Discovering the Best Breweries in Oregon Outside of Portland
Oregon is known as a craft brewing hub, and it’s not just Portland that is abuzz with exceptional beers. For brew enthusiasts searching for a gem beyond the city, you’re in for a treat. From coastal towns to the high desert landscape, here are some fantastic brew spots which encapsulate the state’s unique beer culture.1. Deschutes Brewery – Bend
Bend is dubbed ‘Beer City USA,’ and at the heart of this reputation is Deschutes Brewery. Founded in 1988, Deschutes has since grown into Oregon’s largest brewery, renowned for its full-flavored flagship brews like the Black Butte Porter and the Mirror Pond Pale Ale. While in Bend, don’t miss out on the Ale Trail, a ‘must-trek’ for any beer lover’s bucket list.2. Boneyard Beer – Bend
Another Bend classic, Boneyard Beer is famous for its RPM IPA, which strikes just the right balance between malty and hoppy. Check out the pub’s outstanding tap list, and be sure to try the Diablo Rojo for something a bit more experimental.3. Block 15 Brewing Company – Corvallis
Block 15 is a staple in the home of the Beavers—Corvallis. Known for their Sticky Hands IPA and a tremendous seasonal lineup, this brewery creates an array of styles from rustic farmhouse ales to hop-forward IPAs. Their bi-weekly brunch complete with your favorite brew is not to be missed.
4. Ninkasi Brewing Company – Eugene
Ninkasi, named after the Sumerian goddess of beer, is based in Eugene, part of the Willamette Valley’s craft brew location. Its Total Domination IPA and Tricerahops Double IPA are staples in any Oregonian bar fridge. The tasting room features live music, food trucks, and brewery tours.5. Cascade Lakes Brewing Company – Redmond
Nestled in the high desert town of Redmond is Cascade Lakes Brewing Company. Known for their Blonde Bombshell and Cyclops IPA, Cascade Lakes offers a relaxed setting beneficial to both the beer novice and a connoisseur. Their lodge-style restaurant, Seventh Street Brew House, is perfect for enjoying excellent food with a brew in hand.6. Rogue Ales – Newport
Coast to Newport, where Rogue Ales is located right by the historic Yaquina Bay Bridge. The varied lineup, including the Dead Guy Ale and Hazelnut Brown Nectar, breathes variety and creativity. The seaside setting adds to the ambiance, especially when coupled with a delicious bowl of clam chowder.7. Buoy Beer Company – Astoria
Astoria’s riverfront has the charming Buoy Beer Company, an inviting spot with stunning views of the Columbia River. Not only does Buoy serve up remarkable beer like the Czech-Style Pilsner, but they also offer a seafood-based menu that changes seasonally, truly highlighting Oregon’s rich bounty.8. pFriem Family Brewers – Hood River
Proudly standing in Hood River, the pFriem Family Brewers have made a name for themselves as the masters of Belgian and Northwest- inspired beers. This wind-swept town provides the perfect back-drop for sipping on a bright and spicy Belgian Strong Dark or the delicate Pilsner.9. Pelican Brewing Company – Pacific City
The Pelican Brewing Company is a must-visit for anyone heading to the scenic Oregon coast. The Tsunami Stout and Kiwanda Cream Ale are standouts in their lineup. Enjoy a beach view with your brew and watch as the iconic Haystack Rock steals the sunset.10. Crux Fermentation Project – Bend
Rounding off the trail in Bend once again is Crux Fermentation Project. Crux excels in avant-garde brewing methods resulting in unique, unforgettable flavors. The tasting room offers 360-degree views of the Cascade Mountain Range- an excellent location for a sundowner.If Portland is ‘Beervana,’ then these breweries outside of the city are heavenly spheres in their own right. Each brimming with character, offering diverse lineups, and set in stunning Oregon landscapes. They remind us again that the state is not just the upper crust of the beer industry, but the whole pie itself. So, raise a pint to the diversified and rich brew culture of Oregon. Cheers!