The fading of winter’s chill leads us into the beautiful blue skies of spring. Gone are the days of sipping stouts indoors, alone by a cozy fire. Now is the time to join with others and bask in the warmth of the sun while enjoying bright, refreshing pilsners. Yes, it’s finally beer garden season.
The beer garden (or biergarten if you’re hardcore) is a traditional German outdoor pub serving beer and food at communal tables. Like so many other great European beer traditions, breweries and restaurants in the United States have put their own twist on this important cultural gathering spot. Here are five of the best beer gardens in the U.S.
Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens, Liberty Station
San Diego, California
Stone Brewing may be the “arrogant bastards” of beer, but with 40 taps of craft brews, farm-to-table dining and beautiful design, they have good reason to boast about this San Diego beer garden. At the adjacent company store, you can purchase exclusive beers brewed onsite.
Trillium Garden
Boston, Massachusetts
Winter weather in Boston is serious business, so the return of spring weather is cause for outdoor celebration. Trillium is not only producing some of the country’s best IPAs, it’s also dedicated to supporting community. “Trillium Garden” is the brewery’s initiative to create temporary, seasonal beer gardens. In 2017 and 2018, the Trillium Garden pop-up in Rose Kennedy Greenway had everything you could want in a beer garden: fun patrons, a gorgeous natural setting, and amazing beer on tap.
Lowry Beer Garden
Denver, Colorado
Denver’s Lowry Beer Garden is an expansive space that serves a wide variety of Colorado-brewed beer. The “local” focus extends to the kitchen selections, with regional sausages and in-house prep work. Located next door to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, you can take in a little history with your beer as well.
Prost!
Portland, Oregon
In a city with a ridiculous number of excellent local breweries, Prost! is bucking the trend and re-creating a traditional German vibe. That theme includes the beers on tap, so brush up on your German pronunciations as you make your way to the bar. The large deck and access to food trucks make this an important gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.
Bohemian Hall
New York City, New York
With roots going back to the early 20th century, the Beer Garden at Bohemian Hall creates a slice of peace and respite in New York City. Amid the hustle and bustle of city life, it’s nice to take a step back and enjoy nature with your fellow man. That’s what Bohemian Hall strives to accomplish with its tree-lined beer garden, long family-style tables and traditional German fare.
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