Arvada, Colorado has become a hidden gem for craft beer enthusiasts. This charming city northwest of Denver boasts a thriving local beer scene with numerous breweries and pubs offering unique flavors and experiences. Arvada’s craft beer landscape features a diverse array of options, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, catering to a wide range of palates.
Beer lovers visiting Arvada can explore the historic Olde Town district, where several breweries have set up shop. These establishments not only serve exceptional brews but also contribute to the area’s vibrant atmosphere. Many local breweries take pride in using high-quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques to create distinct and memorable beers.
The city’s craft beer community extends beyond breweries to include taprooms and beer-centric restaurants. These venues often showcase a rotating selection of local and regional craft beers, providing visitors with an opportunity to sample a variety of styles and flavors. Arvada’s craft beer scene continues to grow, making it an exciting destination for both casual drinkers and serious beer aficionados.
History of Craft Beer in Arvada
Arvada’s craft beer scene emerged as part of Colorado’s broader brewing revolution. The city’s first modern microbrewery opened in the early 2010s, marking the beginning of a new era for local beer enthusiasts.
Arvada Beer Company, founded in 2011, pioneered the craft movement in the area. It quickly became a cornerstone of the Olde Town district, drawing visitors and locals alike to its taproom.
As the craft beer trend gained momentum, more breweries followed suit. By 2015, Arvada had become home to several independent brewers, each offering unique flavors and styles.
The city’s historical water tower, a local landmark, became an unofficial symbol of Arvada’s growing beer culture. Breweries often incorporated local history and community themes into their branding and beer names.
Arvada’s proximity to Denver influenced its brewing scene, with some established Denver breweries opening satellite locations in the city. This cross-pollination helped diversify the local beer offerings.
By 2020, Arvada had solidified its reputation as a craft beer destination. The city’s breweries began participating in regional beer festivals, further elevating their profiles.
Today, Arvada boasts a thriving craft beer community. Local brewers continue to innovate, experiment with new ingredients, and collaborate on special releases, keeping the scene vibrant and evolving.
Exploring Olde Town Arvada’s Brewery Scene
Olde Town Arvada boasts a thriving craft beer culture with several notable breweries. These establishments offer unique flavors and experiences, often complemented by live music and events that showcase local talent.
Notable Breweries in Olde Town
Denver Beer Company’s Olde Town Arvada location at 5768 Olde Wadsworth Blvd is a popular spot for craft beer enthusiasts. They offer a diverse selection of brews in a welcoming atmosphere.
New Image Brewing Co. stands out for its innovative approach to beer-making. Their taproom features experimental flavors and styles that push the boundaries of traditional brewing.
Odyssey Beerwerks, while not directly in Olde Town, is a nearby favorite known for its wide range of beer styles and friendly taproom environment.
LUKI Brewery, located at 14715 W. 64th Avenue, brings a unique circus theme to its taproom. Their beer list impresses visitors, and the comfortable setting encourages lingering over a pint.
Live Music Venues and Events
Many Olde Town Arvada breweries host live music events, adding to the area’s vibrant atmosphere. These performances often feature local artists and bands, providing entertainment while patrons enjoy their craft beers.
LUKI Brewery organizes special events like their “Cozy Nights” in December, which includes hot beer poking and live music. This combination of craft beer and entertainment creates a lively scene in Olde Town.
Seasonal events, such as holiday-themed gatherings, are common among Arvada’s breweries. These occasions often incorporate live music, further enhancing the social experience for beer lovers in the area.
Guide to Arvada’s Breweries
Arvada’s craft beer scene offers a diverse range of flavors and experiences. The city boasts several notable breweries, each with its own unique character and specialty brews.
New Image Brewing Co.
New Image Brewing Co. has made a name for itself with innovative beer styles and creative flavor combinations. Their taproom features a rotating selection of experimental brews alongside tried-and-true favorites.
The brewery is known for its hazy IPAs and fruit-forward sours. Visitors can expect a laid-back atmosphere and knowledgeable staff eager to discuss their latest creations.
New Image also collaborates with other local breweries, fostering a sense of community within the craft beer scene.
Luki Brewery
Luki Brewery draws inspiration from the circus, creating a whimsical atmosphere for beer enthusiasts. The family-owned establishment offers a variety of styles, from traditional lagers to bold stouts.
Their taproom features circus-themed decor and occasionally hosts themed events. Luki’s commitment to quality is evident in their carefully crafted beers.
Visitors can enjoy flights to sample multiple offerings or grab cans to go. The brewery’s friendly staff contributes to its welcoming environment.
Odyssey Beerwerks
Odyssey Beerwerks has been a staple of Arvada’s craft beer scene since 2013. Their spacious taproom provides a comfortable setting for enjoying their diverse beer lineup.
Known for both classic styles and experimental brews, Odyssey offers something for every palate. Their Palm Tree Caribbean Lager and Ghost Drifter Pale Ale are local favorites.
The brewery hosts regular events, including trivia nights and live music performances. Odyssey’s commitment to quality and consistency has earned them a loyal following.
Denver Beer Co.
Denver Beer Co.’s Arvada location brings its popular brews to the heart of Olde Town. The taproom offers a spacious indoor area and an inviting outdoor patio.
Their beer selection includes year-round favorites like Graham Cracker Porter and rotating seasonal offerings. The brewery is known for using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Denver Beer Co. also serves food, with a menu designed to complement their beers. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their practices and community involvement.
Someplace Else Brewery
Someplace Else Brewery offers a unique experience with its nanobrewery setup. Their small-batch approach allows for frequent rotation of beer styles and flavors.
The intimate taproom provides a cozy atmosphere for trying their latest creations. Visitors can often chat with the brewers and learn about the brewing process.
Someplace Else is known for its experimental brews and willingness to push boundaries. Their commitment to creativity keeps beer enthusiasts coming back to see what’s new.
Spice Trade Brewing Co.
Spice Trade Brewing Co. stands out with its culinary-inspired approach to brewing. Their beers often incorporate unique spices and flavors from around the world.
The brewery operates out of a restaurant, offering a full menu designed to pair with their beers. Popular brews include their Jalapeño Pilsner and Thai Tripel.
Spice Trade’s taproom provides a casual dining experience with a global twist. Their innovative approach to brewing has garnered attention from both beer and food enthusiasts.
Unique Craft Beer and Food Pairings
Arvada’s craft beer scene offers exciting flavor combinations when paired with local cuisine. Breweries and food trucks collaborate to create memorable taste experiences for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike.
Local Food Trucks and Brewery Eateries
Food trucks are a staple at many Arvada breweries, providing diverse culinary options to complement craft beers. Denver Beer Co. Olde Town Arvada partners with rotating food trucks, offering patrons a chance to try different cuisines alongside their brews. The Mighty Burger, available at Denver Beer Co., has earned a reputation for pairing exceptionally well with various craft pints on the menu.
New Image Brewing Co. hosts food trucks regularly, allowing visitors to enjoy unique pairings with their innovative beers. Some breweries, like Yak and Yeti Restaurant and Brewpub, combine in-house brewing with a full kitchen, serving dishes designed to enhance their beer selections.
Odyssey Beerwerks and other local breweries often organize special pairing events, featuring limited-edition beers matched with carefully curated food items. These events showcase the versatility of craft beer in complementing and elevating different flavors.
Experimental and Seasonal Brews in Arvada
Arvada’s craft breweries embrace innovation with a range of experimental and seasonal offerings. These unique creations showcase the brewers’ creativity and push the boundaries of traditional beer styles.
Many local breweries release limited-edition seasonal beers throughout the year. Pumpkin Spice Ale emerges as a popular autumn choice, capturing the flavors of fall in a refreshing brew.
Gluten-removed beers are gaining traction in Arvada. Some breweries have developed techniques to produce gluten-free options without compromising taste or quality.
Brewers in Arvada prioritize fresh, local ingredients in their experimental brews. This commitment to quality shines through in the flavor profiles of their craft beers.
The craft beer scene in Arvada reflects the broader trend of artisanal and locally-sourced beverages. Breweries often collaborate with local farms and suppliers to create truly unique, regional flavors.
Experimental brews in Arvada may include:
- Fruit-infused IPAs
- Barrel-aged stouts
- Sour ales with local ingredients
- Herb and spice-enhanced lagers
These innovative offerings provide beer enthusiasts with exciting new tastes to explore and enjoy throughout the year.
Craft Beer Experiences in Arvada
Arvada’s craft beer scene offers exciting events and festivals for beer enthusiasts. These gatherings showcase local breweries and provide opportunities to sample a wide variety of craft beers in festive settings.
Arvada on Tap – A Craft Beer and BBQ Festival
Arvada on Tap combines two beloved culinary delights: craft beer and barbecue. This annual festival features over 30 breweries, offering attendees a chance to taste a diverse range of craft beers. Local and regional BBQ vendors serve up mouthwatering dishes to complement the brews.
Live music creates a lively atmosphere throughout the event. Beer enthusiasts can interact directly with brewers, learning about different brewing techniques and beer styles. The festival typically takes place in July, providing a perfect summer outing for craft beer lovers.
Annual 21+ Events
Arvada hosts several 21+ events throughout the year, catering to adult craft beer enthusiasts. These events often feature limited-release beers and seasonal offerings from local breweries.
Winter beer festivals showcase hearty stouts and porters, while summer events highlight refreshing ales and lagers. Many of these gatherings include food pairings, allowing attendees to explore how different beers complement various cuisines.
Some events focus on specific beer styles or brewing techniques, offering educational components alongside tasting opportunities. These gatherings foster a sense of community among craft beer enthusiasts and support Arvada’s thriving beer culture.
The Culture of Beer Gardens in Arvada
Beer gardens have become an integral part of Arvada’s craft beer scene. These outdoor spaces offer a unique blend of community and relaxation, perfect for enjoying locally brewed ales and lagers.
Several establishments in Arvada feature beer gardens, each with its own distinct atmosphere. The Moonrise Garden Bar & Food Truck Park stands out as a popular spot, combining craft beer with food truck offerings.
Edgewater Beer Garden and The Flats Beer Garden also attract locals and visitors alike. These venues provide ample seating and a casual environment for socializing over pints of Colorado-brewed beer.
Beer gardens in Arvada often host events and live music, fostering a sense of community. They serve as gathering places where friends and families can come together to enjoy the pleasant Colorado weather and high-quality craft beers.
Many of these outdoor spaces are dog-friendly, allowing patrons to bring their furry companions along for the experience. This pet-friendly policy adds to the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere of Arvada’s beer gardens.
The popularity of beer gardens in Arvada reflects the city’s embrace of outdoor living and craft beer culture. These spaces have become essential to the local craft beer experience, offering a perfect blend of nature and brewing artistry.
