As you step off the plane at Portland International Airport (PDX), you're likely to be greeted by the sounds of seagulls and the smell of freshly brewed coffee. But, let's be real, what you're really thinking about is where to find a great pint of beer. After all, Portland is known for its craft beer scene, with over 70 breweries in the metro area. Here are seven great options to get you started:
Portland's beer culture is a big part of its identity, and for good reason. With a plethora of breweries, each with its own unique style and flavor profile, there's something for every kind of beer lover. Whether you're a fan of hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or refreshing lagers, Portland's got you covered.
From the airport, it's just a short drive or Uber ride to some of the city's best breweries. So, why not start your Portland adventure with a cold beer in hand? Here are seven great options to consider:
1. Cascade Brewing Barrel House
Cascade Brewing Barrel House is a must-visit for any sour beer fan. Located in the heart of Southeast Portland, this brewery is known for its extensive selection of sour beers, which are aged to perfection in oak barrels. With over 20 different sour beers on tap, you're sure to find something that piques your interest.
Popular Beers:
- Cascade Kriek: A sour cherry beer aged in oak barrels
- Cascade Apricot Ale: A sour apricot beer with a hint of sweetness
- Cascade Strawberry Ale: A sour strawberry beer perfect for springtime
2. Widmer Brothers Brewing
Widmer Brothers Brewing is one of Portland's oldest and most iconic breweries. Founded in 1984, Widmer Brothers is known for its Hefeweizen, a refreshing wheat beer perfect for hot summer days. With a large taproom and outdoor patio, Widmer Brothers is a great spot to grab a beer and catch up with friends.
Popular Beers:
- Widmer Hefeweizen: A classic wheat beer with hints of clove and banana
- Widmer IPA: A hoppy IPA with a balanced blend of citrus and pine
- Widmer Brothers' Brrr: A seasonal winter ale with a rich, malty flavor
3. Deschutes Brewery
Deschutes Brewery is another Portland staple, with a large taproom and outdoor patio in the Pearl District. Founded in 1988, Deschutes is known for its wide range of beer styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Be sure to try their famous Mirror Pond Pale Ale, a balanced and refreshing beer perfect for any occasion.
Popular Beers:
- Deschutes Mirror Pond Pale Ale: A balanced pale ale with hints of citrus and pine
- Deschutes Inversion IPA: A hoppy IPA with a blend of citrus and tropical fruit
- Deschutes Black Butte Porter: A rich, roasted porter with hints of chocolate and coffee
4. Firestone Walker Brewing Company
Firestone Walker Brewing Company is a California-based brewery with a taproom and restaurant in Portland's Pearl District. Founded in 1996, Firestone Walker is known for its wide range of beer styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Be sure to try their famous Velvet Merkin, a rich and creamy oatmeal stout.
Popular Beers:
- Firestone Walker Velvet Merkin: A rich and creamy oatmeal stout with hints of chocolate and vanilla
- Firestone Walker Double Jack: A hoppy double IPA with a blend of citrus and tropical fruit
- Firestone Walker 805: A refreshing blonde ale with hints of citrus and honey
5. Breakside Brewery
Breakside Brewery is a popular spot in Northeast Portland, known for its wide range of beer styles and delicious pub fare. Founded in 2010, Breakside is a great spot to grab a beer and catch up with friends. Be sure to try their famous Breakside IPA, a hoppy and balanced beer perfect for any occasion.
Popular Beers:
- Breakside IPA: A hoppy and balanced IPA with a blend of citrus and pine
- Breakside Wanderlust IPA: A hoppy IPA with a blend of tropical fruit and citrus
- Breakside Bourbon Barrel-Aged Stout: A rich and creamy stout aged in bourbon barrels
6. Upright Brewing
Upright Brewing is a small brewery in Southeast Portland, known for its farmhouse-style ales and creative beer blends. Founded in 2009, Upright is a great spot to try something new and unique. Be sure to try their famous Four Play, a blend of four different beers aged in oak barrels.
Popular Beers:
- Upright Four Play: A blend of four different beers aged in oak barrels
- Upright Flora Rustica: A farmhouse-style ale with hints of citrus and herbs
- Upright Billy the Mountain: A hoppy IPA with a blend of citrus and tropical fruit
7. Laurelwood Brewing Co.
Laurelwood Brewing Co. is a popular spot in Northeast Portland, known for its wide range of beer styles and delicious pub fare. Founded in 2001, Laurelwood is a great spot to grab a beer and catch up with friends. Be sure to try their famous Workhorse IPA, a hoppy and balanced beer perfect for any occasion.
Popular Beers:
- Laurelwood Workhorse IPA: A hoppy and balanced IPA with a blend of citrus and pine
- Laurelwood Free Range Red: A malty and hoppy red ale with hints of caramel and fruit
- Laurelwood Portland Pale Ale: A balanced pale ale with hints of citrus and pine
Gallery:
FAQ Section:
What is the best brewery in Portland?
+Portland has many great breweries, and the best one for you will depend on your personal preferences. Some popular options include Cascade Brewing Barrel House, Widmer Brothers Brewing, and Deschutes Brewery.
What is the best beer to try in Portland?
+Portland is known for its wide range of beer styles, so there's something for every kind of beer lover. Some popular options include IPAs, stouts, and sour beers.
Can I take a brewery tour in Portland?
+Yes, many breweries in Portland offer tours. Some popular options include Widmer Brothers Brewing, Deschutes Brewery, and Cascade Brewing Barrel House.
We hope you've enjoyed this article on the best breweries near PDX. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just looking for a great spot to grab a pint, Portland has something for everyone. So why not start your Portland adventure with a cold beer in hand?