Oregon is known for its epic natural beauty and booming craft beer culture — but did you know some of its best small-batch brews are being poured in places time almost forgot? From once-bustling mining camps to old logging towns now populated by just a few residents, these ghost towns (or near-ghost towns) hide unexpectedly vibrant breweries worth a road trip detour. Here are Oregon’s ghost towns with craft breweries that are keeping history — and hops — alive.
1. Shaniko – Home of the Desert Rat Brewery
Shaniko, once hailed as the “Wool Capital of the World,” now echoes with tales from the past. This ghost town offers a vintage experience, especially during its summer festivals. At the heart of this historic hub is the Desert Rat Brewery, a seasonal pop-up run by local enthusiasts. Here, small-batch ales are served amidst the charm of old-time saloons. The highlight brew, ‘Stagecoach Amber,’ pays homage to the town’s stagecoach heritage with its smooth, amber tones. Visitors can enjoy both history and hops in this intriguing blend of past and present.
2. Mitchell – Painted Hills Saloon & Brewery
Mitchell, a town that nearly faded away with the decline of the lumber industry, now thrives on its community spirit. Tiger Town Brewing, previously known as Painted Hills Saloon, is a cozy spot that brings locals and visitors together. The warmth of this place is matched by its rotating brews that offer something new every visit. Among the favorites is the Juniper IPA, with its crisp, piney flavor that perfectly complements a hike in the nearby Painted Hills. This brewery is a testament to Mitchell’s resilience and love for craft beer.
3. Sumpter – Gold Rush Roots with Golden Ales
Sumpter, once a booming gold-mining town, is now a blend of history and festivities. Though it lacks a permanent brewery, the town comes alive during Sumpter Valley Dredge Days. Local brewers set up pop-up beer tents, offering gold-themed craft ales that nod to its mining roots. Visitors can savor anything labeled ‘golden,’ brewed by Eastern Oregon small-batch brewers. The festive atmosphere, mixed with echoes of the past, makes Sumpter a unique destination for history buffs and beer lovers alike.
4. Greenhorn – Oregon’s Highest Ghost Town
Perched at Oregon’s highest elevation, Greenhorn is a ghost town with a breathtaking backdrop. Though it has no permanent residents, it attracts adventurers and beer enthusiasts during seasonal gatherings. Traveling brewers, like Backwoods Brewing from Washington, host beer tasting events nearby. This nomadic experience offers campers and off-roaders a chance to enjoy a Pine Drop Pale Ale amidst stunning mountain views. Greenhorn is a hidden gem for those who seek solitude and a taste of craft beer adventure.
5. Antelope – Big on History, Quiet on the Map
Antelope’s turbulent past with the Rajneesh movement has made it a focal point of intrigue. Today, the town is quiet, with history whispering through its streets. Ghost Hollow Brewing Co., a mobile brewer, pops up here in the summer, offering homebrew-style pours inspired by Oregon’s forgotten places. The Raj IPA is a favorite, providing a spicy finish as a tongue-in-cheek tribute to the town’s unique past. Antelope is not just a relic of history but a quaint spot for those seeking off-the-beaten-path brews.
6. Granite – One of Oregon’s Most Remote Towns
Granite, a remote ghost town, is a place of rugged beauty and historic allure. With a population that dwindled after WWII, it offers a rare glimpse into a forgotten past. While there is no permanent brewery, Barley Brown’s Beer from nearby Baker City often features in seasonal events. Hikers and history enthusiasts gather to share Tumble Off Trail Ale, celebrating the spirit of adventure. Granite’s isolation adds to its charm, providing a peaceful retreat for those seeking both nature and a unique taste of Oregon’s brewing craft.
7. Dufur – A Historic Grain Town Reinvented
Dufur, once a bustling rail hub, now quietly thrives as a farming community. Dufur Valley Brewing has transformed a barn into a delightful brewery, focusing on wheat-forward ales and farmhouse saisons. The Dufur Dust Saison, made with local grains and wild yeast, is a testament to the town’s agricultural roots. Visitors can relax in this rustic setting, enjoying the slow pace and scenic views. Dufur’s reinvention as a brewery hub highlights its resilience and connection to the land, making it a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts.
8. Bonanza – Off-the-Map and Full of Local Flavor
Bonanza, a town that quietly slipped off the map, is rich in local flavor and community spirit. Basin Brewing Co. keeps the town’s heart beating with its rustic vibes and community-run taps. Their Homesteader’s Honey Wheat is a crowd favorite, offering a mild and smooth taste that reflects the town’s pastoral charm. The brewery’s focus on hyper-local ingredients and flavors makes it a unique stop for those exploring Oregon’s hidden corners. Bonanza is a testament to the power of community and the craft of brewing.
9. Condon – Vintage Vibes, Small-Batch Sips
Condon, with its vintage vibe, offers a nostalgic trip through Oregon’s past. Once thriving on wheat and railroads, much of the old district now lies quiet. Blue Basin Brewing has breathed new life into a historic storefront, creating a brewpub where small-batch sips meet history. The Railcar Red Ale stands out, a nod to the tracks that built, then abandoned the town. Condon’s charm and brews make it a delightful detour for those tracing Oregon’s storied paths and seeking a taste of small-town craftsmanship.
10. Jacksonville – Not Quite a Ghost Town, But Full of Gold Rush History
Jacksonville is a town steeped in Gold Rush history, its streets lined with preserved 1800s buildings. While not a ghost town, it echoes with tales of boom and bust. Schoolhaus Brewhaus, set in a historic schoolhouse, offers German-style craft beers that blend perfectly with the town’s rich past. The Black Forest Schwarzbier is a highlight, capturing the frontier charm in every sip. Jacksonville, with its scenic beauty and historic allure, is a captivating stop for those exploring Oregon’s unique blend of history and hops.
