Two new breweries announced they will open on College Avenue in Appleton.
West Allis-based Ope Brewing Co. announced plans to open Ope North, a taproom at 1932 W. College Ave. Ope’s flagship brewery is 10,000-square-foot facility in West Allis that opened in 2022.
In a social media announcement, Ope said it would serve craft beers, hard seltzers, hard ciders. wine, cocktails, and mock-tails.
Ope will not serve food, instead encouraging food trucks, allow the taproom to welcome dogs. The business plans to have live music, outdoor and indoor seating, volleyball, pickleball and corn hole.
A second taproom at the site will become a venue for weddings, corporate events, and private parties.
The other announcement was made by Vault 202 Brewery & Taproom, which is scheduled to open later this summer in a space between Chase Bank and Copper Rock Coffee.
The investors of Vault 202 partnered with Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, Inc. on the renovation to bring the concept to life.
“Vault 202 will be a unique destination for guests to enjoy great food, beer, and conversation in the Fox Cities,” said Cindy Stuedemann, an investor. “Partnering with Hoffman has been a wonderful collaboration, and we can’t wait for the renovation to be complete so we can open our doors and share Vault 202 with the community.”
Hoffman’s design of the 9,000-square-foot space began in September 2024. Vault 202 will feature a main bar with a gas-fired pizza oven and ample seating, along with a private event space with views of the brewery equipment. A spiral staircase will lead downstairs to a future bar and lounge with seating inside an existing bank vault.
Many of the original features of the 1962 First National Bank building have been preserved and incorporated into the new design, including the bank vault, terrazzo floors, and ceramic wall tiles. Hoffman is currently overseeing the renovation.
“Vault 202 will be a fantastic addition to the entertainment landscape in downtown Appleton,” said Sam Statz, Hoffman president. “It’s going to be a fun renovation project, and we’re excited for the owners to be able to open in time for Mile of Music.”
