For those new to Vancouver’s craft beer scene, navigating the downtown breweries offers a laid-back introduction. Spanning a walkable one-and-a-half-mile stretch, find a dozen breweries and taprooms to explore (pro tip: pacing yourself is key—don't attempt to conquer them all in a single day!), launching on a self-guided walking tour is the ideal method to drench yourself in all things "Brewcouver."
Start at the Waterfront ⇩
STOP 1: While their pioneer location started in southeast Portland, Ruse Brewing has expanded its reach across the Columbia River, introducing the "Crust Collective," where patrons can relish in Detroit-style pizza alongside a selection of 12 original taps. Catering to all tastes, the menu also features seltzers, wine, and nonalcoholic beverages at this family-friendly establishment adjacent to Vancouver's Waterfront Park. What sets Detroit-style pizza apart? Anticipate a rectangular deep-dish pie boasting a thick, yet light crust, generously topped with cheese and an array of toppings.
STOP 2: At the opposite side of the riverfront development, don't miss out on The Waterfront Taphouse. Situated on the second floor with stunning views overlooking the Grant Street Pier from the north shore of the Columbia River. The taphouse offers an upscale ambiance and a selection of 25 beers on tap, along with a diverse menu of pub fare, it's the perfect spot to enjoy local flavors in style.
Work Your Way North ⇧
STOP 3: Transitioning from newcomers to downtown Vancouver veterans, Loowit Brewing stands as one of the esteemed pioneers of the city's burgeoning craft beer movement. Renowned for its award-winning brews and relaxed setting featuring garage doors, vintage arcade games, live music, and a family-friendly vibe, Loowit offers an experience to savor. Be sure to sample the Shadow Shinobi, the brewery's flagship beer with a rich history, epitomizing the classic Northwest-style IPA.
STOP 4: Head two more blocks north to Locust Cider & Brewing Co. and explore their unique cider flavors like Dark Cherry and Honey Pear. Don’t miss the flights paired with a flatbread or savory snack. Locust Cider aims to make you say, “Hell yeah, that’s amazing!” by respecting tradition while experimenting with new flavors using real ingredients. Their taprooms are the perfect place to try bold combinations like Smoked Blueberry, Dates and Brown Sugar, or Vanilla Bean ciders. Discover the world of cider with their innovative creations.
STOP 5: Barely a block away is A Little Vice, a vibrant 80s and 90s music themed hot spot. The taphouse is labeled with a fitting name, 'a tiny beer bar', representing a smaller version of its parent, Vice Beer. Little Vice is just that, seating up to about two dozen people you can enjoy any of their craft beers on tap. They partner with their neighbor Slow Fox Chili to provide slow-cooked comfort food too.
STOP 6: Head another few blocks north to Brothers Cascadia. From humble beginnings, Brothers Cascadia has always aimed to make better beer. They proudly showcase their craft and personalities in every experience. Visit to enjoy their award-winning beers, top-notch food, like Steak Sandwiches or a Scotch Egg, and a unique Cascadian vibe. Their kid-friendly brewery welcomes the whole family!
STOP 7: Just up the street, Heathen Brewing’s Feral Public House invites craft beer enthusiasts with its “progressive ales for the promiscuous palate.” Embrace the irreverence with beers like Promiscuous Blonde, featuring seductive Saaz hops, and the 8.7% ABV Son of Malice Imperial IPA. Enjoy a flight of their many sours, such as Guava of the Galaxy or Seeds of Darkness. Don't miss happy hour on the massive patio for pub grub and discounted drinks.
STOP 8: Before heading north to Uptown Village, stop by Tap Union Freehouse, known for its 32-oz birthday steins. With 20 rotating taps, it offers a variety of local brews and rare finds. If it’s not on tap, grab a bottle or tallboy from the cooler. For a cozy experience, visit the upstairs space featuring overstuffed chairs and board games.
Head to Uptown ⇪
STOP 9: Next stop on the list is Irrelevant Beer. They stand out by crafting modern twists on classic beer styles, with a particular focus on their exceptionally tasty IPAs and Lagers. Every Friday through Sunday, they roll up the garage door, inviting patrons into a cozy, thoughtfully designed space to enjoy pints of their delicious brews. The friendly staff enhances the welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind and savor expertly crafted beers.
STOP 10: When the apocalypse looms, head up Main Street to Doomsday Brewing Safe House for a pint of Nuclear IPA or Redemption Red. As Doomsday’s Vancouver outpost (with brewing operations based in Washougal), it brings a steampunk flair to Uptown Village. Inside, skulls and apocalyptic murals adorn the walls, while the expansive patio out back offers a great spot to enjoy a game of pinball and relax with a brew.
STOP 11: Follow in the footsteps of Bigfoot himself and take a trip up the block to enjoy the woodsy tavern meets hipster taproom vibes of The Thirsty Sasquatch. The trendy, re-modeled spot features fun craft cocktails, rare beer bottles, 22-inch pizza pies, and a room dedicated to pinball.
STOP 12: The northernmost purveyor of suds on Main Street, Trap Door Brewing anchors Uptown Village’s lively food cart pod. Its best beers are often juicy and experimental, such as its hazy IPAs laden with Citra hops or its fruit-forward concoctions like the Mango Lassi Sour Gose. The pints taste great inside the taproom, but they’re best enjoyed on the covered "Beer Porch"—complete with gas fire pits.
Find a map of all Clark County breweries and taprooms here.
(Header photo by Stuart Mullenberg for Visit Vancouver WA)