Breweries Across Colorado To Visit For Beer And Live Tunes This Fall
Fall in Colorado brings crisp air, golden aspens, and the perfect atmosphere for enjoying craft beer while listening to live music.
As the mountains change colors, local breweries across the state roll out seasonal brews and welcome talented musicians to their stages. I’ve rounded up fantastic spots where you can sip exceptional beer and enjoy live performances as the leaves fall.
1. Odell Brewing Co. – Fort Collins
Music flows through this iconic Fort Collins brewery almost as freely as their award-winning beers. The spacious outdoor patio transforms into a cozy gathering spot during autumn, with fire pits keeping patrons warm as local musicians perform against a backdrop of copper-colored trees.
Their fall lineup features indie folk artists and acoustic sets that perfectly complement their seasonal Oktoberfest and pumpkin ales. I love how they’ve designed the space with music in mind the acoustics are surprisingly good for a brewery setting.
Don’t miss their Sunday afternoon sessions when the relaxed vibe makes for the perfect weekend wind-down with friends. The combination of excellent beer, talented local musicians, and that special fall light filtering through the trees creates pure Colorado magic.
2. New Belgium Brewing – Fort Collins
When autumn hits, New Belgium’s expansive lawn area becomes a haven for music lovers. The brewery schedules an impressive roster of bands each weekend, ranging from bluegrass to funk, creating the perfect soundtrack for their exceptional Belgian-inspired beers.
Their legendary Tour de Fat celebration brings extra musical flair in September, with eccentric performances that match their creative brewing philosophy. The massive indoor-outdoor space accommodates crowds comfortably, with plenty of standing room near the stage or relaxed seating areas further back.
Grab a Fat Tire amber ale or one of their seasonal specialties and settle in as the afternoon sun casts a golden glow across the venue. The combination of world-class beer and top-notch musical talent makes this a must-visit fall destination.
3. Denver Beer Co. – Denver
Nestled in the heart of Denver’s Platte Street, this urban brewery creates a cozy autumn retreat with string lights illuminating their spacious beer garden. As temperatures drop, they roll out heaters and keep the live music flowing alongside their exceptional seasonal brews.
Friday and Saturday evenings feature acoustic performers and small bands that create an intimate atmosphere perfect for conversation. Their Graham Cracker Porter tastes even better when enjoyed alongside some mellow tunes on a crisp fall evening.
The friendly staff often joins in the fun, creating a community vibe that welcomes both locals and visitors. With food trucks regularly parked outside and a rotating tap list featuring innovative fall flavors, Denver Beer Co. offers the complete package for music and beer enthusiasts exploring the city.
4. Oskar Blues Brewery – Lyons
Hidden away in the foothills town of Lyons, the original Oskar Blues location boasts serious musical credibility. Their intimate venue regularly hosts impressive talent, from up-and-coming singer-songwriters to established Colorado bands, all while serving their renowned craft beers straight from the source.
Fall brings a special energy as the nearby mountains display their autumn colors and the brewery rolls out seasonal favorites like Ten FIDY imperial stout. The rustic interior, with its weathered wood and vintage decorations, creates the perfect backdrop for live performances.
Locals know to arrive early to secure a good spot, as word has spread about both the quality of music and beer at this pioneer of the craft can revolution. The authentic Colorado experience here can’t be beat where else can you enjoy world-class beer while watching talented musicians perform in such a charming mountain setting?
5. Great Divide Brewing Co. – Denver
Great Divide’s RiNo Barrel Bar location transforms into a music lover’s paradise every weekend during the fall season. The industrial-chic taproom features local artists against the backdrop of towering wooden barrels where their famous aged beers develop their complex flavors.
Their Yeti Imperial Stout series pairs perfectly with the cooler autumn evenings and the soulful sounds that fill the space. I appreciate how they’ve created different listening environments you can get up close to the performers or enjoy from a distance while still having great conversation with friends.
The brewery’s commitment to both musical and brewing artistry shines through in their carefully curated performance schedule. With food trucks regularly parked outside and occasionally special release beers timed with performances, Great Divide creates memorable fall evenings that showcase the best of Denver’s creative culture.
6. Avery Brewing Company – Boulder
Avery’s massive Boulder facility feels like a cathedral to craft beer, and when they add live music to the mix during fall months, the experience becomes truly transcendent. Their multi-level taproom offers different perspectives on performances, with the upper level providing a bird’s-eye view of the action below.
The brewery’s bold, high-ABV offerings like The Maharaja Imperial IPA create the perfect complement to the equally bold musical performances they host. During October, their special release parties often feature bands that match the intensity and creativity of their boundary-pushing beers.
Friendly bartenders eagerly share the stories behind both the beers and the bands, enhancing the connection between what’s in your glass and what’s happening on stage. When the weather cooperates, they sometimes move performances to their outdoor patio area, where the Flatirons provide a stunning backdrop to the musical festivities.
7. Upslope Brewing Company – Boulder
Tucked away in Boulder’s Flatiron Business Park, Upslope’s taproom buzzes with energy when musicians set up in the corner of their industrial-chic space. Their Thursday night music series has become a local institution, showcasing talented Colorado artists while patrons enjoy their clean, crisp beers.
The brewery’s Craft Lager and Brown Ale taste especially good during fall evenings when the garage doors are partially open, letting in just enough crisp autumn air. What makes this venue special is the authentic connection between performers and audience the intimate setting creates memorable moments of musical magic.
Food trucks park outside, offering perfect pairings for their award-winning beers. I love how the brewing tanks visible behind glass walls remind you that you’re drinking the freshest possible beer while supporting local music. This unpretentious approach to both brewing and entertainment captures Boulder’s community spirit perfectly.
8. Left Hand Brewing Company – Longmont
Situated along the banks of the St. Vrain Creek, Left Hand’s expansive outdoor space becomes a musical haven during fall months. Their Oktoberfest celebration features traditional German music alongside their award-winning Märzen lager, creating an authentic seasonal experience.
The brewery’s Nitro Milk Stout perfect for cooler autumn evenings seems to taste even better when enjoyed alongside the diverse musical acts they host throughout the season. From folk to funk, their outdoor stage welcomes performers that match the creative spirit of their innovative brewing program.
Locals bring lawn chairs and blankets for the Sunday afternoon performances when families gather to enjoy both the music and the spectacular fall colors reflecting in the creek. The combination of flowing water, golden cottonwoods, excellent beer, and live music creates a quintessential Colorado fall experience that keeps me coming back year after year.
9. Ska Brewing – Durango
Ska’s World Headquarters in southwestern Colorado becomes a musical hotspot during autumn months. This punk-rock-inspired brewery embraces their rebellious spirit with energetic performances that pair perfectly with their bold, flavorful beers.
The brewery’s indoor-outdoor space adapts well to fall weather, with performances moving inside when temperatures drop. Their Euphoria Pale Ale tastes particularly good while watching local bands rock the house. What makes Ska special is their authentic connection to music it’s woven into their brand DNA, not just an afterthought.
The colorful, comic-book-themed taproom creates a playful backdrop for performances, while the mountain views outside remind you that you’re experiencing something uniquely Colorado. When visiting Durango in fall, timing your trip around Ska’s music schedule rewards you with a perfect combination of southwestern scenery, exceptional beer, and energetic live performances.
10. Breckenridge Brewery – Littleton
The Farm House at Breckenridge Brewery offers one of the most picturesque settings for enjoying live music and craft beer during Colorado’s fall season. Their sprawling 12-acre campus along the South Platte River features a gorgeous outdoor stage where performers play against a backdrop of changing leaves.
Their Autumn Ale, with hints of vanilla and caramel, perfectly complements the seasonal atmosphere and acoustic performances that dominate their fall lineup. The rustic-chic farm house design creates a cozy environment even as temperatures begin to drop.
Friendly staff members enhance the experience, often sharing stories about both the musicians and the brewing process. With a full restaurant on-site serving beer-inspired comfort food, you can easily spend an entire afternoon and evening here, moving from the sunny beer garden to the warm interior as the day progresses all while enjoying consistently excellent music and beer.
11. Ratio Beerworks – Denver
Founded by former band members, Ratio’s RiNo District brewery lives and breathes music culture. Their industrial taproom transforms into an intimate concert venue several nights a week, with performances that range from acoustic solo acts to energetic punk bands reflecting the diverse musical backgrounds of the owners.
Fall brings special events like their Punk Rock & Pie night, where seasonal fruit pies are paired with their Dear You French Saison while local bands energize the crowd. The brewery’s commitment to both musical and brewing creativity is evident in everything they do.
Colorful murals and album-cover-inspired beer labels reinforce the musical connection that makes this place special. Even on nights without scheduled performances, their carefully curated playlist provides the perfect soundtrack for enjoying their exceptional beers. If you’re looking for an authentic blend of Denver’s music and beer culture, Ratio delivers a memorable experience every time.
12. Telluride Brewing Co. – Telluride
Nestled in the spectacular San Juan Mountains, Telluride Brewing’s taproom becomes a magical musical venue when autumn paints the surrounding peaks gold and crimson. Though modest in size, this brewery punches above its weight with both beer quality and musical talent.
Local mountain musicians often perform intimate sets that perfectly match the laid-back mountain town vibe. Their Face Down Brown ale a multiple GABF medal winner tastes even better when enjoyed alongside acoustic guitar and the stunning fall views just outside the windows.
Friendly conversations with strangers flow as freely as the beer, creating a community atmosphere that embodies Colorado’s mountain culture. After a day of hiking among golden aspens, there’s nothing better than settling into this cozy taproom where excellent beer, live music, and mountain stories combine to create a perfect fall evening in one of Colorado’s most beautiful settings.
13. Steamworks Brewing Co. – Durango
Housed in a historic building in downtown Durango, Steamworks creates an inviting atmosphere for enjoying live music during the fall season. Their spacious brewpub features a dedicated performance area where local and touring musicians entertain patrons enjoying their award-winning beers.
Their Steam Engine Lager and Backside Stout provide perfect companions to the diverse musical acts that grace their stage throughout autumn. What stands out about Steamworks is how they’ve integrated music into their brewpub concept performances feel like a natural extension of their welcoming space, not an afterthought.
The brewery’s connection to Durango’s outdoor culture shines through in both their beer names and the musicians they host, many of whom draw inspiration from the spectacular surrounding landscapes. After a day exploring fall colors in the nearby mountains, Steamworks offers the perfect blend of delicious beer, live entertainment, and southwestern Colorado hospitality.
14. Pikes Peak Brewing Co. – Monument
Just north of Colorado Springs, this Monument brewery has built a reputation for both exceptional beer and quality live music. Their Ascent Series showcases local musical talent every weekend during fall months, with performances that range from bluegrass to blues.
The brewery’s Elephant Rock IPA pairs beautifully with the eclectic sounds filling their comfortable taproom. What makes this venue special is its authentic neighborhood feel you’ll likely end up chatting with locals who consider this their living room away from home.
During Oktoberfest, they feature traditional German bands alongside their seasonal Märzen, creating a festive atmosphere that draws visitors from throughout the Front Range. The combination of Front Range views, craft beer excellence, and consistent musical quality makes Pikes Peak Brewing a standout destination during Colorado’s spectacular fall season. Their commitment to supporting local artists while brewing creative beers embodies the best of Colorado’s craft culture.
15. Broken Compass Brewing – Breckenridge
Hidden away from Breckenridge’s main tourist areas, this locals’ favorite brewery transforms into an intimate music venue during the autumn months. Their cozy taproom, with its mountain cabin vibe, creates the perfect setting for acoustic performances as snow begins dusting the surrounding peaks.
Their Coconut Porter a perfect fall warmer complements the mellow sounds of local mountain musicians who regularly perform here. Unlike larger venues, Broken Compass fosters genuine connections between performers and audience, creating memorable musical moments.
Friendly bartenders share stories about both the musicians and the inspirations behind their creative beers. The authentic mountain town atmosphere makes visitors feel like they’ve discovered a secret local hangout. When the aspens turn golden and temperatures drop, there’s something magical about sipping exceptional beer while listening to talented musicians in this hidden gem of a brewery tucked away in one of Colorado’s most beautiful mountain settings.
