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Five breweries and a bonanza of beer bars all within easy walking distance make downtown Duluth a beer nerd nirvana. And it's not just quantity. From the still-innovative old-timer Fitger's Brewhouse to the promising newcomer Bent Paddle Brewing Co., Duluth boasts some of the best breweries in the state. In the immediate downtown you can do a brewery crawl by foot that includes Fitger's, Bent Paddle, Dubrue, Dubh Linn Irish Pub and Carmody Irish Pub & Brewery. The Redstar Lounge, Burrito Union and Tycoon's Alehouse & Eatery all pour Fitger's beer. 7 West Taphouse features an impressive lineup of craft taps. Ask your designated driver for a lift to Lake Superior Brewing and Canal Park Brewing Co., both just minutes from downtown.

Runner-up: northeast Minneapolis