I'm going to be in Bend for a few days and two of them overlap the brewfest. I planned the trip not knowing about the fest (everyone knows about the fest but didn't know the dates) but was wondering if anyone has input on going with kids (4 and 6). Main questions: Is it worth going at all with kids? If it is worth it do you have any tips? Are the breweries in Bend good for kids during this time? We were thinking of going to Crux one night for lunch or dinner. Thanks
Kids are allowed until 7pm. I'd suggest planning on going during the afternoon and it'll be fine, there's not a lot to keep them occupied but there's lots of grass to run around and the atmosphere is relaxed. Depending on their ages, you may want to bring some toys/activities to allow you to have more time to sample. In general, Bend's breweries are kid friendly (Boneyard is a notable exception), but some do have 21+ hours at night so check first. Enjoy your visit!
Thanks for the help! Do they have live music at the fest? My kids are pretty easily entertained and love being outside but music always helps. In your opinion what is a better option for food/beer/atmosphere Bend Brewing or Crux? Last year you guys recommended picking up a bottle of Ching Ching during our stopover and it was our favorite beer of the trip. Is the Towneplace Marriott walking distance from anything of interest including the fest? Any major terrain we will have to cover?
Bend Brewing is more casual than Crux, but both are fine for kids and the outdoor space at Crux is great in the Summer. The beer is tasty over a broad range of styles at both places. Hopefully you can scout both out before dinner and see which best fits your family. Can't think of anything notable within walking distance (with kids) of that hotel, but everything in Bend is still a 10 minute or less drive. Getting down to the river is walkable, and Farewell Bend Park has a playground.
Crux wins for me on food, beer and atmosphere. The outdoor area at Crux can't be beat if you have kids.
I'm pretty sure there's some recorded music, but definitely no live acts. The area right in front of the stage has tents and pour stations.
Visited Crux earlier today and had a real nice time. We ended up sitting inside since the outside was packed (at 4:30pm). The food was better than your normal brewery and the beer was delicious. I went with a tasting rack and really liked the NW Pale Ale and the Crux Farmhouse Ale. They offered up a kids menu that wasn't on the website and the servings (for a 6 and 4 year old) were huge and enough for lunch tomorrow. We headed outside for a bit to play in the large grassy area before heading back to the hotel. We saw Atlas Cider and the brewery next door and they appeared to be pretty crowded. I'll be at the fest tomorrow early in the day and maybe at night once my kids pass out. If you see a guy with a blue dodger hat with a gray bill say hi.
