The Ultimate Oregon Beer Trail: Breweries to Visit in 2025
Welcome to the ultimate beer lover’s journey through Oregon. Here’s a thoughtfully planned travel guide filled with authentic, locally loved breweries each one with its unique brews and charm. Remember, the journey is just as important as the beer glass waiting at the end.
Begin with Beervana: Portland
“Beervana,” a fitting moniker for Portland given its more than 75 breweries – that’s more breweries per capita than any other city in the world. Start the trip on the east side of the river with Breakside Brewery, renowned for their strong Indian Pale Ales. Just north on Dekum street is Great Notion Brewing, where juicy IPAs, flavorful stouts, and fruity sours rule the day.
When in Portland, food carts are a must-visit. They’re part of the city’s unique charm. The food cart pods near most breweries offer a wide range of cuisine. So why not grab a bite, it perfectly complements the beer sampling endeavor.
Eugene’s Experimental Breweries
Next stop, Eugene. Visit Ninkasi Brewing Company, where the Total Domination IPA rules supreme. Take the time to soak in the warm vibe of the tasting room, it’s loaded with local art. Don’t miss out on Oakshire Brewing, especially their single batch and pilot beers – grown-ups’ version of an experimental playground.
Winter or early spring visit? Pack rain boots and a sturdy umbrella. Eugene comes with its fair share Oregon’s classic drizzly days, but this detailing is what makes Oregon, Oregon!
Rivers and Brews in Bend
Nestled against the picturesque backdrop of Deschutes River is Bend – a beer paradise, home to more than 20 craft breweries. Start at Deschutes Brewery, the godfather of Oregon’s craft brew industry. Check out their Black Butte Porter, a sheer delight. A short stroll away is Crux Fermentation Project. The hearty bar snacks and wide variety of experimental beers here are a crowd-favorite!
Beware of Bend’s sneakily strong sunshine during summer, pack plenty of sunscreens even if a day at the brewery doesn’t sound like a tan-line threat.
Roam the Coastal Breweries
Head to the coast, first stop, Newport. Visit Rogue Ales & Spirits, the masters of out-of-the-box brews. Farther up the coast in Pacific City, is the iconic Pelican Brewing Company. Here, enjoy top-quality beers with the Pacific ocean’s stunning view. Coastal weather changes quickly in the afternoon, so carry an extra layer. Don’t forget the binoculars, the migrating Gray Whales can often be spotted off the coast in early spring and late fall.
Remember, coastal roads get quite busy during summer weekends. If planning a trip during this time, leaving early is always a good idea.
Astoria: A Blend of History and Craft Beers
At the northern corner is the historic town, Astoria. The Riverwalk Brewery crawl is an absolute delight. The Astoria Brewing Company and Fort George Brewery are two must-haves on the list. The town’s laid-back vibe complements a day of beer tasting perfectly!
Grants Pass through Applegate Valley
Finally, veer off the beaten path to Grants Pass. This southern Oregon gem hosts Climate City Brewing Company, celebrated for their balance between honoring brewing traditions and dabbling in innovation. A little to the west, Applegate Valley’s Plank Town Brewery wins hearts with their smoked beer.
The Seasonal Salute Beer Festive in mid-July here is an absolute spectacle, so it’s worth timing your visit then if possible.
After visiting these places, it’s only natural for Oregon to leave a mark in the heart. The brew-loving culture it radiates, the friendly locals, and the stunning landscapes, it’s more than just about beer – it’s a way of life served chilled in a pint. So, here’s to a fantastic beer tasting journey across the lovely Oregon. Prost!