The Ultimate Oregon Beer Trail: Breweries to Visit in 2025
Oregon is well-renowned across America for its thriving beer culture. The Beaver State’s rich terrain and top-notch breweries make it the perfect destination for any craft beer enthusiast. If you’ve got a taste for local brews and great views, you’re going to want to follow this guide, showcasing Oregon’s most extraordinary breweries to visit in 2025.
Pacing through Portland’s Liquid Gold
There’s no better place to start Oregon’s ultimate beer trail than Portland, often hailed as “Beervana”. With over 70 breweries, this city’s beer scene is as diverse as the Mt. Hood wilderness — and it changes seasons just as quickly!
Consider starting off in Southeast Portland at Breakside Brewery. Known for its creativity and consistent quality, Breakside won Oregon Brewery of the Year in 2021 and continues to innovate. Do try the Liquid Sunshine Pilsner; it’s as cheerful as a sunny Portland afternoon.
One local insider tip to leverage: Once you’ve had your fill in Southeast, head over to the northeast side of the city for Great Notion Brewing. The brewpub excels in juicy, hazy, hop-heavy ales — perfect for a lazy afternoon. But remember, as Oregonians know well, the city traffic really piles up during rush hour, so plan your visit accordingly.
Alluring Ales of the Oregon Coast
As we venture west, you’ll find that the Oregon Coast has more to offer than just breathtaking ocean views. Pelican Brewing Company in Pacific City was the brainchild of three passionate beer-loving locals and it’s a must-visit, where the sea meets brews that will steal your heart. Their Kiwanda Cream Ale is a favorite summertime treat — refreshing after a day of hiking the nearby Cape Kiwanda trails.
A word of advice, however: coastal weather changes very quickly in the afternoon, so consider visiting the beachside taproom in the morning to avoid sudden fog or rain.
Willamette Valley Wonders
Heading inland, we reach the fertile region of Willamette Valley, known for its flourishing acres of vineyards. But wine isn’t the only libation on offer. In this haven for fresh ingredients and innovative artisans, you’ll find some wonderful breweries.
The town of Eugene, hidden amidst this valley, boasts the brewing giant Ninkasi. Visiting their Tasting Room can be as enlightening as a trip to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. Their Total Domination IPA has a robust flavor that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Oregon.
The valley’s temperate climate and seasonal shifts play a significant role in beer brewing and also affect visiting times. Spring and early fall are particularly lovely periods to explore these breweries when the apple and hop harvests are in full swing.
Crafty Creations in Central Oregon
For breathtaking sights paired with equally breathtaking brews, Central Oregon is not to be missed. Bend, in particular, boasts a robust beer trail known as the Bend Ale Trail. Craft beer enthusiasts can get the passport stamped at each of the participating pubs. The Deschutes Brewery’s Mirror Pond Pale Ale is an Oregon staple, so consider it a rite of passage to sample this while in town.
On the note of seasonal tips, keep in mind that late fall and winter visitations will see Bend covered in a beautiful blanket of snow. If you’re not comfortable with snowy driving conditions, best to plan your visit in the warmer months.
Summing Up Southern Oregon
Southern Oregon is often less crowded with tourists, but that doesn’t mean their breweries aren’t worth a visit. The award-winning Caldera Brewery in Ashland, for example, puts out a plethora of delicious brews and has a to-die-for view of the Siskiyou Mountains. The place is especially vibrant when the Oregon Shakespeare Festival is running in town.
Enjoy Your Oregon Hops Odyssey
No matter when you launch your beer journey, and regardless of how many breweries you get to, always remember that the real joy resides in the journey itself. Get to know the passionate brewers, mingle with locals, explore the awe-inspiring Oregon outdoors, and most of all, kick back and enjoy the fantastic craft beers that this wonderful state has to offer. Remember, every sip is an invitation to savor the quintessence of Oregon, from the mountain peaks to the ocean depths. Here’s to your memorable suds-filled Oregonian adventure. Travel safe and drink responsibly!