Central Oregon’s vibrant craft beer landscape is experiencing a significant period of growth, with several prominent breweries, including Initiative Brewing, Sunriver Brewing Company, and Wild Ride Brewing, actively expanding their footprints across the region.
Initiative Brewing Broadens Reach
Initiative Brewing, a company that began its journey in Redmond with its inaugural location, The Hub, situated on 5th Street in downtown Redmond, has continued its expansion. This growth signifies the brewery’s increasing popularity and commitment to serving a wider audience within Central Oregon.
Sunriver Brewing Company Establishes Sixth Location
Founded in 2012, Sunriver Brewing Company has steadily grown its presence. The brewery celebrated a major milestone in July 2025 with the opening of its sixth location. This new establishment is strategically located in Redmond, specifically within the Westmount building, marking another step in its regional expansion.
Wild Ride Brewing’s Dual Presence
Wild Ride Brewing, which first set down roots in Redmond in May 2014, has also been busy extending its reach. In May 2022, the brewery expanded its operations to Prineville. Wild Ride Brewing is known for cultivating family-friendly environments at both of its locations, offering a diverse selection of beers and seltzers available on tap to patrons.
Kobold Brewing’s Growing Footprint
Adding to the dynamic brewing scene, Kobold Brewing also maintains a notable presence in the area. The company operates its original venue, The Vault, in downtown Redmond. Complementing this, Kobold Brewing’s second location, The Lair, located on Bond Street in downtown Bend, is currently undergoing renovations, suggesting future enhancements and a continued commitment to the Bend market.
Local Brewery Hubs and Future Developments
In Madras, The Spot serves as a community hub, showcasing a variety of local breweries, including offerings from Initiative, Cascade Lakes, and Sunriver Brewing Company. This collaborative spirit highlights the interconnectedness of the region’s craft beverage industry.
Looking further ahead, the Central Oregon region is anticipating the development of the John Brown Entertainment and Event Center. This new venue is slated for a summer 2026 opening and is designed to accommodate a substantial number of attendees, with a capacity of up to 770 for concert events and 231 for dining-focused occasions. The addition of such a venue is expected to further bolster the area’s entertainment and hospitality sectors, likely benefiting local breweries and businesses by providing new opportunities for engagement and sales.
The ongoing expansions and new developments across Central Oregon underscore a robust and growing market for craft beverages and entertainment. These strategic moves by breweries like Initiative, Sunriver, and Wild Ride, alongside establishments like The Spot and the forthcoming John Brown Entertainment and Event Center, indicate a positive trajectory for the region’s economy and its appeal to both residents and visitors.
