If you’ve been to Golden, Colorado then you have more than likely toured Coors Brewery – or at least seen it – but have you checked out the second largest brewery in Golden? If you haven’t hit Golden City Brewery then you’re missing out.
On Friday and Saturday afternoons the beer garden is crowed with locals and tourists alike sipping pints of Clear Creak Golden Pale Ale, Legendary Red Ale or one of the many other brews GCB is known for. Unlike the Coors brewery, which covers a few hundred square miles, GCB is located in a residential area in downtown Golden. The owners, Janine and Charlie Sturdavant started making beer in the old machine shop behind their historic Golden home back in 1993. Since then their homemade German-style ales have become one of Golden’s trademarks and the locals favorite watering hole.
The couple still produces beer in the old machine shop behind their house and the tasting room is in the carriage house and the beer garden, well it’s their backyard. The Sturdavant’s have been looking to expand their operations and recently made an offer on the historic Golden post office, but they were refused. If you’re planning your trip in the next six-12 months double-check the location before heading out.
Good beer, friendly people.
Shell came out this past month for a short visit so GCB was a must stop on the “See Golden” list. We were able to make it for happy hour on Friday, which was packed at 4:30 pm. We were able to snag a few chairs after getting two samplers (yes two, the line was long so we needed to make sure we weren’t going to go thirsty). You never know whom you’re going to meet or chat with given the locals scene at GCB – or what local musician
might be providing a free show. We were lucky to grab a few chairs next to some interesting folks who kept the conversations interesting…I’m a firm believer that you’re supposed to meet people for a reason so keep an open mind and an open conversation at GCB, you may be pleasantly surprised at what you learn.
Main Take Aways
- Bathrooms are limited. There is one port-a-potty outside an one restroom inside. The good thing, both are clean. There is no wait staff so prepare to stand in line.
- If it’s your first visit to GCB start with the sampler and go then determine what pint or pitcher you want to sip on. Make sure to ask to taste the seasonal ales (Goldener Gose was Shell’s favorite).
- You can purchase a jug to take with you for $15 and bring it back for a refill for $12.50. Unfortunately you can’t ship beer or order it online. Shell had purchased a jug of Goldener Gose to take back to Texas but given the 3oz airline restrictions she ended up smuggling a few small containers in her carry on.)
Verdict:
GCB is a great “local” experience so it’s must for tourists trying to truly see Golden. If you have the kids in tow, no need to fret, bring them along as there is a small play area for the kids and they can munch on the complimentary pretzels (just know the hot mustard may clear their sinus’.)
Hours/Location
- GCB is in a residential area and if you blink you will miss it.
- It opens at 11:30am and closes at 6:30pm (remember, they’re in a residential area, to keep the peace with the neighbors they have to close early).
920 12th Street
Golden, CO 80401