History Hopped Up: Explore Downtown Fort Collins' Best Brews and Views

July 25, 2024 / Tag: Dining

Unleash your inner Craft Brew Enthusiast with this Patio-Perfect Guide to Downtown Fort Collins

Beer Lover's Bliss

Downtown Fort Collins is a craft beer connoisseur's dream. With eight breweries and more than 15 lively bars with patios nestled in the heart of downtown, satisfying your thirst is a breeze. Picture yourself unwinding on a sun-soaked or shaded patio, surrounded by good company, as you savor a locally crafted cold one. From classic lagers to adventurous IPAs and everything in between, there's a perfect pint waiting to be claimed as your next rave-worthy brew. Start your beer crawl off right by visiting these downtown brewery hotspots:

Watermelon beer on patio at CooperSmith's Pub & Brewing — Photo credit: DDA

CooperSmith’s Pub & Brewing offers two outdoor escapes. The bustling Mountain Avenue patio puts you in the heart of Old Town (calling all people-watchers), while the Old Town Square patio offers a front row seat to all the plaza's activities. As Fort Collins' first brewpub, CooperSmith's has been a downtown staple, crafting delicious beers from classic styles with time-honored brewing techniques since 1989, carving out a niche in the Fort Collins craft beer scene for all the right reasons.

Glass of beer and wine on patio at Odell's — Photo credit: Odell Brewing Co.

Odell Brewing Company is more than just a brewery; it's a neighborhood hangout where beer and wine lovers unite. Since 1989, Odell has been crafting beloved brews, with a few local favorites to include Odell IPA, Five Barrel Pale Ale, Sippin' Pretty Fruited Sour, and 90 Shilling Ale. Next door, explore the urban winery & wine bar at the OBC Wine Project, connected by a shared patio adorned with greenery. Enjoy both under the sun while live music fills the air.

Glass of beer on patio at New Belgium Brewing — Photo credit: DDA

New Belgium Brewing Company features expansive outdoor space and is a haven for relaxation and fun. Challenge friends to cornhole or giant Jenga while enjoying iconic brews like Fat Tire Classic Ale or Voodoo Ranger IPA. With a laid-back atmosphere, ample space, and rotating food trucks serving local fare, it's the ideal spot to soak up the sun and enjoy live music. A Fort Collins staple since 1991, New Belgium continues to be a local favorite.

Beer on patio at Equinox Brewing — Photo credit: DDA

Equinox Brewing Co. has been a Downtown Fort Collins gem since 2010, serving a diverse tap list of craft beers and relaxing outdoor spaces, that feels like a secret garden, perfect for chilling with friends over a shared love for craft beers. Committed to the Fort Collins community, they distribute their beer locally via a custom-made keg trike. If you find yourself hungry, don't miss out on their famous Postcard Pan Pizza – it lives up to the local hype!

Two beers cheers on patio with tivoli lights at Gilded Goat — Photo credit: DDA

Gilded Goat Brewing Company's family-owned brewery and taproom has provided an inviting escape from the bustling downtown scene since 2017. Its casual back patio spot, located just off Tenney Court Alley, is the perfect setting to catch a break and enjoy a crisp craft beer. Whether catching up with friends or simply soaking up the sun while lounging in this hidden gem, it's the ideal place to recharge.

Beer and two people sitting under umbrellas on patio at Hello Brewing — Photo credit: DDA

Hello Brewing Company invites you to step into a cozy 1904 bungalow-turned-brewery in downtown’s River District, established in 2020. It's like hanging out on your friend's front porch but with exceptional craft beers that include Czech-Style Lagers, Hazy IPAs and a number of off-beat experimental beers. The intimate atmosphere makes you feel right at home. While in the area, take a few extra minutes to soak in the views at the Poudre River Whitewater Park, located just north of Old Town.

Two beers cheers on patio at Salt Road Brewing — Photo credit: DDA

Salt Road Brewing, a 2023 addition to Downtown Fort Collins, welcomes you to its charming outdoor beer garden, just tucked away off Old Firehouse Alley East. Enjoy live music and choose the perfect pint from a range of farmhouse ales and saisons crafted with primarily Colorado sourced ingredients, along with, witbiers, and other unique creations that showcase its dedication to the craft. Stay a while and taste local delicious bites from rotating food trucks.

Paw-some Patios: Food, Drinks, and Pet-Approved Gatherings

In Downtown Fort Collins, you'll find a pet-friendly haven perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers. With nearly 100 outdoor and patio dining options, you can choose from quiet corners to bustling courtyards. There are over 35 locations offering happy hour specials, and you can explore pet-friendly shops. Plus, it's easy to extend your stay at one of our two dog-welcoming hotels!

Two pints on patio with flowers at Crown Pub — Photo credit: The Crown Pub

If you're craving more than just beer gardens, these buzzing spots extend their indoor appeal outdoors, creating dynamic patios perfect for enjoying a diverse drink selection. Want more patio action and a wider range of beverages? Check out these downtown bars that bring the party outside:

Beer on patio at dusk with lights at Tap and Handle — Photo credit: Tap and Handle

Fueling Your Fun

Grab your friends, pack your sense of adventure, and head to Downtown Fort Collins. While soaking up the sun and sipping on local brews, take some time to explore the dynamic public plazas, shops, and boutiques, as well as the canvas of public art and beautiful flower beds and baskets that line the streets of downtown. With easy and convenient downtown parking options, what are you waiting for?