[Photographs: Chris Lehault]

From world renowned breweries such as Three Floyds, Founders, and the ubiquitous Goose Island to rising stars such as the Half Acre Beer Co, Chicago's breweries combine their pan-European brewing history with radical new practices and inventive ingredients to create something completely new—something completely American.

We were on hand for the opening weekend of Chicago Craft Beer Week to drink as close to the source as possible and explore some of the city's best breweries and brewpubs. What we drank was a testament to the Windy City's commitment to crafting outstanding local beers. Click through to check out our favorite sips »