Our first brewery suggestion is the Spring’s oldest. PHANTOM CANYON BREWING COMPANY, established in 1993, is housed in a historic Cheyenne building that boasts a spectacular view of Phantom Canyon from its third floor. But more than a great view, Phantom Canyon pours award-winning ales complemented by a beyond-average microbrew menu featuring pub classics with a twist. It’s worth noting that Phantom Canyon’s opening and community events are largely responsible for heralding the blooming of Colorado Springs’ craft brewery scene in the years since.
Despite its farm-friendly name, GOAT PATCH BREWERY was actually named after its founder Darren Baze’s signature beard, which he wears in a long ponytail down his chest. Baze devoted much of his life to Colorado craft brewing before finally putting all of that knowledge into Goat Patch, which opened in 2017. Since then, the homey brewery has established a reputation in the Springs for its outstanding craft beers that provide a bit more balance for the palette than most traditional brews. While this brewery offers only beverages and appetizers, there is almost always a food truck parked out front.
Another long-time staple of Colorado Springs, BRISTOL BREWING COMPANY is perhaps the most well-known microbrewery in the area. Since opening its doors in 1994, this brewery has shown a deep passion for keeping craft beer local by only selling its beers within Colorado borders, thus helping this burgeoning industry to flourish. In 2013, Bristol Brewing moved from its flagship location to the historic Ivywild School, built back in 1916. This incredible location reflects the same charm that founders Mike and Amanda Bristol have always brought to their brews and provides an excellent atmosphere for a night out on the town. Check out one of our other posts this month to learn more about the pub experience at Ivywild School.
With the growing interest in craft brewing, homebrewing has become a popular way to get into the beer-making industry with little investment. That’s how STORYBOOK BREWING owner, Pete Kilman, got his start more than twenty years ago, a passion that led him to open up his own brewery in 2014. Kilman also gives credit, publicly, to his massive extended family for their help in offering labor and taste-testing each new brew. As breweries go, Storybook may be considered a nano brewery with only a 15-barrel brewhouse. But what it lacks in production, it makes up for in a great selection of tasty offerings. Each beer is handcrafted with fresh ingredients and features gorgeous art on the logos and labels. Indeed, many agree a trip to Storybook feels a bit like walking onto the pages of a fairy tale. Why not visit and see for yourself?
At most Springs breweries, food is an afterthought or considered to be standard pub fare. But CERBERUS BREWING COMPANY is in a category of its own with next-level cuisine that goes excellently with its craft beers. Cerberus opened in 2016 and quickly became a staple of the brewing scene due to its dynamic food and drink pairings. Co-founders Joshua Adamski (a homebrewer of over a decade) and Mark Lefebvre (former executive chef at The Broadmoor) both bring their unique talents to Cerberus, providing a balance not found at most local breweries. Don’t know what to drink with your meal? No problem! Servers are trained to suggest thoughtful pairings.
RED LEG BREWING COMPANY’S founder, veteran Todd Baldwin explains the name has military origins. During the Civil War, artillery soldiers wore a red stripe on their legs to denote their station, hence the term “red leg”. Founded in 2013, this award-winning brewery made waves a second time when the ground was broken on an $8 million second location. Baldwin plans to turn this 14,000-square-foot space into a combination brewery and taproom that resembles an airplane hangar, hearkening back to his experience as an artillery officer in the Army. Try Red Leg Brewing Company’s quality craft brew at their current location on Forge Rd.
Last, but not least on our list, COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY is yet another brewpub with creative food offerings like Bison Poppers and more traditional ones like out-of-this-world burgers. The brewery boasts two locations– one on Interquest Parkway near the Air Force Academy and the other at the Roundhouse on 21st Street, a historic building that housed Van Briggle Pottery for five decades. The atmosphere at both locations is always cozy, chic, and relaxed, with the perfect ingredients to enjoy their various craft beer offerings as well as excellent food pairings.
Thirsty? Book your couples' getaway with us at Cheyenne Mountain Resort and we’ll be happy to help guide your craft brewery itinerary. Make it unforgettable; make it Colorado Springs!
