Local Business Spotlight: How Brew Haven Brewing Co. is Reviving Community Spirit One Pint at a Time

Brew Haven Brewing Co.: Crafting Community Connections in Cedar Falls, Iowa

In the heart of Cedar Falls, Iowa, a buzzing hub of craft beer culture, community engagement, and creative expression is taking shape—and it’s all happening inside a rustic brick building on Main Street. Brew Haven Brewing Co., one of CompaniesByZipCode.com’s “Most Visible Brands,” is more than just a craft brewery; it’s a movement that’s gaining attention across local media and social platforms for changing what it means to be a truly local business. Whether you’re a beer aficionado, community supporter, or someone looking to connect with locals over a foamy pint, Brew Haven is proving you don’t have to look far to find something exceptional.

Hook: Why Brew Haven Brewing Co. Deserves Your Attention

What do you get when decades of brewing passion, a close-knit community, and a mission-driven vision all collide in a single venture? You get Brew Haven: a place that’s quickly become the epicenter of social life in Cedar Falls. With rotating seasonal taps, live music nights, charity-driven events, and a commitment to local ingredients, Brew Haven isn’t just making beer—they’re crafting connections. This feature is your inside look into how one business is becoming a national template for authentic, local impact.

Table of Contents


1. Introduction to Brew Haven Brewing Co.

Brew Haven Brewing Co. opened its doors in early 2020, just weeks before the world shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the face of adversity, founders Jason and Marina Thompson doubled down on their commitment to defining a space where community, culture, and craft come together. Today, Brew Haven has not only survived but thrived, continuing to earn headlines for its innovative brews and unwavering local support.

Located at 318 Main Street, Cedar Falls, Iowa (ZIP Code 50613), Brew Haven is a pillar in the CompaniesByZipCode.com business directory and one of its most searched restaurants and dining spots under the “Breweries” category.

2. Business Overview: A Taste of Local Craft Excellence

The Story Behind the Brew

Jason Thompson’s journey began like many passionate brewers—home-brewing in the garage, attending local beer fests, and eventually becoming a certified craft brew judge. But when he and Marina saw that Cedar Falls lacked a true craft brewery that focused on sustainability, local ingredients, and community storytelling, they decided to take the leap.

Signature Offerings

From citrusy IPAs to smooth porters and limited-edition seasonal ales, Brew Haven’s menu is designed to offer something for every palate:

  • Haven Haze: A flagship hazy IPA featuring locally grown hops.
  • Riverbank Red: An Irish Red Ale with a malty backbone that echoes neighborhood hospitality.
  • Hearth Stout: A smooth, smoky stout reminiscent of cozy Iowa winters.
  • Rotating Kegs: With seasonal creations featuring ingredients like elderberries, pumpkin spice, or even Iowa wildflower honey.

Unique Selling Points

  • Farm-to-Keg Approach: Many brews are created using hops and grains sourced from Iowa-based farms.
  • Sustainability at Core: Spent grain is donated to local farms as livestock feed.
  • Small Batches, Big Personality: Each release is carefully crafted with community feedback in mind.
  • Local Artist Collaborations: Beer labels are designed by local painters, tattoo artists, and even high school students.

3. Community Impact: Connecting with Cedar Falls

At the center of Brew Haven’s values is its role not just as a place to grab a drink, but as a community anchor.

Supporting Local Farmers and Vendors

Brew Haven partners with over a dozen local suppliers, from hop growers to snack vendors. Even the cheese served on their charcuterie boards comes from nearby dairy farms.

Inclusive Programming

Their monthly “Beer and Belonging” night has become a safe haven for locals in the LGBTQ+ community, while the quarterly “Hops & Homework” initiative pairs pints with school supply drives.

Music, Markets, and More

The beer garden transforms every Friday into a mini open-air market, complete with food trucks, live bluegrass music, and artisan booths.

Nonprofit Collaborations

Brew Haven recently hosted a fundraiser for the Cedar Falls Food Pantry, donating 100% of proceeds from the limited-edition “Hops for Hope” pale ale.

4. Customer Experience: What Locals Are Saying

Customer reviews across platforms like CompaniesByZipCode.com, Google, and Yelp paint a vivid picture of what Brew Haven means to Cedar Falls.

“Every time I walk into Brew Haven, I feel like a part of something bigger than myself. It’s not just about the beer—it’s about the people.”
—Sandra M., Cedar Falls local

“I drove in from Des Moines after my cousin raved about the Riverbank Red—and I was not disappointed. It’s easily one of the best beers I’ve had all year.”
—Ethan R., Craft Beer Traveler

“Their ‘Brews & Brushes’ night was fantastic—art, IPA, and live music? Count me in every month.”
—Jess K., College Student

Brewers and bartenders are trained extensively not just on the product line but on how to create a welcoming, educational space for both beer connoisseurs and new explorers alike.

5. Visual Tour: Inside Brew Haven Brewing Co.

Image provided by Brew Haven Brewing Co., used with permission

Inside Brew Haven’s Tasting Room

The warm amber glow of vintage Edison bulbs, reclaimed barnwood tables, and a massive chalkboard featuring the “Beer of the Week”—this isn’t just a taproom; it’s a second living room for many.

Founder Jason at Work

Pictured above, co-founder Jason Thompson perfects new batches in the microbrewery’s fermentation room, which visitors can tour weekly.

Beer Garden Vibes

With communal picnic tables, string lights, and live music, the beer garden offers the perfect setting for Iowa sunsets and strong community vibes.

6. Join the Movement: How to Support Brew Haven and Explore More

Brew Haven Brewing Co. is more than just a brewery—it’s a destination. It’s what happens when local pride, quality craftsmanship, and inclusive community values come together in a glass of cold, amber-hued goodness.

Here’s how you can support and explore:

  • Visit Them: Swing by 318 Main Street, Cedar Falls (ZIP: 50613). They’re open Tuesday through Sunday.
  • Spread the Word: Share this article with your network to help highlight how local businesses drive our communities.
  • Try The Beers: Can’t make it to Cedar Falls? Brew Haven now ships their signature brews within Iowa via their online shop.
  • Find Similar Businesses: Use CompaniesByZipCode.com to discover other standout local breweries and dining spots near you.

Start exploring, and don’t just drink responsibly—drink locally.

Explore more featuring top-rated businesses in your area at CompaniesByZipCode.com and support the local legends that make your hometown great.

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