Odell Brewing Company

In the heart of the USA, in the picturesque city of Fort Collins, lies one of the most iconic spots for beer enthusiasts — Odell Brewing (Odell Brewing Company). It is not just a bar, but a true legend of the American craft movement, founded back in 1989. The brewery is famous for its independence and the fact that it is completely employee-owned, creating a unique atmosphere of sincere hospitality and dedication to the craft.

The facility is a modern industrial complex that harmoniously combines a high-tech brewhouse with a cozy taproom. The spacious open-air beer garden has become a favorite meeting spot for both locals and tourists. Odell Brewing regularly ranks among the largest independent breweries in the country while maintaining a spirit of innovation and a passion for experimental flavors.

The establishment's primary pride is its balanced varieties: from the classic 90 Shilling to vibrant, hoppy IPAs that have won numerous awards at international competitions. Visiting this attraction is a great way to experience Colorado culture, where brewing traditions are closely interwoven with a love for nature and an active lifestyle.

To check for event information, the availability of specific beer varieties, or to book a tour, you can use the official communication channels. The brewery staff is always ready to help guests plan their perfect visit.

The main reason guests come here is, of course, the tasting. In the taproom, you can order a "tasting flight," which allows you to try several varieties at once: from the legendary amber ale to seasonal novelties and experimental releases. Special attention should be given to the Lugene Chocolate Milk Stout, with its rich, velvety taste, and the refreshing fruit ales.

For those interested in a "behind the scenes" look, there are engaging brewery tours. You can see the massive fermentation tanks, learn about the quality control lab, and discover the secrets of using different hop varieties. Guides provide detailed information about the beer's journey from grain to glass, highlighting the company's environmental initiatives.

Live music is often heard on-site, and during the warmer months, the beer garden opens with a cozy patio where you can relax with friends. Don't forget to stop by the flagship store to pick up unique souvenirs, branded apparel, or rare beer varieties in bottles and cans that are hard to find in regular markets.

Getting to the brewery, located at 800 E Lincoln Ave, is quite simple. If you are arriving from another state or country, the nearest major hub is Denver International Airport (DEN). The drive from the airport to the city takes about an hour via I-25. Commercial shuttles or taxis are also available.

Within the city itself, the most convenient way to get around is by bicycle — Fort Collins is famous for its cycling infrastructure. From the downtown area, you can walk to the brewery in just 20–30 minutes while enjoying the local architecture.

For those who prefer public transport, the MAX bus line, which connects Colorado State University (CSU) to the Lincoln Avenue area, is a great option. If you are planning a tasting, we strongly recommend using taxi services or Uber and Lyft to ensure your trip is as safe as possible.

The history of Odell Brewing began in 1989 when Doug Odell, along with his wife Wynne and sister Corkie, decided to turn his hobby into a family business. The first brewery was housed in an old grain elevator built in 1915. This enterprise became the first craft brewery in the city and only the second in the entire state, sparking the region's vibrant beer culture.

Doug drew inspiration for his recipes from classic British traditions, which he studied during his honeymoon in the UK. The very first varieties — Odell’s Golden Ale and the legendary 90 Shilling amber ale — immediately won the public's love, leading to rapid production expansion. In 1994, the company moved to a new building, and by 2017, production volume reached an impressive 125,000 barrels per year.

One of the most significant dates in the company's history was 2015. To preserve its independence and unique culture, the Odell family launched an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) program, transferring the majority of shares to their employees. Today, it is a 100% employee-owned enterprise that consistently ranks among the top 25 largest craft breweries in the United States.

Interestingly, the brewery actively supports sustainability principles. For example, spent grain is not thrown away but given to local farmers for livestock feed, highlighting the enterprise's close ties to the local community and its commitment to the environment.

For a standard visit to Odell Brewing, we recommend allowing about 2–3 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely enjoy a tasting flight in the beer garden and stop by the gift shop for branded merchandise or a pack of your favorite variety to go.

If you plan to take a full production tour, it's better to add another hour. Tours are popular, so consider waiting times or pre-registration. For those who just want to stop in for a quick glass of refreshing ale after a walk around town, 45–60 minutes will suffice.

The brewery is open to visitors daily, offering a convenient schedule for afternoon relaxation or evening gatherings. Please note that on weekends, the establishment opens an hour earlier:

• Monday and Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Wednesday and Thursday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Fort Collins is a city that invites leisurely strolls, and a visit to the brewery can easily be combined with exploring other interesting sites. The surrounding area is rich in both historical buildings and modern cultural spaces.