Discover the Community Gathering Space at 12 Mile Creek Brewing Company
Walking into the 12 Mile Creek Brewing Company in Parkston, it’s easy to mistake it for just another bar. But this charming establishment is far more than that. With a bar made from a beautifully milled green ash log, craft beer on tap, and an inviting seating area, it beckons for a closer look. However, the experience here goes beyond the bar vibes. The nook with coffee drinks and smoothies, combined with large windows letting in heaps of natural light, sets a unique tone. And notably, there are no televisions broadcasting sports or news, by design.
A Versatile Craft Brewery in Parkston
“It’s not a bar at all,” says Mike Weiss, one of the family owners of 12 Mile Creek Brewing Company. This establishment truly feels like a community gathering space that welcomes everyone. The new building, at 2,300 square feet, comfortably hosts around 60 people inside with additional seating on the outside decks. It recently held a soft opening, inviting community members to enjoy its special drinks, relaxed atmosphere, and homemade foods.
A Place for All Ages
The 12 Mile Creek Brewing Company aims to provide a family-friendly environment. Mike Weiss shares how the first night saw families and kids enjoying the space. Inspired by his visits to Platte Creek Brewery, Weiss envisioned a similar community space for Parkston. The result? A welcoming brewery named after the nearby 12 Mile Creek that serves as a haven for both beer lovers and coffee aficionados.
Delicious Beverages for Everyone
Visitors can expect a diverse selection of drinks at 12 Mile Creek Brewing Company. The coffee bar, managed by Donna Weiss and her daughter Katie, serves fine brewed coffee, espresso drinks, chai, hot chocolate, and Lotus Energy drinks. Meanwhile, Mike and Matt Weiss focus on the brewery side, featuring South Dakota craft beers such as Homestead Summer Slam and Ben’s Cold Brew Blonde Ale. They have plans to start brewing their own beer on-site, rotating new brews to cater to customer preferences. Whether patrons choose to enjoy their drinks inside or on the deck, there’s something for everyone.
Tasty Local Fare
Apart from beverages, 12 Mile Creek Brewing also offers homemade food options. Matt Weiss, an enthusiast of Instagram cooking videos, brings his culinary creations to the table on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The food menu, featuring items like Cuban sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients, highlights their commitment to supporting local businesses. According to Mike Weiss, everything from their kitchen is locally sourced whenever possible.
Supporting and Enhancing the Local Community
The Weiss family aims to offer an additional entertainment option for Parkston, not to compete with existing local businesses, but to complement them. If visitors come to 12 Mile Creek Brewing Company, they may be inclined to explore other local businesses too. Their mission is to create a market that stands on its own, attracting those who might otherwise seek entertainment elsewhere. The new venture may still have some rough edges, like the plywood counters awaiting permanent surfaces, but the welcoming atmosphere and enthusiastic staff make it a delightful destination.
Operating Hours and Events
The coffee bar operates from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Wednesday. Both the coffee and brewery sections are open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday. With a space ready to host office gatherings, engagement parties, or a relaxed day out, 12 Mile Creek Brewing Company is ready to serve Parkston and beyond.
Community Support
Mike Weiss proudly shares how the community has come together, especially during recent floods. In return, the brewery seeks to give back by utilizing local supplies and creating an inclusive atmosphere. “We try to give to the community, and the community has given back in many regards,” Weiss says, reflecting the company’s dedication to fostering a strong, supportive local environment.
