Deschutes Brewery is a craft brewery in Bend, Oregon, with a taproom, restaurant, and distribution network across the western United States
Deschutes Brewery opened in 1988 in Bend, Oregon, and operates as both a production facility and a public gathering space. The main location sits on the Deschutes River in downtown Bend and serves as a working brewery, restaurant, and taproom where you can order beer and food. The brewery also distributes its beers to stores and restaurants in multiple states, primarily in the West and Pacific Northwest, though availability varies by location and state.
If you are planning to visit in person, the Bend location is the primary destination. The brewery also operates a smaller taproom in Portland, Oregon. Both locations function as restaurants with full menus, not just beer bars. The Bend location is larger and includes a view of the production brewery itself, which you can see from the dining area and taproom.
Key Takeaways
- Deschutes Brewery's main location in Bend, Oregon, combines a working brewery, restaurant, and public taproom in one building on the Deschutes River.
- The taproom serves food from a full kitchen menu alongside beer, so you can order a meal rather than just drinks.
- Deschutes beers are sold in bottles and cans at grocery stores and liquor stores across the western United States, though which products are available depends on your state and local distributor.
- The brewery does not charge an entry fee to visit the taproom or restaurant, but you pay for what you order.
- Tours of the production brewery are not regularly scheduled, though special events and group visits may be arranged through the brewery directly.
What to expect when you visit the Bend taproom
The Bend location operates as a restaurant and bar combined. You can walk in without a reservation during most hours, though busy times (weekends, summer evenings) may have a wait. The space includes a bar where you can order beer by the glass or pint, and a dining area where you order from a kitchen menu. The brewery serves its own beers on tap alongside a small selection of other beverages.
The menu includes burgers, sandwiches, salads, and entrees. Prices are typical for a restaurant in a tourist destination — higher than a casual chain but not fine dining. The kitchen is open during the same hours as the taproom. You can order beer and food together or separately, and there is no minimum purchase.
The building has windows overlooking the production brewery floor, so you can see the brewing equipment and tanks while you eat or drink. This is not a formal tour with a guide, but rather a view into the working facility from the dining area.
Deschutes beers you can buy at stores
Deschutes distributes beer to retail locations across multiple states, primarily in the West. The most widely available products are Black Butte Porter, Mirror Pond Pale Ale, and Fresh Squeezed IPA. Seasonal beers rotate throughout the year and may be available for limited periods. Availability depends on your state and which distributor serves your area — some states have broader distribution than others.
You can find Deschutes beer in bottles, cans, and on draft at grocery stores, liquor stores, and bars. The brewery's website includes a beer finder tool where you enter your location and see which products are currently distributed to stores near you. Prices vary by retailer and package size, but are generally in the mid-range for craft beer.
The difference between the Bend and Portland locations
The Bend brewery is the original and larger location. It includes the production facility, a full restaurant, and a larger taproom. The Portland location is a smaller taproom and restaurant without a production brewery attached. Both serve Deschutes beers and food, but the Bend location offers the experience of being inside an active brewery.
The Portland taproom is located in the Pearl District and serves the same beers and a similar menu to the Bend location, but in a smaller space. If you are in Portland and want to visit a Deschutes taproom without traveling to Bend, the Portland location is the option, though it does not include a view of brewing equipment.
Ordering Deschutes beer online or by mail
Deschutes does not sell beer directly to consumers through its website or by mail order. Beer shipping laws vary by state, and most states do not allow breweries to ship directly to consumers. Instead, you purchase Deschutes beer through retail stores, bars, and restaurants in your area.
Some states allow beer delivery through third-party services like Instacart or DoorDash, which partner with local liquor stores. In those cases, you would order through the delivery service, not directly from the brewery. Check your state's alcohol laws and your local delivery service to see what options are available where you live.
Visiting Bend and planning your brewery trip
Bend is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and tourism. The Deschutes Brewery taproom is centrally located in downtown Bend and is open year-round. Hours vary by season, with longer hours in summer and shorter hours in winter. The brewery's website lists current hours and any special events or closures.
Parking is available on the street and in nearby lots. The location is walkable from downtown hotels and shops. During peak summer months and weekends, the taproom can be crowded, so arriving early or during off-peak hours (weekday afternoons) may mean shorter waits. The brewery is family-friendly during daytime hours, though it functions as a bar in the evenings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take a tour of the brewery?
Regular public tours are not offered, but you can see the production brewery from the taproom dining area. For group tours or special visits, contact the brewery directly through their website to ask about options and availability.
Do I need to make a reservation to eat at the Bend taproom?
Reservations are not required for the taproom, and you can walk in during most hours. Large groups may want to call ahead, and reservations may be recommended during peak times like summer weekends.
What is the age policy for the taproom?
The taproom is open to all ages during daytime and early evening hours when functioning as a restaurant. After a certain hour it becomes a bar with age restrictions. Check the brewery's website or call ahead to confirm the specific age policy for the time you plan to visit.
Where can I find Deschutes beer near me?
Use the beer finder tool on the Deschutes Brewery website. Enter your location and it will show which products are distributed to stores in your area. Availability changes based on your state and local distributor.
Does Deschutes make non-alcoholic beer?
Deschutes produces primarily alcoholic craft beer. Check their website or call the brewery to ask about any non-alcoholic options they may offer, as product lines can change.