Your Guide To The Best Eugene Oregon Breweries (2024)

Welcome to Eugene, Oregon, a city nestled in the heart of the picturesque Pacific Northwest. Eugene is known for its lush landscapes, outdoor adventures, and vibrant culture. It’s home to the bustling University of Oregon, the Owen Rose Garden, and the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art.  

But there’s another aspect of Eugene that captures the hearts of locals and visitors alike: its thriving craft beer scene. With a multitude of breweries scattered throughout the city, Eugene has become a haven for beer enthusiasts seeking unique flavors and exceptional brews. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best Eugene Oregon breweries, uncovering the hidden gems, highlighting the local favorites, and providing you with an insider’s perspective on where to find the most delicious pints. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or simply enjoy savoring a cold one, prepare to immerse yourself in the world of craft beer as we explore the breweries that define Eugene’s brewing culture.

Best Outdoor Seating: Elk Horn Brewery

Elk Horn Brewery is a family-owned brewery, gastropub, and cider house located in the middle of the Eugene campus culture. Elk Horn Brewery has an extensive tap list featuring over twenty-four of their own beers, ciders, and sodas. With its rustic charm and warm ambiance, this brewery captures the essence of the Pacific Northwest’s craft beer culture and the Southern hospitality industry.

Beyond its exceptional beer selection, Elk Horn Brewery also offers a delectable menu featuring mouthwatering pub fare made with locally sourced ingredients and deriving from Southern influences. From collard greens to mac n’ cheese to catfish po’boy sandwiches to chicken n’ waffles, the brewery’s menu pairs perfectly with their brews. 

Elk Horn Brewery has phenomenal outdoor seating, with many tables outside covered by umbrellas so you can get some shade on those rare sunny PNW days. With its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, Elk Horn Brewery provides a gathering place where friends and families can come together to enjoy delicious food, exceptional beer, and the vibrant community spirit of Eugene, Oregon.

📍Elk Horn Brewery | 686 E Broadway, Eugene, OR 97401

Coolest Tasting Room: The Better Living Room at Ninkasi Brewing

Ninkasi Brewing is a revered name in the craft beer industry. With a commitment to brewing excellence and a passion for pushing boundaries, Ninkasi has become synonymous with innovation and exceptional quality. The brewery’s taproom and tasting room (known as The Better Living Room) provide a welcoming and energetic atmosphere for beer enthusiasts to gather and enjoy the fruits of Ninkasi’s labor. The Better Living room is a gathering space and restaurant with a focus on celebrating beer, community, food, and art. If you love drinking beer in a cozy, eclectic space with art as a pinnacle of design, this is the tasting room for you.

But let’s talk about the beers. Known for their diverse range of brews, Ninkasi offers an impressive selection of ales and lagers, each crafted with precision and creativity. From hop-forward IPAs (such as the Total Domination Northwest IPA) to smooth and rich stouts, Ninkasi’s beers showcase a balance of flavors that delight the palate. It’s also worth noting that Ninkasi in partnership with acclaimed mixologist Jeffrey Morgenthaler has created portable, high-end cocktails in a can. So, this is the perfect place to go for both beer and cocktail lovers alike.

You can see why this is one of the most-frequented Eugene Oregon breweries, right?

📍The Better Living Room by Ninkasi Brewing | 155 Blair Blvd, Eugene, OR 97402

Best Pub Food: Oakway Pub

Sunriver Brewing, originating from the scenic town of Sunriver, Oregon, has expanded its presence to Eugene, offering beer enthusiasts a taste of their award-winning brews in the heart of the city. With a focus on quality and innovation, Sunriver Brewing has become a beloved name in the craft beer scene. Their Eugene location (The Oakway Pub) continues this tradition, providing a welcoming and lively atmosphere where visitors can enjoy a diverse selection of handcrafted beers. 

Oakway Pub is a beloved gathering spot for beer enthusiasts and locals seeking a casual and welcoming atmosphere. With its laid-back vibe and friendly staff, Oakway Pub embodies the spirit of a classic neighborhood pub. The pub offers an impressive selection of craft beers on tap, showcasing a diverse range of styles and flavors from both local and national breweries. Try their famous Nitro Cocoa Cow Chocolate Milk Stout year-round, or check out one of their coveted limited-release drafts such as the Blue Razz Sour, Che Figata Italian Pilsner, or the Reflection Therapy WCIPA. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur, lover of sour beers, or just starting your craft beer journey, Oakway Pub has something to satisfy every palate. 

In addition to its wide selection of brews, Oakway Pub also offers a tasty menu featuring pub favorites such as burgers, sandwiches, wings, and hearty appetizers. We’re pretty fond of the Bacon Brew Burger, Waygu Sliders, and the Baked Mac & Cheese. Oh, and we can’t forget dessert…the IPA Brownie, of course!

With its inviting atmosphere, great beer selection, and delicious food, Oakway Pub has earned its place as a local favorite and a go-to destination for good times out of the Eugene Oregon breweries.

📍Oakway Pub | 329 Oakway Road, Eugene, OR 97401

Best Use of Local Ingredients: Coldfire Brewing Company

Coldfire Brewing is a renowned destination for craft beer enthusiasts seeking exceptional brews that make excellent use of the PNW’s wide array of flavors, tastes, and notes. For example, the Bloom IPA that utilizes Chinook, Amarillo, Cascade, and Galazy to emphasize the fruity, floral aspects of a PNW summer. Or, the Thursday/Friday IPA that has notes of citrus, berry, and pine. 

Coldfire partners with several food trucks (Stretched Noodles, Pizzeria Dop, Yardy, and Paper Plate BBQ) to provide quality, locally-handcrafted food to its patrons. 

Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or simply appreciate great brews, Coldfire Brewing is one of those Eugene Oregon breweries that promises a memorable experience where quality, creativity, and community converge.

📍ColdFire Brewing Company | 263 Mill Street, Eugene, OR 97401

Best Panoramic Views: Alesong Brewing

Alesong Brewing is a destination that embodies the artistry and craftsmanship of exceptional Belgian-style and barrel-aged beers. With a commitment to producing small-batch, handcrafted brews, Alesong Brewing has earned a well-deserved reputation for their exquisite flavors and innovative brewing techniques. In fact, they’ve been given over fifty awards in over seven years! Including, but not limited to, awards from: Best of the Northwest, Festival of Barrel-Aged Beer, Best of Craft Beer Awards, the Great American Beer Festival, and the Oregon Beer Awards.

Each beer is meticulously crafted, aged in oak barrels, resulting in complex and nuanced flavors that captivate the senses. From sour ales and farmhouse saisons to rich and decadent barrel-aged beers, Alesong Brewing offers a diverse and enticing lineup of brews. 

The taproom provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere for visitors to sample the latest creations, learn about the brewing process, and appreciate the intricate flavors that have become the hallmark of Alesong Brewing. We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the panoramic views from Alesong’s patio – this is a perfect place to soak in the rare PNW sunny day and enjoy the beauty of the Eugene region while you sip on excellence.

📍Alesong Brewing | 80848 Territorial Highway, Eugene, OR 97405

Best Spot for a Date Night: McMenamins High Street

McMenamins High Street is a beloved establishment that beautifully blends history, charm, and great food and drinks. If you’ve lived in the Pacific Northwest for a while, you’ve likely heard the name McMenamins. The family-owned chain is well-known for rehabilitating historical properties into thriving hotels, pubs, breweries, and brewpubs all around the Pacific Northwest. All McMenamins venues are slightly different than each other, and McMenamins High Street is no exception.

McMenamins High Street is housed in a renovated early 20th-century house, offering a unique and inviting atmosphere that feels just like you’re sitting inside somebody’s home. Guests can choose to relax in the cozy indoor seating or savor the pleasant Oregon weather on the outdoor patio.  Except, you have excellent beer and food at your leisure, which makes it the perfect spot for a date night! 

The pub features an extensive menu showcasing delicious pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, pizzas, and a variety of tasty appetizers. The bar boasts a wide selection of handcrafted beers (don’t miss Grandma Betty’s Quilted IPA), wines, and spirits, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

📍High Street Brewery | 1243 High Street, Eugene, OR 97401

Best Brewing Craftsmanship: Plank Town Brewing Company

Plank Town Brewery has some of the best brewing craftsmanship in the entire country, let alone in Eugene. Plank Town produces traditional cask-conditioned beer. They have cask engines at the bar, which allows the beers to be served with lower carbonation than traditionally expected, allowing the flavor to slowly evolve as oxygen enters the cask. In order to taste the full vibrancy of these beers, we highly recommend snagging one of their beer flights so you can taste as many beers as possible. 

The spacious and welcoming taproom provides a cozy setting to relax and enjoy their handcrafted beers, while the outdoor patio offers a delightful spot to soak in the sunshine. Complementing their exceptional brews, Plank Town Brewery also offers a mouthwatering menu of pub fare, featuring delicious burgers (such as the Apple and Pork Dip Burger), sandwiches (such as the Mushroom Dip Sandwich), and appetizers (such as the Fried Brussels Sprouts). With its warm hospitality, diverse beer selection, and delectable food, Plank Town Brewery has become one of the most cherished Eugene Oregon breweries where locals and visitors alike can gather to savor the flavors of the city’s thriving craft beer scene.

📍Plank Town Brewing Company | 346 Main Street, Springfield, OR 97477

Best Use of Different Hops: Hop Valley Brewing Company

Hop Valley Brewing Company is a prominent player in the craft beer scene, renowned for its dedication to quality and innovation. If you’re a hops lover, this is the place for you. Hop Valley Brewing Co, true to its name, finds unique ways to bring hops into all aspects of its hospitality – including the food menu. Order one of their Hop House burgers, and you’ll get to taste their delicious Hop Sauce. 

Located in the Kruse Way Whiteaker neighborhood, Hop Valley offers a welcoming space for beer enthusiasts to enjoy a wide selection of meticulously crafted brews. The taproom provides a lively atmosphere where visitors can gather with friends, partake in engaging conversations, and even catch live music performances. 

From hop-forward IPAs to smooth and flavorful ales, Hop Valley’s beers showcase a range of styles and flavors that cater to diverse palates. The brewery’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients further enhances the authenticity and freshness of their brews (don’t miss the Citrus Mistress IPA!). With its commitment to brewing excellence, warm hospitality, and delicious brews, Hop Valley Brewing Company has solidified its place as a go-to destination for beer enthusiasts in Eugene, Oregon.

📍Hop Valley Brewing Company | 990 W 1st Ave, Eugene, OR 97402

Best Ode to History: Viking Braggot Company

Viking Braggot Brewery is a unique and celebrated destination that combines the European brewing traditions of mead and beer. Specializing in braggots—a historic beverage blending honey, malt, and various spices—Viking Braggot Brewery offers a one-of-a-kind tasting experience. The brewery’s skilled brewers meticulously create their braggots using high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques. 

The result is a diverse selection of flavorful and complex brews that delight the senses. From the rich Fenrir stout to the deep, dark Viking Funeral IPA, Viking Braggot Company is the place to go for European beers in Eugene, Oregon.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich Viking-inspired decor while sipping on their braggots in the Viking Braggot Company taproom. In staying true to their European traditions, they also offer Scandinavian comfort food, ranging anywhere from the Frikadeller and Agurksalat to the Skagenrora and the Vesuvico.

With their dedication to authenticity and quality, Viking Braggot Brewery has not only crafted exceptional brews but has also cultivated a strong sense of community among beer enthusiasts in Eugene. Whether you’re a seasoned braggot connoisseur or new to this unique style, Viking Braggot Brewery offers an immersive and unforgettable experience where history, flavor, and craftsmanship converge.

📍Viking Braggot Company | 520 Commercial Street, Unit F, Eugene, OR 97402

Best Beer Names: Gratitude Brewing

Gratitude Brewing is a treasured gem for beer enthusiasts seeking unique and flavorful brews. With a name that reflects their philosophy of gratitude and appreciation for the craft, this brewery offers a warm and inviting space to enjoy their exceptional beers. Which, by the way, are exceptionally named. Here are some of our favorite names:

Livin’ La Vida Kolscha
Daddy Said I Could Have Unicorns
Bringing Sexy Back

Gratitude Brewing takes pride in their commitment to quality and creativity, crafting a diverse range of brews that showcase innovative flavors and styles. From crisp and refreshing ales to bold and complex stouts, their lineup offers something to tantalize every taste bud. The taproom provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, where visitors can relax, connect with friends, and savor the distinctive flavors of Gratitude’s brews. The knowledgeable and friendly staff add to the overall experience, ensuring that guests feel welcomed and well taken care of. With their dedication to craftsmanship and community, Gratitude Brewing has established itself as a beloved destination in Eugene, Oregon, where beer lovers can come together and raise a glass to the art of brewing.

Come here, and you’ll be Livin’ La Vida Kolscha!

📍Gratitude Brewing | 540 E 8th Ave, Eugene, OR 97401

Best Seasonal Beers: Falling Sky Brewing

Falling Sky Brewing is one of those Eugene Oregon breweries that has phenomenal seasonal beers. We recommend stopping by (frequently) to check out their meticulous, ever-changing list of beers on tap.

With its rustic yet modern ambiance, Falling Sky Brewing provides a welcoming space (affectionally known as The Brewpub) where visitors can indulge in a wide variety of well-crafted brews. Beyond their exceptional beers, Falling Sky Brewing also offers a delectable menu featuring tasty pub fare (we see you, Firecracker Burger) made with locally sourced ingredients. With its passion for brewing excellence and commitment to the environment, Falling Sky Brewing continues to be a beloved destination in Eugene, Oregon’s thriving craft beer scene.

📍Falling Sky Brewing | 1334 Oak Alley, Eugene, OR 

Best Food Carts: Oakshire Brewing Public House

Oakshire Brewing Public House is one of the best Eugene Oregon breweries seeking a memorable and flavorful experience. With its inviting and spacious taproom, Oakshire Brewing offers a warm and friendly atmosphere where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of craft beer. Oh, and the food! Oakshire Brewing likes to stay 100% focused on brewing and serving great beer, so they partner with several local food carts to serve up delicious culinary treats to patrons. On-site, you’ll find Little Thai Elephant, Bounty Meat and Cheese, and Burgers on the Run.

The knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist in selecting the perfect beer to suit individual tastes. With regular events and a rotating tap list that showcases both classic favorites and experimental brews, Oakshire Brewing Public House ensures a dynamic and exciting experience for beer enthusiasts in Eugene, Oregon.

📍Oakshire Brewing Public House | 207 Madison Street, Eugene, OR 

Most Friendly Environment: Xicha Brewing

Xicha Brewing is a vibrant and culturally inspired brewery that celebrates the flavors and traditions of Latin America. From crisp and refreshing lagers to complex and aromatic ales, Xicha Brewing’s lineup showcases a diverse range of brews that pay homage to Latin American heritage. 

The taproom provides a welcoming space where guests can savor their beers while indulging in delicious Latin American-inspired dishes, such as tacos, ceviche, and empanadas. The vibrant and colorful decor, combined with the friendly and knowledgeable staff, further enhances the overall experience. Xicha Brewing has become a beloved gathering spot, fostering a sense of community and cultural appreciation. This makes it one of the most friendly breweries in the entire Pacific Northwest.

Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply seeking a taste of Latin American flavors, Xicha Brewing in Eugene, Oregon, promises an immersive and memorable experience that celebrates the rich and vibrant culture of the region.

📍Xicha Brewing | 747 E 32nd Ave Suite B, Eugene, OR 

Best Dessert Beers: Claim 52 Brewing

Claim 52 Brewing is a beloved and innovative brewery that has left its mark on the local craft beer scene. With a commitment to pushing boundaries and experimenting with flavors, Claim 52 Brewing has gained a reputation for its unique and creative brews. Specifically, they’re very well-known for their excellent dessert beers. The first notable dessert beer is the Imperial Stout Bana Split, which is brewed with milk sugar and conditioned with pineapple, chocolate, strawberry, banana, and vanilla. The second notable dessert beer is the White Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Dessert Sour, brewed with milk sugar, and conditioned with white chocolate, New York Cheesecake, and cherry puree. Last (but definitely not least), check out the Blue Raspberry Cotton Candy Dessert Sour. Brewed with milk sugar, and conditioned on marshmallows and blue raspberry cotton candy, this dessert beer is sure to delight.

Whether you’re a dedicated craft beer connoisseur or simply curious to explore new flavors, Claim 52 Brewing is one of those Eugene Oregon breweries that promises a memorable experience with their innovative brews and welcoming atmosphere.

📍Claim 52 Brewing | 1203 Willamette St #140, Eugene, OR 97401

Eugene’s breweries offer a diverse range of flavors and experiences that cater to every palate. So, gather your friends, plan a tasting tour, and embark on a memorable adventure through the best Eugene Oregon breweries. Cheers to Eugene’s craft beer community, and the shared love for a perfectly crafted pint. Here’s to raising our glasses and toasting to the extraordinary flavors found in every sip in this beer-lover’s paradise in the Pacific Northwest.