Colorado Springs, nestled in the picturesque state of Colorado, offers more than just stunning natural attractions like Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak. The city has become a hub for craft beer enthusiasts, boasting a vibrant and diverse brewing scene. With over 30 local breweries, Colorado Springs provides beer lovers with an array of flavors, styles, and experiences to explore.
From established favorites to up-and-coming microbreweries, the city’s craft beer landscape caters to all tastes. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy everything from hoppy IPAs and smooth stouts to experimental brews infused with unique ingredients. Many breweries also offer cozy taprooms, outdoor seating, and food options, creating inviting spaces for beer aficionados to gather and savor their favorite beverages.
The craft beer culture in Colorado Springs reflects the city’s innovative spirit and commitment to quality. Beer enthusiasts can embark on self-guided tours, join organized brewery crawls, or attend local beer festivals to fully immerse themselves in the thriving craft beer community. With new breweries continually emerging and existing ones expanding their offerings, Colorado Springs remains at the forefront of the craft beer movement in Colorado.
The Rise of Colorado Springs Breweries
Colorado Springs has emerged as a thriving hub for craft beer enthusiasts. The city’s brewing scene has experienced remarkable growth, blending rich traditions with innovative approaches.
Local Craft Beer History
Colorado Springs’ craft beer journey began in the 1990s with pioneering breweries like Phantom Canyon Brewing Company. This early entrant set the stage for a burgeoning beer culture. As interest grew, more breweries opened their doors, each contributing unique flavors and styles to the local scene.
The 2010s saw an explosion of new breweries, mirroring trends across Colorado. This period marked a significant shift in consumer preferences towards locally-produced, high-quality craft beers.
Brewing Traditions and Innovations
Colorado Springs brewers honor traditional brewing methods while embracing innovation. Many use locally-sourced ingredients, celebrating the region’s agricultural bounty. Some experiment with wild fermentation techniques, creating complex sour beers.
Barrel-aging has become popular, with breweries like Bristol Brewing Company producing rich, flavorful beers. High-altitude brewing presents unique challenges and opportunities, influencing fermentation processes and flavor profiles.
Craft Breweries and Their Impact
The growth of craft breweries has significantly impacted Colorado Springs’ economy and culture. These establishments create jobs, attract tourists, and foster community engagement.
Many breweries, such as Goat Patch Brewing Company, host events and social activities, becoming neighborhood gathering spots. The industry’s success has led to a higher number of breweries per capita, solidifying Colorado Springs’ reputation as a craft beer destination.
Local breweries often collaborate, strengthening the craft beer community. Their success has inspired new entrepreneurs, further diversifying the city’s beer offerings and styles.
Guide to Craft Breweries in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs boasts a thriving craft beer scene with numerous local breweries offering unique and flavorful brews. The city’s breweries range from well-established favorites to innovative newcomers, each contributing to the diverse beer landscape.
Bristol Brewing Company
Bristol Brewing Company stands as a cornerstone of the Colorado Springs craft beer scene. Founded in 1994, this brewery has built a loyal following with its consistent quality and commitment to traditional brewing methods.
Their flagship beer, Laughing Lab Scottish Ale, has won multiple awards at the Great American Beer Festival. Bristol’s taproom, located in the historic Ivywild School, offers a unique drinking experience in a renovated 1916 elementary school building.
The brewery also produces seasonal favorites like Winter Warlock Oatmeal Stout and Red Rocket Pale Ale. Visitors can enjoy guided tours to learn about the brewing process and the company’s history.
Red Leg Brewing Company
Red Leg Brewing Company, founded by a military veteran, pays homage to Colorado Springs’ strong military presence. The brewery’s name refers to the red stripes on artillery uniforms during the Civil War.
Their taproom features a patriotic theme and offers a rotating selection of craft beers. Popular brews include the Blue Nose Brown Ale and the SGT. Pils Czech-style Pilsner.
Red Leg also hosts regular events, including trivia nights and live music performances. The brewery’s outdoor biergarten provides a relaxing space for patrons to enjoy their beers in warmer months.
Cerberus Brewing Company
Cerberus Brewing Company combines craft beer with gourmet pub fare, creating a unique brewpub experience. Named after the three-headed dog of Greek mythology, Cerberus offers a diverse range of beer styles.
Their taproom features a rotating selection of house-brewed beers, including popular choices like the Elysium IPA and the No Big Deal Blonde Ale. Cerberus is known for experimenting with unique ingredients and brewing techniques.
The brewery’s food menu complements their beers, featuring elevated pub classics and seasonal specials. Their dog-friendly patio is a popular spot for beer enthusiasts and their four-legged friends.
Pikes Peak Brewing Company
Pikes Peak Brewing Company, located in nearby Monument, draws inspiration from the region’s natural beauty. Their taproom offers stunning views of its namesake mountain.
The brewery’s core lineup includes the Elephant Rock IPA and the Devils Head Red Ale. Pikes Peak also produces seasonal and limited-release beers that showcase local ingredients and flavors.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the brewing facility, learning about the beer-making process and the company’s sustainable practices. The brewery hosts regular events, including beer pairing dinners and live music performances.
Phantom Canyon Brewing Company
Phantom Canyon Brewing Company, housed in a historic building in downtown Colorado Springs, combines brewing expertise with a full-service restaurant. Established in 1993, it’s one of the city’s oldest craft breweries.
Their beer selection features both classic styles and innovative creations. Popular brews include the Boxcar Amber Ale and the Queen’s Blonde Ale. The brewery’s three-story building includes a restaurant, billiards hall, and rooftop patio.
Phantom Canyon’s menu offers a range of dishes designed to pair well with their beers. The brewery also hosts special events, including beer release parties and brewing classes.
Goat Patch Brewing Company
Goat Patch Brewing Company, founded in 2017, has quickly become a local favorite. The brewery’s name reflects the founders’ love for both beer and outdoor adventures.
Their taproom offers a welcoming atmosphere with a rotating selection of craft beers. Popular brews include the It Takes a Tribe Red Ale and the Goat Patch Lager. The brewery is known for its community-focused approach and support of local causes.
Goat Patch hosts regular events, including trivia nights and yoga classes. Their spacious taproom and outdoor patio provide ample space for gatherings and socializing.
Local Relic
Local Relic stands out for its unique approach to brewing. This small-batch brewery focuses on creating new and experimental beers, rarely repeating recipes.
Their taproom, located in a historic building, offers a constantly changing selection of beers. Visitors can expect to find innovative flavor combinations and unconventional brewing techniques.
Local Relic also collaborates with local artists, featuring their work on beer labels and in the taproom. The brewery’s commitment to creativity extends to regular events, including beer and art pairings.
Fossil Craft Beer Company
Fossil Craft Beer Company draws inspiration from Colorado’s rich paleontological history. This small, family-owned brewery offers a cozy taproom experience.
Their beer selection includes both traditional styles and experimental brews. Popular choices include the Megalodon IPA and the Triceratops Tripel. Fossil Craft is known for its friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable staff.
The brewery hosts regular events, including food truck visits and live music performances. Their taproom features paleontology-themed decor, creating a unique drinking environment.
Storybook Brewing
Storybook Brewing combines a love of literature with craft beer. This small brewery offers a whimsical taproom experience with book-themed decor and beer names.
Their beer selection includes cleverly named brews like the Little Red’s Rye Ale and the Gnomish Beer Garden Kolsch. Storybook is known for its attention to detail in both brewing and presentation.
The brewery hosts regular events, including book clubs and author readings. Their cozy taproom provides a perfect setting for enjoying a good book along with a craft beer.
Brass Brewing Company
Brass Brewing Company, founded by military veterans, brings a patriotic spirit to the Colorado Springs beer scene. The brewery’s name and decor pay homage to military traditions.
Their taproom offers a rotating selection of craft beers, including popular choices like the Brass Ale and the HOOAH Hefe. Brass Brewing is known for its commitment to quality and consistency.
The brewery hosts regular events, including trivia nights and live music performances. Their spacious taproom and outdoor patio provide a welcoming environment for both veterans and civilians to enjoy craft beer.
Exploring Different Beer Styles
Colorado Springs breweries offer a diverse array of beer styles to suit every palate. From crisp lagers to bold stouts, tart sours to hoppy IPAs, local brewers showcase their creativity and skill across the spectrum of craft beer.
Lagers and Ales
Lagers and ales form the foundation of the craft beer scene in Colorado Springs. Lagers, known for their clean and crisp profiles, are brewed at cooler temperatures. Local breweries often feature Czech-style pilsners and Vienna lagers.
Ales, fermented at warmer temperatures, display a wider range of flavors. Pale ales are particularly popular, with many breweries offering their unique take on this hoppy style. The Howitzer Amber, a local favorite, bridges the gap between lagers and ales with its smooth, malty character.
Stouts and Porters
Dark beer enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Colorado Springs. Stouts and porters, characterized by their rich, roasted flavors, are staples at many local breweries.
Oatmeal stouts offer a creamy texture, while imperial stouts pack a punch with higher alcohol content. Coffee-infused variations are common, capitalizing on the city’s thriving coffee culture. Porters, slightly lighter than stouts, often feature chocolate or caramel notes.
Sours and IPAs
For those seeking bold flavors, Colorado Springs breweries deliver with an array of sours and IPAs. Sour beers, ranging from mildly tart to mouth-puckeringly acidic, showcase fruit-forward profiles or complex barrel-aged characteristics.
IPAs dominate many tap lists, reflecting their popularity among craft beer drinkers. Varieties include:
- West Coast IPAs (bitter, piney)
- New England IPAs (hazy, juicy)
- Double IPAs (higher alcohol, intense hop flavor)
- Session IPAs (lower alcohol, easy-drinking)
Unique Local Brews
Colorado Springs brewers push boundaries with innovative and experimental beers. Some standout creations include:
- Barrel-aged wild ales
- Smoked porters
- Chili pepper-infused lagers
- Fruit-forward wheat beers
Many breweries collaborate with local businesses, incorporating ingredients like honey from nearby apiaries or coffee from roasters. These partnerships result in truly unique brews that capture the essence of Colorado Springs’ craft beer community.
Cultural Experience
Colorado Springs offers a vibrant craft beer culture that extends beyond simply drinking. Beer enthusiasts can immerse themselves in unique experiences that celebrate the city’s brewing heritage and innovation.
Beer Gardens and Brewpubs
Colorado Springs boasts several beer gardens and brewpubs that provide distinctive atmospheres for enjoying local brews. These venues often feature outdoor seating areas where patrons can savor craft beers while taking in mountain views. Many brewpubs offer farm-to-table cuisine paired with their house-made beers, creating a complete culinary experience.
Popular spots include rooftop beer gardens with panoramic vistas and cozy brewpubs nestled in historic buildings. Some establishments host live music events, adding to the lively ambiance. Visitors can find brewpubs specializing in specific beer styles or those offering a wide range of experimental brews.
Colorado Springs Beer Festivals
The city hosts several beer festivals throughout the year, showcasing local and regional craft breweries. These events allow attendees to sample a diverse array of beers and meet the brewers behind them.
Notable festivals include:
- Springs Beer Fest
- All Colorado Beer Festival
- Craft Brew Rendezvous
Many festivals feature food pairings, live entertainment, and educational seminars on brewing techniques. Some events focus on specific beer styles or seasonal brews, providing a deeper appreciation for craft beer varieties.
Brewery Tours and Tasting Rooms
Colorado Springs breweries offer guided tours that provide insights into the brewing process. Visitors can learn about ingredient selection, fermentation techniques, and packaging methods. Many tours conclude with a tasting session in the brewery’s taproom.
Tasting rooms often feature:
- Flight options for sampling multiple beers
- Knowledgeable staff to guide beer selections
- Special release events for limited edition brews
Some breweries offer behind-the-scenes experiences where guests can participate in the brewing process or create custom beer blends. These interactive tours provide a hands-on understanding of craft beer production.
Supporting Local: Visiting Old Colorado City
Old Colorado City offers a vibrant local craft beer scene alongside unique shopping and dining experiences. This historic district blends Wild West charm with modern artisanal offerings, making it a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike.
Old Colorado City Breweries
OCC Brewing stands out as a local favorite in Old Colorado City’s craft beer landscape. This brewery crafts a diverse range of beers, from traditional styles to innovative brews. Beer lovers can enjoy tasting flights or pints in the taproom’s cozy atmosphere.
Several other microbreweries dot the area, each offering distinct flavors and experiences. Visitors can embark on self-guided brewery tours, sampling locally-made ales, lagers, and seasonal specialties. Many breweries feature outdoor patios, perfect for enjoying a cold beer on warm Colorado days.
Dining and Shopping in OCC
Old Colorado City boasts an eclectic mix of dining options to complement its beer scene. From chef-driven restaurants to casual eateries, the area caters to various tastes and budgets. Local favorites include farm-to-table establishments and international cuisine.
Shopping in OCC is a unique experience. The district features art galleries, boutiques, and specialty stores. Visitors can browse handmade crafts, local art, and artisanal foods. Many shops showcase Colorado-made products, providing opportunities to support local artists and makers.
During warmer months, the Old Colorado City Farmers Market offers fresh produce and locally-crafted goods. This market adds to the area’s charm and reinforces its commitment to supporting local businesses.
For the Beer Connoisseur
Colorado Springs offers a wealth of opportunities for beer enthusiasts to expand their palates and knowledge. The city boasts specialty retailers and educational events catering to those seeking unique and rare brews.
Specialty Craft Beer Retailers
Coaltrain Wine and Liquor stands out as a premier destination for craft beer aficionados. Their extensive selection includes hard-to-find releases and limited editions from local and international breweries. Downtown Fine Spirits and Wines curates a carefully chosen assortment of craft beers, focusing on small-batch and artisanal productions. Beer connoisseurs can find rare seasonal offerings and vertical collections here.
Veterans Liquor provides a diverse range of craft beers, with knowledgeable staff offering recommendations based on individual tastes. Weber Street Wines, while known for its wine selection, also carries a thoughtful array of craft beers, including many local Colorado Springs brews.
Educational Resources and Events
Colorado Springs hosts various beer education events throughout the year. Local breweries often conduct guided tastings and brewery tours, offering insights into the brewing process and beer styles. Some establishments organize beer and food pairing workshops, helping enthusiasts refine their palates.
The city’s annual craft beer festivals provide opportunities to sample a wide range of brews and meet brewers. These events often feature seminars on topics like hop varieties, brewing techniques, and beer history. Beer connoisseurs can join local tasting groups or beer clubs to share experiences and discoveries with like-minded individuals.
Beyond Beer: Other Craft Beverages and Offerings
Colorado Springs’ craft beverage scene extends beyond beer, offering diverse options for all tastes. Local establishments have expanded their repertoires to include spirits, cocktails, and non-alcoholic choices.
Craft Spirits and Cocktails
Distilleries in Colorado Springs produce high-quality whiskey and bourbon. Local favorites include Axe and the Oak Whiskey House, known for its small-batch whiskeys. Their tasting room offers flights and craft cocktails featuring house-made spirits.
3 Hundred Days of Shine Distillery specializes in moonshine and flavored spirits. They create unique cocktails using their artisanal products.
Many breweries now offer spirit options. Bristol Brewing Company, for example, has expanded into gin production, adding variety to their beverage lineup.
Non-Alcoholic Offerings and Accommodations
Colorado Springs caters to non-drinkers with innovative options. Cerberus Brewing Company offers house-made root beer and cream soda, perfect for designated drivers or those abstaining.
Red Leg Brewing Company provides a selection of craft sodas, including ginger ale and cola. Their spacious outdoor area includes a dog park, making it a family-friendly destination.
Several breweries partner with local coffee roasters to offer specialty coffee drinks. Pikes Peak Brewing Co. serves nitro cold brew alongside their beer selection.
Phantom Canyon Brewing Company has embraced the mocktail trend, crafting alcohol-free versions of classic cocktails using fresh ingredients and house-made syrups.
Responsible Enjoyment
Enjoying craft beer in Colorado Springs requires balancing appreciation with safety and sustainability. Responsible practices ensure a positive experience for both visitors and the local community.
Safe Transportation and Accommodations
Colorado Springs offers various options for safe travel after sampling local brews. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate throughout the city. Many hotels provide shuttle services to popular brewery districts.
Designated driver programs are available at some breweries. Public transportation, including buses, can be a reliable option for brewery hopping. Some tour companies offer guided brewery tours with transportation included.
It’s crucial to plan accommodations in advance. Many hotels are located near brewery clusters for convenience. Some breweries partner with nearby hotels to offer special packages for visitors.
Supporting Sustainable Practices
Colorado’s craft beer industry emphasizes sustainability. Many breweries in Colorado Springs implement eco-friendly practices in their brewing process. Water conservation is a priority, with breweries often using advanced filtration systems.
Spent grain from brewing is frequently donated to local farms as animal feed. Some breweries use solar power to reduce their carbon footprint. Canning lines are becoming more common, as aluminum cans are more recyclable than glass bottles.
Visitors can support these efforts by choosing breweries with sustainable practices. Bringing reusable growlers for takeaway beer reduces waste. Many breweries offer incentives for customers who bring their own containers.
