Durango's beloved craft brewery in a historic downtown building with over 20 beers on tap and a full pub menu. Steamworks is a cornerstone of Durango's vibrant craft beer scene and a must-visit after riding the Durango-Silverton Railroad.
Steamworks Brewing Company at 801 E 2nd Avenue is Durango's flagship craft brewery and one of the Colorado Southwest's most celebrated brewing operations, occupying a large historic downtown building that has served the Durango community since the brewery opened in 1996. The brewery produces all of its beers on-site, typically maintaining 20 or more different beers on tap at any given time — an unusually large active lineup that spans lagers, pale ales, IPAs, wheat beers, stouts, porters, and seasonal limited releases.
The Steam Engine Lager ($7) is the brewery's most accessible and popular beer — a clean, crisp Central European lager-style beer that represents the lighter end of the Steamworks lineup and pairs broadly with the pub food menu. The Durango Porter ($7) sits at the opposite end of the spectrum: dark, roasty, and full-bodied, with the coffee and dark chocolate notes that define English porter tradition. Green chile nachos ($14) are the menu's most Colorado-specific item, incorporating Pueblo green chile over house-made tortilla chips with house cheese sauce and toppings that reflect the Southwest food tradition Durango inhabits.
The brewery and pub space occupies a sprawling two-story historic building near Durango's main rail corridor, with exposed brick, industrial lighting, and a layout that accommodates a wide range of party sizes and dining configurations. The proximity to the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad depot makes Steamworks a logical post-railroad meal, and the brewery operates as one of the most practical large-group dining options in downtown Durango.
The kitchen serves lunch and dinner daily and extends to a full pub menu including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. A second Steamworks location operates in Steamboat Springs.
Signature dishes
- Steam Engine Lager — $7
- Green chile nachos — $14
- Durango porter — $7
Good to know
- Known for
- Durango's flagship craft brewery with 20+ beers on tap in a historic downtown building
- Hours
- 11AM-11PM daily
Location
801 E 2nd Ave, Durango, CO 81301
37.2762, -107.8765 View on map
Highlights
- Durango's flagship craft brewery since 1996 with 20+ beers on tap at all times
- Steam Engine Lager and Durango Porter represent the full spectrum of the brewery's range
- Green chile nachos are the most Colorado-specific item on the pub food menu
- Historic two-story downtown building near the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad depot
- Large-format pub space — one of Durango's most practical options for groups of any size
Tips for visiting
- The beer sampler flight is the best approach on a first visit — 20+ options on tap makes individual ordering decisions difficult.
- Arriving after the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad afternoon return is the classic Durango visitor combination.
- Steamworks handles large groups more easily than most Durango restaurants — calling ahead for parties of 8+ is advisable.
- The seasonal limited beers change frequently; asking the bar staff what's new on tap catches releases not on the standard menu.
- The upper level of the pub is somewhat quieter than the main floor and works better for conversation-focused meals.
Accessibility
Steamworks Brewing is at 801 E 2nd Ave in downtown Durango with ground-floor entry and step-free access to the main level pub and dining area. The second-floor level is accessed via stairs. Wheelchair users should request main-level seating. Downtown Durango parking is available on adjacent streets.
Frequently asked questions
How many beers does Steamworks brew?
Steamworks Brewing typically has 20 or more different house-brewed beers on tap at any given time, spanning lagers, ales, IPAs, stouts, porters, and seasonal releases. The active tap count is one of the largest among Colorado craft brewpubs.
Is Steamworks near the Durango and Silverton Railroad?
Yes. Steamworks Brewing at 801 E 2nd Ave is within easy walking distance of Durango's historic railroad depot where the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad departs and arrives. Post-railroad visits to Steamworks are a very common Durango activity combination.
Does Steamworks have a second location?
Yes. A second Steamworks Brewing location operates in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Both locations brew Steamworks beers on-site.
Is Steamworks good for large groups?
Yes. Steamworks' large two-story space is one of the most practical large-group dining options in downtown Durango. Calling ahead for parties of 8 or more is advisable to ensure adequate seating is arranged.