The 17 Best Breweries In Colorado, According To A Local

Intro

Colorado is home to more than 400 craft breweries, and narrowing down the best is no easy feat, especially with so many industry leaders in the state. Among them is the first brewery to introduce canned craft beer, a brewery that premiered the nation's first carbon-neutral beer, and dozens of award-winning recipients. However, beer aficionados may be shocked not to see their favorite company on this list. But from selection to sustainability, there are many factors to consider in rounding up the very best breweries in Colorado — which I further discuss in my methodology section below.

However, much of this list is also based on my personal experiences, as I've visited countless Colorado breweries up and down the Front Range and throughout the Rocky Mountains. As a local food journalist with a love for craft beer, I'm tapped into the latest openings and award-winners, several of which are featured in this roundup. After a day outdoors or a long week at the office, share a toast at Colorado's best breweries. 

Knotted Root Brewing Company In Nederland

Tucked away in Nederland, Knotted Root Brewing Company opened in 2019 and largely remains a lesser-known gem, but it's well on the radar of experimental beer fans. What's on tap is an ever-changing rotation of smoothie sours, hoppy ales, and farmhouse varieties made with mixed-culture yeasts. For those wanting something less funky, Knotted Root also serves its sister brand, Circular Beer Co., which makes a classic American lager appropriately named "Home."

The selection at this craft brewery is comparatively limited, and distribution is kept to a tight list of local shops. But in fairness, not every brand can, nor should, be an industry behemoth -- and what Knotted Root offers is well worth appreciating.

(303) 258-5799

250 Caribou St, Nederland, CO 80466

Outer Range Brewing Company In Frisco

Summit County is home to four ski resorts, and Outer Range is smack-dab in the middle of them. The company was established in Frisco in 2016 by co-owners Lee and Emily Cleghorn, who more recently opened a second outpost in the French Alps. Their love for ski culture is evident in their craft brews, which are available in stores across the state.

Many are New England-style IPAs, including its hazy Mountain Magic and citrus-forward In The Steep. But the brewery is an expert at West Coast-style IPAs, too; its Cosmic Sauce even won gold at the Australian International Beer Awards in 2024. These hoppy brews are complemented by other styles, including its Rolling Hills hefeweizen and Ascension stout made in partnership with Conflict Coffee.

Outer Range Brewing Company also collaborates with Mountain Dweller Coffee Roasters, which appears within its bi-level Frisco taproom. There's also a stall dedicated to Bird Craft, which serves "Thai-ish" fried chicken. Pair an entree with one of several beers, then grab a seat on this brewery's sunny patio for the full experience.

(970) 455-8709

182 Lusher Ct, Frisco, CO 80443

Ratio Beerworks (Multiple Locations)

Ratio Beerworks has two outposts: the original brewery and taproom in Denver's River North Art District and a second location in the Overland neighborhood. Both are loved for their punk rock aesthetic, frequent live music events, spacious patios, and creative craft beers.

One of its most popular is the King of Carrot Flowers, a bright orange saison with elderflower essence that received a Great American Beer Festival gold medal in 2023. It's a favorite for good reason, but when cooler weather sets in, nothing hits the spot more than its chocolate rye scotch ale, Hold Steady. Ratio Beerworks also has other styles on tap, from a juicy IPA to a Mexican-style lager, plus hop-infused carbonated water for those seeking a zero-proof beverage.

Multiple locations in Denver

WeldWerks Brewing Co. In Greeley

Seldom will Colorado visitors head to the Eastern Plains, but WeldWerks Brewing Co. in Greeley gives good reason to do so. Established in 2015, this craft brewery was highlighted as the No. 1 Best New Brewery by USA Today the following year. Since its inception, the company has produced more than 700 different beers — but only the best make the cut, which is evident in the quality of its traditional hefeweizen, crisp Colorado ale, and flagship Juicy Bits IPA. 

Alongside these year-round offerings, the brewery offers a range of beer styles. Many take inspiration from sweet treats, like its triple berry cheesecake sour ale and French toast stout. Sample these alongside a new American food menu at its taproom and find WeldWerks at distributors across the country.

(970) 460-6345

508 8th Ave, Greeley, CO 80631

Methodology

In choosing the best craft breweries in Colorado, several factors were taken into account. Beer quality obviously played a role, but frankly, all of these companies, and many others unlisted, make stellar products. What mattered more was the selection of beer styles, including non-alcoholic options, as we all have different taste preferences. A brewery's awards were also considered, as was its legacy. Pioneers and innovators earned points for paving the way for the industry.

Accessibility was another area of analysis. A brewery's distribution footprint was reviewed, as was its number of locations. Then, I considered the brewery's vibe — is there a dog-friendly patio, fun events, or other entertainment? While food wasn't a key determinant by any means, it also adds to the atmosphere.

Finally, I looked at how each brewery addresses environmental sustainability and social responsibility. No matter the size of a business, I believe that companies that give back to their planet and community are ones to celebrate.