Beer Tripper: Bend, Oregon
If you are looking for Nirvana, Bend may just be it. Situated in central Oregon, this small city is a haven for outdoorsy activities and good beer. Bend is home to brewing heavy hitter, Deschutes as well as many smaller breweries. The best part about touring the breweries in Bend is that no driving is required, you can bike or walk, or stumble to your next location. Here are few places you must stop next time you’re in town:
Deschutes has a brewpub location in addition to the brewery itself. We happened to be in town just in time for the 26th anniversary of Deschutes and the release of Black Butte XXIV complete with live band and birthday hats. Their brewery and brewpub both have delicious taproom exclusives. It is important to note that to get a space on their brewery tour you have to register ahead online. We were not so lucky but we did get to sample a vertical of Black Butte. A few blocks down from the brewpub you can get a great view of Mirror Pond which inspired the name of their Pale Ale.
I have had my eye on 10 Barrel since trying their beer here in Seattle. They have a good standard lineup in addition to interesting small batches like their cucumber Berliner Weissbier. 10 Barrel offers delicious grub as well as a patio complete with a fire pit. This is a great place to try same brews and enjoy the beautiful summer weather.
Though their taproom is tiny, Boneyard makes beer with an attitude. We stopped in to try their Fuego Rojo, a Red Ale brewed with Chili Peppers. You can’t get a full pour at the brewery but you can take beer to go. You can find many of their beers, especially their RPM IPA on most local tap walls.
Bend Brewing Co
Just off the main drag of downtown lies Bend Brewing, home of the award winning Berliner Weissbier, Ching Ching. They have a good standard line up and offer food as well. Good stop to pop in a try a sampler.
Crux has to be my favorite brewery in Bend. They are as in love
with making barrel-aged beers as I am in love with drinking them. The styles they produce range from standard IPAs to barrel-aged Flanders Reds. I have yet to try something from them that I did not like. They offer food as well, so you can enjoy a meal as well as their lovely taproom.
While not a brewery, Crows Feet Commons is a must-stop in Bend. This coffee shop/ bar/ bike shop is a one-stop shop for all your Bend lifestyle needs. The bottle selection there includes The Bruery, Logsdon Farmhouse Ales and The Ale Apothecary. The best part is the large patio with a great view of the Mirror Pond.
If you are looking for a vacation spot with a relaxed vibe, good beer and plenty to explore, Bend, Oregon is the place to go.
Cheers!
-Shaun
Bitch Beer 
Leave a Reply