A Journey 1,000 Breweries Strong: Joel Geier’s Flights Across America Lands in St. Louis

8.13.25

A Journey 1,000 Breweries Strong: Joel Geier’s Flights Across America Lands in St. Louis

Book Signing at 4 Hands Brewing Co. — Friday, August 22 | 6:30–8:30 pm

Joel Geier has spent the last several years crisscrossing the country, one brewery at a time. With more than 1,400 visits across all 50 states, he’s turned a personal passion into a nationwide narrative with Flights Across America: A Beer Lover’s Journey. The book captures not just beer, but the people, places, and stories that define America’s craft brewing landscape. And now, his journey brings him back to one of his favorite beer cities: St. Louis.

A St. Louis Chapter Worth Highlighting

St. Louis plays a special role in Joel’s story. From the first visit to Perennial  Artisan Ales and Side Project to brewery-hopping with us on a previous trip, the Gateway City left a lasting impression. “The beers at Perennial and Side Project were incredible,” Joelsays. “But getting to explore the scene with you/STLBEER made it even more memorable.”

He also recalls stops at Civil Life for its classic beer styles and cozy taproom, as well as the now-closed Wellspent Brewing, which he still counts among his personal favorites. One spot he’s yet to check off his list? Blue Jay Brewing; a lager-focused newcomer. “I love lagers,” he notes, “and I’m also an avid birdwatcher—so Blue Jay is high on my list for both reasons.”

When asked where he’d return if he could visit one local brewery tomorrow, Joel points to Side Project for its innovation and 4 Hands for its atmosphere. “It’s hard to beat the two-story taproom at 4 Hands,” he says, “and I know we’d swing by 2nd Shift to say hi to the Criders.”

From Social Posts to the Printed Page

The idea for Flights Across America began on social media, where Joel had been documenting his travels under the handle @brewery_travels. Over time, though, it became clear that short-form posts weren’t enough.

 “People would ask me about my brewery visits in places like St. Louis, and it was nearly impossible to find everything in one place,” Joel explains. “Writing a book allowed me to bring those stories together in a cohesive way.”

Starting with brewery #56, Joel began taking handwritten notes, capturing everything from beer styles to the taproom ambiance. The book isn’t organized chronologically, but regionally, allowing readers to dive into different scenes across the country. Naturally, St. Louis earned a spot among them.

Book Signing at 4 Hands Brewing Co.

Joel will be returning to St. Louis for a special event at 4 Hands Brewing Company on Friday, August 22, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. He’ll be signing copies of Flights Across America and sharing stories from his travels. Whether you’ve followed his journey online or are just discovering it for the first time, this is an excellent opportunity to meet the author and celebrate the city’s role in the national craft beer conversation.

Why His Story Matters Here

We believe beer is about more than hops and malt—it’s about community. Joel’s story echoes that belief. His travels have introduced him to hundreds of communities across the country. Still, he continues to point to St. Louis as one of the most memorable and meaningful stops.

Join us in welcoming Joel Geier back to St. Louis, and help us raise a glass to the people and breweries that make this city one of the great American beer destinations.

You can also order your own copy of Flights Across America on Amazon.