Grand Junction Brewing Co. Blends Award-Winning Beer, Local Flavor & a Heart for Connection
Photographer / Robert Jones
Located in an old lumber company building near Grand Park Sports Campus, Grand Junction Brewing Co. was named with Westfield’s unique history in mind. It’s where the Monon and Midland railroads once crossed and was on the central route of the Underground Railroad. That feeling of connection is tangible in the taproom, where community is built every day.
This small, privately-owned Westfield brewery and taproom is an original to the core. Established in 2014, Grand Junction is known for its award-winning beers, scratch-made menu and welcoming gathering place. It also hosts events of all kinds and is a refreshing discovery for first-timers just passing through.
That broad appeal is intentional. Founding partner Charlie Wood says that when he and Jon Knight opened Grand Junction, “There were no bars with entertainment in Westfield at that time, no venue to meet friends, hear music or play games. It was something new. We are very family friendly here. We cater to everyone and make them feel welcome.”
The foundation of Grand Junction is creating exceptional, handcrafted beer with a heavy European influence. Known for its quality and innovation, its brews are often recognized in competitions. Recent wins include multiple Indiana Brewers Cup awards for The Mulligan – a Scottish Ale – and the 2025 World Beer Cup Gold Medal for Not Your Grandma’s Pumpkin Ale — both currently on tap. Wood is a master of the artistry behind the brewing process, having brewed beer for more than 50 years.
While outstanding beer is his passion, Wood admits (without regret) that they “are in the entertainment business.” Events help create a strong community connection, with live music from local bands on the weekends and a regular flow of games and activities during the week. Think trivia nights, themed painting events — even pet adoptions.
Grand Junction’s indoor event space can host 60 to 70 people for personal gatherings like reunions and anniversaries, as well as charity events for veterans, families facing pediatric diseases and other causes. Rock the Junction is the brewery’s own signature music festival, which supports student trade school scholarships and draws as many as 1,500 people annually.
“It is very important to be a part of our community and for us to give back in return for all the support the people in Westfield and Hamilton County have shown us,” Wood says. “We get so much more from them.”
Stay tuned for exciting changes coming soon to Grand Junction. With the help of Managing Partner Ken Grabez, a facelift will rejuvenate indoor and outdoor spaces, along with enhancements to menus and beverages.
“I am new here, but I can tell how much this place is loved,” Grabez says. “The beers, the staff and the building here are amazing. We are just planning a few tweaks to evolve with what is happening in Westfield and enhance the experience year-round.”
The menu will expand to offer more home-cooked food and different types of beverages, including coffee and seltzers to appeal to younger customers. The outdoor area will be redone with a new stage and sunshades, and the event space will be transformed into an indoor beer garden — bringing the outside vibe in during the cooler months.
Customer reviews have raved about Grand Junction Brewing Co.
“Amazing live music with some of the best beer I’ve tasted from an Indiana brewery recently,” one reviewer says.“Great spot with great beers,” says another. “Lots of indoor and outdoor seating as well as cornhole, darts and games. The beers that I had were excellent, and talking to the owner you can tell that they are very passionate about brewing. Definitely worth a try if you are in the Indianapolis area!”
Grand Junction Brewing Co. is located at 1189 E. 181st St. in Westfield. For more information, call 317-804-9583 or visit gjbrew.com.
