Boulder Breweries

The big-beer specialists. Avery is known for pushing limits—high ABV barrel-aged monsters, creative sours, and IPAs that pack a punch. Their massive facility includes a restaurant with excellent food to match the beer. The barrel-aged program is world-class; seasonal releases draw serious collectors. Worth the drive from downtown.

Must try: Whatever barrel-aged special is pouring. The White Rascal is a classic.

The brewery that built its reputation on cans when cans weren't cool. Upslope makes approachable, high-quality beers designed for active lifestyles. The Craft Lager is a perfect trail beer; the IPAs are balanced and sessionable. Two taprooms: Lee Hill is more intimate, Flatiron Park is bigger with food trucks. Both are excellent.

Signature: Craft Lager—the Colorado adventure beer.

The Boulder institution. Mountain Sun has been serving house-brewed beer and pub food on Pearl Street since 1993. The vibe is quintessentially Boulder: relaxed, slightly hippie, unpretentious. The Java Porter is legendary; the rotating taps showcase solid brewing. Cash only. The sister locations (Southern Sun, Vine Street) are equally good.

Essential: Java Porter and a burger. Cash only!

Named for Mount Sanitas (the popular local hike), this brewery embodies Boulder's outdoor culture. The beers are approachable and well-crafted—solid IPAs, good lagers, seasonal specialties. The taproom is spacious with a large patio that fills up on nice days. Dog-friendly, family-friendly, very Boulder.

After a hike: The perfect post-Sanitas reward.

Small-batch, creative brewing in an unassuming industrial space. Vision Quest focuses on quality over quantity, with rotating taps that showcase the brewer's range. Expect experimental styles alongside well-executed classics. The taproom is intimate—this is where local beer nerds gather to try something new.

For: Beer explorers who want something different.