Waterline Brewing Co.

“Brewed Under the Bridge” might just be the best tagline in Wilmington beer. Tucked into a restored 1940s warehouse directly beneath the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, Waterline Brewing Co. has been pouring some of Wilmington’s most beloved craft beer since 2015. Add a veteran-owned, locally rooted ethos, a hands-down distinctive setting, and one of the most loved Kölsch beers in the city, and you’ve got a Wilmington brewery experience you genuinely can’t get anywhere else. Be sure to check out the pictures below to get a feel for the place before you go — or to relive the visit after.

A Veteran-Owned Brewery in a Historic Setting

Waterline opened in 2015 in a restored section of the historic 1940s Jacobi Hardware Warehouse on Surry Street — directly beneath the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge. The setting alone is genuinely unique: tucked away just blocks from the heart of downtown, the brewery feels both rooted in its industrial history and entirely its own thing. Look up while you’re sipping and you’ll see the bridge directly overhead — a setting that absolutely delivers on the “Brewed Under the Bridge” promise.

The brewery is veteran-owned and operated, and the brew team has been turning out a steady, well-balanced lineup of ales on a state-of-the-art steam-fired 20-barrel brewing system. That investment in serious equipment is part of what’s allowed Waterline to build the reputation it has today.

The Beer

Waterline focuses on well-balanced, approachable ales done thoughtfully. The flagship lineup includes:

• Waterline Kölsch — the brewery’s most popular pour and the beer that earned Waterline its reputation. A smooth, crisp, German-style ale with a refreshing citrusy finish — and a perfect gateway beer for anyone new to craft.
• Neil’s IPA — a solid go-to for the IPA crowd
• Hefeweizen — a traditional German-style wheat beer
• Red IPA — a more robust take on the IPA style
• Coffee & Cream — a unique blonde ale with coffee and cream flavors that’s developed its own loyal following
• Oatmeal Stout — full-bodied, smooth, and rich

Beyond the flagships, Waterline rotates through a wide variety of seasonal and special-release beers throughout the year, including Holiday Chai Gruit, Irish Red, flavorful goses, an annual Oktoberfest Märzen lager, and the occasional surprise like a Pickle Gose or a Scottish Wee Heavy. The variety means there’s almost always something new to try.

For non-beer drinkers, the bar also serves wines, ciders, hard seltzers, mixed cocktails, and non-alcoholic options — making it accommodating for groups with mixed preferences.

Take Some Home

Whether you’ve found a new favorite or just want to bring some beer back for the weekend, Waterline makes it easy. The taproom offers 4-packs, 6-packs, 32-ounce crowlers, and growler fills — all available to go.

The Space

The taproom takes full advantage of its restored warehouse setting — exposed beams, an industrial-meets-craft aesthetic, and a brewing operation right on view. There’s also an outdoor space for the days when you’d rather enjoy your pint with a view of the bridge overhead and the breeze off the Cape Fear River. The brewery hosts a rotating slate of live music, food trucks, beer releases, and special events throughout the year, so the calendar is worth checking before you visit.

Good to Know

• Veteran-owned and operated — a meaningful piece of Waterline’s identity.
• Walk-ins welcome — no reservations needed for a casual visit.
• Food trucks rotate at the brewery regularly, so there’s typically something to eat alongside your beer.
• Live music and events are a regular part of the calendar — check ahead if you want to plan around something specific.
• Take some home — 4-packs, 6-packs, crowlers, and growler fills are all available to go.
• Free Downtown Trolley access — the brewery is right at the Castle and Front Street stop, making it an easy add to a downtown afternoon.
• Located at 721 Surry Street in Wilmington, just under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge.

A Wilmington Standout

Waterline Brewing Co. is the kind of brewery that earns regulars the right way — with great beer, a genuinely unique setting, and a veteran-owned, community-minded ethos that you can feel the moment you walk in. The Kölsch alone is reason enough to visit, but the full lineup, the bridge-side setting, and the easy-going vibe make this one of those Wilmington breweries you find yourself recommending to anyone who asks. If you’re putting together a Wilmington brewery day, leave room for an extra stop under the bridge.

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Resources

Waterline Brewing Website

Waterline Brewing Facebook

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Social Media

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