Ten best beer patios

It’s almost summer, the sun’s out and you’re ready to chill—and enjoy a chilled brew—with friends. You could throw a backyard bash, sure. Or take the easy route and party on someone else’s patio.

Following is a guide to 10 of the best beer-centric patios in the Sacramento region. Bonus: Many of them are dog- and kid-friendly, too. Order another round and stay for awhile.

Kupros Craft House

Kupros is popular with the happy hour crowd—and for good reason. With 22 beers on tap and a tasty small plates menu that includes copious vegetarian options (Deep-fried seasonal veggies? Yes, please), Kupros has plenty to offer—including a lovely view from the rooftop patio of the charming Craftsman bungalow. The vibe and feel of this place on a breezy summer night is quintessentially Sacramento: leisurely, friendly and always ready for another round as the day fades into dusk.

1217 21st Street; http://kuproscrafthouse.com.

Sacyard Community Taphouse

This East Sac spot is a must-visit for several reasons, not the least of which is a shade-covered patio big enough to house giant throngs of thirsty drinkers, hordes of frolicking kids and dogs, and a live band. Factor in its location—close to Midtown but with way easier parking options—and a massive beer list, and you’ve got the best excuse to wile away the afternoon.

725 33rd Street; https://sacyard.beer.

Oakhaus

Popular for its generous list of German-styled beers and fare, Oakhaus invites with its kitschy and colorful thrift store-inspired interior. Be sure to venture out onto the patio, too, especially on a nice summer night. It’s not the biggest patio in town, but with its view of Oak Park’s light-strewn Broadway corridor it exudes a neighborhood feel that’s at once magical and familiar.

3413 Broadway; www.oakhaussac.com

Fieldwork Brewing Company

This Midtown taproom’s outdoor space is, admittedly, pretty small by patio standards—indeed you may find yourself pressed against the railing waiting for a table. Once you do snag that seat, however, enjoy some of the best brews around (check out their always tasty hazy options) flanked by beer hipsters and happy-go-lucky dogs—the latter whom, incidentally, you can (and should) ply with the free dog treats that Fieldwork keeps stocked inside.

1805 Capitol Avenue; https://fieldworkbrewing.com/sacramento.

University of Beer

On the west side of the causeway, the patio at the University of Beer outpost in downtown Davis is not very big, but if you can get a seat it makes for a fun and relaxing way to enjoy a lazy afternoon. And with 60 beers on tap (60!) there’s sure to be something for every taste. Unsure of what to get? Ask the bartender to curate a flight and try a little bit of almost anything. Of note: This location doesn’t serve food, but patrons are welcome to bring their own.

615 Third Street in Davis; www.theuob.com.

Federalist Public House

OK, sure, Federalist is probably better known for its pizza, but regulars know the pizzeria, housed in a set of open-air shipping containers, also boasts a compact but impressive list of local and regional drafts. Pair those (and pizza, too, natch) with a game of bocce ball and you’re set for a fun and family fiendly afternoon.

2009 Matsui Alley; https://federalistpublichouse.com.

Berryessa Brewing Company

If you’ve got a day to spare, spend it at this Winters-based brewery. Located about an hour north of Sacramento, Berryessa is a weekend destination (it’s only open Friday-Sunday) thanks to its exceptionally tasty beers and giant, shade-covered patio. In short, it’s the ideal place to hang out, listen to live music and get some grub from the food truck. If it’s extra-hot don’t forget that Berryessa is just a short car ride from Lake Solano or Putah Creek—perfect for a quick dip.

27260 State Highway 128 in Winters; http://berryessabrewingco.com.

Capitol Beer & Tap Room

With nearly two dozen beers on tap (and a bottle shop stocked for to-go orders), this Arden-Arcade spot has ample outside seating. Popular for its laid-back atmosphere, some may see it as a fresh alternative to Midtown’s beer nerd vibe.

2222 Fair Oaks Boulevard; www.capitolbeer.com.

Der Biergarten

Listen, Midtown’s Biergarten isn’t just known for having a great patio—it is a patio. Located along a bustling stretch of K Street, it promises an abundance of sunshine, people-watching and icy cold German, American and Belgian brews. Raining? Move along, they’ll be closed until dry weather returns.

2332 K Street; http://beergardensacramento.com.

Hop Gardens Taproom

One of the newest entries in the local beer scene, Hop Gardens resides in the former Coffee Garden location in Curtis Park—just steps away from Pangaea Bier Cafe. The interior’s undergone a makeover since its caffeinated days and the back patio has a fresh look, too. With clean lines, reclaimed wood detailing and enough room for the kiddos to run around, Hop Gardens is a lovely spot for an afternoon sip. Oh, and its impressively diverse draft list, rich in beers not available elsewhere locally, is an obvious plus.

2904 Franklin Boulevard; www.facebook.com/HopGardensCurtisPark.