Cider, it seems, is (still) having a moment. In fact, a recent study found that cider is growing in popularity eight times faster than beer in the PNW, which won’t be a shock to anyone familiar with the region’s bevvie scene. It makes perfect sense, too, when factoring in that 60% of the apples grown in North America come from Washington.
Northwest Cider Association (NWCA) Interim Director Jana Daisy-Ensign says, “From crisp, dry ciders made with heirloom apples to fun, funky and fruit-forward blends and single apple varietal bottlings, today’s vibrant cider scene offers a wide range of styles that pair naturally with food and showcase local agriculture. Whether you’re planning a day trip or looking for a neighborhood tasting room, these stops highlight why cider has become a destination in its own right.”
Check out these top recommendations. Cider is calling your name!
📸: Getty Images
1
Finnriver Farm and Cidery
A short ferry ride from Seattle, Finnriver makes an ideal Olympic Peninsula day trip, located just 10 miles south of Port Townsend. Sink into soothing vibes at this organic farm and cidery set among orchards and gardens, with a spacious outdoor cider garden that invites visitors to linger.
Sample year-round cider staples like Blush (made with black currant), Bloom (made with blueberry), Pear, Habanero and Hopped, along with rotating seasonals like Lavender Black Currant and single-varietal releases like Golden Russet. The farm kitchen menu serves up seasonal dishes (including gluten-free and vegan options) built around local ingredients. Regular guest vendors include Dented Buoy Pizza and Moonlight Oyster Co. Live music, tours and community events connect visitors to the local land and people even further.
📍124 Center Rd., Chimacum
⏰ Hours vary by the season, check the website before visiting.
📸: Getty Images
2
Puget Sound Cider Company
Rediscover how easy it is to experience some of Washington’s finest agricultural products without ever leaving downtown. Visit this Pike Place Market operation that’s family-owned and run by a husband-and-wife team. Their unassuming cider stall delivers education, flavor and fun in the form of handcrafted small-batch ciders, made from apples grown in the family’s Ellensburg orchard. Packaged in 750ml wine-style bottles and adorned with well-earned medals, the cider lineup ranges from blackberry and cherry to all-apple blends and single-varietal favorites like Harrison. Enjoy a tasting or pick up a few bottles to pair at home with your Market-bought seafood, cheese or BBQ.
📍85 Pike St. (at Pike Place Market), Seattle
⏰ 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily
📸: Getty Images
3
Yonder Cider
Yonder’s hip and happening Ballard taproom, shared with Bale Breaker Brewing, makes it an easy choice for both cider- and beer-loving friends. Savor the inviting indoor-outdoor setting plus 16 rotating taps that cover everything from crisp dry ciders and small-batch releases to signature cocktail-inspired creations and refreshing seasonal slushies. Start with Dry, a light and refreshing blend of culinary and traditional cider apples, enjoy Vantage, which includes red fleshed and cider apples and don’t miss Hot Yonder Summer, a seasonal infused with peach, lemon and mint. Yonder ciders, made with apples sourced from Washington orchards near Wenatchee, showcase the quality and diversity of the state’s premier apple-growing region. (If seeking a road trip, you can visit their Cashmere location).
📍829 NW 49th St., Seattle
⏰ Tuesday-Thursday 3-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday 12-10 p.m., Sunday 12-8 p.m.
📸: Getty Images
4
Schilling Cider
In the heart of Fremont, Schilling’s Seattle Cider House is known for carrying the nation’s largest selection of craft cider. Order a flight to sample dry, tannic, fruit-forward and barrel-aged pours. Schilling’s own Excelsior Imperial line of cider (think robust, bold flavors at 8% abv) is a crowd favorite, as is their seasonal Chaider made with a local, custom-made chai blend and semi-sweet Schilling Local Legend, featuring a quintessential Sasquatch image at 5.2% abv, crafted from fresh PNW pressed apples. The dog-friendly taproom welcomes outside food, making it easy to grab takeout from nearby eateries. Whether you’re a longtime cider drinker or simply curious, Schilling’s is one of Seattle’s best places to explore the range of today’s cider.
📍708 N 34th St., Seattle
⏰ Thursday-Sunday 4-9 p.m.
📸: Getty Images
5
Slightly Furry
Slightly Furry brings an inventive approach to cider, pairing playful branding with small-batch releases like Pineappowl Pineapple Cider and Screechy Peach Peach Cider. The Central District taproom serves as a community gathering space, hosting events while intentionally creating a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ guests and other underrepresented communities. Find a rotating menu that encourages repeat visits, with ciders that span beyond the expected while remaining rooted in Washington fruit. This venue offers an example of how the region’s cider scene continues to evolve, combining local agriculture with fresh ideas and neighborhood hospitality.
📍851 Rainer Ave. S, Seattle
⏰ Wednesday-Thursday 5-11 p.m., Tuesday, Friday, Saturday 5 p.m.-12 a.m.
