Exploring Utah’s Craft Beer Scene: A 3-Day Adventure

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Utah’s craft beer scene has blossomed in recent years, offering a delightful array of breweries set against the state’s stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a curious traveler, this three-day itinerary will guide you through some of Utah’s finest breweries, local attractions, and annual festivals. Let’s dive into the Beehive State’s vibrant beer culture!

Day 1: Salt Lake City – Urban Brews and Cultural Gems

Morning: Kickstart at Uinta Brewing Company

Begin your journey at Uinta Brewing Company, one of Utah’s pioneering craft breweries. Established in 1993, Uinta has been at the forefront of the state’s beer renaissance, offering classics like the Cutthroat Pale Ale and Hop Nosh IPA.

Location: 1722 S Fremont Dr, Salt Lake City, UT
Tip: Consider taking a brewery tour to learn about their brewing process and sustainable practices.

Afternoon: Explore the Utah Museum of Fine Arts

After a refreshing pint, immerse yourself in culture at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts. With a diverse collection spanning centuries and continents, it’s a haven for art lovers.

Location: 410 Campus Center Dr, Salt Lake City, UT

Evening: Savor at Fisher Brewing Company

Wrap up your day at Fisher Brewing Company, a historic name revived in 2017. Known for its community-centric approach, Fisher offers a rotating selection of craft beers in a relaxed setting.

Location: 320 W 800 S, Salt Lake City, UT
Don’t Miss: Their patio is a popular spot, especially during warmer months.

Day 2: Park City – Mountain Views and Microbrews

Morning: Brunch and Brews at Wasatch Brew Pub

Head to Wasatch Brew Pub, Utah’s first brewpub, established in 1986. Nestled in the heart of Park City, it offers a delightful brunch menu alongside signature brews like the Polygamy Porter.

Location: 250 Main St, Park City, UT
Pro Tip: Try their award-winning Devastator Double Bock.

Afternoon: Stroll Historic Main Street

Take a leisurely walk down Historic Main Street, lined with charming boutiques, art galleries, and eateries. The blend of historic architecture and modern amenities captures Park City’s unique spirit.

Evening: Relax at Offset Bier

Conclude your day at Offset Bier, a brewery known for its German-style lagers and cozy atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.

Location: 1755 Bonanza Dr, Park City, UT
Highlight: Their beer garden offers a serene ambiance, especially during sunset.

Day 3: Moab – Adventure and Ales

Utah Winery and Wines

Morning: Adventure in Arches National Park

Start your day with a visit to Arches National Park, home to over 2,000 natural stone arches. A morning hike offers cooler temperatures and breathtaking views.

Tip: Don’t miss the iconic Delicate Arch.

Afternoon: Refresh at Moab Brewery

After your outdoor adventure, head to Moab Brewery, the town’s sole microbrewery. With a diverse beer selection and hearty menu, it’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Location: 686 S Main St, Moab, UT
Must-Try: The Dead Horse Amber Ale is a crowd-pleaser.

Evening: Explore Downtown Moab

Spend your evening exploring Downtown Moab, with its eclectic shops, art galleries, and vibrant street life. The relaxed, bohemian vibe makes it an enjoyable place to unwind.

Annual Beer Festivals in Utah

To further immerse yourself in Utah’s craft beer culture, consider planning your visit around these annual festivals:

Utah Beer Festival

When: August
Where: Typically held in Salt Lake City
What to Expect: As Utah’s largest beer event, the Utah Beer Festival features over 200 beers and ciders, live music, and local food vendors. It’s a celebration of both local and international brews.
Note: Tickets often sell out, so consider purchasing in advance.

Oktoberfest at Snowbird

When: Weekends from mid-August to mid-October
Where: Snowbird Ski Resort
What to Expect: A family-friendly event featuring German-style beers, traditional foods, live music, and stunning mountain views. Oktoberfest at Snowbird is one of Utah’s most popular festivals.
Tip: Admission is free, but you’ll need to purchase tokens for food and drinks.

SLUG Mag’s Brewstillery

When: June
Where: Salt Lake City
What to Expect: Hosted by SLUG Magazine, Brewstillery showcases Utah’s craft breweries and distilleries, offering tastings, live music, and local artisans. It’s a great way to discover new local favorites.
Highlight: The event often features exclusive brews and spirits crafted specifically for the festival.

Additional Breweries Worth Visiting

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If time permits, here are a few more notable Utah breweries to consider:

Epic Brewing Company

Location: Salt Lake City
About: Known for producing high-ABV beers, Epic Brewing offers a diverse range of bold and flavorful options. Their Big Bad Baptist Imperial Stout is particularly renowned.

Red Rock Brewing

Location: Salt Lake City
About: Established in 1994, Red Rock Brewing has garnered numerous awards for its balanced and innovative beers. The Elephino Double IPA is a hop lover’s dream.

Talisman Brewing Company

Location: Ogden
About: Talisman Brewing is a small-batch craft brewery known for its creative brews and community involvement. The Uplifted Scottish Ale is a standout.

Tips for Enjoying Utah’s Craft Beer Scene

Understand the Laws: Utah has unique alcohol regulations. Beers up to 5% ABV can be sold on draft, while higher-ABV beers are typically available in bottles or cans. Familiarize yourself with these laws to enhance your experience.
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Transportation: Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services, especially if you plan to visit multiple breweries in a day.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Altitude and alcohol can be a potent mix. Drink plenty of water and enjoy the delicious food offerings at many of these breweries