Curator’s statement
Denver? Oh, it’s my happy place, my hoppy haven! With so many delicious craft beer flavors, there’s always something new to sip. And honestly, there’s nothing better than soaking up Denver’s sunshine on a brewery patio, playing cards with friends, or just chilling with all the adorable pups (because, yes, most places are super dog-friendly!)
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Things to do in Denver
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Alright, my fellow craft beer adventurer, let’s dive into some of Denver’s best breweries. This city truly has a tap for every taste, and these spots are where the magic happens. To really get into the spirit, hop on an electric bike or scooter and DIY a brewery crawl—it’s the perfect way to explore. Here’s my curated list of top Denver breweries, hitting those key neighborhoods and including your must-visits:
Cerebral Brewing
Neighborhoods: Congress Park (original location) Aurora Arts (second location), and West Highlands (newer spot!)
Why it’s special: These folks are mad scientists of beer in the best way possible. Known for their innovative and often juicy IPAs, complex sours, and a general “scientific approach to brewing” that yields incredible results. Their Congress Park location has a great patio, Aurora Arts is SUPER dog friendly, and the West Highlands spot is a fantastic addition. Always something new and exciting on tap!
Long Table Brewhouse
Neighborhood: North Park Hill
Why it’s special: Tucked into a charming historic building, Long Table is all about community and quality. They have a cozy taproom and a fantastic dog-friendly patio, making it the perfect spot to settle in for a relaxed afternoon. They excel at a variety of styles, but a must-try and personal fav is the Beermosa.
Our Mutual Friend Brewing (OMF)
Neighborhood: RiNo Art District
Why it’s special: A true RiNo staple, OMF has built a reputation for its consistently excellent, well-balanced beers, especially their IPAs and farmhouse ales. Their taproom is always buzzing with a friendly, local vibe, and they often have a food truck outside. Extra tip—go check out Barcelona after for some amazing wine & tapas.
Ratio Beerworks
Neighborhood: RiNo Art District
Why it’s special: With a punk-rock ethos and a killer outdoor patio, Ratio is a RiNo favorite for good reason. They pour a fantastic range of approachable and expertly crafted beers, from refreshing lagers to hop-forward IPAs. It’s a prime spot for sunshine, people-watching, and enjoying a lively atmosphere.
Denver Beer Co.
Neighborhood: Highlands (original Platte Street location)
Why it’s special: This is the quintessential Denver patio experience. Their original Highlands location on Platte Street boasts one of the best outdoor spaces in the city, perfect for soaking up the sun with your pup and enjoying their crowd-pleasing beers like Princess Yum Yum Raspberry Kolsch. They truly embody the laid-back Colorado lifestyle.
Odell Brewing Co.
Neighborhood: RiNo Art District (Brewhouse) and Sloan’s Lake (Brewhouse & Pizzeria)
Why it’s special: While Odell hails from Fort Collins, their Denver outposts are absolute gems. The RiNo location is a fantastic multi-level spot with a great rooftop patio, perfect for enjoying their diverse and consistently excellent beers. Feeling hungry? Grab a burger from Shake Shack right next door—a perfect pairing! Their Sloan’s Lake location is another excellent choice, especially if you’re looking for a leisurely afternoon. Take a stroll around the picturesque lake, then pop in for a fresh brew and delicious scratch-made pizza.
Reverence Brewing Company
Neighborhood: City Park West / Uptown
Why it’s special: Reverence is a truly welcoming neighborhood spot with a fantastic vibe. They pride themselves on crafting both traditional and contemporary styles, often with a unique twist, and their focus on community is evident in everything they do. Their taproom is cozy and eclectic and they offer a great selection of beers, plus craft sodas and seltzers for all. Known for being extremely community-centered and LGBTQ friendly.
Need to know
Denver’s craft beer scene is incredibly welcoming, but a little insider knowledge can make your adventure even better. Here are a few extra tips for your sudsy explorations:
Patios are pup paradise (mostly): While Denver is incredibly dog-friendly, keep in mind that most breweries allowing dogs will only permit them on their outdoor patios. This is a Denver city ordinance. So, be aware of the weather! On a sunny Denver day, it’s perfect, but if the skies are gray or the temps drop, your furry friend might need to stay home. Always check their website or call ahead if you’re unsure.
Two wheels, many brews: You’re in a highly bike-friendly city! There are ample supplies of rentable electric bikes and scooters from various providers (like Lime or Bird) scattered across the city. This is my absolute favorite way to create a DIY brewery crawl, especially in neighborhoods like RiNo or the Highlands. Just remember to ride safely, follow traffic laws, and never drink and ride. Park responsibly, too—Denver has been implementing new rules for scooter and bike parking.
Mind the Mondays: A heads-up for Monday travelers: many Denver breweries, especially the smaller ones, are closed on Mondays. It’s their day to rest and re-brew! Always check their hours online before you plan your route to avoid any disappointment. Tuesdays are generally a safe bet for most, and the weekends are always buzzing.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Denver is the Mile High City, and that altitude can sneak up on you, especially when enjoying a few craft beers. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout your day to stay hydrated and energized for your brewery adventures.
Beyond the beer: While this guide focuses on beer, remember that Denver’s brewery scene often comes with fantastic food trucks, local art, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with a local—they might just share their hidden gem.
Pace yourself: With so many amazing breweries, it’s easy to get carried away. Remember to pace yourself, enjoy the experience, and savor each unique brew. Consider sharing flights to try more without overdoing it.
Travel Advisor
Traci Thielen
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