From Boulder to Colorado Springs, the Front Range’s brewing scene represents a
perfect storm of mountain water, entrepreneurial spirit, and craft beer innovation.
Whether you’re a certified cicerone or simply enjoy a well-crafted pint, these 17
breweries showcase the region’s remarkable brewing diversity.
New Belgium Brewing (Fort Collins)
More than just the home of Fat Tire, New Belgium’s sprawling campus serves as a
testament to sustainable brewing practices. Their foeder room – housing one of
America’s largest wood beer-aging programs – produces sour ales that rival Belgian
lambics.
Book the behind-the-scenes tour to see their famous employee-owned
business model in action.
Avery Brewing Co. (Boulder)
What started in a garage has evolved into a 67,000-square-foot brewing cathedral.
Avery’s barrel-aging program (including their renowned Demons of Ale series)
pushes the boundaries of what beer can be.
The taproom’s elevated food menu makes beer pairing an art form.
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Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project (Denver)
In a state known for hoppy IPAs, Crooked Stave zigs where others zag. Their wild
fermentation program produces complex, terroir-driven beers that showcase
Colorado’s unique microflora.
The RiNo taproom’s industrial-chic atmosphere perfectly matches their experimental approach.
Odell Brewing Co. (Fort Collins)
Odell’s pilot system allows brewers to experiment with small batches, meaning the
tap list constantly evolves. Their flagship 90 Shilling Ale may have put them on the
map, but it’s their rotating selection of experimental IPAs that keeps the locals
coming back.
Great Divide Brewing Co. (Denver)
Located in downtown Denver, Great Divide’s Yeti Imperial Stout variations have
achieved cult status. The barrel bar offers unique aged versions rarely found elsewhere.
Their LEED-certified packaging facility demonstrates their commitment to
sustainable brewing.
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Outer Range Brewing Co. (Frisco)
Specializing in New England-style IPAs and Belgian-inspired ales, Outer Range has
quickly become the mountain town’s craft beer destination. The taproom’s panoramic
views of the Tenmile Range make every pint more memorable.
WeldWerks Brewing Co. (Greeley)
Who would’ve thought Greeley would become a beer pilgrim’s destination?
WeldWerks’ Juicy Bits IPA draws hop heads from across the country while their
innovative stout program keeps pushing boundaries.
The monthly special releases create lines around the block.
Casey Brewing and Blending (Glenwood Springs)
Troy Casey’s small-batch wild ales showcase Colorado’s agricultural bounty. All fruit
is sourced from the Western Slope, creating beers that truly taste of place.
Visits are by appointment only, making each tasting feel like a private masterclass in
fermentation.
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Cerebral Brewing (Denver)
Science meets artistry in this Congress Park brewery. Their rotating ‘Work From
Home’ laptop-friendly morning hours have created a unique coffee/beer community.
The constant collaboration with other breweries keeps their tap list fresh and
innovative.
Purpose Brewing and Cellars (Fort Collins)
Former New Belgium brewmaster Peter Bouckaert’s small-batch brewery focuses on
unique ingredients and barrel aging. Open only on weekends, each visit offers
something new as batches rarely repeat
Call to Arms Brewing Company (Denver)
This Berkeley neighborhood brewery embodies the community-focused spirit of craft
beer. Their monthly ‘Tennyson Street Market’ brings together local artisans and beer
lovers.
The rotating cask ale program is a nod to traditional British brewing.
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Bierstadt Lagerhaus (Denver)
In a sea of ales, Bierstadt stands out by focusing exclusively on traditional German
lagers. Their slow pour pils – served only as intended after a precise seven-minute
pour – have become legendary.
The restored 1932 brewing equipment isn’t just for show.
Left Hand Brewing (Longmont)
Pioneers of nitro beer in bottles, Left Hand, continues to innovate while respecting
tradition. Their flagship Milk Stout Nitro spawned an entire category of American craft
beer.
The creek-side beer garden offers one of the Front Range’s best outdoor drinking experiences.
Upslope Brewing Company (Boulder)
Upslope’s commitment to outdoor lifestyle is evident in their portable canned
offerings. The Flatiron Park location’s experimental Lee Hill Series showcases their
wilder side.
Their sustainability initiatives, including solar power and water conservation, set industry standards.
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TRVE Brewing Co. (Denver)
Heavy metal aesthetics meet sophisticated brewing in this Broadway taproom. Their
mixed-culture program produces some of Colorado’s most interesting wild ales.
The stark black walls and doom-metal soundtrack create an atmosphere unlike any other brewery.
Ratio Beerworks (Denver)
Founded by former punk rockers, Ratio brings showmanship to craft beer. Their core
lineup demonstrates masterful restraint, while limited releases push creative
boundaries.
The RiNo location’s outdoor space hosts some of Denver’s best beer events.
Primitive Beer (Longmont)
Colorado’s only spontaneously fermented beer producer follows traditional Belgian
methods while incorporating local ingredients. Open only twice monthly, their unique
subscription model and blend-your-own events create an exclusive experience.
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Experience that Goes Beyond the Glass
The Front Range’s brewery scene represents more than just great beer – it’s a
testament to Colorado’s innovation, community spirit, and connection to the place.
Remember to check current tap lists before visiting (many rotate frequently),
consider joining brewery clubs for special releases, and always have a designated
driver – these beers deserve your full attention.
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