Bend, Oregon, has earned its reputation as one of the top craft beer destinations in the United States. With more than 30 breweries and an award-winning beer trail, the city offers endless options for both casual beer lovers and connoisseurs. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back pub, a family-friendly brewery, or a tasting room with riverfront views, Bend’s vibrant beer scene has something for everyone.
In this post, we’ll explore the highlights of Bend’s craft beer scene and guide you to the best breweries in town.
1. The Bend Ale Trail: A Must-Do for Beer Lovers
One of the most popular ways to experience Bend’s breweries is by completing the Bend Ale Trail. This self-guided tour takes you through the city’s top breweries, giving you the chance to sample unique beers at each stop. You can download a Bend Ale Trail Passport to track your progress and earn prizes along the way.
Bend Ale Trail Tips:
- Split the trail into sections to explore it at your own pace.
- Use the free Bend Ale Trail app for maps and tips.
- Consider renting a bike to make brewery-hopping easier and more fun.
2. Deschutes Brewery: A Bend Staple
No visit to Bend’s beer scene is complete without a stop at Deschutes Brewery, one of the oldest and most well-known breweries in town. Established in 1988, Deschutes is famous for beers like Mirror Pond Pale Ale and Black Butte Porter, which are now distributed nationwide. The downtown Bend pub offers a full menu and a cozy atmosphere, making it a great place to relax with a pint.
What to Try:
- Black Butte Porter
- Fresh Squeezed IPA
- Seasonal limited releases
Pro Tip: Take a tour of their brewing facility on Simpson Avenue to see where the magic happens.
3. Crux Fermentation Project: Sunset Views and Unique Brews
Located just a few blocks from downtown, Crux Fermentation Project offers some of the best sunset views in Bend. With a wide selection of innovative beers and an outdoor lawn with food trucks, Crux is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It’s also dog-friendly, making it a perfect stop after a day of exploring Bend’s trails.
What to Try:
- Half Hitch Imperial IPA
- Crux Pilz
- Cast Out IPA
Pro Tip: Visit during their “Sundowner Hour” for drink specials while watching the sunset over the Cascades.
4. 10 Barrel Brewing: A Social Spot for Food and Beer
With its casual vibe, delicious food, and popular beers, 10 Barrel Brewing has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors. Their Westside Bend location offers indoor and outdoor seating, along with a rooftop patio perfect for sunny days. 10 Barrel also has a strong focus on creating small-batch brews, so there’s always something new to try.
What to Try:
- Apocalypse IPA
- Pray for Snow (seasonal winter ale)
- Pub Beer (a light lager)
Pro Tip: Pair your beer with their famous truffle fries or a wood-fired pizza.
5. Boneyard Beer: Big Flavors in a Laid-Back Setting
Boneyard Beer is known for producing bold, hop-forward beers that pack a punch. While the brewery’s original tasting room was tiny (hence the name “Boneyard”), their newer space offers more room to enjoy their brews. If you’re an IPA fan, this is a must-visit spot.
What to Try:
- RPM IPA
- Hop Venom Double IPA
- Incredible Pulp (citrus wheat beer)
Pro Tip: Boneyard is a favorite among locals, so it’s a great place to strike up a conversation and get insider tips on other hidden gems in Bend.
6. GoodLife Brewing: Relaxed Vibes and Great Beer
If you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere and a large outdoor space, GoodLife Brewing is the place to be. Their beer garden is the perfect spot to enjoy Bend’s sunny weather, and they frequently host live music and community events. GoodLife is known for its balanced beers and friendly vibe, making it a great stop for families and groups.
What to Try:
- Sweet As! Pacific Ale
- Descender IPA
- G. Love’s Special Sauce IPA
Pro Tip: Visit on a Friday afternoon to catch live music in the beer garden.
7. Sunriver Brewing: Family-Friendly Fun
While technically based in nearby Sunriver, Sunriver Brewing has a popular location in downtown Bend that’s perfect for families. With a welcoming atmosphere, kids’ menu, and great food options, it’s an ideal stop if you’re brewery-hopping with little ones. Of course, the beer is the star of the show, with a variety of styles to suit any palate.
What to Try:
- Rippin’ Northwest Ale
- Fuzztail Hefeweizen
- Vicious Mosquito IPA
Pro Tip: Grab a table on their outdoor patio during the warmer months.
8. Worthy Brewing: Sustainability and Stargazing
Worthy Brewing takes sustainability seriously, incorporating eco-friendly practices into their operations. In addition to great beer, Worthy offers a unique feature—an on-site observatory called the Hopservatory, where you can enjoy stargazing sessions after dinner.
What to Try:
- Strata IPA
- Lights Out Stout
- Worthy IPA
Pro Tip: Visit on a clear night for a chance to explore the stars through the Hopservatory’s telescopes.
Conclusion: Experience the Best of Bend’s Beer Scene
Bend’s craft beer scene offers something for everyone, from hop-forward IPAs to refreshing lagers. Whether you’re tackling the Bend Ale Trail, enjoying live music at a beer garden, or sipping a pint while watching the sunset, the breweries in Bend provide a unique experience filled with great flavors and community spirit.
Ready to make Bend your home and explore the beer scene year-round? Contact Strategic Realty today to find the perfect home base in this lively and outdoor-oriented city.