Craft Breweries, Distilleries, and Wineries That Put Colorado on the Map
In the heart of Denver, just a few miles east of downtown, lies the RiNo (River North) Art District, a vibrant neighborhood that has become synonymous with Colorado’s craft brewing revolution. Walking through RiNo, visitors can taste the spirit of innovation at places like Great Divide Brewing Company, where the industrial-chic taproom serves bold, hoppy IPAs alongside a rotating selection of barrel-aged stouts. The district’s unique blend of street art, reclaimed warehouse spaces, and an energetic crowd sets RiNo apart as a hub for craft beer lovers. Early evenings in the summer are perfect for enjoying the outdoor patios here, where locals gather to soak in the mountain views framed by city skylines.
Heading about 90 minutes southwest of Denver, the town of Palisade on Colorado’s Western Slope offers a completely different experience with its flourishing wineries. Nestled against the backdrop of the Grand Mesa, Palisade’s vineyards thrive in the arid climate, producing some of the state’s most distinctive wines. At the Carlson Vineyards tasting room, visitors can savor estate-grown Rieslings and Syrahs that reflect the region’s unique terroir. A drive along the Palisade Fruit and Wine Byway in late summer reveals lush orchards and rows of grapevines heavy with fruit, making it a scenic highlight for those who appreciate both a good glass of wine and stunning rural landscapes.
Further north, in the quaint mountain town of Lyons, about 45 minutes northwest of Boulder, the Oskar Blues Brewery pioneered the canned craft beer craze and remains a pilgrimage site for beer enthusiasts. Their taproom is a lively spot to sample everything from the flagship Dale’s Pale Ale to experimental batches brewed on-site. Lyons itself offers a charming small-town vibe, with the nearby St. Vrain River Trail inviting walkers and bikers to explore peaceful riparian scenery after a tasting session. Visiting in the cooler months reveals a quieter side of the brewery scene here, making the cozy indoor seating by the fireplace a welcoming retreat.
On the eastern plains, just a short drive southeast from Colorado Springs, Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey distillery stands out as the state’s first legal whiskey distillery, founded back in 2004. Nestled near the foothills, the distillery offers tours that guide visitors through the unique Colorado whiskey-making process, highlighting the use of Rocky Mountain water and local grains. The tasting room, with its rustic wood decor and panoramic views of Pikes Peak, invites guests to sip small-batch whiskeys while learning about the renaissance of craft distilling in the West. Autumn is an especially good time to visit as the nearby gardens burst into color, complementing the warm amber hues of the spirits.
In the mountain resort town of Telluride, located about 330 miles southwest of Denver, the Telluride Brewing Company captures the essence of alpine craft beer. Their brewery is famous for the “All Day IPA,” which pairs perfectly with the town’s outdoor adventures. After a day on the rugged trails of the San Juan Mountains—where the Jud Wiebe Trail offers a moderate 3.1-mile loop with panoramic views of Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall—hikers can reward themselves with a cold pint in the cozy brewery taproom. Summer and early fall bring vibrant festivals here, making it a lively time to experience local brews alongside live music and regional cuisine.
Down in the southern town of Durango, approximately six hours south of Denver, Steamworks Brewing Company combines historic charm with innovative brewing. Located near the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, its cozy taproom features original brick walls and brass fixtures, evoking the spirit of the Old West. Sampling their flagship Steamworks Pale Ale while watching the sunset over the Animas River provides a unique sensory layering that captures the essence of southwestern Colorado. In winter, the nearby Purgatory Resort offers skiing and snowboarding, making Steamworks an ideal après-ski destination.
Finally, nestled in the foothills just west of Boulder, the Jasper Hill Winery offers a boutique experience with its focus on small-batch, artisanal wines. Surrounded by rolling hills and mountain vistas, the winery’s tasting room opens onto a terrace where visitors can enjoy crisp rosés and full-bodied reds. The nearby Betasso Preserve provides hiking trails of varying difficulty, from easy forest walks to more challenging ridge climbs, allowing visitors to pair outdoor adventure with a leisurely wine tasting. Spring and early summer, when wildflowers dot the landscape and the weather is mild, are particularly enchanting for a visit here.
Together, these places illustrate how Colorado’s rich natural diversity—from urban art districts and alpine trails to sun-drenched vineyards and historic mountain towns—has fostered a vibrant culture of craft brewing, distilling, and winemaking. Visitors can explore distinct flavors while immersing themselves in authentic Colorado settings, where every sip is a tribute to the state’s pioneering spirit and stunning landscapes.