“Where’s your Long Way?” Brewery brings past into future with preserving 1950’s church

RADFORD, Va. (WDBJ) - Whether you’re a Radford local or just passing through, one thing’s for sure; an ice-cold brew is waiting for you at Long Way Brewing. This isn’t just a place to grab a drink; it’s a place with deep roots in the city’s history.

Keith Weltens doesn’t hide his pride for the beer he brews.

“We have three of the best beers in the entire state,” Weltens said.

And why should he?

“We’ve won either gold, silver or bronze, so we invite everyone to come to Long Way,” Weltens said.

Those award-winning brews, since opening in 2020, have made Long Way more than just a neighborhood hangout; they’ve made it a destination.

Weltens says nearly half of his customers are from out of the area, with some even coming from out of state, which Weltens highlights on a map. Some come from Texas, others from Florida and even California.

“We decided to put that up in August and there are already so many dots on it,” Weltens said. “We just ask people in a direct way, ‘Where did your journey start? Where is your long way from?’”

Despite the national appeal, Long Way Brewing is still very much a hometown spot, with loyal regulars. One of those regulars is Phil Hughes.

A weekly visitor, he swears by it and swears it’s not just the beer talking.

“They make the best beer around anywhere,” Hughes said. “All of their beers here are awesome and well-made beers. I’m really, I wouldn’t say I’m a connoisseur, but I really enjoy craft-made beers. Of course, now Virginia is full of breweries now, but this little brewery here is really the best.”

Long Way is also steeped in history. Built in 1950, it was a church before it was a brewery. Hughes' own family played a part in its construction.

“His father was the manufacturer of the rock, and he helped with the stone,” Weltens said.

Long Way’s transformation has played a role in revitalizing Radford’s West End.

While the atmosphere has changed, Weltens prides himself on preserving history.

“It was one of those you can forget the past or bring it into the future,” Weltens said. “We chose the second, which is to highlight things. Certainly, keeping the pews, we did modify them, they were much longer, so we made them smaller and a little more cozy. Certainly, kept the windows, they are a highlight for folks.”

Long Way Brewing is at 501 2nd St, Radford, VA 24141.