brewery tour in denver colorado

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Psst… 8 Best Brewery Tours in Denver

Denver’s craft beer culture is one of the best in the country, the city of Denver is currently home to over 50 breweries !

Enjoying a drink at a local brewery is a great way to spend the lazy warm evenings. Another great way is to actually tour the breweries. At brewery tours you get to learn how breweries create their craft beers and sample them as well.

If you searching for a unique way to spend your day off, then check out the 8 best brewery tours in Denver.

8 Best Brewery Tours in Denver 

Tours are ordered alphabetically

Aspire Tours: Denver RiNo Craft Brewery Tour

Photograph courtesy of ©Aspire Tours

Where: Tour begins at  Epic Brewing Company ,  3001 Walnut St, Denver, CO 80205 .  Tour ends at  Black Shirt Brewing Co. ,  3719 Walnut St, Denver, CO 80205 .

When: Friday & Saturday from 1pm.  Tours are approximately 3 hours long.

Cost: $53. Book your tour online .

Ages: Adults ages 21 years old or older with a valid ID and a signed waiver

Aspire Tours offers a special (walking) Denver RiNo Craft Brewery Tour , where you will visit up to four craft breweries in the RiNo neighborhood in Denver. The tour will allow you to sample & learn about three carefully crafted beers at each brewery (12 total) and enjoy two official brewery tours.

Coors Brewery Tour

Photograph courtesy of © MCA / Mike Allyn

Where:  Ford St & 13th St, Golden, CO 80401

When: Special Summer Hours (June 2nd through August 15th, 2016). Open Daily; Monday – Saturday: 10am–4pm Sunday: 12pm–4pm; After August 15th: Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.  Tours are approximately 30 minutes long.

Ages: All ages, Children 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Samples given to Adults ages 21 or older with a valid ID.

The  Coors Brewery Tour  takes place in the world’s largest single-site brewery. The brewery tour is a self-paced tour highlighting Coors’ malting, brewing and packaging processes. The tour also features a stop at the “fresh beer room,” where you can sip a cold sample and rest on ice-cube benches in a refrigerated room!

At the end of the tour, you can view old photos, neons, historical beer cans, bottles and memorabilia, and have the opportunity to sample Coors beers.

Denver Brews Cruise Downtown Tour

Photograph courtesy of ©Denver Brews Cruise

Where: Tour departs from Pints Pub,  221 W 13th Ave, Denver, CO 80204

When: Monday – Friday 5:30pm, Saturday 1pm & 5:30pm.  Tours are approximately 4 hours long.

Cost: Drinker Tickets: $55, Non-Drinker Tickets $25. Book your tour online .

Ages: Adults ages 21 or older with a valid ID.

Denver Brews Cruise offers a Downtown Tour , where you will visit three selected breweries, in and around the downtown Denver area, with the first stop being the “Beer 101” stop. The tour guide will give a “Beer 101” tour in the brewing facility explaining beer from the grain mill to the glass all while enjoying a generous amount of selected samples. The tour will then continue on and visit two more breweries, where you can enjoy various beer style samples, facility tours showing different size and dynamic of different breweries.

Great Divide Brewing Co. Brewery & Barrel Bar Tours

Photograph courtesy of ©Great Divide Brewing Co.

Where: 2 locations – Ballpark: Brewery & Tap Room:  2201 Arapahoe St, Denver, CO 80205 ; RiNo: Barrel Bar & Packaging Wonderland:  1812 35th St, Denver, CO 80216

When: Monday – Friday: 3pm, 4pm & 5pm, Saturday & Sunday: 2pm, 3pm, 4pm, 5pm & 6pm. Limited to the first 20 guests to arrive. Tours are approximately 30 minutes long.

Ages: Children 12 and under are not allowed. Children (12–21) must be accompanied by an adult.  Closed-toe shoes are required.

Great Divide Brewing Co. offers two different tours at two of their locations: Ballpark Brewery & Tap Room and RiNo: Barrel Bar & Packaging Wonderland. The Ballpark Brewery tour allows you to tour their original brewhouse which produces  16 taps of seasonal and year-round brews. The RiNo Barrel Bar tour allows you to view the packaging facility, canning line, barrel aged and sour beer storage, and new taproom. They also share an outline of their plans for the new brewery, beer garden and restaurant.

Mile High Tap Tours

Breckenridge Brewery. Tour by Mile High Tap Tours. Photograph courtesy of ©Mile High Tap Tours

Where: Pick up from Brew on Broadway,  3445 S Broadway, Englewood, CO 80113

When: Friday – Sunday (occasional Thursday) Tour times are either: 11:45am, 4:30pm or 6pm (date dependent).  Tours are approximately 4 hours long with approximately 1 hour stops at each brewery. 

Cost: $47. Book your tour  online .

Ages: Adults ages 21 years old or older with a valid ID

Mile High Tap Tours host craft brewery tours at brewery locales near South Broadway and along the Santa Fe corridor. They currently partner with 6 breweries:  Breckenridge Brewery ,  The Brew on Broadway (The BoB) , Saint Patrick’s Brewing Company , Dead Hippie Brewing , Locavore Beer Works and 38 State Brewing Company . Mile High Tap Tour takes you on a 12 passenger tour van where you will visit three out of the six breweries they partner with ( with a guided tour of at least one brewery). Tour package also includes beer tasters and pints.

Prost Brewing Company Brewery & Fermentation Room Tour

Photograph courtesy of ©Prost Brewing Company

Where:  2540 19th St, Denver, CO 80211

When: Daily available times: 12pm, 2pm, 4pm & 6pm.  Tours are approximately 30 minutes long.

Cost: $8. Tours must be scheduled in advance and must include between 8–20 people. Schedule tours online .

Prost Brewing Company is an authentic German Brewery that uses equipment that was brought to Colorado from a village in Bavaria, where it had been used to produce German-style beers since 1963. Prost Brewing offers a brewery and fermentation room tour that takes you behind the scenes of their brewing operation and show you steps of their brewing process. At the end of the tour you will receive a sample of four of their speciality beers to taste as well.

Renegade Brewing Company Brewery Tours

Photograph courtesy of ©Renegade Brewing Company

Where: Yard location,  918 W 1st Ave, Denver, CO 80223

When: 2nd & 4th Saturday each month from 1pm–4pm (last tour will be given at 3:30pm & last call at 3:45pm). Arrive anytime 1pm–3:30pm for a tour.

Cost: Brewery Package $7. No reservations required.

Renegade Brewing Company , the brewery that prides itself with creative brews created in a non-traditional style, hosts brewery tours of its Yard location. The brewery tour package includes a tour of their facility, two 10oz beers and one pint glass to take home.

Wynkoop Brewing Company Brewery Tour

Photograph courtesy of ©Wynkoop Brewing Company

Where:  1634 18th St, Denver, CO 80202

When: Tuesday – Saturday: 3pm & 4pm. Limited to the first 20 guests to arrive. Tours are approximately 30-40 minutes long.

Ages: Adults ages 21 years old or older with a valid ID

Wynkoop Brewing Company was the first brew-pub to open in Colorado back in 1988 at the historic J.S. Brown Mercantile building. Wynkoop Brewing Company offers a brewery tour where you get to view how they brew their beers, ask the staff questions and sample their beers along the way.

Psst… Governor John Hickenlooper was one of the four founders of the Wynkoop Brewing Company back in 1988!

27 Reasons to Love Denver | The Denver Ear

[…] Brewing Company! Local breweries provide more than just great craft beer, they also offer special brewery tours, host many events and partake in local and national […]

Try These 6 Places If You Are Single And Looking To Mingle | The Denver Ear

[…] Brewery Tours are a great way to join a group of people and get to know them better over a chilled pint of beer. Participants get a behind-the-scenes look into how local micro-breweries make those delicious hand-crafted brews, and also have sampling, tasting and socializing pit stops along the way. […]

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The 6 best denver brewery tours (beyond coors).

Discover the buzz about Denver's craft beer scene with these tours

The 6 Best Denver Brewery Tours

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Taste beers from breweries around the city and make note of your favorites on an excursion with Denver Microbrew Tours.

Of the Mile High City's many attractions , its craft breweries are likely the most sought-after destinations for beer lovers. To sample Colorado beer, learn how they're made, and enjoy expert commentary from a fun and informative guide, consider signing up for one of Denver 's guided beer tours. Using both traveler opinion and expert insight, U.S. News rounded up six of the best Denver brewery tours.

Note: Many tours will require you have a valid ID to participate, as several of these tours are for participants 21 and older.

Denver Microbrew Tours – LoDo Craft Beer Tour

Price: From $55 Duration: 2 hours

This walking tour takes you through lower downtown Denver, known as LoDo, and the Ballpark neighborhood for stops at four breweries and bars. At each stop, you'll learn the history of the beverage and how it is made, as well as the differences between various kinds of craft beer. You'll enjoy samples – at least 10 beer tastings, all told – at each stop along the 1.5-mile jaunt. Tourgoers love learning about both Denver and the different kinds of beers. They also appreciate the quantity and quality of the tastings.

This tour lasts a little more than two hours and costs approximately $55 per person. The tour runs at 3:15 p.m. Friday through Sunday with an additional tour at noon on Saturday. You'll depart from either Rock Bottom or Wynkoop Brewing Company, depending on the day and time you meet. Denver Microbrew Tours also offers a beer tour of the River North Art District.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide

Denver Brew Tours – Walking Tour

Price: From $55 Duration: 2.5 hours

Denver Brew Tours will take you for a walk along Tennyson Street in North Denver to visit several microbreweries, including Berkeley Alley Brewing, Call to Arms Brewing Company, and Emporium Brewing Company. You'll spend about 2.5 hours drinking beer (at each stop, you'll enjoy a tasting flight) and learning from beer-savvy guides. Patrons enjoy this tour, saying the guides are amazing at helping travelers select beer based on their preferences.

Tickets cost approximately $55 per person. Tours depart at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and at 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Denver Brew Tours also runs private tours.

View & Book Tickets: Denver Brew Tours

eTuk Ride Denver – Drink Denver Craft Brewery Crawl

Price: From $420 per vehicle Duration: 2.5 hours

Cruise through Denver in an eTuk – a three-wheeled electric vehicle – as you visit three different local breweries that have been curated to suit your taste by your guide. Though you won't tour any brewing facilities on this 2 1/2-hour trip, you will receive one pint at each of the stops. Travelers enjoy riding in the eTuks to get to the different breweries. They also appreciate the tasty beer and experienced guides.

Tours are private and can accommodate up to six tour-takers. Participants must be at least 21 years old. Fees start at $420 per vehicle and includes gratuities, taxes, and pickup and drop-off at select downtown hotels or Union Station . Tours depart daily from Thursday to Tuesday.

View & Book Tickets: eTuk Ride Denver

Coors Brewery Tour

Price: From $20 Duration: 1.5 hours

The Coors Brewery has been serving up cold beers right outside Denver in Golden, Colorado, since 1873. The Coors Brewery Tour gives you a 60-minute glimpse into the process of creating Coors products, including the science behind the brewing process. You also have the chance to enjoy three samples after the tour, given in aluminum cups that you can take home as a souvenir. Reviewers find the tour fun and educational, though some note you'll have to plan your outing in advance as reservations are required and tickets sell out fast.

Tours are available Thursday through Sunday from 10:10 a.m. to about 3:40 p.m., though hours are subject to change. Reservations are required and slots open 25 days in advance of the tour date. Keep in mind that if you take a tour you will not be permitted to bring any kind of bag with you into the facility and strollers, pets and outside food and drinks are prohibited. Tour tickets cost $20 per person. You can also do a sampling-only activity for $10 per person.

View & Book Tickets: Coors Brewery Tour

Aspire Tours – Brews 'n Views

Price: From $109 Duration: 4 hours

This four-hour tour from Aspire Tours takes you to two separate breweries with a scenic drive through the Rocky Mountains in between. During the tour, you'll drive through Bear Creek Canyon and the Lariat Loop. You'll have time to sample beer at each brewery and Aspire Tours will pay for your first beer or tasting at each stop. Tour-takers enjoy the experience for the beer selection and personable guides.

This tour, which includes transportation, departs Fridays (and select weekend days) at 1 p.m. from Union Station. Fees start at $109 per person. Tours are capped at 13 participants, all of whom must be at least 21. Still thirsty? Aspire Tours also offers a hiking tour in Boulder that includes a stop at a craft brewery.

View & Book Tickets: Viator

WeVenture – Colorado Beer With a Cause

Price: From $99 Duration: 2.5 hours

This 2.5-hour walking tour puts a community-minded spin on your average brew tour: Not only will you sample Colorado beer, but each site you visit produces beer sustainably, promotes equality and supports local charitable causes. In all, you'll visit three or four local sites. Reviews say the guides are top-notch and share plenty of information about Denver.

Fees start at $99 per person and participants must be at least 21. The price includes a drink and snack at each stop. Tours depart Wednesday through Sunday at 4 p.m. WeVenture also operates a cocktail tour of Denver, plus history tours and private outings.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in Colorado
• The Best Denver Tours
• Top Things to Do in Colorado
• Top Romantic Getaways in Colorado
• The Best Whitewater Rafting in Colorado
• The Best Zip Lines in Colorado

Tags: Tours , Travel , Denver , Vacations , Colorado Vacations , U.S. West Vacations , US Vacations

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Denver Beer Tours: 9 Best Brewery Tours That Locals Love

This website may contain affiliate links and we may be compensated (at no cost to you!).

Looking for the best Denver brewery tour? Or simply want to try some new Colorado craft beer? Then this guide is for you.

As a Colorado native and beer lover, I am picky about my craft beer. With so many microbreweries and types of beer in the state, it can be difficult to choose what to try. 

Especially if you have limited time, you will need help narrowing down your options. That’s why I’m breaking down the best Denver tours that include beer that you and your friends will enjoy.

If you’re looking for a great time with great beer in the Centennial State, keep reading. Here are my top picks and what you can expect from each activity.

What are the top Denver brewery tours?

✔️ Craft Beer Tour in LoDo: Best for visiting local breweries

✔️ RiNo Beer & Graffiti Tour: Best for beer & art lovers

✔️ Denver Brews & Views Tour: Best for majestic views & scenic drives

These Denver brew tours, and many more, are shared below with more in-depth details.

Thinking of living in Colorado? This guide will help you avoid costly mistakes and remove the stress of planning so you can experience the joys of mountain living.

From private tours to new breweries, continue reading to learn about the best craft beer tours the Mile High City has to offer.

1. Craft Beer Tour in Downtown Denver

It’s no secret that Colorado is a popular hub for craft beer, and has been for years. One of the best ways to see what the Denver area has to offer is on this Craft Beer Tour in Downtown Denver .

Join in on this fun and social beer tour with a brew aficionado who will give you a rundown on the history of beer in the city. 

The tour is about 2.5 hours long and includes stops at four local breweries with more than 10 beer samples from hops to ale and lagers.

Each Colorado brewery offers a unique variety of tastings so you and your group will not be disappointed.

In between beer tastings you can enjoy a relaxing stroll through Denver’s oldest neighborhoods, hearing stories and learning about the city’s history.

This Denver brewery tour in LoDo includes:

✔️ 10+ beer samples

✔️ 4 stops at local breweries

❌ Food not included

✔️ Souvenir tasting glass

✔️ Beer trivia

And with more than 450 positive reviews , we aren’t the only ones who think this beer tour in Lower Downtown Denver is a must-do.

If you want to learn about the brewing process, different types of microbrews, and enjoy tastings from multiple pubs, check out this Craft Beer Tour in Denver.

Book a Craft Beer Tour in LoDo Denver 🤩 5/5 stars (450+ reviews)

2. RiNo Beer and Art Walking Tour

Speaking of graffiti in Denver, check out this unique Rino Beer and Graffiti Walking Tour .

The River North Art District (RiNo) is one of Denver’s fastest-growing neighborhoods, and along this tour you’ll quickly see why. 

Take a break from the crowds on 16th Street Mall and enjoy an art and beer walking tour through RiNo.

Check out colorful street art and unique graffiti along the walls of Denver’s newly repurposed warehouses. 

Along the way you and your group can indulge in some hand-picked breweries and cider houses for some delicious craft beer tastings.

This RiNo Denver beer and graffiti tour includes:

✔️ Alcoholic beverages

✔️ Guided 1-mile stroll in RiNo

❌ Snacks & drinks sold separately

✔️ Souvenir sample glass

✔️ Street art & mural viewing

This tour is conducted by the Denver Microbrew Tour company, which has received nearly 1,500 five-star reviews on TripAdvisor. Which is why I think it’s one of the best Denver beer tours on this list.

Book a RiNo Beer & Graffiti Walking Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (65+ reviews)

3. Denver Brews & Views Tour

Serious beer enthusiasts will love the chance to get out into the mountains and sample some craft beer on this Brews & Views Tour .

This is a perfect activity for a small-group tour as you will learn about the history of brewing and see the beautiful sights of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.

What could be better than joining a local guide on this fun 4-hour tour while enjoying some local craft beer and gorgeous scenic views?

This one of the best brewery tours in Denver as it includes a scenic drive past the Denver Union Station and along the Lariat Loop Scenic Byway. 

Then it’s a 45-minute stop at a brewery in Golden before heading back to Denver’s Union Station at the end of the tour.

The Denver brews and views tour includes:

✔️ 1st round of beer

✔️ Visit 3 different breweries

❌ Additional drinks not included

✔️ 4-hour driving tour

✔️ Free bottled water

And the best part is that the first beer at every stop is included with your ticket purchase. Any drinks you are interested in after that are an additional cost.

Book the Denver Brews & Views Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (100+ reviews)

4. Colorado Beer With a Cause

Experiencing a delicious Colorado beer with friends can be done while supporting great causes thanks to this Colorado Beer with a Cause Tour .

Join a local Denver guide for a 2.5 hour tour all while checking out some of the city’s best breweries and finest craft beer.

You’ll start in one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Denver, near the Denver Public Library, with an end point in the RiNo District. 

In between you’ll get to know the history of the city and view colorful murals and graffiti from local artists.

If you don’t already know, Denver and the entire state of Colorado, is well-known for beautiful mural art and talented graffiti paintings.

After building up a nice thirst, it’s time to enjoy some excellent craft breweries and local Colorado distilleries.

This Colorado Beer with a Cause tour includes:

✔️ History & local art

❌ Pass by breweries only

✔️ Snacks

✔️ 2.5 hour walking tour

Included with your tour ticket are snacks and alcoholic beverages, plus a private tour thanks to an entertaining Colorado guide.

For this Denver activity you can feel good about enjoying a smooth lager or a hoppy IPA all while giving to a charitable cause.

Discover Colorado Beer With a Cause 🤩 5/5 stars (likely to sell out)

5. Wild West Pub Crawl 

Channel your inner cowboy or cowgirl on this Wild West Pub Crawl in Golden . 

This unique tour takes you on a journey through Golden’s historic streets, hitting up some of the city’s most iconic bars and saloons. 

As you embark on your Wild West adventure, you’ll be greeted by your knowledgeable and entertaining tour guide.

The tour makes stops at three local microbreweries, each with its own unique character and selection of drinks.

You’ll have the chance to sample local craft beers, sip on classic cocktails, and even enjoy some old-fashioned sarsaparilla. 

You’ll hear an overview of the city’s colorful past and historic tales of the Old West. 

You’ll learn about Denver’s gold rush era and how it shaped the city’s culture. Not to mention, you’ll hear tales of notorious outlaws and legendary lawmen who called Denver home. 

The Wild West Pub Crawl in Golden includes:

❌ Water & snacks not included

✔️ Golden bandana

✔️ 3 stops at local breweries

As you make your way from bar to bar, you’ll also have the opportunity to take part in some fun Wild West-themed activities. 

You might try your hand at a game of horseshoes or test your aim with a game of “shoot the can.” You might even get the chance to learn a classic country line dance! 

This Wild West Pub Crawl is perfect for locals and visitors alike who are looking for a fun and unique way to experience Denver’s nightlife.

Book a Wild West Pub Crawl in Golden 🤩 5/5 stars (likely to sell out)

6. Downtown Denver Food & Drinks Tour

A guide to the best Denver beer tours isn’t complete without a yummy Downtown Food & Drinks Tour.

Eat and drink your way through Denver’s downtown area on this guided walking tour that allows you to sample 5 of the top restaurants. 

In just 3 hours you and your crew will discover award-winning eateries in Denver including pizza, Colorado pork green chili, fresh empanadas and other delights from family-owned shops.

Throughout the afternoon you and your friends can explore the city of Denver on a walking tour while learning about the city’s Wild West days.

Included with the downtown Denver food & drinks tour are:

✔️ 5 food tastings

✔️ 9 stops & local landmarks

❌ Alcoholic drink pairings are extra

✔️ 3-hour guided tour

✔️ Free Denver Dining guide

This tour includes stops at the most popular Denver destinations include, Dairy Block, Denver Union Station, and Milkbox Ice Creamery.

It also includes passing by some popular landmarks like McGregor Square, Wynkoop Brewing Company (aka Denver’s first brewpub), and Cherry Cricket.

Plus, with more than 900 five-star reviews , you can be sure that your experience will be a great one.

If you’re only in Denver for a short visit, then this Downtown Denver Food Tour needs to be on your list. 

It’s the best way to get an insider’s look at local dining favorites from food to delicious alcoholic pairings (additional cost).

Book a Downtown Denver Food & Drinks Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (900+ reviews)

7. Denver Terrors Boos & Booze Pub Crawl

It’s no secret that Denver is well-known for ghost stories and paranormal activity. 

Many of the city’s wealthiest and elite used to reside on Millionaire’s Row. And some believe they still reside there today.

Join a professional guide on this 2-hour ghost & booze tour through one of Denver’s most haunted neighborhoods.

Listen to authentic ghost stories and accurate portrayals of spooky happenings with a pub crawl twist.

You’ll tour some of Denver’s best bars with yummy food and inventive cocktails. 

This tour does not include alcoholic beverages but you can purchase them as you like.

Included with the Denver terrors boos & booze pub crawl:

✔️ Wheelchair accessible

✔️ Ghost stories & tales

❌ Alcoholic drinks not included

✔️ 2-hour guided tour

✔️ 9 local stops & viewings

Sample a craft beer or cocktail and enjoy this unique pub crawl through some of Denver’s most historic landmarks.

With nine different stops at some of the most haunted homes in the city, you’ll be sure to find boos and booze on this fun night out.

Book a Denver Terrors Boos & Booze Pub Crawl 🤩 5/5 stars (lowest price guarantee)

8. Birdwatching and Brewery Tour

Have you ever wanted to combine your love of bird watching and beer? Well now you can with this Private Birdwatching and Brewery Tour in Denver.

Join a Colorado naturalist on a full-day, 8-hour tour that offers the opportunity for birdwatching, wildlife viewing and beer tasting.

It doesn’t get much better than this!

Included with the birdwatching & brewery tour are:

✔️ Taco lunch & snacks

✔️ Private, personalized tour

❌ Alcoholic drinks are extra

✔️ Coffee & tea

✔️ Binoculars or spotting scope

Once your birdwatching and wildlife tour is over you’ll enjoy an afternoon of cold beers at a local brewery.

You’ll have the chance to enjoy some of Colorado’s craft brews after a long day out in nature!

This amazing tour is personalized just for you and your family or group of friends from the At Bird Man Adventures company.

If you need to cancel or change your plans, there is time to do so without losing your money as long as it’s at least 24 hours notice.

Book a Private Birdwatching & Brewery Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (likely to sell out)

9. Coors Brewery

One of the most famous Denver breweries is the Coors Brewery. Located just 15 miles from downtown Denver in Golden, This iconic brewery is a must-visit.

Coors Brewery offers two main tours ; a full guided tour and a Sampling-Only in the lounge without a tour.

The guided tour starts around $20 per person with rates varying depending on the day or time you book the tour. 

You must be at least 21 years old to tour Coors Brewery with a valid ID. Any guest under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Infants 3 and under get in for free.

A Coors Brewery tour in Denver includes:

✔️ 3 beer samplings

✔️ Guided 1.5-hour brewery tour

✔️ Take-home branded cups

✔️ Non-alcoholic drinks

Booking a 45-minute Sampling-Only Lounge activity, and not a full brewery tour of Coors, costs around $10.

The brewery tour times are currently only available on Friday, Saturday and Sundays from 10am-5pm.

Sampling-Only events are available Thur-Sunday, and does not include a tour of the facilities.

Check out the Coors Brewery website for more details about booking your next tour, directions to the facility, parking, and more.

Is Denver a beer city?

Denver is a craft beer mecca and includes viewings of both larger breweries as well as micro-brewery tours. So there really is something for everyone!

After all, Denver is known as the “Napa Valley of Beer” attracting thousands of beer enthusiasts from all over the country.

It’s home to the Great American Beer Festival and hosts many other major beer festivals all year long.

Not all Denver brewery tours are the same, so I hope this helped you narrow down the options and give you some new ideas for tours to try.

If you’re looking for the best brewery tours in Colorado, these activities in Denver do not disappoint.

Colorado Native & Personal Chef

Ryan Nicholson is a homegrown born and raised Colorado native. Being a rare unicorn to have grown up in CO, he has a unique perspective on the changes here and knows all the hidden spots to get outside in this state. Ryan's a classically French trained chef so he LOVES to try new foods and places to eat. When he's not experimenting in the kitchen or working as a personal chef along the Front Range, he loves to get outdoors and away from it all hiking, camping and backpacking.

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Denver Brewery Tour Guide – Breweries Near Me

Breweries near me – denver, co guided brewery tours.

To say Colorado’s state capital is well-known for its craft beer is an understatement. As the host of the largest beer event in the country and home to over 70 craft breweries, Denver has become a top destination for craft beer fans everywhere. It’s also the city with the highest volume of beer brewed daily in America. Even if you are unable to score tickets to The Great American Beer Festival, you should still schedule a beercation to Denver Colorado in the near future. Our award-winning  City Brew Tours have yet to reach Denver. However, we’ve crafted a list of places for you to start your own beer tour of the Mile High City!

Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project

If you’re looking for a wild or sour beer, you’ll want to visit The Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project. There are over 20 beers on tap, many of which are specialty or barrel-aged beers. This brewery takes pride in collaborating with local farmers and craftsmen for their malt, fruit, hops and other ingredients. The bulk of their brewing takes place at their main facility in RiNo, but they also have a taproom at The Source Hotel and have recently opened a second experimental brewery in Fort Collins.

The Grateful Gnome Sandwich Shoppe and Brewery

Satisfy your craving for both beer and food at The Grateful Gnome. This neighborhood brewpub doubles as a full-service New Jersey style sandwich shop and microbrewery. Sandwiches here are packed with fresh, plentiful ingredients, including freshly-sliced meat at the counter. The taproom pours mostly house-made beers but sometimes features other local Colorado breweries. Don’t miss your chance to pair the beer’s bitter, hoppy flavors with The Grateful Gnome’s rich and savory sandwich contents. 

Odell Brewing Company

Because of the growing craft beer presence in the River North Art District (RiNo), Odell Brewing Co. expanded from Fort Collins to Denver in 2018. With solar panels, reduced water consumption in production, and more, Odell takes many steps towards being environmentally-conscious. Their restored brick building includes bold, floor-to-ceiling hop murals, two-story outdoor patio space, and a fire pit. There’s plenty of space to kick back and enjoy a classic Odell IPA, or if you’re feeling more adventurous, one of their small-batch brews, exclusive to the RiNo taproom.

Novel Strand Brewing Co.

By day, Novel Strand is a coffee shop, and by night it’s a cozy brewery and taproom. It’s one of the first breweries to have African-American owners in the state. Founders Chantel Columna, Tamir Danon, and Ayana Coker believe that everyone should feel welcome in their brewery, and that “being interested in beer is for everyone.” Their small production setup allows them to brew a wide variety of styles, so there’s always something new on tap.

Comrade Brewing Co.

This microbrewery is family-owned. They offer hop-heavy pale ales made with brewing equipment made only in the United States. There’s plenty of room for you and all of your comrades in their 5,300 square foot tasting room and private parking lot with over 600 spots. 

Denver Beer Co.

Denver Beer Co.’s Platte Street location is a former car garage with a dog-friendly beer garden making it one of the most popular beer destinations for locals and visitors in the summer. They brew in small batches to crank out as many styles as possible; you’ll want to enjoy your favorites before it’s too late! From running club to food trucks, there’s always something new to discover at this craft brewery.

Bruz Beers is one of the few breweries in Midtown that specialize in traditional Belgian beer styles. This Denver Brewery offers 20 beers on tap, including the citrusy Dame Blanche Witbier, the malty-sweet Gargoyle Dubbel, and many other regular and seasonal favorites. Pizza and light snacks are available on the Bruz Beer menu, but they also host a different gourmet food truck every day. 

New Belgium Brewing at The Source

That iconic red bicycle is a staple of craft beer in Colorado and across the country. New Belgium’s two Denver locations at Denver International Airport and The Source Hotel are ideal for travelers. At check-in, guests can sip on tasters while watching the brewing process from the lobby. The hotel’s rooftop restaurant, The Woods, showcases small-batch brews aside from its main Fort Collins location. Indulge in exclusive New Belgium drafts and beer-paired dishes while soaking in the picturesque Rocky Mountains and city skyline.

Here are some additional breweries to check out in Denver! We’ve organized them by neighborhood so that you can tackle several in a day.

Downtown Falling Rock Taphouse Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery Wynkoop Brewing Co. Denver Chophouse and Brewery Woods Boss Brewing Co.

RiNo/Five Points Epic Brewing Co. Mockery Brewing Co. Black Shirt Brewing Co. Beryl’s Beer Co. Our Mutual Friend Brewing Co. 10 Barrel Brewing Co. Spangalang Brewery The Great Divide Brewing Co. Liberati Osteria & Oenobeers

Highlands Prost Brewing Co. Little Machine Factotum Brewhouse Joyride Brewing Co. Call to Arms Brewing Co. Oasis Brewery

South Denver Declaration Brewing Co. Grandma’s House Dry Dock Brewing Co. Platt Park Brewing Company Farm House at Breckenridge Brewery Alternation Brewing Co.

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Brewery Tours in Denver

Welcome to Hermes Worldwide, your gateway to the vibrant world of craft beer in Denver, Colorado, and beyond. As the premier provider of Brewery Tours in Denver , we offer a diverse array of options tailored to suit every beer enthusiast’s palate.

Our expertly curated Denver Brewery Tours provide a delightful blend of education, entertainment, and indulgence, promising an unforgettable experience for beer enthusiasts and social gatherings. We’re excited to share the craft beer scene of Denver with you! Call us at +1.303.577.7600 or email us at  [email protected]  to secure your spot.

Our Denver Brewery Tours Tailored to Your Preferences

Our private brewery tours are more than just tastings; they are an immersive journey into the heart of Denver’s brewing community. Led by our knowledgeable chauffeurs who share your passion for craft beer, you’ll better understand Denver’s brewing heritage and the artistry that goes into every pint.

Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or simply looking for a fun outing with friends, we offer a range of brewery tour options to suit your preferences. Our Denver Brewery Tours can accommodate groups of all sizes, ensuring a personalized experience that caters to your interests.

A Taste of Craft Beer Excellence with Our Denver Brewery Tours

Embark on a beer lover’s journey with our Denver Brewery Tours , where we invite you to delve deep into the thriving craft beer scene. Our tours offer an extraordinary and personalized exploration of the region’s rich brewing landscape, connecting you with some of the most distinguished breweries in the area. Imagine a day filled with the essence of hops and barley, where each brewery visit unveils a unique chapter in Denver’s brewing story.

Your adventure begins with a visit to the iconic Great Divide Brewing Co ., nestled in the heart of Denver. Here, you’ll be introduced to innovative and diverse beer offerings. Our experienced chauffeurs will guide you through the brewery’s storied history and intricate brewing processes, setting the stage for an unforgettable day of flavorful discoveries.

Next on your beer expedition is a stop at Epic Brewing Company , where creativity knows no bounds. Known for its adventurous approach to brewing, Epic offers a delightful array of distinctive beers. Our chauffeurs, who share your passion for craft beer, will introduce you to the dedicated brewers behind the scenes. You’ll gain firsthand insights into their craft and the brewery’s exceptional beer selection.

As you continue your journey, Denver Beer Co . welcomes you with its warm and inviting atmosphere, embodying the essence of the city’s craft beer culture. Here, a commitment to quality and community shines through in every sip. The brewery tour deepens your appreciation for Denver’s vibrant beer scene as you explore its offerings.

Concluding your brewery tour is River North Brewery , an institution dedicated to Belgian-style ales and innovative flavors. Here, you’ll uncover the artistry behind their beer creations while immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of Denver’s beer culture.

Our Commitment to Excellence

At Hermes Worldwide, we take immense pride in our commitment to excellence, ensuring that every Brewery Tour in Denver we offer is an exceptional and memorable experience. Here is what you can expect when you commence this journey alongside us:

Knowledgeable Chauffeurs

Our chauffeurs are passionate about beer and eager to share their expertise with you. They’ll guide you through a handpicked selection of large and small breweries, showcasing the diverse styles and flavors that make Denver’s beer scene so remarkable.

Meet the Brewers

Get up close and personal with the brewers themselves. Learn about their unique brewing processes and gain insights into the rich history of each brewery. It’s a chance to connect with the creators behind your favorite brews.

Unmatched Convenience

At Hermes Worldwide, we take care of all the details. From licensed and insured chauffeurs to safe and comfortable vehicles, we prioritize your safety and comfort. Our fleet includes various options, from luxurious limos to spacious motor coaches, ensuring we can accommodate groups of all sizes.

Entertainment Onboard

You’ll have ample time to relax and enjoy the scenery during your journey. Our vehicles are equipped with onboard entertainment systems, with movies and TV shows to keep you entertained. Plus, stay connected with our onboard Wi-Fi.

Book Your Brewery Tour in Denver Today

If you’re ready to embark on a captivating beer exploration led by our knowledgeable chauffeurs, don’t hesitate to contact us today to reserve your Denver Brewery Tour . We accommodate private tours for groups of all sizes, ensuring a tailored experience that suits your needs. Join us and discover the rich world of craft beer that Denver, Colorado, offers.

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COME AND TAKE A TOUR AT

COLORADO'S FIRST BREWPUB

Brewery tours.

Since our start in 1988, Wynkoop Brewing Company has been a pioneer on the American beer landscape. We were the first brewpub in the now beer-rich, craft beer heaven of Colorado.

Our thirst for beers beyond the status quo led us to hand craft porters, meads and cask-conditioned beers (we were cask when cask wasn’t cool) and other current craft beer fixtures that beer lovers had never tasted before. Now is your chance to see behind the scenes!

PUBLIC TOURS

Unfortunately, we currently aren’t able to offer public tours, but please check back soon as we look forward to the time where we can once again have our guests stroll through the historic J.S. Brown Mercantile building sampling Wynkoop beers along the way.

PRIVATE GROUP TOURS

For guests that are looking for a personalized, custom experience, we are often able to provide a private tour. Call or complete the form below and one of our team members will follow up to discuss the details.

See where the magic happens — with a beer in hand, of course.

Book your private craft brewery tour today or if you’re interested in booking a tour as part of a private dining or banquet option, please email [email protected] .

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April 04. 2024

What to do this week in Denver: Baseball home opener; First Friday market; eclipse watching

Rockies-based food and drink specials bring big crowds to Wynkoop for Opening Day.

April 03. 2024

Forty Things Every Newcomer to Denver Must Do (Before Reading the Best of Denver)

Westword shares their favorite things to do for Denver newcomers including tasting a brew at the Wynkoop.

April 01. 2024

5 delicious food pranks that proved a hungry public craves every morsel of news

Wynkoop’s infamous Rocky Mountain Oyster Stout dubbed one of the best April Fools Day pranks turned menu mainstays.

October 05. 2022

GABF turns 40: How Colorado’s biggest beer festival shaped the American craft industry.

“Beer Christmas” returns to Denver this week for the first time since before the pandemic.

June 09. 2022

A Denver Brunch for Every Budget

No matter if you’re looking to splurge or on a budget, there’s a meal that fits the bill.

Best Breweries in Denver: Don’t Miss Out on These Great Beers

You can explore and taste the best breweries in Denver, the capital city of Colorado, thanks to its fantastic craft brewery culture and location at the heart of the famous Denver Beer Triangle. When you are in Colorado and Denver, you should never miss the chance of visiting the top breweries in Denver to enjoy their specialties.

The 14 Best Breweries in Denver

There’s nothing like a refreshing pint in the Mile High City. Much like the West Coast cities of Portland, Seattle, and San Diego, Denver is one of the best places to explore the bustling craft brewing scene.

June 03. 2022

Rockies opening weekend: LoDo specials, free pop-ups and all-ages “Rockies Walk”

A roundup of events in and around home-opening weekend at Coors Field. Wynkoop Brewing Company is tapping its Lockout Maibock, a Maibock brewed during the MLB lockout “when they were not sure if the season was going to happen,” according to a press statement.

June 01. 2022

This is Nuts! Wynkoop Will Tap Vegan Rocky Mountain Oyster Stout on Day of Darks

Rocky Mountain Oyster Stout has been a big attention-getter for Wynkoop Brewing Company over the past nine years, from the ballsy marketing campaign to the viscous mouthfeel to the way the cans were sold in pairs.

View all blogs >

TOUR INFORMATION

Reservations for future tour dates will go on sale to book 25 days in advance of the tour date. brewery tour reservations release for booking at 12:00 am midnight mountain daylight time when the 25th day begins. reservations are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. see our current release days listed below. .

Thursday Dates: Saturday Night into Sunday Morning (Limited Availability)

Friday Dates: Sunday Night into Monday Morning

Saturday Dates: Monday Night into Tuesday Morning

Sunday Dates: Tuesday Night into Wednesday Morning

ABOUT RESERVATIONS

Reservations for Future tour and sampling dates will go on sale to book 25 days in advance of the tour date. Brewery tour reservations release for booking at 12:00 AM Midnight Mountain Time when the 25th day begins. Reservations are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. See our current release days listed below. 

• Thursday Dates:  Saturday Night into Sunday Morning (Limited Availability)
• Friday Dates:  Sunday Night into Monday Morning
• Saturday Dates : Monday Night into Tuesday Morning
• Sunday Dates : Tuesday Night into Wednesday Morning
• Monday Dates : Wednesday Night into Thursday Morning (Limited Availability)

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GETTING HERE

Location: All visitors begin their experience at our tour parking lot located at 502 14th St. Golden, CO 80401 (Southeast Corner of 13th & Ford Streets) 

Parking:  Visitors will park in our tour parking lot and board our shuttle to go over to the brewery complex. Shuttles leave promptly at the scheduled reservation time. Due to construction, parking may be limited at times. Currently, our parking lot cannot accommodate larger vehicles such as RVs, motor coaches, large tour buses, or vehicles towing trailers or campers. 

Transportation: The Coors Brewery Tour can be accessed by a combination of light rail and bus. Visit the RTD website to plan your trip. Check our map and driving directions.

Contact Information: Access the Coors Brewery Tour Facebook page for other details.

Important Message:  Reservations are required for all tours and sampling experiences. Guests may only visit our facility once per day. Reservations are good for the date, time, and number of people booked only. For safety reasons, we cannot overbook brewery tours beyond the number of spots available for that tour.  

Age Restrictions

Personal items, service animals, reservations, large groups, private events, visit golden, inclement weather.

• Late Arrivals

In accordance with Colorado Law, all guests consuming alcoholic beverages must be of legal drinking age (21 or older) and provide a valid, government-issued, photo ID. We can only accept current IDs like driver's licenses, passports, state ID cards, and military IDs. Guests under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult who is 21 or over. As our company produces alcoholic beverages, our tour is geared towards legal drinking age adults. However, there are topics like manufacturing, science, and agriculture that visitors of all ages will find interesting. We do offer soft drinks for visitors of all ages in our hospitality lounge. As we are located in a manufacturing facility and also have an active construction site in front of the building, we ask that young children be kept under close supervision during their visit. 

As we are a food manufacturing facility, we do not allow the following items for safety and security reasons: 

• Bags including, but not limited to purses, handbags, waist/fanny packs, backpacks, and camera bags. Small wallets are permitted. 
• Outside food and drink (with the exception of water) may not be brought in the facility for any experience.
• No smoking (tobacco, vape pens or cannabis) is allowed while on the tour. In accordance with federal and state laws, no illegal drugs are allowed on brewery grounds. No prior consumption of alcohol is allowed. If you arrive intoxicated or become over-intoxicated during the tour, we reserve the right to refuse service or discontinue your participation on the tour at our discretion without a refund .   City of Golden open container ordinances are strictly enforced.  
• Strollers are not permitted in our facility for safety reasons, however wearable baby carriers are permitted. Parents may also bring a small amount of baby supplies in a diaper bag.  
• Weapons, including (but not limited to) firearms, stun guns/tasers, and knives are not permitted on Molson Coors property.
• Pets or other animals are not permitted on our tour or in our parking lot, with the exception of trained service animals. (see below) 
• Solicitation and petitioning are not permitted anywhere on our premises, including (but not limited to) the distribution of literature or offering items for sale. 

We do not provide on-site storage areas or lockers for prohibited items. Coors Brewery Tour Staff cannot hold or watch personal items not permitted on the tour for guests during their visit. Bags left unattended will be reported to Molson Coors Security.  Coors Brewery Tour and Molson Coors Beverage Company are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal items. 

Molson Coors welcomes guests with disabilities on the Coors Brewery tour. Only service animals trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability are permitted on tours. 

Visitors are welcome to visit our gift shop at no charge without making a reservation. Gift shop visitors will still need to park in our tour parking lot at 502 14th St. Golden, CO 80401 and board the shuttle to come over. Access to the gift shop is available every day we are open for tours or sampling from 10:00 AM through 4:00 PM. Visitors who are coming in only to shop will not be able to sample our products in the hospitality lounge.  

Reservations are required for Brewery Tours and Sampling-Only experiences. Brewery Tour reservations are made available for booking 25 days in advance. Sampling (without a tour) reservations are available for booking 1 week (7 days) in advance. All reservations are available to book on a first-come, first-served basis. See the portal near the top of this page to book reservations. 

If a date does not appear on the calendar, it could mean that we are sold out, closed, do not have space for the number of people requested, or we have not made reservations for that date available yet. 

Reservations for those Requiring Accommodations: We are happy to accommodate those with disabilities. Please use the "Contact Us" link found at the bottom of the page to send us a message and request an accessible tour. Accessible tours are subject to availability. 

Unfortunately, we do not make special accommodations for large group tours of 15 or more people. Large groups are welcome to book any publicly available tours using our online booking tool when they go on sale 25 days in advance. Please note that we cannot overbook tour slots to accommodate large groups, and we cannot take requests for dates and times that we are closed.  

Our space is not available to rent for private, non-company events. We encourage event planners to support our local businesses in Golden that offer event space. See the Visit Golden link below for more details. 

For information on other great places to visit in our hometown of Golden, CO .

• Brewery Tours are currently offered Thursdays to Mondays*  at various times between 10 AM and 3:45 PM. Please use the booking tool above to check availability for all dates and times.  Reservations are required and are available to book 25 days in advance.
• Sampling-Only (Without a Tour)  is offered Thursday-Monday*  at various times from 10:20 AM to 3:20 PM.  Reservations are required and are available to book 25 days in advance. 
• Gift Shop-Only (Without a Tour or Samples)  is offered Thursday-Monday* from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

 *- Visitor hours on Mondays will begin Monday, April 8, 2024. 

CLOSED Monday-Wednesday (Tuesday & Wednesday after April 8)

Brewery tours, sampling, and shopping will be closed on the following dates for holidays, maintenance, or company events :   May 27 (Memorial Day), July 4 (Independence Day), September 2 (Labor Day), November 28-29 (Thanksgiving & Black Friday). Additional closure dates may be added throughout the year. 

• Brewery Tours:  $20 Adults (21+), $10 Minors (Ages 3-20), $10 Active Military & Veterans (must present ID)
• Sampling-Only (Without a Tour):  $10 Adults (21+), $5 Minors (Ages 3-20), $5 Active Military & Veterans (must present ID)
• Infants Under 3 are free for all experiences.
• Above pricing reflects the ticket price only. All bookings will also be charged a non-refundable* 10% service fee, along with all applicable sales tax. 
• No other discounts are offered at this time. 

* - In the event of a cancellation issued by Coors Brewing Co. due to inclement weather, emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances, the 10% service fee will be refunded. 

We reserve the right to cancel and/or delay tours at our sole discretion due to unsafe weather conditions, emergencies or any other unforeseen circumstances affecting the brewery. If your scheduled tour is cancelled by our team, you will be notified by email and receive a full refund (including tour price, and applicable taxes/service fees). If your tour is cancelled, we welcome you to rebook a future experience on our website at your own convenience. 

Late Arrivals & No-Shows

We ask that visitors plan to arrive at our tour parking lot 15 minutes prior to their scheduled reservation time. We may not be able to accommodate late arrivals or incomplete groups for brewery tours. Please allow plenty of time to get to Golden. We are not responsible for heavy traffic, delayed flights, road construction, or other delays. Brewery tours cannot be held or delayed for late-arriving groups. Groups who arrive late may not be able to be rescheduled and may receive an alternate experience from what they booked. We unfortunately do not issue refunds for no-shows or late arrivals. 

For any aditional questions please visit our FAQ page.

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Denver Beer Trail

We invite you to explore Denver's local beer culture and visit some of the 150 brewpubs, breweries and taprooms in the metro area.

Get a taste of our local flavors by exploring our Denver Beer Trail!

Find a list of our breweries below along with an interactive map to help you navigate your Denver brewery experience. As always, please drink safely and responsibly with a designated driver. #DenverBeerTrail

Beer Trail Neighborhoods

Downtown denver, rino & five points, highland, berkeley & sunnyside, central & south denver, near denver.

Denver Chophouse & Brewery

ChopHouse’s 10-barrel system provides the flexibility to serve a diverse list of beers from light and dark lagers to stouts and fruited sours, along with an ever-rotating offering of hoppy ales.

Great Divide Brewing Co.

Great Divide has been brewing bold and assertive beers since 1994 and is Denver’s oldest and largest packaging brewery. (Other locations: Barrel Bar, 1812 35th St., Denver; Road House, 215 Wilcox St., Suite G, Castle Rock)

Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery

Jagged Mountain offers a fine selection of traditional ales, while pushing the boundaries on what craft beer enthusiasts think is possible in specialty craft beer.

Raíces Brewing Co.

Community, culture, cerveza. Raíces is a Latino-owned brewpub featuring award-winning craft beers, rotating Latin American food and ongoing events. They have the only riverside patio in Denver.

Reverence Brewing Company

Reverence is a neighborhood brewery for all ages, races and genders. With a tap list consisting of traditional and contemporary beer styles as well as four house-made sodas, there is something on tap for everyone! Enjoy their pup-friendly patio or settle inside among the vintage decor with food from one of the 11 restaurants within one block of the brewery. You’ll soon find out why readers of Westword named Reverence the “Best New Brewery Taproom” in 2021.

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery

The downtown Denver Rock Bottom location is the original Rock Bottom, which opened its doors in 1993. Nearly 30 years later, it’s still continuing the legacy of unique, quality and on-trend rotating offerings in a casual classic brewpub. (Other locations at 9627 E. County Line Rd., Centennial; 1505 Park Central Drive, Highlands Ranch)

Strange Craft Beer Company

Strange Craft was the first small taproom brewery to open in Denver. With an inviting bar made of reclaimed wood, a spacious outdoor seating area with yard games, rotating food trucks and 15 taps of award-winning beers, there’s plenty to enjoy.

Wynkoop Brewing Company

Wynkoop is Colorado’s first brewpub, established in 1988 before LoDo (Lower Downtown) was even an acronym. More than 30 years later, Wynkoop remains a Denver institution, known for its innovative brewers who will put just about anything in their beer, including Rocky Mountain oysters, gummy bears and green chiles.

14er Brewing & Beer Garden

14er Brewing has one of the largest outdoor and indoor spaces in Denver. A sprawling warehouse-style microbrewery located in the heart of RiNo, 14er is home to 31 draft handles. Featuring an ever-changing selection of craft beer, house-made seltzer, slushies and more, 14er has something for everyone!

Bierstadt Lagerhaus

Bierstadt Lagerhaus is a lager-only brewery focused on traditional techniques and German-style lagers. No flair, no twist, just clean lager beer.

Black Shirt Brewing Co.

Black Shirt is a small but mighty independent craft brewery, artisan pizza kitchen and live music venue located in the northern reaches of RiNo. They open at 11 a.m., seven days a week, with two dog-friendly patios and a full menu that includes spent grain pizza, appetizers and salads.

Blue Moon Brewing Company—Rino District

Blue Moon’s RiNo location is an opportunity to enjoy creativity and innovative brewing. Try unique beers only available at this location and grab a bite from the globally inspired, locally sourced food menu.

Cohesion Brewing Company

Cohesion is dedicated to making lagers in the traditional styles found in the Czech Republic. Utilizing a variety of unique production and service methods, they offer approachable beers to enjoy inside their beautiful taproom or on their patio.

Great Divide Brewing Co. - Barrel Bar

In 2015, Great Divide expanded into the burgeoning RiNo neighborhood with their Barrel Bar and Barrel Cellar. The Barrel Bar is now an anchor in Denver’s hippest neighborhood. [Other locations: 2201 Arapahoe St., Denver; 215 Wilcox St., Suite G, Castle Rock (Road House)]

Left Hand RiNo

Left Hand Brewing Co. has been brewing beer since 1993 and always wanted to open a location in the Denver downtown area. That dream became a reality with Left Hand RiNo, offering a full bar and an eclectic food menu.

Ratio Beerworks

Ratio focuses on meticulously crafted beer. The brewery’s portfolio includes a wide variety of traditional styles with a modern twist. With deep roots in the punk rock music scene, Ratio’s co-founders sought to translate the industry’s sense of community, DIY spirit and strong musical influences via the beer and taproom experience. [Other location: 2030 S. Cherokee St., Denver]

River North Brewery

Since its founding in 2012, River North has been front and center watching its namesake neighborhood, RiNo, unfold into one of the premier brewery destinations in the country and one of the most popular areas in Denver for exceptional food, drinks and entertainment. River North has crafted a reputation for brewing barrel-aged and cellar-worthy beers since its inception.

Woods Boss Brewing Company

Woods Boss has transformed an early 1900s brick building into a beautiful brewery and taproom. They have 24 taps with 20 craft beers brewed in-house and a gluten-free option as well as root beer and kombucha.

Call to Arms Brewing Company

Founded in 2015, Call to Arms Brewing Company is an award-winning brewery, located in the Berkeley neighborhood of northwest Denver. Blending tradition with innovation, the brewery is a gathering place passionately committed to quality, community and camaraderie.

Denver Beer Co.

Home to one of the largest outdoor patios in the city, Denver Beer Co. has established itself as a top spot to enjoy a craft beer during one of Denver’s 300 days of sunshine. Using 100 percent solar power, traditional methods and innovative spirit, the brewery creates award-winning craft beer that is approachable, fun and delicious. (Other locations: 7070 E. Lowry Blvd., Denver; 2425 S. Downing St., Denver; 5768 Olde Wadsworth Blvd., Arvada

Diebolt Brewing

Located in the Sunnyside neighborhood, Diebolt can be found in a 75-year-old warehouse tucked into a quiet residential area. They take pride in their French family heritage and the excellent farmhouse-style beers they produce. They also have a great selection of American-style beers. Diebolt is the place to meet or make friends and have a great brew.

FlyteCo Brewing

This aviation-themed brewery is a community favorite. FlyteCo offers coffee, food and beer! It’s open to the public at 6:30 a.m. for delicious breakfast sandwiches while the beer starts flowing at 7 a.m. FlyteCo recently opened an outpost in the Central Park neighborhood called FlyteCo Tower, a brewpub located in a former air traffic control tower. [Other locations: 3120 Uinta St., Denver (FlyteCo Tower)]

Joyride Brewing Company

Situated across the street from the banks of beautiful Sloan’s Lake in Edgewater, Joyride has tremendous views that pair with their stellar brews. Their rooftop deck was declared the best patio in Denver by 5280 Magazine in 2019.

The Empourium Brewing Company

Empourium’s bright, open and modern taproom is in the Berkeley neighborhood, on the corner of Tennyson Street and 42nd Avenue. They focus on providing a wide selection of clean, crisp and sessionable craft beers to the community. Come make pour choices with them!

Baere Brewing Company

Neatly nestled in a classic strip mall in the Baker neighborhood just south of downtown, Baere Brewing has been producing a wide variety of handcrafted beers since 2014. From lagers to stouts, IPAs to sour beers, you’re sure to find a beer perfectly paired for your day.

Banded Oak Brewing Co.

A former auto body shop, this intimate brewery has a large patio for sunny days and recently opened up the brewhouse area in the back for those snowy days we occasionally get. They make all kinds of beer, from award-winning barrel-aged beers to very classic and unique styles. Whether you’re a beer nerd or a casual drinker, you’ll find something to enjoy.

Black Sky Brewery

At Black Sky, heavy metal flows through the speakers. This Santa Fe Drive staple has 25 taps and barrel-aged beers, with crowlers, growlers and bombers available to take home. Hungry? New Haven-style pizza, calzones and grinders are served daily.

Bruz Off Fax

Opened in 2019, Bruz Off Fax is located in the heart of the Colfax Avenue corridor, providing a fun city environment. They are proud to be a part of this vibrant community. They are dog-friendly on the patio only. Furry friends are always welcome. [Other location: 1675 W. 67th Ave. Suite 100, Denver]

Comrade Brewing

This family-friendly taproom is known for quality, drinkable beer. Comrade is the 2019 Great American Beer Festival’s “Small Brewing Company of the Year,” winning six GABF medals since opening in 2014.

Novel Strand Brewing Company

Novel Strand is an independently owned boutique brewery and taproom in Denver’s historic Baker neighborhood, with laid-back vibes and a focus on the hoppy, sour and classic offerings of the beer world.

TRVE Brewing Co.

For more than a decade, TRVE has been Denver’s finest spot for a beer, conversation and heavy metal music. It’s now the home of Music City Hot Chicken’s Denver outpost.

Avery Brewing Company

Founded in 1993, Avery is a nationally recognized brewery in Boulder. Visit Avery’s taproom and restaurant for 30 beers on tap, a dog-friendly patio and a seasonally selected menu. Their motto: Beer First. The Rest Will Follow.

Bruz Beers (Midtown)

Just north of the Highland neighborhood, you’ll find a tasting room with three large flat screens, a spacious patio and lots of seating at the bar, tables and lounge area. Ample parking is available in the large lot directly behind the tasting room. They are dog-friendly inside and out. Furry friends are always welcome! [Other location: 1495 York St., Suite 101, Denver]

Dry Dock Brewing Company — South Dock

Aurora’s first brewery, Dry Dock’s South Dock is a trailblazer for fruit beers (including the wildly popular Apricot Blonde Ale) and the brewery-with-tasting room model now found across Colorado and the nation. The state’s 10th largest craft brewery, Dry Dock has two bustling taprooms that serve an array of delicious and highly acclaimed beers. How acclaimed? Since its founding in 2005, Dry Dock has earned more awards in the Great American Beer Festival (26) and World Beer Cup (8) than any other independent craft brewery in Colorado.

Gordon Biersch

Gordon Biersch is where German precision brewing meets American craft beer. Their restaurant has an on-site brewery where their local brewmaster uses the purest ingredients to create clean, fresh German lagers and the finest American craft beer.

Holidaily Brewing Company Tech Center

Like its sister location in Golden, Holidaily specializes in gluten-free beers made with alternative grains and buckwheat. The 2,350-square-foot space at the Denver Tech Center taproom is outfitted with a two-barrel pilot system where brewers can experiment with new recipes. The space inside boasts a large garage door opening to the dog-friendly patio. [Other location: 801 Brickyard Circle, Unit B, Golden]

Holidaily Brewing Company

Holidaily is America’s largest gluten-free brewery and is dedicated to creating excellent-tasting and safe gluten-free beer. There’s never a chance of cross-contamination, so you can celebrate with no worries! Using naturally occurring gluten-free grains sourced from Wellington, Colorado, Holidaily produces award-winning craft beer for all beer lovers to enjoy. [Other location: 5370 Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Suite 107, Greenwood Village]

Ska Brewing Company

Based in Durango on the western side of the state, Ska was founded in 1995 and produces more than a dozen award-winning beers fueled by ska music and love. Pioneers in the canned craft beer movement, Ska is known for an array of styles in 12-ounce cans. Using 100 percent solar and wind power, Ska is the Four Corners region’s largest and most award-winning brewery. With more than 20 beers on tap and a dog-friendly beer garden complete with games, live music and a kitchen serving locally sourced sandwiches, salads and gourmet pizzas — you’ll find everything you need at Ska Brewing World HQ.

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The Top Breweries In Downtown Denver

Our partner, Thirst Colorado , keeps an up to date list of all Colorado breweries

Denver attracts visitors from all around the world, with more people flocking to the Mile High city every year. 2017’s visitor log clocked in at 31.7 million , representing a 12 year growth in tourism for Denver . What brings so many people here? While there are many answers to that question--the mountains and the myriad of adventures that await, for example--a major contributor is the local brewery scene. Denver (and the surrounding metro area) is home to 148+ breweries, with many located right downtown. On our last count in March of 2020, there were 92 breweries in the city of Denver alone.  If you’re interested in exploring the top breweries in downtown Denver , read on.  

Denver Is The Napa Valley of Beer

Visit the best of downtown with denver microbrew tour.

Join a Denver Microbrew Tour. We offer two highly-rated options:

• The  LoDo Craft Beer Tour : Sample 10+ beers at 4 breweries on this 1.5 mile guided walking tour. This tour is great for a first-time visitor to Denver, as we cover the history of Denver’s beer scene (while sprinkling in scandalous historical tidbits about the Mile High City). We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing plenty of sunscreen--we’re at elevation here, making the sun particularly intense. The tour costs $40 and is offered Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
• The  RiNo Beer and Graffiti Tour : The River North (or RiNo) neighborhood borders downtown and is home to a growing creative craft beer scene. The former warehouse district is turning over into an hip neighborhood that attracts artists and innovators. In addition to visiting breweries, tour participants will sample cider at a local cidery and hear the history of RiNo’s distinctive street art and graffiti scene. The tour costs $40 and is available Fridays and on Sundays.

LoDo’s (Lower Downtown) Top Breweries

Rock bottom brewery.

What makes Rock Bottom a can’t-miss brewery in Denver? Beyond the food, which takes bar food to the next level, the brewery offers limited small batch beers on site; McClure often has 15+ beers brewing at a time. Try their “Molly Brown’s Titanic Ale,” a malty porter, or if IPA’s are more your style, try the “Falcon IPA,” a crowd-pleasing and citrusy pour. The tasting room also offers cask conditioned brews, seasonals, and uniquely twists on classics, like the “Chili Kolsch,” which is infused with Pueblo chilis.

Denver Chop House and Brewery

Located next to Coors Field, Denver Chop House and Brewery is home to fine dining and house-brewed beers. Try the “Inverted Jenny,” an Imperial IPA, or the “Amber Ale” made with Cascade hops. While nitro offerings may just be hitting the big time in the last couple years, Denver Chop House and Brewery has led the way, offering their “Velvet” nitro series for the past 19 years. The Velvet series changes seasonally; they currently offer a nitro Amber Ale.

Wynkoop Brewing Company

A visit to the brewery takes you back into history. Built in 1899, the Mercantile Building still stands today as Wynkoop’s home and a testament to Denver’s railroad ties. Enjoy a “Rail Yard,” their best-selling amber ale, or venture into the unknown with their latest bold brews, which could include the “Rocky Mountain Oyster Stout,” a stout made with--we kid you not--roasted bull testicles. Whatever you try, follow the company’s advice: “Don’t drink boring beer.”

Falling Rock Tap House

Ballpark’s top breweries, jagged mountain craft brewery, great divide brewing company.

Some of their year-round favorites include the “Yeti, ” an Imperial Stout and the “Colette,” a Farmhouse Ale. Those who love specialty beer will love their various offerings: the seasonal six-pack, “Tank Farm,” and “Yeti Clan,” which offers four twists on the Yeti per year. One favorite is the Chai Yeti, available September through December. Many of these seasonals are only available in the tap room--sample what catches your eye while you’re there!

Woods Boss Brewery

Given that you’ve just entered from the heart of downtown, that’s quite a feat! Those hoping to soak up the sun can chill on the patio, beer in hand. Brews rotate seasonally, with current offerings including a hazy New England IPA, a Saison, and a Fruited Kettle Sour.

Union Station and LoHi’s Top Breweries

Denver beer company.

This German-inspired beer garden is a perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon, soaking up the sun while enjoying their ales and lagers. They tend towards small batch brews, so don’t wait to try their seasonals, as they may be out by your next visit. The beer garden is draped with hops growing overhead; check out their food truck schedule to know what snacks you could enjoy during your visit, or feast on one of the giant pretzels sold at the bar. Their year-round favorites include the “Princess Yum Yum Raspberry Kolsch,” because, as they say , “there is a pretty pink princess in all of us.” The “Incredible Pedal” IPA is perfect for a summer afternoon, and the “Pretzel Assassin” Amber Lager fits in perfectly with fall weather.

Prost Brewing

In 2011, the founders decided to establish a brewery specializing in German style lagers and ales. Prost Brewing launched to great success and is now open in both Denver and Ft. Collins. The equipment was all purchased from a German brewery that was closing its doors; the copper brewing equipment was shipped from Germany to Denver and creatively made to fit the Prost space. With plentiful awards, rare brews, and a prime location in LoHi, Prost has quickly become a local favorite.

Those who love wheat beer won’t want to miss the Weissbier, or Vice Beer. Prost won the 2015 Great American Beer Festival (GABF) gold medal for the South German-Style Hefeweizen category with this banana and clove flavored specialty. Another gold medal winning beer is the Keller Pils, which took top marks at the 2013 GABF for the Keller/Zwickel-Style Keller-Pills category.

Cerveceria Colorado

When you think of Mexican beer, perhaps Corona comes to mind. At Cerveceria Colorado, they are taking your preconceptions about Mexican-inspired beer and turning it on its head. They take “traditional Mexican ingredients, flavors, and processes to create innovative styles of beer, ” like the “CoColimon,” a kettle sour with lime and coconut. Try their limited release “Senor Pina,” a pineapple blonde ale, for a taste of summer, or the “Churro Stout.” Whatever you sample here, it is likely to be different than anything you’ve ever had before. Pair a stop by Cerveceria Colorado with their neighbor, Denver Beer Company.

Zuni Street Brewing Company

Located in the LoHi neighborhood, this brewery offers between 15-20 different beers at any time. Enjoy the patio and yard games, such as giant Jenga and cornhole, and sample a bite from the food truck of the day. With offerings ranging from blonde ales to stouts, there is something for everyone. Fans of the Lord of the Rings will enjoy a few themed names, such as the “Sour BombadAle,” a strawberry rhubarb sour, or the “Lady Galadriale,” a oak-aged sour brown flavored with strawberries.

Cheers to the Best Breweries in Downtown Denver

Are you ready to try the city’s best beers, from IPA’s to special edition cask-ales to funky sours? There is something for everyone at the top downtown Denver breweries! The ideal way to sort through all of the options and visit only the best of the best is by joining the Denver Microbrew Tour. Locals, explore your hometown brews on a random weekend, or consider booking a tour when hosting friends or family from out of town to show off all that Denver has to offer. You can book your tour in advance or reach out for a custom group event of your choosing. We would love for you to join our next tour.

You May Also Be Interested In

Rino beer and grafitti (rino).

Craft Beer and Street Art Converge

Explore Denver's hottest new breweries in the hip RiNo Art District, and experience Denver's burgeoning street art scene on this 2.5 hour guided walking tour. Visit 3 breweries and 1 cidery, taste 10+ beers / ciders.

• Sundays: 12:15 PM
• $40 per person

Private Groups (Anywhere)

Limited only by your imagination.

Be it a corporate team-building event or a social gathering, we create fun and unique bonding experiences for your group that enable you to experience Denver in a whole new way.  

• Nearly any time, any day
• Starting at $50 per person

Our Brewery Tours

Lodo craft beer tour (downtown).

A Historical Denver Craft Beer Experience

The original Denver Microbrew Tour route, this 2.5 hour guided walking tour delves into scandalous Denver history and delicious craft beers. Visit 4 top craft beer spots, taste 10+ beers along the way.

• Fridays: 3:15 PM
• Saturdays: 12:00 PM and 3:15 PM
• Sundays: 3:15 PM

More about our LoDo Beer Tour...

RiNo Beer and Graffiti (RiNo Arts District)

Learn More about our RiNo Route...

Be it a corporate team-building event or a social gathering, we create fun and unique bonding experiences for your group that enable you to experience Denver in a whole new way.   Learn More about our Private Tours...

All summer-only tours are open on the calendar. Book your summer adventure now!

Brews 'n Views

We made this tour for the beer enthusiast who wants to appreciate some pretty spectacular mountain views and also sample the best of the Colorado brewing scene. On this small-group tour, you'll get to enjoy tasty craft beer from some of the best local craft breweries in and around Denver, while our knowledgeable local guide shares the history and backstory that makes every pint taste even better. Enjoy the views, find something you’ve never tasted before, and discover new brews you’ll love.

• Enjoy top-rated craft beers in small mountain towns

• Take in mountain and canyon views throughout the scenic drive

• Learn about what you're drinking and who made it from a fun local guide

• Enjoy your pints knowing your transportation is covered

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Jed was very knowledgeable about the ecosystem and history of each town we visited and the trails we hiked. Jed was also very accommodatiive to everyone's needs.

wrote a review

Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver

Phil from Philly was a great tour guide. Very knowledgeable of the area and fun! Beers options were excellent for IPAs and sours. Had a great group of people to tour with. Would recommend this to beer lovers.

May 11, 2022

Mike was an excellent guide, taking us to 3 different brewerys around the area that otherwise my husband and I would not have thought to go. Allowed ample time at each stop. Asked for our input on each brewery as to make any tweaks in the future. A fun and relaxing day

July 20, 2021

Fun breweries and amazing views. Dylan was a wonderful guide, giving history and showing rock formations we wouldn't have known to seek out otherwise!

July 21, 2021

Great tour. Whole experience was very enjoyable. Nick was a terrific guide. There was only one other couple on the tour and we hit it off with them. Besides the good beer the “views” were great too. We have been to CO numerous times but Nick knew the back roads and showed us countryside we hadn’t seen before. If we are in CO again we would definitely take another trip with Nick.

December 20, 2022

I had a great time on this tour. Every brewery we went to had great beers that were paired with amazing views. Phil was our tour guide and he definitely helped make the tour memorable. Transportation is in a small bus/van, water is provided. It's a good idea to go on this tour well-hydrated. Definitely recommend to put on your to-do list if you're visiting Denver.

October 18, 2022

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Colorado Brewery Tours

Colorado has long been known for exceptional craft beer. New breweries seem to sprout up every week. Touring a brewery is a fun way to spend a couple of hours. You get free beer and you might learn something too.

List + Map of Brewery Tours in Colorado

Most larger breweries offer regularly scheduled tours. Most are first-come, first-serve, some you can sign up in advance. Tours are offered year-round, so it’s a tasty way to warm up your winter or relax away your summer.

Avery Brewery Tour – Boulder

Boulder Beer (Sleeping Giant Brewing)- Denver

Breckenridge Brewery Tour – Littleton

Budweiser Brewery Tour – Fort Collins

Coors Brewery Tour – Golden

Dry Dock Brewery Tour – Aurora

Great Divide Brewery Tour – Denver

Left Hand Brewery Tour – Longmont

New Belgium Brewery Tour – Fort Collins

Odell Brewery Tour – Fort Collins

Oskar Blues Brewery Tour – Longmont

Upslope Brewery Tour – Boulder

Top Breweries by Town

11 Best Breweries in Boulder

7 Best Breweries in Colorado Springs

Raise a Few at Denver’s 15 Best Breweries

21 Best Breweries in Fort Collins

10 Best Breweries in Golden

13 Best Breweries in Longmont

11 Top Breweries in Loveland & Berthoud

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16 of Colorado’s Most Popular Breweries

Producing more beer per capita than any other state, Colorado is a beer-lover’s dream. The Centennial…

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A Dozen Great Beer Festivals in Colorado

Colorado is well known for its beer scene, thanks in no small part to the Coors…

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What’s the Mountain on the Coors Can?

Wilson Peak, the mountain on the Coors Can, is one of the most iconic alpine peaks…

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Denver Breweries That Serve Food

Finding a well-made craft beer in Colorado is not hard. When you’re looking for a bite…

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5 Breweries Inside the Denver Int’l Airport

Colorado is known for its love of craft beer, so it’s no surprise that there are…

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Guide to Breweries and Craft Beer in Colorado

Everyone knows by now that Colorado is a mecca of craft breweries. They seem to pop up on another corner every week. Many of them offer free tours and even they don’t, they’ll still let you sample a few of their products.

You can make a fun day out of touring breweries in the craft towns of Boulder and Fort Collins. Boulder’s well-known brewers include Avery, Boulder Beer, and Upslope. And if you have extra time, Longmont’s not far and features the fan-favorite Oskar Blues. Fort Collins has Odell, in addition to Budweiser and New Belgium. All are within a few minutes of each too.

No matter where you are in the Centennial State, a microbrewery is probably not far off. Even when there’s none, you can usually sample a wide variety of craft beer at a local bar. Mile High Happy Hour shows more than a thousand Denver happy hours for those in the capital region.

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9 Famous Colorado Craft Beers

Alongside abundant sunshine, world-class skiing, and legal weed, craft beer is an integral part of Colorado’s…

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What is Colorado is known for?

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Best things to do in Glenwood Springs

Anchored by its plentiful hot springs and stunning canyon, the historic town of Glenwood Springs features…

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Related Activities

In addition to great craft beer, Colorado produces epic wine and liquor. Taste samples at local distilleries and wineries, or spend the day at a historic mine or sightseeing tours.

Colorado Distillery Tours

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Colorado Mine Tours & Gold Panning

Colorado Sightseeing Tours

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In addition to our refreshingly unique Blue Moon® Belgian White Belgian-Style Wheat Ale, we also offer our collection of flavorful seasonal and limited release beers that reflect Blue Moon’s twist on various beer styles. An appreciation for the creative process and a passion for brewing enable us at Blue Moon Brewing Company® to offer a welcome twist of flavor in our beers that everyone can enjoy.

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Visit the Blue Moon brewery in Denver

We’re excited to share our ongoing creativity and innovative brewing with you at the Blue Moon Brewery. Check out our 20+ rotating beers where you will find some old favorites and a few new ones fresh from the minds of our brewing team.

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BREWING IN DENVER SINCE 1994

Independent then independent now, from the corner of 22nd & arapahoe to the world..

Founded in 1994, Great Divide Brewing Company is Denver’s oldest and largest packaging brewery and one of the most decorated breweries in America.

‘Bold Character’ isn’t just a catchphrase. It’s the philosophy behind what we brew, how we think, and what we believe.

BOLD CHARACTER FOR BOLD CHARACTERS

We believe..

At Great Divide Brewing Co., our mission is clear: to craft exceptional ales that captivate our customers with their distinctiveness, all while offering unparalleled service and education to both our customers and the wider public, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art of craft brewing.

Our brewery is a group of remarkable individuals dedicated to brewing extraordinary beer and actively engaging with our vibrant community.

Drink from the source at one of our five Colorado taprooms.

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Geeks who drink, wednesday, apr. 24, 7pm – 10pm, cooking class, thursday, apr. 25, 6pm – 8pm, adoptable puppy yoga, sunday, apr. 28, 12pm – 2:30pm, find beer near you, future shin digs.

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28 Fun Things to do in Denver, Colorado

D enver is one of the coolest cities in the US. It’s a mile high city, has a huge outdoor culture, a fanatical sports following, a growing craft brew scene and emerging foodie scene.

There are many, many things to do in Denver, Colorado. It’s one if the fast growing areas for millennial migration in the US so the city is quite hip, edgy, and happening.

It’s walkable, has some of the friendliest and happiest people in America, and is surrounded by the mesmerizing Rocky Mountains and Colorado River – my favourite place to explore in the US.

We visited Denver and the Rocky Mountain National Park on our road trip in 2016.

We loved it then, but noticed huge improvements on our return trip, and love it even more now. It totally suits our lifestyle vibe.

If you’re not sure what to do in Denver, then keep reading to discover some of the best attractions and places to visit…

1. Check Out 16th Street Mall

2. dine at stout street social, 3. admire union station, 4. drink coffee at pigtrain coffee, 5. attend the chalk art festival, 6. hire a bike and tour denver, 7. wander around civic center park, 9. explore linger.

• 10. Drink Ales at Amato's Ale House

11. Check Out The Music Scene

12. take a day trip to the colorado rockies, 13. attend the great american beer festival, 14. have brunch at snooze, 15. explore the capitol hill area, 16. dine at mercantile, 17. go shopping in larimer square, 18. check out the red rocks amphitheater, 19. go hiking in mount evans, 20. relax in confluence park, 21. take the kids to the water parks and theme parks, 22. spend a day at the museums, 23. drive the mount evans scenic byway, 24. catch a show at the denver performing arts complex, 25. relax in the denver botanic gardens, 26. see the animals at denver zoo, 27. take a day trip to boulder, 28. watch a sporting event, final thoughts on things to do in denver, colorado, where to stay in denver, pin this for later, things to do in denver, colorado.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, relaxing bars and restaurants, or something fun and unusual, you’ll find all this and more with the follow attractions in Denver.

We stayed around the 16th Street Mall area, which is the touristy area of the city. I liked that the mile-long pedestrian street was walkable, but also has the free tram going up and down if you want to jump on that.

There are plenty of restaurants on 16th street and the streets running off it.

Next time we visit, we plan to stay in a vacation rental in one of the trendy neighborhoods we heard so much about like RiNo (River North), Highlands, and Five Points.

We LOVED this restaurant on 14th street across the road from the Convention Centre, mostly for the delicious roasted brussel sprouts and the gluten free beer.

The receptionist at our hotel recommended this as the place to go and the sprouts as the dish of the century.

You rarely hear that about brussel sprouts so curiously, we ordered and were blown away by the flavour. They’re roasted in mint, cilantro, truffle-chile glaze with a bit of snap, crackle, pop.

I’ll let you know the recipe once I can replicate it at home.

The salmon quinoa salad was also the bomb. We visited twice and ordered the same thing both times!

So we fell in love with Union Station. It was our first experience of Denver stepping off from the train from Denver Airport.

It’s the nicest train station I’ve been too, which is one reason we’ve out it on our things to d in Denver list.

Tastefully refurbished, clean and modern with soaring 65-foot ceilings and enormous arched windows filling the room with sunlight. There are many great restaurants, cafes, comfy waiting couches, and even a bar with foosball table.

We just love how quiet and well behaved everyone is having drinks, quiet conversations and playing games.

Reflecting back on Central Station in Sydney makes me shudder – ugly, drab with too many drunken yobbos.

We returned there many times for something to eat and to hang out. It has such a pleasant vibe.

Our first coffee in Denver was of decent size. Now that’s a large.

One morning, Craig and I were in fits of giggles at the gigantic coffee cups people were walking around fueling up with. America’s small is equivalent to an Australian large (and much cheaper!)

I can’t say the coffee is as good as Australia, but it was way better than I remembered and most places had almond milk!

Read More: 19 Essential things to know before visiting the USA

Durin the summer in Denver, there are always festivals and events happening. While we were there, the Chalk Art Festival was on.

Artists come out and create their designs on the roads around Larimer Square. There was music and food and drinks and once again everyone is civilized and the vibe upbeat and happy.

It was fun checking out all the incredible artwork.

Denver is a flat city so perfect for bike riding. The city makes it easy for you with their share bike program, Denver Bcycle .

here are multiple bike stations set up throughout the city. You can grab a B map or download the app, pop in your credit card and rent a bike to explore.

Very important to note – for $9 a day you get unlimited bike rides within the 24 hours, but there is a catch.

You can only take the bike for 30 minute periods. So plan carefully.

All you do is return the bike to a bike stand and then take a different one out. That way you can still keep riding but you won’t get charged overtime rates.

We hired a bike from the bottom of the pedestrian bridge at 16th street on the way to Highlands and cycled to the confluence of the Platte and Cherry Creek River, where the settlers first started Denver.

They would follow the Cherry Creek from Kansas and until they arrived at the Confluence to look for gold – and so Denver began. 

After checking out that slice of history, and the children swimming in the small rapids, we took the Cherry Creek bike trail .. all the way to Cherry Creek mall. it was an easy and fun bike ride.

We then rode home, go changed, and took more bikes out to ride down 14th street – always great fun with all the traffic, back to Highlands for drinks at Linger.

We couldn’t not pay a visit to the Colorado State Capitol and stand on the mile high steps for the obligatory photos.

It’s exactly a mile high. Across the road is Civic Center Park, which is green space bordered by the State Capitol, City and County building and the Denver Art Museum. It’s the space for frequent city events. 

We received notice too late one day that there were food trucks happening on a Wednesday lunch time.

Civic Center Eats offers food and music from Tues- Thursday from 11am-2pm during the summer. Bummed we missed it!

But, we did learn of The People’s Fair happening on the weekend that we ducked down to have a look at. Music was playing, food was cooking, and plenty of arts and craft stalls, and local craft beer.

I bought a crystal and checked out a photographer who’s photos were amazing.

8. Explore The Highlands Neighborhood

The Highlands neighbourhood is sought after as a place to live by the millennials. If you’re looking for hip restaurants, bars and boutique stores, this is the place. It’s only a short walk over the bridge to downtown.

We had a brief hour or two there. We’re keen to check it out more when we return.

When multiple people tell you Linger is the best place to eat and drink in Denver you go. Second to that was Root Down which is owned by the same people. We didn’t get a chance to visit there – next time.

Linger has a rooftop bar which is the place to go, especially for happy hour Mon-Fri 4pm-6:30pm – $5 cocktails, $4 beers and $5 appetizers.

The tacos and sweet potato waffle fries were the bomb! Make sure you have your ID – I was carded and almost not served because I did not have my ID.

I had to let the manager know what my birthdate was to prove I was in fact 40. I am flattered, but really, I’d love for common sense and good judgment to return to society.

Just below Linger is Little Man Ice Cream – a gigantic milk bottle, you can’t miss that has ice cream people line up for hours for.

Our friend, Don gave us the inside tip for this one. I’m not an ice cream lover so I headed up to the bar instead.

10. Drink Ales at Amato’s Ale House

After happy hour at Linger, we popped down the road to Amato’s Ale House for dinner. No gluten free beer for me to sample, but a delicious bison burger and happy hour red wine made me happy!

Some other tips for restaurants for the Highlands area Don gave us:

• Lola (Mexican and fish – not your standard taco or burrito. Higher end, very good)
• Central Bistro  Always a good meal. Modern, but not trendy. If the weather’s okay, sitting on their patio is nice with a good view of the city
• Avanti  Very moderate prices. It’s a food hall concept with individual restaurants and a main dining area along with a couple of bars – killer deck views of downtown

Denver has an excellent music scene. While it might not be as famous as Austin, Nashville, or New Orleans, there is a growing folk/Americana movement with groups like Paper Bird and singer/songwriters such as Danielle Ate The Sandwich and Patrick Dethlefs .

Additionally, the indie scene is healthy with bands like Tennis and Hindershot gaining traction.

Denver has also been a launch pad for larger, mainstream acts as well. Groups such as The Fray, One Republic, The Lumineers, and The Flobots have all found international fame after recognizing popularity locally in Denver.

Visitors can check out the music scene first hand by stopping by one of the many independent music venues throughout the city. 

The Hi Dive , The Walnut Room, Larimer Lounge , and The Marquis Theater are all great places to check out the local music scene.

Alternatively, visitors can turn their radio dial to 1340 am for Open Air Colorado , a Colorado Public Radio station that plays local, independent music.

Rocky Mountain National Park is the most accessible national park from Denver and it couldn’t be more different from the city experience.

Visitors are treated to majestic mountain views, fresh Rockies air, unique wildlife encounters, and amazing hiking opportunities amongst the alpine wilderness.

Icy glaciers, glassy lakes, and the iconic Longs Peak all compete for attention along the continental divide in one of the crown jewels of America’s National Park system.

Don’t forget to check out Colorado Springs too , especially if you’re visiting in the winter.

Check out this day trip to the Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver.

Denver is a beer town. Part of this reputation comes from the host role the city plays to the Great American Beer Festival each year.

The festival is the brewing industry’s top competition and public tasting session and there is no other place in the world where you can find more beers on tap.

Every October, More than 450 breweries come together to pour more than 2200 different beers to thirsty festival goers.

Visitors can find EVERY type of beer at the festival and many types they never even knew existed.

Snooze is the place for brunch. Someone from our community recommended we go there and we chose it as our last place to eat in Denver before we jumped on the train to fly home.

I had the Snooze Spuds Deluxe – A heaping portion of hash browns, covered with melted cheddar & jack cheese, scallions, avocado and mushrooms, which was delicious and Craig the Spring Greens quinoa salad.

Capitol Hill is a vibrant and funky neighborhood southeast of downtown that is also one of Denver’s most diverse.

Around the gold-domed state capitol building, stately 19th century mansions mingle with mid-century apartment buildings and punk-rock clubs line the same streets as high-end restaurants.

The neighborhood is flanked by two of Denver’s best parks, the Greek Revival styled Civic Center Park and the spooky Cheesman Park – which still contains many bodies buried underneath from its past life as a cemetery.

We stopped here for lunch one day when nowhere else really grabbed us. “Let’s go back to Union St Station.”

The Mercantile was another recommendation from Facebook. Delicious! We had the soup and  salad – fresh, wholesome, and a decent price.

You can even stay at the luxurious Crawford Hotel within the station.

Our friend Don told us a lot about the history of Denver, one fact being that is the hotel is named after his friend, preservationist Dana Crawford, who was instrumental in the revitalization of much of Lower Downtown.

She’s the reason Denver is such a beautiful looking town with preserved brick warehouse style buildings.

The location of Union St Station is premium being right near the trendy Highlands and the Rockies stadium! We attended a game in 2006 and loved it.

It’s such a beautiful stadium with those views of the Rockies – plenty of craft beer and game fever in the pubs that surround it too.

Fairy lights strung between the trees overhead and diners spilling over onto the street pavers, Larimer Square is a pretty place to be and although we didn’t get there at night, I think it would be a perfect spot to hang out. (This is an area Dana Crawford revitalised!)

We had a coffee at Market St on Larimer, which was a good spot to hang out if you want to do some work online.

Coffees weren’t amazing but they were big.

Larimer Square is a unique Victorian era street that offers boutique shopping and dining in Lodo.

Just a few blocks away sits Rockmount Ranchwear , providing a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.

Rockmount introduced the first Western style snap button shirts and is still the premier supplier of the iconic clothing to clients in Hollywood and all around the world.

Just down the street from Rockmount Ranchwear is The Tattered Cover Bookstore . Located in an old warehouse, the independent bookstore is one of the largest of its kind.

It’s an incredibly atmospheric store with ancient hardwood floors, exposed bricks, and plenty of comfy chairs and hidden corners to settle into with a good book.

The Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater is a world famous concert venue located in the hills above Denver. Towering red rock formations create a natural amphitheater with amazing acoustics.

Some enterprising individuals added seating and a stage to turn it into one the most unique concert venues in the world.

The stage has seen countless legendary performers including The Beatles, U2, and Jimi Hendrix. Though a concert is the best way to experience the venue, it is open to the public for free when there aren’t any concerts.

Mount Evans in Colorado is home to 53 14,000 foot (4260 meter) mountains and is often referred to as the ‘Roof of America’.

Though you can summit every one of Colorado’s ‘14ers’ via hiking and climbing, Mount Evans offers the unique distinction of offering a road to the top.

Visitors can hop in their car and summit one of the tallest mountains in North America with their automobile.

Along the way there are numerous scenic overlooks and plenty of wildlife including the famous Mountain Goats who are always willing to pose for a picture.

Confluence Park is located right downtown Denver, confluence park offers a scene of nature in the middle of the city.

Located at the confluence of the Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, Confluence Park offers a kayaking course, city and mountain views, running and cycling trails, and the flagship REI store, a mecca for outdoor sports enthusiasts.

Denver is home to some of the most thrilling water parks and theme parks in the United States.

For thrill-seekers, head to Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park, which boasts over 50 rides and attractions, or Water World, which features more than 40 water-based rides and activities.

For a more laid-back experience, head to Lakeside Amusement Park, which has been entertaining families for over a century, or Denver’s Downtown Aquarium, which combines aquatic exhibits with amusement park rides.

Get your entry ticket to Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park here.

Denver has many world-class museums to explore. If you’re looking for things to do in Denver on a rainy day, then this is the number one activity.

Head over to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, which has exhibits dating back to prehistory, including dinosaur bones that go back to millions of years.

It also has some real centuries old Egyptian mummies and a world wildlife exhibit. You could easily spend a full day here and not see it all.

If you have children, take them to the Children’s Museum of Denver , which combines play and education in an exciting way.

If you want to learn about aviation history, head to the Wings Over Rockies Air and Space Museum which is famous for its realistic flight simulators.

For something more unique, head to the Molly Brown House Museum , the home of an HMS Titanic Survivor.

At the top of Lookout Mountain, you’ll find the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, who is one of the most famous cowboys in the USA.

Get your entry ticket to the Molly Brown Hosue Museum here.

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is one of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the USA, which offers stunning mountain views for 28 miles.

The byway stretches from Idaho Springs to the summit of Mount Evans, which stands at 14,264 feet above sea level, making it the highest paved road in the USA.

You will encounter a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to barren alpine tundra, as well as hairpin turns and steep drop-offs that require caution and careful driving.

The journey is worth it, though, as the panoramic views from the summit are truly awe-inspiring.

Driving the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is an unforgettable experience for any traveler visiting Colorado.

The Denver Performing Arts Complex is a massive complex that houses multiple theaters and venues, including the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, the Boettcher Concert Hall, and the Buell Theatre.

Here you can watch a wide range of performances, from Broadway shows to symphonies to ballets.

Beyond the world-class performances, the complex itself is a stunning architectural marvel, with sleek modern design and impressive acoustics.

This 24-acre oasis in the heart of the city boasts over 50 gardens and collections, including a Japanese Garden, a Water Garden, an Alpine Rock Garden, and a Rose Garden.

You can enjoy the serene beauty of the gardens, stroll along meandering paths, and take in the sights and scents of the plants and flowers.

The gardens also offer numerous educational programs and events, making it a great spot for families and groups.

Get your entry ticket to the Denver Botanical Gardens here.

The Denver Zoo is home to over 3,000 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, penguins, and elephants, as well as rare and endangered species like black rhinos and clouded leopards.

You can attend animal feeding demonstrations, and even get up close and personal with some of the animals in interactive exhibits.

Beyond the animals, the zoo offers beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and a train ride that winds through the park.

Just 30 minutes away, Boulder is a beautiful city nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities.

You can spend a day hiking in the mountains, exploring the charming downtown area full of unique shops and restaurants, or take a tour of the famous Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory.

Boulder has a laid-back vibe and endless opportunities for adventure, making it the ideal day trip from Denver.

Denver is a great city for sports fans, with a variety of professional teams to watch throughout the year.

Catch a Broncos football game at the iconic Empower Field at Mile High, or cheer on the Rockies baseball team at Coors Field.

If basketball is more your style, head to the Ball Arena, formerly the Pepsi Center and check out the Denver Nuggets in action.

For hockey fans, the Colorado Avalanche play at the same venue.

No matter what sport you’re into, there’s always something happening in Denver!

Get a ticket to see the Rockies at Coors Field here.

Denver was up there on the list when we were looking for destinations to live in the USA. I was concerned about the chilly winters, but locals have shared with us that Denver doesn’t get too brutal.

It experiences winter for sure, but the days are warm and sunny. When the snow falls it melts away quite quickly, but there’s plenty of snow dumping for you a further 5,000 feet high and close by.

The weather we had during our week stay in Denver during the beginning of summer were quite perfect.

We visited to attend a three-day conference in Snowmass and decided to stay a few extra days in Denver.

We just can’t travel all that way to America for just a few days, the jet lag is killer enough.

But we’re glad we were able to get out and explore some of these top Denver attractions.

I hope this guide helped you plan your visit to Denver and gave you some inspiration for what to see and do there.

For some other things to do in Denver, check out this post on a weekend trip to Denver.

The Brown Palace – An elegant and historic hotel in the heart of downtown. It has played host to presidents, royalty, and pop icons. For those such as myself who can’t afford the elegant prices that come with it, a visit to the afternoon tea ceremony in the lobby is a suitable alternative.

The Curtis – A much more affordable hotel that offers a unique and whimsical alternative to the high class of The Brown Palace. Each floor has a unique pop culture theme ( think one hit wonders, sci-fi, etc. ) that is carried through to all of the rooms.

The Crawford Hotel – A lovely four-star hotel with a perfect location in the heart of Denver’s CBD district. It’s sheek and modern, and primarily caters to couples over large groups. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re planning a romantic weekend in Denver.

We have also stayed at and loved the  Aloft Hotel  on 15th Street, the  Hilton Homewood suites  on 15th Street, which were great affordable Denver accommodation options.

We loved our more lux stay at the Ritz Carlton  on Curtis Street. The rooms were spacious with separate living areas, service was exceptional, locatuion great, and we loved the premier lounge with free happy hour every day!

For more places to stay in Denver choose from the largest range of hotels, apartments, and guesthouses with our partner Booking.com . You get free cancelation on most rooms, and in most cases you only pay when you stay.

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What are your tips for our next visit to Denver? Let us know in the comments.

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Colorado’s craft beer boom may be winding down as tastes shift and costs rise

The smell of fresh hops permeated the air as Shawnee Adelson sat at Joyride Brewing Company in Edgewater. As Adelson set up her office for the day, workers were preparing a fresh batch of craft beer. 

For Adelson, visiting breweries before they open is part of the job. She’s the president of the Colorado Brewers Guild, the trade association for Colorado’s 400-plus craft breweries. She’s been with the guild for nearly nine years, and has seen the industry grow exponentially during that time. 

“We have a long history of craft beer, one of the longest histories in the U.S. and one of the largest craft beer markets in the U.S.,” she said. 

That market is mighty. According to the nationwide Brewers Association , Colorado’s brewing industry consistently punches above its weight. It has the fifth most breweries per capita in the U.S. and it generates over $2.4 billion in economic impact, including jobs created and revenue generated. 

While the last decade has been a high point for craft beer enthusiasts in Colorado, recent consumer trends indicate the industry may be entering a down period. 

Nationwide, beer sales were down about 1 percent in 2023. In Colorado, Adelson said sales dipped by 6 percent. 

That drop may sound small, but it's the worst on record since the Brewers Association started tracking industry numbers in the late 1970s. Adelson attributes the downturn to a changing consumer base. 

“There's definitely more competition in the marketplace as people start drinking other types of alcohol and lean towards non-alcoholic options as well,” Adelson said. “We've seen a younger generation that is overall drinking less than older generations, so it definitely impacts obviously anybody that's in the alcohol industry.”

Since 2019, breweries have seen production costs go up substantially — not just ingredients like hops and yeast, but also packaging materials. That’s on top of labor costs, which are steadily increasing under new minimum wage laws. 

“Things like malt, paperboard, cans, all of their inputs have gone up about 20 to 50 percent since 2019,” she said. “When you're thinking about when you go to a taproom and you say, ‘Oh, the beer costs a little bit more than it used to,’ these breweries are actually not raising prices as much as the prices are being raised on them. So a lot of breweries are trying to figure out how to make do with less money right now.” 

Breweries are innovating to adapt

Adelson said the effects of these trends aren’t being felt equally, and businesses’ responses are not uniform. Some breweries are consolidating to cut down on overhead costs. 

“You see an example of Dry Dock and Great Divide Brewing, which have merged their production facilities into one because there was excess capacity there,” she said.

Dry Dock and Great Divide still operate their own independent taprooms. But some are rejecting the concept of a physical hang-out space altogether. 

Brandon Boldt co-owns Primitive Beer alongside his wife, Lisa. They closed their Longmont-based taproom and production facility at the tail end of 2023 after a nearly 7-year run. 

They now operate as what they call a “nomadic” brewery, surviving through can distribution as far as China and France, as well as occasional pop-up bars at other breweries. Those limited events have been successful. Even at 3 p.m. on a random Monday, a handful of superfans came out for their pop-up event at New Image Brewery in Wheat Ridge.

“A lot of the people that are here today actually have made the trek from, we'll say, Boulder County and Longmont and all that down to Denver,” he said.

Primitive’s pop-up format means the Boldts, who have a second child on the way, can make beer without the expensive overhead of a large permanent space. And they can do it on their own terms. Before closing their Longmont location, they were teetering dangerously close to burnout. 

“I can't say that we are good business people,” Boldt said. “I don't know that our decisions are necessarily going to pan out in the end, but for us, just in our basic Excel spreadsheets and all of that, this seems like the most logical choice to be able to still create what we love, but survive.”

As the industry changes, your favorite brewery’s future may be at risk

Matthew Fuerst is the co-owner of Grandma’s House, an eclectic brewery in Denver’s South Broadway neighborhood. He knows the reality of burnout all too well. 

After over 10 years serving beer in a taproom that invited customers to play retro video games, cross-stitch and bingo nights, Fuerst is tapping out at the end of April. 

“I've burnt a candle from both ends for quite some time. This is the longest job I've ever held and I haven't had much time to get away from it,” he said. 

Grandma’s House is closing primarily due to issues between Fuerst and the landlord. Even so, he said he’s not sure if the brewery will ever return. If it does, it will probably look a lot different to keep up with industry trends. 

“I probably want to incorporate different spirits and cider and wine and non-alcoholic beverages have been a big thing for us too, and we will continue to do that and incorporate a food element,” Fuerst said. 

Adelson, the Brewer’s Guild president, says there were over 30 brewery closures statewide in 2023, and only 25 openings. But there’s still room for growth if you look outside the oversaturated Denver metro market. 

“We're seeing quite a few breweries open up on the eastern plains in small towns that really just want a community gathering place, a place that somebody makes their own beer and that community can go and grab a beer and hang out with their friends,” Adelson said. 

Some breweries trust that growth will continue for themselves 

There are still some breweries that appear to be thriving. 4 Noses Brewing Company recently opened a large production facility and taproom in Denver’s Park Hill neighborhood after outgrowing its Broomfield location. 

Dustin Rainey, the company’s marketing director, said its initial focus when it opened in 2014, was to lean into distribution into liquor and grocery stores. But, they quickly realized their Broomfield taproom was exceeding expectations. 

“We pivoted a little bit more back into that taproom to really create a community environment for Broomfield and what they wanted since they clearly wanted a place to hang out and drink, let's give them what they want,” Rainey said. 

Rainey acknowledged that developing a taproom culture and community at their new Park Hill location will be harder than Broomfield, given the saturated nature of the brewing industry in Denver.

But he said they know what brings people in, like weekly trivia, events, and food trucks. He said the company is confident they’re headed in the right direction. 

Some brewers just try not to dwell on the trends others are feeling. Jake Gardner is the co-founder of Westbound & Down, a brewery that first started in Idaho Springs. His business sense is, if they brew it, people will come. 

“I think it's like the world isn't going to quit drinking beer. I'm pretty positive of that,” he said. 

Brewers said if you’re worried about what change may be around the corner, observing one of Colorado’s time-honored traditions can help — heading to the neighborhood brewery and cracking open a can or two. 

You want to know what is really going on these days, especially in Colorado. We can help you keep up.  The Lookout is a free, daily email newsletter with news and happenings from all over Colorado. Sign up here and we will see you in the morning!

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Restaurants, Food and Drink | Will DIA’s on-site brewery ever make beer…

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Restaurants, food and drink, restaurants, food and drink | will dia’s on-site brewery ever make beer again the answer is up in the air., since opening in 2018, tivoli brewing’s equipment has only been in use for 16 months.

When Denver International Airport announced in 2015 that it was looking for a local company to build and operate a brewery inside the attached Westin hotel, it was big news. Not only would an onsite brewery highlight Colorado’s exploding craft beer scene, but it would also give DIA some cachet as one of the first and only airports to have a brewery physically located on its property.

“It’s a chance to be unique and do something that someone else hasn’t done,” DIA’s then-senior vice president for concessions Neil Maxfield told Westword at the time , adding that the winning brewery would be required to make a signature IPA that would be served only at the airport.

But that was one of the last times airport officials had anything frothy to say about the brewery, which has proven to be anything but a party. While the restaurant portion of the taproom remains open, just off the plaza on the south side of the Jeppesen Terminal, the beer-making equipment — including tanks and a small, 3.5-barrel brewing system — has been mothballed since the pandemic began in March 2020. And it may stay that way for the foreseeable future.

Last month, DIA’s brewery began a new chapter when the concessionaire that ran it, Midfield Concession Enterprises (MCE), sold its contract to another concessionaire, SSP America, according to SSP vice president of brand strategy, Lana Cramer​​​​. SSP’s parent company operates nearly 3,000 restaurants and stores at 600 travel locations around the world.

“As the new owners right now, we are meeting with the brand and trying to get our arms around the operation in order to conduct an analysis. Ultimately our efforts will be focused on determining what is best for all parties in order to ultimately offer a world-class experience,” Cramer said.

That “brand” is Tivoli Brewing, which opened its first location in the Tivoli Student Union building on Denver’s Auraria Higher Education Center campus in 2015. In a conversation with The Denver Post, brewery CEO Ari Opsahl was up-front about its future at DIA.

“Everybody sees the value in having a taphouse in some way, shape or form. But brewing out at the airport isn’t the most logistics-friendly environment on the planet,” he said. Would it be cool to make beer at the airport again? Absolutely. Does it make logistical or financial sense? Not at all.

Not only is it difficult to take delivery of raw materials and get rid of the spent barley that is used to make beer, but the facility doesn’t merit having a full-time brewer on hand because it is so small.

“We want to revamp the look the feel out there. It’s everybody’s intention to do exciting things. But we’re trying to work out what that would look like, and we don’t know yet,” Opsahl said.

DIA itself had little to say about the brewery, deferring to SSP America. “We remain open to exploring opportunities that enhance the overall experience at our airport, including an operational brewery,” spokeswoman Ashley Forest wrote in an email. “We are excited about what the future may hold for the new owners of” the Tivoli Brewing taproom space.

Its past, however, is a different story.

In 2016, DIA awarded a 10-year contract to MCE , a Michigan-based concessionaire that had food and beverage operations at seven major U.S. airports. MCE would build the 7,200-square-foot brewpub inside the new Westin hotel attached to the airport, along with two restaurants and a coffee shop elsewhere in the airport. Those two restaurants would be outlets of Smashburger, the hamburger chain founded in Denver by Tom Ryan, who also created Tom’s Urban and Tom’s Watch Bar (now at McGregor Square in downtown Denver).

The restaurant and bar would be branded as Tom’s Urban Kitchen and Brewery but the brewing equipment would be run by Tivoli, which got involved because the Tom’s/Smashburger parent firm (at the time) was running food operations for Tivoli’s other location.

The contract award came as a surprise to the other bidders — including longtime local breweries like Oskar Blues, Great Divide and Wynkoop Brewing — some of whom felt that Tivoli didn’t meet the requirements laid out by DIA. Wynkoop, in particular, raised questions about the bidding process, a perceived lack of transparency and the qualifications of the winning bidder.

Those questions eventually morphed into bid-rigging lawsuits filed by Wynkoop against Midfield, some of its former executives and DIA officials. After six years of legal machinations, the case was settled just last October . Details of the settlement weren’t publicly disclosed.

In the meantime, Tivoli founder Corey Marshall got to work in 2016 trying to figure out how to build a brewery on the fifth floor of an airport hotel, and it wasn’t easy. But Marshall had been through tough build-outs before. A longtime executive at Coors and a Denver history buff, Marshall had been buying or claiming the trademarks to several defunct but historic breweries and beers in Denver with the goal of starting his own craft brewery and reviving some of the past.

One of those was the original Tivoli brewery, which had roots in what is now the Auraria campus dating back to 1859, a year after Denver’s founding. Tivoli had been one of just a handful of breweries to survive prohibition and eventually became one of the largest beer makers west of the Mississippi, operating out of the castle-like building that is now Auraria’s student union. It eventually went out of business, however, in 1969, a result of both labor union action and the South Platte River flood of 1965, which devastated many parts of Denver.

Not only did Marshall buy the trademarks, though, he also researched the history and found people and memories from the original brewery to help him remake versions of some of the beers. In 2014, he signed a deal with Auraria to put a new Tivoli taproom back into the original Tivoli building. After a difficult renovation process in the historic structure, it opened in 2015.

But building a brewery at an airport was equally as tricky. Not only do brewing facilities require raw materials, they also need significant water and drainage. Since the brewery was located on the fifth floor of the hotel, it also had to overcome the presence of hotel guests and limited access.

By the time Tivoli brewed its first beer there, called Jet IPA, on Nov. 5, 2018, more than two years had gone by, and Marshall had been replaced as CEO by a new ownership group.

Then, in March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic began, forcing the closure of restaurants, bars and breweries nationwide. The DIA taproom — now called simply Tivoli Tap House — eventually reopened when social distancing requirements were lifted. But the brewery remained idle.

Opsahl, who became CEO in 2021 — the brewery’s fourth chief executive in two years — had his hands full with other matters. Tivoli had suffered mightily during the pandemic, laying off at least half its staff . Opsahl set about trying to save the company with a new strategy and a focus on a new brand, Outlaw light lager, which isn’t based on one of Denver’s historic breweries.

Late last year, Opsahl also discontinued brewery operations on the Auraria campus and shifted beer production to a facility that Tivoli leased in the town of La Junta. The company still operates its Auraria taproom, serving food and beer, but Opsahl said he hopes to sit down with campus officials this summer to talk about “finding a mutually amicable path forward.”

In other words, he wants to renegotiate the lease for the taproom portion of the on-campus operation, which expires on Dec. 31, 2024.

“The taphouse is a cornerstone for the campus,” Opsahl said, pointing out that the brewery and the building share a name. “We love it, but operating there is a challenge, as it is pretty dead all summer (when classes aren’t in session). We can’t even break even.

“We want to be there,” he added. “But have to find a way to make it work for both parties.”

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