Uncovering the Best Breweries in Oregon Outside of Portland
There’s a special kind of magic to be discovered in the vast landscape of Oregon, where the cool mountain air mingles with the faint scent of hops. Sure, Portland may get all the beer glory, but the breweries scattered across the other nooks and crannies of this awe-inspiring state have plenty to raise a glass to. It’s high time we journeyed beyond the city limits and plunged deep into the heartland of Oregon’s brewing scene.
1. Deschutes Brewery (Bend)
Situated in a small town known for its extensive outdoor activities, Deschutes Brewery leaves locals and visitors with a memorable beer experience. It goes beyond their classic beers, such as Mirror Pond Pale Ale and Black Butte Porter. Embrace Bend’s love for the great outdoors, and pair your brew with a hike around the nearby Deschutes River Trail.
2. Block 15 (Corvallis)
Home to the Oregon State University Beavers, Corvallis, has the youthful exuberance reflected in the Block 15 brewing offerings. Their seasonally-inspired beers definitely keep the town buzzing. Seek out Sticky Hands, a scrumptiously hop-forward IPA that’s a local favorite.
3. Ninkasi Brewing (Eugene)
This beloved Eugene establishment aptly takes its name from the Sumerian goddess of beer. Their Total Domination IPA and Dawn of the Red stand out amongst the remarkable lineup. While in Eugene, pay a visit to the scenic Alton Baker Park and indulge in the town’s vibrant art scene.
4. Breakside Brewery (Milwaukie)
Close, yet comfortably outside of Portland, Breakside Brewery shines in the quaint town of Milwaukie. Their award-winning IPA and the expansive, multifarious beer menu is infused with the spirit of the Oregon wilderness, making each visit a beautiful adventure.
5. Fort George Brewery (Astoria)
From an old Fort-era building in the historic city of Astoria, the craft beer movement echoes loud. At Fort George Brewery, you can savor flavorsome brews while marveling at the panoramic views of the Columbia River from the upstairs dining area. Their Vortex IPA and 1811 lager offer a taste of pure Oregon spirit.
6. Crux Fermentation Project (Bend)
Another Bend jewel is the Crux Fermentation Project, featuring an aesthetically pleasing tasting room radiating the warmth of Oregon’s small-town hospitality. Their beers exert experimental boundaries, with unconventional suds like the delicious PCT Porter.
7. pFriem Family Brewers (Hood River)
For a quintessentially Oregon experience, journey to the Columbia River Gorge, where you’ll find pFriem Family Brewers tucked away in Hood River. Offering stunning river views on their patio, they also brew some top-notch beers. Their balanced pilsners and Belgian strong dark are must-tries when visiting this family-friendly brewery.
8. Boneyard Beer (Bend)
Back in Bend, we find Boneyard Beer. Named in honor of the ‘bone yard’ of old brewing equipment the founders initially used, it brews up varieties with spirit, such as the RPM IPA. Enjoying Boneyard beer makes you feel connected to the heart of the Oregon brew family.
9. Rogue Ales (Newport)
Laying claim to the title of ‘Oregon’s Coastal Brewery’, Rogue Ales in Newport never forgets its roots. Its flagship beer, ‘Dead Guy Ale,’ fits in wonderfully with the rugged coastal spirit. Don’t forget to take a scenic coastal drive along Highway 101 while you’re in the area.
10. Buoy Beer (Astoria)
Rounding out our tour, we land once more in Astoria at Buoy Beer. With the mighty Columbia River as its backdrop, the brewery offers robust beers, including the smooth Czech-style Pilsner. Witnessing the sea lions from their viewing area on the brewery dock while sipping their beer could be a highlight of your Oregon journey.
So, raise your pint and cheers to the scenic, encompassing, and ever-creative brewing energy coursing through Oregon. Get out there and taste the love, quality, and craft of these passionate brewers who truly capture the spirit of Oregon. Oh, the joy of discovering all the hops this state can offer! Here’s to road trips, beautiful landscapes, and delicious Oregon beers.