October to catch the seasonal pumpkin ale while it is on tap
- Larger groups should reserve in advance on Friday and Saturday evenings; call (785) 843-4555
- The fish and chips are made with house beer batter — the lightest lager in the lineup determines the flavour
- Brewery tours are periodically available; ask at the bar about the current schedule on arrival
Accessibility
Free State Brewing Company is at street level on Massachusetts Street with step-free entry from the pavement. The dining room and bar area accommodate wheelchair users, though the space can be crowded on busy weekend evenings. Accessible restrooms are available.
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Frequently asked questions
Why is Free State Brewing Company historically significant?
Free State Brewing Company was the first legal brewery in Kansas after Prohibition when it opened in 1989, following a successful legislative campaign to permit brewpubs in the state. Kansas had been largely dry for most of the twentieth century.
What is the signature beer at Free State?
Ad Astra Ale, a smooth American amber named after the Kansas state motto ('Ad astra per aspera'), is the signature beer and the item most associated with the Free State brand.
Where is Free State Brewing located in Lawrence?
Free State is at 636 Massachusetts Street, Lawrence's primary commercial corridor, approximately one block from the University of Kansas campus in the heart of downtown.
Does Free State accept reservations?
Yes. Reservations are accepted and recommended for groups of six or more on weekend evenings. Call (785) 843-4555 or visit the restaurant directly.
Does Free State serve food as well as beer?
Yes. Free State operates a full American brewpub kitchen with burgers, fish and chips, sandwiches, and a seasonal menu alongside the full beer program.