In case you were wondering, Colorado was named the “Centennial State” because it became a state in the year 1876, 100 years after the signing of our nation's Declaration of Independence NOT because this fine state has 100+ breweries. But enough of the history lesson an on to business - beer is serious business in Colorado (which ranks #1 in gross beer production.) Many of Colorado’s most famous brews hail from Fort Collins, a large college town about 60 miles north of Denver. Spend a Saturday getting to know the local flavor by touring one (or many) of the town’s breweries.

Budweiser/ Anheuser Busch Brewery
[where: 2351 Busch Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80524]
Although not a local brand, Anheuser Busch’s brewery in Fort Collins draws an impressive crowd and definitely warrants a visit. Take a complimentary tour of the large plant to discover how Budweiser is made and take a picture with the world famous Clydesdales. At the end, make sure to stop by the Hospitality Room and enjoy samples of some of America’s favorite beers and free snacks.

New Belgium Brewing Company
[where: 500 Linden St, Fort Collins, CO 80524]
If you only have time to visit one brewery while in Fort Collins, look no further than New Belgium Brewing Co. Inspired by founder Jeff Lebesch’s bicycle tour of Belgium and opened in 1991, New Belgium is by far the most innovative brewery in the US. Boasting an amazing variety of Belgian beers, the brewery stands out as a model of eco-friendly efficiency. Take a free guided tour of the “Liquid Center” to learn about the state-of the art brew kettle, on-site energy production, and its wind-powered electricity. And of course, best of all, enjoy free samples of the West Coast’s favorite beers, including the beloved Fat Tire Amber Ale.

Odell Brewing Company
[800 East Lincoln Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524]
The first microbrewery in Fort Collins, Odell Brewing Company specializes in English-style ales with a fresh, eclectic twist. This is best reflected in the company’s flagship brew and Colorado staple, 90 Shilling, a brew with the body of a Scottish ale mixed with the mild hopping of English pale ale. Odell offers a short tour as well as a tasting room where a $3 donation to charity gets you sample a “classic tray” of their seven most popular and award-winning beers.

Fort Collins Brewery
[where: 1900 E Lincoln Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524]
Although it is the newest and smallest of the area microbreweries, Fort Collins Brewery is definitely worth a visit. Operating under the self given title “The Official Beer of the Earth,” Fort Collins certainly produces some great beer. Stop by the tasting room to enjoy the widely acclaimed Major Tom’s Pomegranate Wheat among other eight other original brews and ask for a tour of the facilities from the brew master himself.

CopperSmiths Pub & Brewing
[where: 5 Old Town Square, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524]
If you’re in the mood for some great food with your beer, head over to CooperSmith’s Pub & Brewing. A local favorite, Coppersmith’s offers both a delicious menu of pub fare as well as a selection of original brews. Kick back during happy hour on one of the spacious patios or play a round of pool in the restaurant’s adjacent pool hall.