10 Popular Beers From The Past That Are Hard To Find Today

Step back in time and explore beers that once dominated American tables but are now nearly impossible to find. From regional favorites to national sensations, these brews carry stories of tradition, innovation, and changing tastes. Each sip offers a glimpse into the past, inviting beer lovers to savor flavors that shaped generations. Whether you’re a collector, enthusiast, or curious newcomer, this journey through forgotten classics is full of nostalgia and discovery.

1. Olympia Beer

Olympia Beer, once a beloved lager from Tumwater, Washington, was known for its crisp taste and the iconic slogan, “It’s the water.” Founded in 1896, it became a staple in the Pacific Northwest. After a series of ownership changes, including acquisition by Pabst in 1999, the Tumwater brewery closed in 2003, and production later paused. In recent years the brand has seen limited revival efforts and occasional regional availability, including Canada, making it less common in typical U.S. retail but not entirely vanished.

2. Stag Beer

Stag Beer, brewed in Belleville, Illinois, held a special place in the Midwest for more than a century. Known for its affordability and ties to local culture, it was a favorite at gatherings and family tables alike. The Belleville brewery’s closure in 1988 marked the end of local production, but the brand continued through contract brewing. Today Stag remains a modest regional staple rather than a true rarity, most often found in parts of the Midwest where its legacy still resonates.

3. Falls City Beer

Falls City Beer, established in 1905 in Louisville, Kentucky, was a local favorite known for its smooth taste. The original brewery ceased operations in 1978, but the brand was revived and now operates with ongoing releases and local collaborations. While it has not matched its mid-century prominence, Falls City is once again brewed and available around Louisville and select regional outlets. For seekers of classic labels, it is findable locally rather than a near-impossible score.

4. Rhinelander Lager

Rhinelander Lager, brewed in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, was once beloved for its quality and distinctive shorty bottles. Founded in 1882, it endured setbacks like an 1897 fire and Prohibition. Although the legacy brewery closed in 1967, the brand was revived and the Rhinelander name returned to production, with a local taproom presence reestablishing its hometown ties. Today, Rhinelander is a regional find rather than a lost relic, accessible in parts of Wisconsin and nearby markets.

5. Schlitz

Schlitz, once dubbed “The Beer That Made Milwaukee Famous,” dominated the American beer market in the early 20th century. A controversial 1970s recipe shift and marketing missteps hurt the brand, leading to sharp declines. Schlitz was later reformulated closer to its classic profile and continues to be produced, appearing in select markets with a nostalgic following. It no longer leads nationally, but it remains obtainable regionally for drinkers seeking a historic label.

6. Lucky Lager

Lucky Lager, known for its stubby bottles and rebus puzzles under the cap, was a mid-century favorite. After World War II, it drew fans with playful packaging and broad distribution across the West. Though it faded in the late 20th century, limited modern revivals have reintroduced Lucky in parts of California and the West. Availability is sporadic and regional, making it a throwback find rather than a fully discontinued brand.

7. Narragansett Beer

Narragansett Beer, established in 1890, became a New England staple whose mid-century popularity made it a regional icon. Production in Rhode Island ceased in 1981, but the brand returned in the 2000s and later opened a Providence brewery while contracting larger runs elsewhere. Distribution now extends throughout much of New England and into additional states, making it accessible beyond Rhode Island. It is a living legacy rather than a vanished label.

8. Red, White & Blue Beer

Red, White & Blue Beer, produced by Pabst and later G. Heileman, leaned into patriotic branding that resonated for decades. Despite value pricing and nostalgic appeal, nationwide popularity waned and production ended, aside from brief taproom revivals. Today RWB is out of regular production and surfaces mainly in retrospectives and collections. For fans of vintage value brands, it stands as a genuine hard-to-find piece of American beer history.

9. Grain Belt Beer

Grain Belt Beer, brewed in Minnesota, embodies Upper Midwest pride with a loyal following built on approachable lagers. Though the brand weathered financial turbulence and shifting tastes in the late 20th century, it continues under August Schell Brewing with steady production. Distribution centers on Minnesota and neighboring states, where Grain Belt remains a familiar sight. It is regionally available rather than rare, offering a direct line to classic Midwestern beer culture.

10. Black Label Beer

Black Label Beer, long associated with straightforward, budget-friendly drinking, moved through various ownership and production arrangements. As tastes shifted toward light and craft styles, its U.S. presence narrowed and became inconsistent. The Carling Black Label name still appears in select markets internationally, with U.S. availability limited and sporadic. For American shoppers, it can be tough to locate on shelves, but it is not entirely gone worldwide.