Highwind Brewing Company: Brewing Community and Crafting Connections in Junction City’s Historic Downtown

Highwind Brewing Company, located at the corner of 8th and Washington Streets in Junction City, Kansas’s historic downtown district, is helping revive the area. The location, known as “the old Waters building,” once housed the local hardware store, Waters True Value, and after two decades of vacancy, Highwind is set to breathe new life into this historic space.

Scheduled to open its doors in January 2024, Highwind Brewing Company promises a multi-level experience for residents and visitors alike. The first floor will have the brewhouse and two food options. Mill Pizza and 726 Burgers & Bowls will offer a chef-driven menu with elevated tavern classics. The team’s primary goal at Highwind Brewing Co. is to be a place where people can eat, drink, and gather.

Craft Beers for Every Palate

Highwind Brewing Company takes pride in offering a diverse range of beers, from flagship brews like IPA, Wheat, and Blonde to seasonal and quarterly limited releases showcasing the brewer’s creativity. Patrons will have extensive options for the casual beer drinker and the craft enthusiast. The brewery aims to be the go-to spot in Junction City for those seeking a delightful combination of delicious beer, craveable food, and exceptional customer service.

Revitalization Through Community Commitment

Establishing Highwind Brewing Company in Junction City reflects a dual commitment to community revitalization and creating a social hub. The owners and investors envision downtown as a thriving center of activity and actively seek to contribute to its revitalization, aligning with Junction City’s ongoing efforts to rejuvenate Main Street.

Situated near Fort Riley, Highwind Brewing Company strategically positions itself as a hub for the military community, fostering camaraderie and community support. Its central downtown location ensures visibility, making it an accessible gathering spot for locals and visitors. This brewery not only contributes to the economic growth of Junction City but also solidifies Highwind’s role as a premier destination for craft beer and upscale fast casual dining.

“To make Highwind Brewing Company a true cornerstone of the community—patronage and regular visits are encouraged,” said General Manager Richard McNeal . “The community can support us by spreading the word, sharing their experiences, and recommending Highwind to friends, family, and colleagues. Supporting local businesses is key to Junction City’s growth, and by staying in town to eat, drink, and gather, residents can contribute to the ongoing revitalization efforts.”

Community Support and Engagement

Highwind Brewing Company has garnered widespread community support from Junction City Mainstreet, Junction City-Geary County EDC and CVB, and the State of Kansas Heal Grant. Future development includes the second-floor event space, basement speakeasy and rooftop bar, Highwind aims to grow as an ideal location in Junction City for community, social, and family gatherings.

“Highwind Brewing Company is the premier place to eat, drink, and gather in town, offering a perfect blend of craft beverages and a warm, welcoming atmosphere,” said Operations Director Gabrielle Dupree Fogle. “Whether you’re looking to grab a bite to eat, unwind after a long day at work, or host a productive meeting, we have something for everyone. Our brewery is perfect for families seeking a casual evening out with our spacious, comfortable seating areas, diverse menu options, and a welcoming ambiance.”

Highwind Brewing Company is poised to become the heartbeat of Junction City, offering a place to enjoy craft beverages and delectable food, bringing the community together. As the doors open in January 2024, Highwind Brewing Co. invites everyone to be part of this exciting journey—to eat, drink, and gather in Junction City’s historic downtown.

Junction City-Geary County Economic Development Commission Is Here To Help New Businesses Thrive

For more direction or help connecting with resources, reach out to JC-GCEDC today. The region is growing, the economy is booming, and there is room for additional businesses to expand here. Our strategic location, paired with skilled labor and an actively pro-business climate, are assets for any company, but especially for our target industries. Explore our full array of tools for site selectors here and contact us at 785-762-1976 or edc@jcacc.org.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.