When I'm at a bar for sure. I live in Wisconsin, and I like New Glarus, so when I notice something new from them I'll pick up a small pack to try. I really like their Yokel. When I don't have enough homemade to share with family I'll take a 12 pack of Spotted Cow for them, as they don't have easy access to it.
And usually when I go visit friends in Minnesota or South Dakota I'll put together a sample pack of Two Women and Totally Naked, because it is hilarious.
I often try to find examples of styles that I find intriguing, but that can be tough. I've been looking for some Biere de Garde, and Belgian Dark Strong Ale as I've made those styles, but I haven't had many examples so I don't know how well I did.