Fort Collins is a craft beer haven, and locals know where the magic happens. From cozy taprooms to sunny patios, the city’s breweries deliver standout beers and a welcoming vibe that makes hopping between them a must. We’ve brought together this top-rated list based on what Fort Collins residents love most, so you’ll get the insider scoop on the best spots to sip, savor, and relax.
Odell Brewing
Why It’s a Local Hotspot: Unbeatable IPAs, lively tours, and a patio made for afternoons with friends.
Odell Brewing tops the list for a reason. Their IPA lineup is unmatched, but what really makes it special is the energy you feel as soon as you walk in. Employees genuinely love talking about their beers, and it makes tours feel more like hanging out with friends than an official tasting.
The patio is huge and perfect for long afternoons when the sun hits just right. Even the indoor spaces have a cozy vibe, where people linger, laugh, and do some low-key people-watching. Every beer is approachable, so you can sip a flight without feeling intimidated, even if you’re new to craft beer.
Zwei Brewing
Why It’s a Local Hotspot: Consistently flavorful German-style beers and a sunny, welcoming patio.
Zwei Brewing nails German-style beers every single time. There’s something about their pour that makes you want to stay for another round. The patio is a perfect little sunny hideaway, ideal for chatting with friends or just watching the world go by.
Inside, the vibe is friendly and community-focused. You can tell regulars feel right at home, and newcomers get swept up in that welcoming energy. It’s easy to spend a few hours here without even realizing it.
Purpose Brewing
Why It’s a Local Hotspot: Approachable sours and a cozy, welcoming taproom vibe.
Purpose Brewing is the place for those who like sours but don’t want anything overwhelming. The Verboten is a must-try, and it’s easy to see why locals keep coming back. The taproom has a warm, laid-back feel, like a friend just handed you a pint and said, “Take a load off.”
Even if you’re not a sour fan, the relaxed vibe and friendly staff make it worth a visit. You’ll probably leave having tried something new and unexpectedly delicious.
Stodgy Brewing
Why It’s a Local Hotspot: One of the best patios in town and a community-focused hangout spot.
Stodgy Brewing is all about comfort and connection. Their patio is prime for sunny afternoons, and the indoor spaces feel like a neighborhood living room. People come here to catch up with friends, grab a casual pint, and watch the day roll by.
The community feel is strong here, and you’ll probably end up chatting with strangers who end up feeling like old friends. It’s low-pressure, easygoing, and perfect if you just want a beer without any fuss.
Horse & Dragon Brewing
Why It’s a Local Hotspot: Unique, adventurous beers and a cozy, local taproom experience.
Horse & Dragon is where you go if you want to try something a little different. The Sad Panda Coffee Stout is a crowd favorite, and there’s always a new experimental beer to taste. The taproom is small, cozy, and very much a local spot, so it feels personal.
The staff are the kind who remember your favorite beer from last time and genuinely seem excited to share something offbeat with you. If you’re in the mood to be adventurous, this is the place to explore new, unique flavors.
Honorable Mentions
Why They’re Worth a Visit: Friendly vibes, unique brews, and patios made for lingering.
- Maxline Brewing: Welcoming, community-forward atmosphere. The patio is perfect for casual hangouts, and regulars swap beer recs with newbies.
- Rally King Brewing: Warm and inviting, this hangout has a strong local fanbase. It’s easy to get comfortable here and settle in for a few pints.
- Salt Road Brewing: Relaxed and approachable, with a warm atmosphere that encourages lingering over a beer or two.
- Funkwerks: A must for sour beer enthusiasts, Funkwerks combines cozy ambiance with adventurous flavors.
- Equinox Brewing: A laid-back brewery with a top-notch back patio. Perfect for sunny days and lingering with friends.
For Those Who Can’t Decide: Tap & Handle
Tap & Handle rotates a wide selection of local beers and pairs them with great food. It’s a one-stop way to sample multiple Fort Collins breweries in a single visit without committing to a full brewery crawl. The atmosphere is perfect for a long afternoon with friends or a first-time visitor looking to explore Fort Collins’ beer scene.
Have a Sip and Settle into Fort Collins with Alpine Moving
Moving to Fort Collins doesn’t have to be stressful. Alpine Moving Company is the local, trusted team ready to make your transition smooth. Whether you’re hopping between breweries on your first weekend or settling into a new home, our Colorado moving services are designed to handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on exploring your new city.
Reach out today for a free estimate, browse our full blog for more local tips, and don’t forget to download our moving checklist to plan your move like a pro!
