7 Best Breweries in Colorado Springs CO: A Comprehensive Guide
Colorado Springs, CO, is a hub for craft beer enthusiasts. With over 30 breweries to choose from, it can be challenging to decide which ones to visit. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there are plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.
Colorado Springs is known for its unique and diverse breweries. The city’s breweries offer a wide range of styles, from traditional ales and lagers to experimental and seasonal brews. Some of the best breweries in Colorado Springs include Oskar Blues Brewery, Red Leg Brewing Company, and Peaks N Pines Brewing Company. These breweries are known for their award-winning beers, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere.
History of Breweries in Colorado Springs CO
Colorado Springs has a rich history of brewing beer, dating back to the late 1800s. The first brewery in Colorado Springs was the Colorado Springs Brewing Company, which was established in 1871. Over the years, the city has seen a number of breweries come and go, but the tradition of brewing beer has remained strong.
During the Prohibition era, many breweries were forced to shut down, but a few managed to survive by producing non-alcoholic beverages. After Prohibition was repealed, the brewing industry in Colorado Springs slowly began to recover. In the 1980s and 1990s, a new wave of craft breweries emerged, and today, Colorado Springs is home to some of the best breweries in the state.
One of the oldest and most well-known breweries in Colorado Springs is the Phantom Canyon Brewing Company. Founded in 1993, Phantom Canyon is the oldest brewery in the city and a long-time favorite of craft beer fans. Another popular brewery is the Bristol Brewing Company, which was founded in 1994 and is known for its award-winning beers.
In recent years, the craft beer scene in Colorado Springs has exploded, with new breweries opening up all the time. Some of the newer breweries include the Red Leg Brewing Company, which was founded in 2013 and is known for its military-themed beers, and the Cerberus Brewing Company, which opened its doors in 2016 and is known for its experimental and innovative beers.
Bristol Brewing Company
Bristol Brewing Company is a popular brewery located at 1604 S Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905. The brewery was established in 1994 by Mike Bristol, who started brewing beer in his basement before opening the brewery.
Bristol Brewing Company offers a variety of beers, including seasonal and limited-release beers. Some of their popular beers include Laughing Lab Scottish Ale, Beehive Honey Wheat, Red Rocket Pale Ale, and Compass IPA. They also offer a selection of food, including appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and pizzas.
The brewery has a spacious taproom where visitors can enjoy their beers and food. They also offer tours of the brewery on Saturdays, where visitors can learn about the brewing process and history of the brewery.
Bristol Brewing Company is a well-respected brewery in Colorado Springs, and its beers can be found in many local bars and restaurants. They have won several awards for their beers, including a gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival for their Laughing Lab Scottish Ale.
Website: http://www.bristolbrewing.com/
Address: 1604 S Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905, United States
| Brewery Name | Bristol Brewing Company |
| Address | 1604 S Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905 |
| Established | 1994 |
| Beers Offered | Seasonal and limited release beers |
| Popular Beers | Laughing Lab Scottish Ale, Beehive Honey Wheat, Red Rocket Pale Ale, Compass IPA |
| Food Offered | Appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and pizzas |
| Taproom | Spacious taproom |
| Tours | Tours of the brewery offered on Saturdays |
| Awards | Gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival for their Laughing Lab Scottish Ale |
Pikes Peak Brewing Company
Pikes Peak Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery in Colorado Springs, located in downtown Colorado Springs and Monument, Colorado. The brewery is known for its modern vibe and rooftop patio, which provides stunning views of the city.
The brewery offers a variety of beers, including its signature Pikes Peak Lager House Brewery, which is a light and refreshing beer that is perfect for a hot summer day. Other popular beers include the Devil’s Head Red Ale, the Summit House Oatmeal Stout, and the Elephant Rock IPA.
Pikes Peak Brewing Company also offers a food menu that pairs well with its beers. Some of the popular dishes include the Beer Cheese Soup, the BBQ Pork Mac & Cheese, and the Pikes Peak Burger.
The brewery is open seven days a week and offers tours of its brewing facilities. They also host events throughout the year, including live music, trivia nights, and beer festivals.
Website: https://www.pikespeakbrewing.com/
Address: 514 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903, United States
Phantom Canyon Brewing Company
Phantom Canyon Brewing Company is a must-visit brewery in Colorado Springs. Located at 2 E Pikes Peak Ave, this brewpub has a long history in the city. It was established in 1993 and has been serving up delicious craft beers and food ever since.
The brewery has a wide variety of beers on tap, including its signature brews like the Phantom Canyon Amber, the Hefeweizen, and the Red Dirt Ale. They also have seasonal and limited-release beers that are worth trying out. The brewery has won several awards for its beers, including the Gold Medal at the Great American Beer Festival.
Apart from beer, Phantom Canyon Brewing Company also offers a full menu of food. They serve classic pub fare like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as more unique dishes like the Bison Meatloaf and the Salmon BLT. The brewery also has a happy hour from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. every day, where guests can enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers.
The atmosphere at Phantom Canyon Brewing Company is cozy and inviting. The brewpub is housed in a historic building that was once a hotel, and it has retained much of its old-world charm. The brewery has a spacious bar area, as well as a dining room and a patio. Live music is often played at the brewery, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Overall, Phantom Canyon Brewing Company is a great place to enjoy delicious craft beers and food in Colorado Springs. With its long history, award-winning beers, and inviting atmosphere, it’s no wonder that this brewpub is a popular spot among locals and visitors alike.
Website: https://phantomcanyon.com/
Address: 2 E Pikes Peak Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903, United States
Red Leg Brewing Company
Red Leg Brewing Company is a veteran-owned and operated craft brewery located in Colorado Springs, CO, near Garden of the Gods. The brewery is named after the red leggings worn by the 10th Mountain Division during World War II.
Red Leg Brewing Company has a taproom that offers a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, lagers, and sours. They also have a limited food menu that includes snacks, sandwiches, and pizzas.
The brewery has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with a rustic decor that reflects its military roots. They have indoor and outdoor seating areas, and the outdoor patio is dog-friendly.
Red Leg Brewing Company has received positive reviews from customers, with many praising the quality of their beer and the friendly staff. They also offer tours of their brewery, which can be scheduled in advance.
Website: https://redlegbrewing.com/
Address: 2323 Garden of the Gods Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80907, United States
| Pros | Cons |
| Wide variety of beer options | Limited food menu |
| Cozy and welcoming atmosphere | Limited seating |
| Dog-friendly outdoor patio | Noisy at times |
| Friendly staff | Limited parking |
FH Beerworks
FH Beerworks is a popular brewery located in Colorado Springs, CO. The brewery has two locations, one on Powers Blvd and the other in downtown Colorado Springs. The brewery is known for its flagship beers such as Sticky Paws, a honey wheat ale brewed with Colorado honey, and Good Day, a West Coast-style IPA.
The brewery has a taproom that offers a variety of beers on tap. The Powers Blvd location is open seven days a week, while the downtown location is closed on Mondays. The taproom offers a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere where customers can enjoy their beer while socializing with friends or family.
In addition to its flagship beers, FH Beerworks also offers seasonal and limited-edition beers. The brewery has a rotating selection of guest food trucks that offer a variety of food options to pair with their beers. Customers can also bring their own food to the taproom.
FH Beerworks has a 6,000 sq. ft. beer garden that is perfect for outdoor events and gatherings. The brewery hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including live music, trivia nights, and beer releases. The brewery also offers private event spaces for those looking to host their own events.
Website: http://www.fhbeerworks.com/
Address: 2490 N Powers, Frontage Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80915, United States
Cerberus Brewing Company
Cerberus Brewing Company is a popular brewery and restaurant located on the west side of Colorado Springs, CO. The establishment has been serving beer and upscale pub food for six years and is known for its craft beer, dog-friendly patio, and beer garden.
The brewery offers a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. Customers can enjoy a pint of their favorite beer or try a flight of different beers to discover new flavors. The establishment also serves non-alcoholic drinks such as soda and sparkling water.
Cerberus Brewing Company has a full kitchen that serves upscale pub food. Customers can enjoy appetizers, sandwiches, burgers, and entrees such as steak and fish. The establishment also has vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
The dog-friendly patio and beer garden at Cerberus Brewing Company are popular with customers. The patio is a great place to enjoy a pint of beer and a meal with friends and family. The beer garden is a perfect spot for events such as weddings and parties.
Website: http://www.cerberusbrewingco.com/
Address: 702 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905, United States
Fieldhouse Brewing Company
Fieldhouse Brewing Company is a fun and friendly craft brewery located in the beautiful Downtown Colorado Springs’ New South End. It offers a variety of delicious beers, including a gluten-free lineup and house-made root beer.
With 14 beers on tap, Fieldhouse Brewing Company has something for every beer lover. The brewery’s Goat Patch IPA is one of its most popular offerings, with a rich and full-bodied flavor. Another must-try is the Mocha Latte Stout, a collaboration with Building Three Coffee, brewed with decadent flavors like chocolate and Mexican coffee.
Fieldhouse Brewing Company has a 6,000 sq ft beer garden, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a cold beer on a sunny day. The brewery also hosts regular events, including live music and trivia nights.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Fieldhouse Brewing Company is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves craft beer.
Website: http://www.fieldhousebrew.com/
Address: 2490 Victor Pl, Colorado Springs, CO 80915, United States
Local’s Perspective
When it comes to finding the best breweries in Colorado Springs, it’s always a good idea to get a local’s perspective. After all, who knows the city’s craft beer scene better than the people who live there? Here are a few insights from locals on the best breweries in Colorado Springs.
Atmosphere
One of the things that locals love about the breweries in Colorado Springs is the unique atmosphere each one offers. From cozy taprooms with fireplaces to outdoor patios with stunning mountain views, there’s a brewery for every mood and occasion. Some popular options include:
- Red Leg Brewing Company: This veteran-owned brewery has a patriotic theme and a welcoming community atmosphere.
- Storybook Brewing: With its whimsical fairy tale theme and cozy indoor and outdoor seating, Storybook is a favorite among locals.
- Goat Patch Brewing Company: This family-friendly brewery has a laid-back vibe and a spacious outdoor patio with games and fire pits.
Beer Selection
Of course, the most important aspect of any brewery is the beer. Fortunately, Colorado Springs has no shortage of delicious craft brews to choose from. Here are a few local favorites:
- Nano 108 Brewing Company: This award-winning brewery has a wide variety of beers on tap, including seasonal and experimental brews.
- Bristol Brewing Company: A Colorado Springs staple, Bristol offers a range of classic and innovative beers, including their popular Laughing Lab Scottish Ale.
- Paradox Beer Company: Known for their barrel-aged sour beers, Paradox is a must-visit for sour beer lovers.
Events and Entertainment
Finally, many Colorado Springs breweries offer events and entertainment to keep things interesting. From live music to trivia nights, there’s always something going on at local breweries. Some popular options include:
- Fieldhouse Brewing Company: This brewery hosts regular live music performances and food trucks.
- Iron Bird Brewing Company: In addition to their tasty brews, Iron Bird offers board games, cornhole, and other games for patrons to enjoy.
- FH Beerworks: With two locations in Colorado Springs, FH Beerworks hosts a variety of events, including trivia nights and beer release parties.
Overall, Colorado Springs locals have plenty of options when it comes to finding the best breweries in town. Whether you’re looking for a cozy atmosphere, delicious beer, or fun events, there’s a brewery for everyone.
Brewery Tours
Colorado Springs is home to a variety of breweries, each offering unique flavors and experiences. One of the best ways to explore the local beer scene is through brewery tours.
Luecky Brew Tours offers hand-crafted brewery tours that explore the best breweries in Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas. They have a wide range of tours that cater to different interests and preferences. For example, the “Brewery & Distillery Tour” takes guests to three breweries and one distillery, while the “Pikes Peak Beer Run” combines a scenic run with a brewery tour.
Another popular option is Rocky Mountain Ride’s Brew Tours, which has been providing 5-star brewery tours for over 5 years. Their knowledgeable local guides will take guests to some of the best breweries in Colorado Springs, including Red Leg Brewing Company, Bristol Brewing Company, and Phantom Canyon Brewing Company.
For those who prefer a more self-guided experience, the Colorado Springs Craft Brewery Passport is a great option. This passport includes discounts and special offers at over 20 local breweries and can be purchased at any participating brewery or online.
No matter which brewery tour option guests choose, they are sure to discover new and delicious beers while experiencing the vibrant beer culture of Colorado Springs.
Seasonal Brews
Colorado Springs has a thriving craft beer culture, and breweries in the area are known for their seasonal brews. These unique and flavorful beers are only available for a limited time, making them a must-try for any beer enthusiast visiting the area.
One popular seasonal brew is Bristol Brewing Company’s Winter Warlock. This strong ale is brewed with cinnamon and molasses, giving it a warm and spicy flavor that is perfect for the colder months. Another popular option is Red Leg Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest, a traditional German-style beer that is brewed in the fall.
Storybook Brewing’s Summer Wheat is a refreshing option for those hot summer days. This light and fruity beer is brewed with wheat and honey, giving it a crisp and sweet taste that is perfect for sipping on a patio.
For those who enjoy a hoppy beer, Fieldhouse Brewing Company’s Hoppy Harvest Ale is a must-try. This seasonal brew is made with fresh hops that are harvested in the fall, giving it a bold and earthy flavor that is perfect for the season.