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Published on January 25, 2025
Bell's Brewery Brings Michigan Craft Beer to Travelers with New Taproom at Grand Rapids' Gerald R. Ford International AirportSource: Wikipedia/Flickr user - dsearls, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Grand Rapids Gerald R. Ford International Airport now offers a taste of local craft beer culture right inside its terminals. Bell's Brewery, a beloved West Michigan staple since 1985, has expanded their reach with a new taproom dubbed Bell's Tap and Table. Located in Concourse B, the venue opened just ahead of the holiday rush and has already begun serving passengers with a range of their classic beers, according to a FOX 17 report.

The grand opening, held on the previous Friday, was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony. As detailed by WOODTV, the new spot isn’t just a taproom but also serves a full menu designed in collaboration between HMSHost chefs and Bell’s. Menu items range from a Bell's burger to breakfast burrito to chicken & waffles, alongside Bell’s classics like the Two Hearted IPA and a seasonal Oberon. In line with airport regulations, beers can be taken "to go" for enjoyment throughout the concourse but are not allowed onboard flights. The taproom design strives to evoke the brewery's original Kalamazoo location, featuring signature design elements like checkerboard tables where customers can engage in a game of chess or checkers.

Executives from Bell’s expressed their enthusiasm for the new venture. "As the largest brewer in Michigan, it’s so important for us to make sure that we are reaching consumers where they are," Carrie Yunker, executive vice president of Bell’s Brewery, told WOODTV. She emphasized their aim to provide airport visitors with the experience and taste of Bell's beyond their flagship Kalamazoo location. Bell’s Tap and Table joins other local dining options and is part of the airport's broader initiative to incorporate more regional offerings into its concourses.

Moving beyond the beers, the airport is undergoing a $600 million upgrade known as the Elevate project, including a new consolidated car rental facility, terminal improvements, and preparations for international flights. As more travelers frequent Gerald R. Ford International Airport, which reported a record-breaking traffic of 3.8 million passengers in 2023, additional amenities are being incorporated to enhance the experience. According to MLive, recent developments also feature an indoor animal relief area and a sensory room, catering to a wider variety of passenger needs.

Overall, Bell's new establishment reflects an ongoing trend of airports embracing local brands to create a more inviting atmosphere for passengers. With its launch, Bell's Tap & Table aims to be a welcoming stop for the millions of travelers passing through each year, offering a slice of Michigan's craft beer scene amidst the hustle and bustle of air travel.