Fun fact: Colorado is the state with the second most breweries in the nation, tailing behind only California. For every 50,000 residents, there are three breweries.
When gold was discovered in the Rockies in the 1800s, many families began opening up microbreweries to appeal to the mining communities that had suddenly begun to populate the area. And thus, a tradition is born.
Nowadays, when people think of Colorado, and more specifically Denver, they think of the thriving mountain community that surrounds the area. And of course, that still includes lots and lots of beer.
This week, I sat down with my good friend, Jules Grondin, who has been living in Denver and thriving among the vibrant brewery scene.
She recently completed a tour where she visited microbreweries each day for a month straight, seeing all that the craft beer industry had to offer.
And boy, did she discover some great places.
Not only that, but many of the local breweries also have live music frequently, which is always a fun time.
Here is what she has to say about the brewery scene in Denver.
The Great Denver Brewery Hop: As Told By Jules
As a small town girl from New England who always had dreams of travel, the digital nomad life seemed most fitting for me. Securing my dream job and being able to take my work on the road has allowed me to fulfill that desire of seeing new places and meeting new people each day, week, month, and even year!
Now although I love to move around, I also like to keep things local and integrate within each community I find myself a part of. Fortunately for me, this most recent place has been the undeniably beautiful state of Colorado.
And I’m sure you all can imagine what life looks like out here. Days are spent hiking the rockies, camping by lakes, backpacking the continental divide trail, climbing the flatirons, and so much more!
These are the givens for hobbies, but as I currently reside in Denver, one of my favorite things to do is immerse myself in the sublime brewery scene!
Fun fact: when I first moved here I spent one month brewery hopping tag lining each visit #newbrewdifferentday. Now this was a commitment, as my beer belly grew day by day. But it ended up being a commitment well worth it with every sip of a new crisp freshly brewed beer!
So with that said, let me introduce you all to a few of my favorites, according to some of their redeeming qualities.
Let me preface by saying this—you clearly can’t go wrong with any beers on tap at these spots! I often found myself getting a flight, or multiple (on days off of work, of course!)
Also, I have tried to include some of the best breweries with live music in Denver, something that’s enjoyable to everyone.
So keep reading if you’re in the heart of the red rocks and like great beer, new beers, and live local talent!
Denver Beer Co.
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These guys are 100% Solar powered, brewed from Colorado sunshine. Can’t get much better than that! They thrive off of being a place for new and old friends, and you can literally feel the welcoming spirit. Best of all, most summer weekend nights feature live music!
Beer suggestion: Throwing Haze
Wynkoop Brewing
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Wynkoop is Colorado’s first brewpub! Settled right in downtown Denver, you can find this old school gem on 18th street. They serve tons of great food, but I suggest the green chili cheese fries. They sometimes have live music on their patio, so you might get lucky when you arrive!
Beer Suggestion: Rocky Mountain Oyster Stout
Bierstadt Lagerhaus
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This is a huge warehouse full of oversized yard games, including cornhole, pong, Mario Kart, Connect Four, and anything else you can think of. If you think of a backyard BBQ with good friends and good times, that’s the kind of place this is. Just a fun experience overall.
Best of all, there’s live music from local musicians for free every Thursday and Saturday, “because you deserve it.”
Beer Suggestion: Slow Pour Pils
Odell Brewing
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This place is the 23rd largest U.S. craft brewing company. It’s a local favorite originating from Fort Collins, with a location in Denver.
Their Denver location features live music frequently, as well as 16 taps, an outdoor patio, two firepits, and a partially covered rooftop.
Beer Suggestion: Mountain Standard
Cohesion Brewing
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Cohesion is a brewery dedicated to the exploration of the Czech Republic’s unique beer culture. This is a gorgeous brewery set in north Denver, in the coolest old brick building. It’s slightly off the beaten path, but that’s what makes it so cool.
They’ll sometimes have live music and food trucks, so be sure to check out their event calendar for a schedule of all of the fun happenings. Try a foam shot while you’re paying a visit!
Beer Suggestion: Cohesion 10º
Reverence Brewing
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This place was started by brew enthusiasts for 20+ years opening their own spot. As they say, they #havereverence. This brewery promotes a safe space for all and a great place for anyone to come drink alone and feel part of a community.
They frequently feature live music from local artists, and it’s always extremely enjoyable.
Beer Suggestion: Smoothie Sour
Woods Boss Brewing
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This industrial brewery is the epitome of your classic brewery. The bar is made of live edge redwood, which is iconic in and of itself.
In addition to frequent live music, Woods Boss also hosts open mic nights, special performances, and live gatherings, all in the heart of downtown Denver.
Beer Suggestion: Good End to a Long Day
Great Divide Brewing
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This is a great spot for anyone looking for a brewery with gluten free options. This great place has been an independent brewery since 1994, and it intends to stay that way.
The Great Divide features award winning beers with craft hard seltzer as well. Check out their event calendar to see if any local bands are playing!
Beer Suggestion: Car Camper
Ratio Beerworks
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In the heart of Denver’s RiNo neighborhood, you’re bound to stumble into Ratio Beerworks.
A vibrant outdoor and indoor aesthetic is present, filled with comedy nights, bingo, live music, and more. They also have a second location in South Denver, which is just as fun.
Beer Suggestion: Rented World, Session IPA
