Here at Spoon, we are efficient human beings. We have designed an optimal route to some of Eugene’s greatest watering holes. I decided to make a day out of it so I recruited some loyal (hungover) friends and a handsome designated driver to join me on this crawl. Keep in mind that these breweries are a part of the Eugene Ale Trail. We would have done the whole trail but consider it warming up with a 5K before running a whole marathon. Without further adieu, let’s crawl!
1. Falling Sky Brewery
Photo by Kalen Hamada / Edited by Andrea Baysa
Our first stop brought us to Falling Sky Brewing. It is a great spot for anytime of day especially brunch. I got the Puddles Porter and biscuits topped with pastrami gravy. The chocolate and coffee notes coupled with the 8.4% ABV had my day starting off swell.
2. Steelhead Brewing Company
Photo by Kalen Hamada / Edited by Andrea Baysa
On to our second stop! I decided that the Hefe was the best choice for me. The Twisted Meniscus was also very good. They also have an orange wheat beer that is the combination of a Hefe and orange juice that blew my mind. There are a lot of beers to try, so spend more time here.
3. Coldfire Brewing
Photo by Kalen Hamada / Edited by Andrea Baysa
Let me just say that the vibe of this place was like a polar bear in a La-Z-Boy chair wearing sunglasses: super chill. There were a bunch of board games available to play and the beer was refreshing. I had the Belgian Wit and it was hard to keep at my one beer per brewery minimum.
4. Claim 52 Brewing
Photo by Kalen Hamada / Edited by Andrea Baysa
The drive-time to this gem was enough for us to recover a bit. It was a relatively quiet spot with a lot of seating and corn hole boards for friendly family competition. I got the Insta IPA and loved every sip. It was a nice day and enjoyed all the beer we got to taste. Def coming here again on a sunny day.
5. Oakshire Public House
Photo by Kalen Hamada / Edited by Andrea Baysa
We got to the first point of the “Bermuda Triangle”. I had the Oatmeal Stout on Nitro and let me tell you, BEST STOUT I’VE HAD SO FAR IN MY LIFE. There was live music and the people here were really nice. Oakshire really encompassed the Eugene culture which your parents would love. BONUS: They sell kegs.
6. Ninkasi Brewing Company
Photo by Kalen Hamada / Edited by Andrea Baysa
The second point in the triangle brought us to Ninkasi. Live music, patio seating and a bunch of friendly people. What more could you want? I got the Hop Cooler (Citrus IPA) and at this point, I was clapping along to the music and having a grand old time.
7. Hop Valley Brewing Company
Photo by Kalen Hamada / Edited by Andrea Baysa
This brewery has it all. If you’re sick of beer (doubt it) Hop Valley has locally-made spirits to tickle your whistle. The food is bomb and the beer it awesome. I got the Alpha Centauri and it was amazing. These people know what they’re doing, and I know your parents are going to love this place.
8. Sam Bond’s Brewing Company
Photo by Kalen Hamada / Edited by Andrea Baysa
The last stop of our journey led us to Sam Bond’s. This place was a fun filled atmosphere and the Accelerator Ale was off the charts. The Passion Fruit Cider is also highly recommended. It was a great last stop to mellow out and relax.
We did it! It was one heck of a ride (get it? seriously, drink responsibly). Thank your parents for supporting you in everything you do, especially this brewery crawl.
