Ah, the great outdoors. Summer days spent taking in the splendor of the natural world. Blue skies, warm weather and a slight breeze at your back…what could be more ideal? For most, a day spent in such scenery would necessitate hiking, camping or boating. Best-case scenario, the beer at your side probably coming out of an ice chest.
However, great views, natural splendor and the great outdoors can also be enjoyed while sipping down some of the Northwest’s best craft beers. To honor the outdoorsman who doesn’t want to leave the comforts of a neighborhood brewery, we’ve collected the best outdoor seating for microbreweries state-by-state. First up: Oregon.
Thunder Island Brewing—Cascade Locks || 45 miles east of Portland, surrounded by mountains and nestled right on the edge of the Columbia River, Thunder Island Brewing’s outdoor seating manages to offer views of the Bridge of the Gods and the sun setting over the river all at the same time. First opening their doors in 2013, Thunder Island slowly developed a loyal fan base, and is now a must stop destination for many out of town travelers. Picnic table seating extends lengthwise along a patio, offering guaranteed views of the river, and includes fire pits and even a community garden.
Pelican Pub & Brewery—Pacific City || Pelican Pub & Brewery sits right on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, with views of the public beach front in either direction. Though their outdoor seating is limited, scoring a table on their outdoor patio is guaranteed to have a view of the ocean. Featuring a wide selection of beer, Pelican has won renown upon beer lovers for their Mother of All Storms specialty series of hard hitting, English style Barleywine’s that are aged in Bourbon barrels. Enjoy a vertical flight of their past vintages, and take in the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Solera Brewery—Parkdale || Solera Brewing has popped up on numerous lists for “Best Brewery Views” around the nation, and the reason is pretty stunning. Stop by their Parkdale location, make your way to the back patio and take a gorgeous view of Mt. Hood over acres of orchards. First opening in 2011, Solera quickly became a destination beer stop along the Hood River Valley Fruit Loop Trail. Featuring a rotating list of draft only brews, Solera is also a hotspot for local music and a rustic rural atmosphere. Oh, and they have popcorn.
Mutiny Brewing—Joseph || East of the Cascades, and beyond the expanse of open range that makes up the Central Oregon rain shadow, lies an oft-forgotten paradise in Eastern Oregon. Framed on all sides by the Wollowa-Whitman National Forest, the small town of Joseph has developed the reputation of Little Switzerland for its towering green mountains on every side and scenic beauty. Within this small rustic town exists Mutiny Brewing. And even though the brewery is located in the middle of town, views from their outdoor patio features vistas of snow caped mountains, green forests and wide open spaces. Live music during the summer and hearty food / growler fills throughout the year make this a great spot to add to your Away from home brewery map.
McMenamins Edgefield—Troutdale || McMenamins’ reputation for renovating and restoring old, borderline derelict, locations and turning them into award-winning hotels, restaurants and breweries is known throughout the Northwest. Edgefield is no different. Edgefield’s history began as a 300+ acre farm during the pre-Depression era. At this time, the poor farm supplied its workforce with people who were down on their luck and needing a job. Jump ahead a century, and the once lodging for its workforce has been turned into spacious and inviting hotel rooms, and the acres of land have been transformed into vineyards, concert venues and a golf course. Brews produced by McMenamins can be ordered at any one of the seven taprooms on site and taken anywhere throughout the estate.
Crux Fermentation Project—Bend || Crux Fermentation Project is a must hit destination on any trip to Bend… if you can find it. Located at the geographic center of Bend (according to the original map makers), Crux is nevertheless located off main roads, and Google is hardly of any help. But what they may lack in accessibility, they make up for with stunning views and a large selection of beers ranging from interesting takes on the standards, to bold, hard hitting Belgian and Sour options. Having retrofitted an old Aamco Transmission shop, the interior takes on an automotive theme with tire marks on the floor, and car parts on the walls. Looking out from their outdoor seating area, views of the distant snow capped mountains, and a now legendary sunset makes even standing with your beer worthwhile. Beers available by the glass, growler fill, or the occasional 22 oz. bottle.
