bend beer - EpicBend https://epicbend.com Live Your Best Life in Bend Oregon and Frederick Maryland! Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:55:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://epicbend.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/241208-EpicTotal-Logo-1-150x150.png bend beer - EpicBend https://epicbend.com 32 32 The 16 Best Breweries in Bend Oregon [Updated for 2026] https://epicbend.com/best-breweries-in-bend-oregon/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-breweries-in-bend-oregon https://epicbend.com/best-breweries-in-bend-oregon/#comments Fri, 02 Jan 2026 22:07:21 +0000 https://epicbend.com/?p=4864 Bend, Oregon is Known For Many Things, and One of Them is Beer. In This Article, We List The Best Breweries in Bend, Oregon.

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Bend, Oregon is known for many things, including the incredible outdoors (hiking, biking, water sports), the beautiful scenery, and the abundant sunshine. 

But it is also known for breweries and beer.  In fact, you can find many sources that rank Bend as having one of the highest number of breweries per capita in the nation.

Nicole and I love the brewery scene in Bend, and visit them often.  So in this article, we list what we believe are the Best Breweries in Bend, OR.

Rankings: Best Breweries in Bend, Oregon

Map of Breweries in Bend OR

Did we miss your favorite Bend brewery? Did we rank something too high or low?  Let us know in the comments.

(Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.)

1. Crux Fermentation Project (Bend, OR)

Two Pint Glasses with Crux Fermentation Project Logos Sit on a Wooden Table Outdoors in Bend Oregon One Holds a Hazy Beer the Other a Golden Brewperfect for Enjoying One of the Best Things to Do in Bend Relaxing with Local Craft Beer

Why We Love It:  Crux Fermentation was the first brewery I ever visited in Bend, and it incorporates everything amazing about Bend beer.  They serve a wide selection of tasty craft beers, and their indoor and outdoor tasting areas are described as ‘playgrounds.’

The outdoor area at Crux is particularly appealing, as it has a great view of the Cascades and Three Sisters. It’s a great place for families and pets or just to hang out and enjoy the great Bend sunshine.

Another thing we love about Crux is the food options.  Their kitchen serves sandwiches, salads, and pretzels, and there are often food trucks with yummy options like tacos.

Crux now has an urban Portland location to check out as well.

Ranking 3.87

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2. Deschutes Brewery (Bend, OR)

a Wooden Tray Displays Six Small Glasses of Different Colored Beers from One of the Top Breweries in Bend Oregon Each Glass Has the Deschutes Brewery Logo and the Tray Labeled Deschutes Brewery Sits on a Light Brown Wooden Table

Why We Love It:  Deschutes Brewery is the original and a Bend mainstay. Founded in Bend in 1988, it has grown to become a national brand. We see Deschutes Beer served in bars in Frederick, Maryland, all the time.

In fact, if you are a visitor to Bend, you almost have to visit Deschutes as an attraction.  You’ll be treated to incredible beer, a great tasting room, and a fascinating tour.

The main tasting room and beer garden at the plant is the home of Deschutes, but you should also visit the Public House in downtown Bend if you get a chance.  It’s the original home and brewery and now a great place for beers and food.  They also have a Public House in Portland.

Ranking: 3.80

 
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3. 10 Barrell Brewing Company (Bend, OR)

a White Truck with Bold Black Text on the Back Reads bend Beer is Better 10 Barrel Brewing Co Parked Outdoors Near a Gray Building It Proudly Promotes One of the Top Bend Breweries in Oregon Social Media Handles and a Website Are Displayed Below

Why We Love It:  The guys at 10 Barrell Brewing portray themselves as ‘those guys,’ and yes, the brewery definitely gives off a different vibe. But despite their quirkiness, the beer is darn good, and both tasting rooms are great to visit.

10 Barrell has a West End location (right on Galveston Ave next to Sunriver) and an East End location more on the outskirts.   Note that the downtown location can get crowded.  They are also in Portland and Boise.

They brew some delicious beers! Try the All Ways Down (double IPA with citrus) and the Camp Vibes (golden ale). 10 Barrell has also expanded its beverage line into the Pub Ice brand, a line of flavored carbonated cocktails, and a wide variety of canned cocktails.

Ranking: 3.66

 
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4. Bend Brewing Company (Bend, OR)

a Circular Black Sign with White Text Reads Bend Brewing Company and Hangs from a Brown Brick Building Showcasing the Logo in the Center This is One of the Renowned Breweries in Bend Oregon Blue Sky and Another Building Are Visible in the Background

Why We Love It: This is the local’s downtown hangout spot.  Bend Brewing Company has been around since the 90s and sits right on the Deschutes River in downtown Bend.  You can virtually see the river as your beer is poured.

Bend Brewing has an indoor brew pub that’s great for watching sports. But it’s even better to visit on a warm day when you can hang out outside by the river and enjoy their beer. There is often live music and a full menu (try the Smash burger).

As far as beer, they usually are pouring 10-12 local brews and you will sure to love most of them.

Ranking: 3.74

 
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5. Sunriver Brewing Company

a Round Metal Tray Holds Six Small Glasses of Various Beers from Bend Breweries One Garnished with a Lemon Slice the Tray Sits on an Outdoor Metal Table Next to a Sunriver Brewing Co Coaster with Sunlight and a White Hat in the Background

Why We Love It:   The Beer!  Multiple things go into making a great brewery experience, but obviously, a key factor is the quality of the beer.  Here is where Sunriver stands out.  Their brews are our favorite in Bend.  Try the Sun Streak Pilser or the Rippin New Pale Ale.

But there is more to Sunriver than the delicious beers. Unfortunately, Sunriver closed its Galveston Ave location in 2025 due to some planned renovation of the building.

But the Eastside Pub is a great spot in Bend, as is the main Brewery in Sunriver.  Both serve high-quality pub food (great burgers and sandwiches) to go with the excellent Sunriver beers.

Ranking: 3.86

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6. Monkless Belgian Ales (Bend, OR)

Four Glasses of Craft Beer from Monkless Belgian Alesyellow Orange Dark Red and Magentasit on a Reflective Bar Showcasing One of the Top Breweries in Bend Oregon Theyre Set Before a Mirrored Wall Lined with Hanging Glassware
Photo Credit: Monkless.com

Why We Love It:  Americans seem to have an unusual (and, some say, declining) affinity for Belgian beers.  But brewers like the ones at Monkless Belgian Ales in Bend are doing what they can to carry the flag for Belgian Beers.

Monkless Belgian Beers is doing it well.  They’ve moved to a larger production facility in recent years and, in 2024, opened up a super cool new taproom called The Abbey, connected to the brewery on the east side of town.

This is in addition to their established Brasserie location in Old Mill, which is also an excellent restaurant for European food.

Ranking: 3.86

 
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7. Van Henion Brewing (Bend, OR)

a Can of Dan Henion Helles Lager Sits on a Sunlit Rock at Steelhead Falls with a River Small Waterfall and Rocky Cliffs Framed by Green Trees in the Blurry Background Under a Clear Blue Skyan Inviting Scenic Outdoor Retreat

Why We Love It:   Now, this is good beer!  We all have our favorite beers, and for me, it’s crisp, sharp German-style lagers and pilsners.  That’s what you’ll get at Van Henion Brewing.

Van Henion focuses on German-style larger and Pacific Northwest Ales.  The Helles Lager, Kolsch, Pilsner, and Schwarzbier are all excellent.

Van Henion has a pub-like tasting room and a heated outdoor seating area.  Plus, two food trucks are reliably on site.  It’s a great brewery overall!

Ranking: 3.88

 
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8. Boneyard Beer (Bend, OR)

an Outdoor View of a Modern Pub Monkeybar Pub with a Skull Logo the Patio Seating Sits Behind a Gray Wall Surrounded by Sparse Landscaping Under a Sunny Sky Located Among Top Bend Breweries It Faces the Street with a Sidewalk and Utility Poles in Front
Photo Credit: BoneyardBeer.com

Why We Love It:   Boneyard Beer has been around since 2010 and now has two locations in Bend.

The original taproom is on Lake Place, not far from the Old Bend neighborhood. The Boneyard Pub is a great new venue on the north side of town. It has tons of seating and great food as well.

The Boneyard tap list is an eclectic mix of beers, including some interesting flavored beers to go with standard lagers, pils, and IPAs.

Ranking: 3.94

 
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9. GoodLife Brewing Company (Bend, OR)

a Wooden Sign for Goodlife Brewing Company One of the Top Breweries in Bend Oregon Hangs Outdoors on a Metal Frame with String Lights in Front of a Red Building with Vertical Siding and a Mountain Logo

Why We Love It:   With so many great breweries in Bend, it’s hard to pick favorites. But we love GoodLife Brewing.  It’s a place that is 100% Bend, Oregon, that we’ve come to appreciate more and more in 2025. 

The selection of brews at GoodLife is great, with something for everyone, and they tend to be well-balanced and easy to drink.

GoodLife announced on Reddit in 2025 that new management had taken over, and that new investments and improvements were on the way.  This has us excited!

The Southside Bend tasting room is full of character, and the spacious outdoor Biergarten is great on beautiful Bend days.  You’ll love the pub grub as well, yummy appetizers that go great with craft beer.  Try the Pub Nachos or the Wings.

In short, a visit to GoodLife represents everything that’s amazing about the Bend brewery scene!

Ranking: 3.76

 
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10. The Ale Apothecary (Bend, OR)

Industrial style Brewery Taproom with Exposed Beams Hanging Lights and Stacked Barrels on the Left Wall Like Many Breweries in Bend Oregon People Sit at Round Barrel Tables Chatting and Drinking in a Cozy Welcoming Atmosphere Filled with Natural Light

Why We Love It:   Sour beers!  I was actually recommended this Bend brewery when I ordered a Saison at GoodLife (right next door).

“If you like sour beers, why are you hitting up Ale Apothecary?”

Sour beers aren’t for everyone.  But if you’re ready to try something new, visit The Ale Apothecary.

They focus on handcrafting beers with unique ingredients using traditional methods.  The tasting room is eclectic and interesting. There is a great food truck outside, and you can walk to GoodLife around the corner to hit them both up.

Ranking: 4.23

 
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11. Bevel Craft Brewing (Bend, OR)

a Pint Glass of Amber Beer from Bevel Craft Brewing One of the Top Bend Breweries Sits on a Weathered Wooden Table Sunlight and Patio Furniture Blur in the Background Capturing a Classic Outdoor Bend Oregon Vibe

Why We Love It: If you find yourself on the southeast side of town, make your way to a newer brewery in Bend – Bevel Craft Brewery. 

Similar to Sunriver, people rave about Bevel beer.  We love it, too, as the brewers at Bevel are clearly not shy about creating bold, flavorful lagers and ales.  Their signature beers are their IPAs, and there are plenty to put into your tasting flight.

It’s a cozy and inviting tasting room with a lovely outdoor seating area that makes you feel like you’re in a friend’s backyard.

Bevel also has one of the best beer clubs in Bend, the Bevel Beer League, which offers cool perks such as $4 beers every day!

Ranking: 3.80

 
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12. Cascade Lakes Brewing Company (Bend, OR)

a Modern Brick and Metal Building with Large Windows and a Sign Reading Cascade Lakes Brewing Co is Showna Lively Spot Among Breweries in Bend Oregon People Gather by the Entrance and on the Patio Enjoying Outdoor Seating on a Sunny Day
Photo Credit: CascadeLakes.com

Why We Love It:   Cascade Lakes Brewing Company is another original brewery in Central Oregon. Since 1994, Cascade has been serving craft beer in Bend and is still a not-for-profit brewery.

Their primary location in Bend is on the east side of town, on Reed Market (note: the west-side location on Century Blvd closed in early 2024).  They have another pub on 7th Street in Redmond.

You’re also likely to see Cascade Lakes beer sold in stores and served in restaurants all over the Pacific Northwest, as their distribution network has become quite extensive over the past 30 years.

Ranking: 3.62

 
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13. Upp Liquids - formerly Immersion Brewing (Bend, OR)

a Lively Group Gathers at Outdoor Picnic Tables Under Umbrellas Outside Tapp House One of the Popular Bend Breweries String Lights Barrel Planters and a Black Scooter Add to the Welcoming Vibe in Front of the Red Building
Photo Credit: uppliquids.com

Why We Love It: The brewery previously known as Immersion Brewing was rebranded in 2025 to UPP Liquids, led by Tonya Cornett, a Bend beer industry veteran. 

It remains in the same great location that Nicole and I often frequent, the Box Factory between Industrial Way and Arizona Ave.  

UPP stands for ‘United People + Places’, and a taste of any of the beers will immediately demonstrate that these people know what they are doing.

The Pub Menu is great, and you get the feeling UPP Liquids is going to be around a long time in Bend.

Ranking: 3.88

 
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14. Bridge 99 Brewing (Bend, OR)

A close-up of two beer tap handles at one of the top breweries in Bend, Oregon. The left handle is red and labeled “RED: BRIDGE BREWERY ROCK CRAWLER.” The right features a cartoon face, green accent, and Argentina flag-inspired stripes.
Photo Credit: Bridge 99 Brewery on Instagram

Why We Love It:   Bridge 99 is a small brewery on the scene in Bend since 2013.  They brew classic Oregon craft beers and have a cozy tap room that’s a joy to visit.

The obvious question about Bridge 99 is, “Where did the name come from?”.  According to their website, the name comes from a bridge on a forest service road over the Metolius River near Camp Sherman, Oregon.

Bridge 99 is always serving a wide variety of craft beers, serves pizza and bar food, and frequently has events like trivia.  Check them out!

Ranking: 3.77

 
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15. Spider City Brewing Company (Bend, OR)

a Tulip Glass Filled with Amber colored Beer and Topped with a Foamy White Head Sits on a Wooden Surface the Spider City Brewing Logo Graces the Glassa Standout Among Breweries in Bend Oregon Vertical Wooden Planks Add Rustic Warmth to the Background
Photo Credit: SpiderCityBrewing.com

Why We Love It:    Another long-time member of the Bend brewing community is Spider City Brewing.  You can find them in two locations in Bend: the taproom at their brewery in southeast Bend or their downtown tasting room on Minnesota Ave.

I never visited Spider City until I came across this Visit Central Oregon video about it.  As you’ll learn, it’s a business started by three women who’ve been super successful.

Spider City is a cozy, cool place to visit, and what stands out is the quality of their beers.

Ranking: 3.79

 
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16. Worthy Brewing Company (Bend, OR)

Two People Sit at a Colorful Outdoor Table Under a Red Canopy in Front of Worthy Brewing One of the Top Breweries in Bend Oregon the Man Wears a Striped Shirt the Woman Wears Bright Pink Green Stools and Spiky Plants Add Charm As Sunlight Casts Shadows
Photo Credit: WorthyBrewing.com

Why We Love It:    Worthy Brewing Company was the first established brewery on Bend’s east side, opening in 2012.  Today, they have two locations, and to me, they are very different experiences.

The Main Pub on the east side is an ample, sprawling space with multiple bars, a great food menu, and even a Hopservatory that offers visitors a view of the night sky.

Worthy also has a downtown Beers and Burgers location right on Brooks Street across from Drake Park.  This is my preferred Worthy location, a prime spot in downtown Bend, also serving burgers, tacos, and Wonderland Chicken.

Ranking: 3.69

 
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What Makes a Great Brewery? Let Bend Be Your Guide.

Craft beer and drinking local has become hugely popular in recent years.  Local beer now makes up for 24.7% of the beer market in the US.

Two Tall Glasses of Golden Beer with Foamy Heads Sit on a Wooden Outdoor Table Sunlight Streams Through Reflecting the Vibrant Scene in the Background People Enjoy a Sunny Daya Perfect Setting for Sampling Brews from Bend Breweries

All of the Bend Breweries in this article are worth visiting. But here are the factors that we believe make a great brewery experience (at least to Nicole and me):

  • The quality and variety of the beers
  • The vibe of the indoor tasting room
  • The outdoor seating options
  • Food options
Outdoor Seating Area of One of the Breweries in Bend Oregon with Wooden Benches and Tables Under Black Awnings a Tan Brick Building Displays Brewery Logos and a Water Tank on the Roof As People Enjoy a Sunny Day Beneath a Clear Blue Sky

What's New with the Brewery Scene in Bend for 2026?

The brewery scene in Bend is well-established and reminds us of the collection of breweries in Frederick, our other favorite place.  

However, like businesses in any other town, the breweries in Bend, Oregon, are constantly in flux.  Here are someof the changes in the Bend breweries that occurred in 2025: 

a Round Metal Tray on an Outdoor Metal Table Holds Six Small Glasses of Beer One with a Lemon Slice the Tray Has a Brass Handle a Sunriver Brewing Co Coaster and Sunglasses Hint at the Great Breweries in Bend Oregon

Sunriver Brewing

Sunriver Brewing is an incredibly popular brewery with locations in Sunriver and Bend. In 2025, they closed their closed their Galveston location due to some planned renovation of the building. They added a tasting room in Redmond.

Black Text Logo on a White Background Reads Beer Boss Rambler Club Reminiscent of Top Breweries in Bend Oregon Boss Rambler is in Large Cursive with Lines Below While Beer and Club Are in Uppercase Sans serif Above and Below

Boss Rambler Beer Club

Boss Rambler Beer Club is another brewery on a prominent location on Galveston Ave in Bend. They announced in April 2025 that this would be their last year in operation.

a Lively Outdoor Patio at One of the Top Breweries in Bend Oregon with People Sitting at Picnic Tables Under Colorful Umbrellas Socializing the Red Brick Building Has a Sign That Reads lpp String Lights Glow Above and a Scooter is Parked in Front

UPP Liquids

UPP Liquids is the re-branded brewery formerly known as Immerson Brewing The restaurant and tap room had their grand opening in May 2025

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Two pint glasses with Crux Fermentation Project logos sit on a wooden table outdoors in Bend, Oregon. One holds a hazy beer, the other a golden brew—perfect for enjoying one of the best things to do in Bend: relaxing with local craft beer.
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Two pint glasses with Crux Fermentation Project logos sit on a wooden table outdoors in Bend, Oregon. One holds a hazy beer, the other a golden brew—perfect for enjoying one of the best things to do in Bend: relaxing with local craft beer.

Crux Fermentation Project: The Brewery That Defines Bend

If You’re Searching for a Craft Beer Destination That Perfectly Captures the Essence of Bend, Oregon, the Crux Fermentation Project Should Be …

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]]> https://epicbend.com/best-breweries-in-bend-oregon/feed/ 1 Crux Fermentation Project: The Brewery That Defines Bend https://epicbend.com/crux-fermentation-project/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=crux-fermentation-project https://epicbend.com/crux-fermentation-project/#respond Wed, 05 Nov 2025 00:40:18 +0000 https://epicbend.com/?p=27608 If You’re Searching for a Craft Beer Destination That Perfectly Captures the Essence of Bend, Oregon, the Crux Fermentation Project Should Be at the Top of Your List.

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Part of what defines Bend, Oregon, is its thriving brewery scene. Bend is a beer town, and a visit isn’t complete without hitting at least one and preferably more.  If you visit only one brewery in Bend, we’d recommend visiting Crux Fermentation Project.

There’s something magical about the volcanic-filtered water that Bend-area brewmasters use to create delicious brews.  

A metal Crux Fermentation Project sign is mounted on a pale green wall outside a building. Sunlight casts shadows across the wall and sign. Part of a wooden awning and the entrance door is visible on the right side.

But the breweries themselves have developed their own culture, many of which focus on outdoor tasting rooms that celebrate the spectacular weather and scenic views common to Bend.

Tall green hop plants climb up strings attached to poles beside the Crux Fermentation Project’s modern building with large windows. Their lush leaves contrast against the clear blue sky, bordered by a paved walkway and curb.

Crux, with its innovative brewing techniques, scenic patio views of the Cascades, and laid-back community vibe, delivers more than just a pint—it delivers the full Bend experience.

Crux Fermentation Project in Bend Oregon

A bright, open taproom at Crux Fermentation Project features wooden beams, high ceilings, and garage doors opening to a sunny patio. Guests relax at tall tables and the long bar under a bold black arrow mural, with outdoor seating visible through the doors.

Crux Fermentation Project – A Must-Visit Brewery in Bend, Oregon

Why do locals love Crux?  Aside from the amazing brews and killer views, here’s why people keep coming back:

  • Epic sunsets over the Cascades
  • Family-friendly with lawn games and open spaces
  • Dog-friendly patio
  • Frequent live music events
  • Centrally located, yet slightly tucked away from downtown bustle
A grassy park area with picnic tables, trees providing shade, and groups of people sitting or walking. Children play on the lawn, while visitors enjoy drinks from Crux Fermentation Project. A few parked cars line the road under a clear blue sky.

This is Bend beer culture in its purest form—accessible, elevated, and always evolving.

Crux Fermentation Project Basics

Crux Fermentation is located in a retrofitted transmission shop, tucked away in a corner on Bend’s east side, near where Colorado Ave, Industrial Way, and Route 97 come together.  It’s about 1 mile and 5 minutes from the Descutes River.

Crux opened a Portland, OR, tasting room in 2023 but announced in March 2025 that it would be closing this venue.

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Creative Brewing in Bend since 2012

Founded by brewing legend Larry Sidor, Crux Fermentation Project isn’t just a brewery—it’s a science lab, a community hangout, and a pilgrimage site for craft beer lovers.

Larry started Crux in 2012 after leaving Deschutes Brewing, and creating a brewery that don’t settle with ordinary.

A pint glass of hazy beer branded with Crux Fermentation Project rests on a wooden railing, with a road, parked cars, lush green bushes, and distant mountains framed by a clear blue sky in the background.

Known for its non-traditional brewing techniques (like open fermentation and whole-leaf hops), Crux Fermentation Project continuously pushes the boundaries of what beer can be.

The name ‘Crux’ comes from its slang meaning – ‘the most difficult part’ of any situation.

A metal sculpture of large, abstract letters sits in a circular planter filled with dark rocks on a gravel lot near picnic tables at Crux Fermentation Project. In the background, there’s a food truck labeled “Bavid Beer Yoda,” trees, and a clear blue sky.

Beer Selection: Pushing the Boundaries of Craft

The advanced brewing techniques at Crux result in an impressive lineup of rotating beers.

Whether you’re into sours, IPAs, or barrel-aged magic, they have something that’ll blow your taste buds away. Some highlights:

  • Cast Out IPA – Bold, tropical, and endlessly drinkable
  • Pilz – Their award-winning Czech-style pilsner (Glenn’s Favorite!)
  • Half Hitch – An Imperial Mosaic IPA that packs a punch
  • Banished Series – Barrel-aged beers with incredible depth and complexity

If you’re unsure where to start, ask for a flight—you’ll be glad you did.

A modern brewery bar at Crux Fermentation Project with shelves of clean glassware, shiny brewing tanks visible through windows, and digital menu boards above. A worker in a cap stands at the left as natural light streams in, illuminating bar and tanks.

The selection of beers is beyond what you find at most breweries as well.  Crux will typically have more than 25 beers on tap, as well as ciders and non-alcoholic options—more reasons to keep going back.

Come For the Beer, Stay for the Views

As if the beers at Crux weren’t enough of a reason to visit, the views of the Cascades, especially from the outdoor tasting area, seal the deal.

In fact, the view of Mount Bachelor and the Three Sisters Mountains from Crux is one of the best in Bend.

A tulip glass of golden beer with a foamy head from Crux Fermentation Project sits on a sunlit wooden table outdoors. Behind, a road, fence, trees, and distant mountains stretch beneath the clear blue sky.

While the indoor tasting area at Crux is fine, the outdoor area is a celebration.  You’ll normally find it full of families, mountain bikers, and other beer lovers enjoying Crux beer and the Bend lifestyle.

The Crux Fermentation Project Food Menu and Food Trucks

Hungry?  You can eat well at Crux either from their pub menu or from their on-site food trucks.

The Crux menu is strong, featuring sharables (pretzel, nachos, and boards), sandwiches (The Carver, Philly Cheese, and French Dip), and salads.

A small taco stand with a menu board displaying taco options, chips, and drinks sits beside a bright yellow Crux Fermentation Project food truck. The stand features colorful cartoon faces, a rustic roof, and a wooden barrel under the clear blue sky.

When Nicole and I visit (which is often, usually after a hike or bike ride), we typically get grub from one of the two permanent food trucks.  Highly recommend you do the same.

  1. El Sancho.  Outstanding street tacos.
  2. The Brown Owl.  Burgers and BBQ.
A small wooden booth labeled “Crux Fermentation Project” features a bold black arrow logo, beer bottles on display, and several awards. A staff member in a cap stands by as bar glasses hang inside, with exposed beams and ceiling overhead.

Know Before You Go and FAQs

Here’s some additional things to know if you are thinking of visiting the special place in Bend:

  • Hours: Open daily, usually 11 AM–9 PM (check their site for seasonal changes)
  • Parking.  Plenty in a dedicated lot and along the street.
  • Crowds.  On weekends it’s crowded, but still come!
  • Kid-friendly: Absolutely. Lots of room to roam.
  • Dog policy: Leashed dogs welcome on the patio.
  • Live Music.  Check the Events page.
A lively Bend Restaurants bar scene with people seated at tables and the counter, warmly lit by large yellow globe lanterns and string lights overhead. The background features framed art on dark walls and bartenders serving drinks.

Want to Discover More Food and Beer Spots in Bend, Oregon?

Are you visiting Bend, Oregon, and want more ideas on where to eat, drink, and what to do?  Check out some of our other articles:

The post Crux Fermentation Project: The Brewery That Defines Bend first appeared on EpicBend.

]]> https://epicbend.com/crux-fermentation-project/feed/ 0 GoodLife Brewing Company in Bend – Living Up to Its Name https://epicbend.com/goodlife-brewing/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=goodlife-brewing https://epicbend.com/goodlife-brewing/#respond Tue, 01 Jul 2025 21:40:03 +0000 https://epicbend.com/?p=25612 GoodLife Brewing Company in Bend Embodies Everything We Love About Living In This Town

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For those of us lucky enough to live in Bend, we know we’ve found one of the best places in the country. With its stunning outdoor recreation, beautiful landscapes, and strong sense of community, Bend is a truly special place—and let’s not forget about….the beer.

One standout in the Bend brewery scene is GoodLife Brewing Company, which embodies the Bend lifestyle perfectly.  

A round glass of golden beer sits on a glossy wooden bar next to an orange coaster that reads Bulleit GoodLife Brewing Company. Shelves with liquor bottles are blurred in the background. The bar has a warm, inviting atmosphere.

The GoodLife approach to beer making isn’t just about great beer; it’s about experiencing what it means to live in Bend.

It’s also one of our favorite breweries in Bend to visit. 

GoodLife Brewing in Bend Oregon

Tall, leafy green vines grow up strings along a red metal building, with a paved walkway and a row of outdoor tables and chairs visible in the background. The sky is cloudy, and there is a small sign near the plants.

A Brewery That Embodies Life in Bend

GoodLife Brewing Bend isn’t just about beers – it’s about bringing people together. Since 2011, this brewery has offered: 

  • Thoughtfully crafted beers reflecting Bend’s adventurous spirit

  • Community events from trivia nights to live music

  • A welcoming atmosphere for all—families, tourists, trail‑runners, and remote workers

A memorial plaque surrounded by green leafy plants. The plaque reads: Forever in Our Hearts. Curt Plants. Co-Founder and Brew Master of GoodLife Brewing Company. April 20, 1984 - April 28, 2017.” The plaque includes a quote, and it rests beside a concrete sidewalk.

GoodLife, originally founded by the late Curt Plants, has recently come under new management.

A lively restaurant interior with wooden decor and a faux log beam. Diners sit at tables, chatting and eating. A sign reads The Sawmill at Goodlife above a bar area displaying BEER. The atmosphere is warm and social, with families and groups gathered.

The new Sawmill Pub, opened in 2025 at the brewery, is a venue with character and yet another reason to visit.

GoodLife Brewing: Basics

GoodLife Brewing is located in a complex of businesses at the corner of SW Century Drive and SW Commerce Drive.  

It shares the space with The Ale Apothecary, Prost, several other venues (and many of these are worth visiting as well.)

(Note:  GoodLife has another location in Henderson, NV)

Untappd 3.76The image shows the word “UNTAPPD” in bold, white, uppercase letters centered on a solid yellow background, evoking the vibrant energy of Bend Oregon’s best breweries. The font is clean and sans-serif.

A white food truck labeled “GoodLife Brewing Company, Bend, Oregon” features a mountain logo and tree silhouettes. The side window is open, with hoses and equipment attached. A white cooler sits nearby, and a menu board is visible in the background.

Welcome to the GoodLife Backyard

Before I talk further about the beer, tasting room, or anything else at GoodLife, let’s skip to one of its best features:  The GoodLife Backyard!

GoodLife transformed a greenspace adjacent to its facility into a gathering place for beer enthusiasts, families, and the broader Bend community.

People sit at round black picnic tables with umbrellas on a grassy lawn. Some children and adults stand and walk near a playground behind a fence. Trees and a red building are visible in the background under a cloudy sky.

The GoodLife Backyard is complete with a food truck, tables, and a fire pit, and happily welcomes families and those with dogs (on leash).

A black sandwich board sign on a stone path displays colorful chalk writing with rules: Tables—please do not move; Dogs—must be leashed; Supervise children; Keep it clean; No outside food, alcohol, or smoking; and ends with Have fun, cheers!.

Pro Tip: Peak times are Friday/Saturday evenings—come early or claim a seat outdoors!

The Beer Menu at GoodLife

The GoodLife beer list includes a wide variety of flagships available year round, along with a rotating set of seasonal beers and seltzers.

My favorites are the Wave Park Hazy IPA, Bavarian Lager, and Big Winter (when available).

Colorful chalkboard beer and seltzer menu with creative, stylized text and illustrations. Names like Lupoblast, Descender IPA, and Peach Lemonade Seltzer are displayed, each with unique fonts, colors, and small decorative drawings.

During my last visit in June 2025, I tried another seasonal:  the Reserve Saison.  This was a deep, rich sour beer with complex flavor.

The Sawmill at GoodLife

If the weather doesn’t permit you to visit the GoodLife Backyard, or if you prefer to be indoors, the Sawmill at GoodLife is a great pub to eat and drink.

A wooden sign reading “The Sawmill at Goodlife” is mounted above a bar area. Below, a rustic BEER sign and blue mugs hang, while people are gathered and seated at tables. The ceiling and lights are visible above the green wall.

The decor is, of course, wood panel-focused, with a cozy bar and plenty of tables to eat, drink, and enjoy watching a game.

A restaurant menu on a wooden table displays sections: Pub Grub (items like nachos, hummus, wings), Greens (various salads), and Flatbreads. Below, a note mentions allergen info and “Locals Day every Thursday all day long.” The menu uses black text on white paper.

What Else You Need to Know About GoodLife Brewing

GoodLife is a great place after a hike, on a sunny day with the family and dog, or if you just want to visit a great brewery in Bend.

They are also big on events:

  • Weekly Trivia Nights – test your knowledge with fellow beer‑lovers

  • Live Music Fridays – local bands on weekend evenings

  • Community Fundraisers – supporting local nonprofits and trail maintenance

A red metal building with a glass door and a wooden sign reading “GoodLife Brewing Company.” Green climbing plants grow up the side, and the sidewalk leads to a mostly empty parking lot under a cloudy sky.

Looking for More Places to Eat, Drink, and Explore Around Bend?

Are you visiting Bend Oregon and want more ideas on places to eat and drink? Or a resident and looking for things to do?  Check out some of our other guides:

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