Nestled in the heart of Clinton, Iowa, the Great Revivalist Brewery stands as a testament to creative reuse and community spirit. Housed within the walls of a repurposed abandoned church, this brewery has transformed a once-silent sanctuary into a lively hub of craft beer enthusiasts, family friendly fare, live music, and history aficionados.
A Fusion of History and Craft
Walking into the Great Revivalist Brewery feels like stepping into a modern-day time capsule where history meets contemporary indulgence. The brewery has ingeniously incorporated elements of the church’s original architecture into its design. Visitors are greeted by tables fashioned from old church pews and wood from trees downed during the destruction of Iowa’s 2020 derecho. The bar itself resides at the former altar, where now patrons gather to savor a variety of finely brewed beers. The copper of the wood-fire pizza oven creates a warm and cozy feeling, even in a vast open space.
One of the most striking features is the preservation of the church’s original stained-glass windows that cast a warm, colorful glow, enhanced by the ultra-contemporary crystal chandeliers placed over a billiards table and a grand piano. Guests dining in the “Music Room” will find themselves at tables crafted of church pews and pipe organ parts. Artwork from famous masters rests alongside that of semi-famous Clintonians, including cartoon panels from WD Koerner, inventor of Hugo Hercules, the original super-hero. These architectural elements not only enhance the brewery’s ambiance but also serve as a reminder of the building’s and community’s rich heritage.
Outdoor Accoutrements
On a beautiful Midwest afternoon, enjoy the warmth of the outdoor courtyard where a beautiful Italian fountain bubbles with life. A sprawling tree that survived the 2020 storm offers graceful shade. The celebration of the region’s agriculture extends to the small patch of corn fenced into one section of the space. Or on the other side of the cathedral doors, bring your (leashed) four-footed friends to enjoy a beverage on the dog patio. (And while you’re on that side of the building, find the church’s original cornerstone set into the stone walls.)
A Destination for All, Including Non-Alcoholic Awesomeness
The entire experience is truly welcoming to all. Families with every age enjoy the full menu and delicious wood-fire pizza. Sobriety is honored with a wide variety of original GRB craft sodas, in flavors like Green Apple and root beer, as well as mocktails. The teetotaler is as guaranteed to enjoy their visit as the beer enthusiast.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the brewery has found hearth and home in the Clinton community. It serves as a gathering place where locals and tourists alike come together to share stories, enjoy live music, and participate in various cultural events. The brewery’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its efforts to repurpose not only the church building, but also other historical sites from the city, preserving pieces of local history while reducing environmental impact.
An Iconic Experience
The Great Revivalist Brewery is not just a place to enjoy beer; it’s an experience that marries craftsmanship with reverence for the past. Whether you’re sampling their latest brews, admiring the intricate woodwork, or simply soaking in the ambiance of this unique establishment, a visit to this iconic brewery in Clinton, Iowa promises to be a memorable journey through history and taste.
For those seeking a blend of historic charm and artisanal beer, the Great Revivalist Brewery stands tall as a shining example of adaptive reuse done right. As you sip on your pint amidst the echoes of hymns past, you can’t help but appreciate the ingenuity and vision that brought this brewery to life within the walls of an abandoned church.