Why Colorado is the Ultimate Beer Lover’s Destination
Colorado isn’t just a great place for outdoor adventures—it’s a paradise for craft beer lovers. With over 400 breweries, one of the most prestigious beer competitions in the world, and a brewing culture deeply embedded in the state’s history, it’s no wonder Colorado has earned its reputation as a craft beer mecca. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a full-fledged hophead, here’s why Colorado is the ultimate destination for beer lovers.
1. Colorado is Home to the Most Award-Winning Breweries
When it comes to brewing excellence, Colorado doesn’t just participate—it dominates. In 2024, Colorado breweries took home a whopping 32 gold medals and 92 total awards between the top award competitions: Great American Beer Fest (GABF), the US Open Beer Competition, and the World Beer Cup. Solidifying the state’s position as a craft beer powerhouse. Some standout winners include:
Bull & Bush Brewery (Denver) – Stole the show this year, taking home 10 medals between the three competitions, including three golds!
River North Brewery (Denver) – Took home a whopping 9 medals with three gold medals, proving their dedication to high ABV beers is paying off.
Verboten Brewing and Barrel Project (Loveland) – Won 7 total medals, including two golds, with “Grow Old With You,” taking home three awards itself!
2. A Brewery for Every Beer Style
One of the most impressive aspects of Colorado’s beer scene is its diversity in styles. Whether you love hop-heavy hazy IPAs, crisp lagers, barrel-aged stouts, or experimental sours, you’ll find a brewery specializing in it. Some must-visit spots based on style include:
Best for Lagers: Prost Brewing Co. (Denver) – Dedicated to German-style lagers.
Best for Hazy IPAs: Westbound & Down Brewing Co. (Idaho Springs) – A cult favorite for juicy, unfiltered hop bombs.
Best for Sour & Funky Beers: Cellar West Brewery (Lafayette) – Masters of spontaneous fermentation.
3. The Birthplace of Iconic Beer Festivals
Beer lovers across the country dream of attending the Great American Beer Festival (GABF) in Denver each year. As the largest beer competition in the U.S., it showcases the best breweries nationwide, but Colorado always brings the heat with top-tier pours and award-winning entries.
Another must-experience festival is Colorado Brewers Rendezvous, an annual event in Salida that celebrates the best of Colorado craft beer in a more intimate setting.
4. Elevation Brews: Beer at High Altitudes
Brewing in Colorado isn’t just about great ingredients—it’s also about altitude. Thanks to the state’s high elevation, some breweries have perfected the art of brewing under unique conditions. Elevation Brewing (Poncha Springs) and Telluride Brewing Company take full advantage of their mountain locations, crafting beers that are just as refreshing after a long hike as they are at a cozy taproom.
5. Beer and Adventure Go Hand-in-Hand
In Colorado, craft beer is part of the outdoor lifestyle. Whether you’re skiing in Breckenridge, biking in Boulder, or hiking a 14er, there’s always a brewery waiting for you at the end of your adventure. Many breweries even cater to outdoor lovers with beer gardens, trail-friendly brews, and dog-friendly patios.
Best Post-Hike Brewery: Outer Range Brewing (Frisco) – World-class hazy IPAs near top hiking trails.
Best Ski Town Brewery: Broken Compass Brewing (Breckenridge) – A must-stop after hitting the slopes.
Best Riverfront Sipping: Eddyline Brewery (Buena Vista) – Perfect for a pint after whitewater rafting.
Your Next Colorado Brewery Adventure Awaits!
With award-winning breweries, legendary festivals, and a perfect pairing of beer and adventure, Colorado truly is the ultimate destination for beer lovers. Whether you’re planning a brewery road trip or just looking for the next great pint, The Ultimate Colorado Brewery Bucket List is your go-to guide for discovering the best brews across the state.
