At WNY breweries, an outdoor space to have a beer and enjoy the sun

From sunny patios overlooking the water to bucolic breweries set against a backdrop of lush green fields, there are few things more enjoyable and relaxing than enjoying a cold pint outdoors at one of the many unique locations across Western New York.

As we all know, when the weather is nice, you have to make the most of it as much as you can, because things can change very quickly here, locally. And the icy grip of winter is never far away. I hate to say that in the middle of summer, but unfortunately, it’s true.

Whether you’re more of a quiet and serene type or a lively type, local breweries have a beer garden, patio, or outdoor space to satisfy your ice-cold beverage cravings. Here are some potential landing spots to satisfy your sun and beer needs.

Beer Justice Brewery, 3, Hurdville Road, Arcade

If you’re looking for a serene environment to grab a pint or a bite to eat, head to Arcade. Beer Justice’s outdoor space is a place to visit if you’re looking for greener pastures—literally. It’s partially covered and lit, with plenty of tables, Adirondack chairs surrounding fire pits, picnic tables on the lawn, and plenty of greenery to soak in.

BriarBrothers Brewery, 50 Elk Street

Can I interest you in a concrete jungle surrounded by renovated old grain silos? Because if you haven’t visited BriarBrothers Brewery yet, that’s exactly what you’re looking for. The best part of their outdoor space, besides the beer, of course, and the food trucks that often take up residence there, is the Silo Stage, a concert stage literally carved out of the silo. These guys make some of the best beer you’ll find in the area, so make sure to stop by for a few pints sometime soon.

Buffalo River Works, 359, rue Ganson

There are a few obvious choices on this list, and RiverWorks is one of them. Located on the Buffalo River, there’s a waterfront patio with seating for enjoying a meal and adult beverages. There’s also the Silo Patio Bar, where you can sit and have a cold pint amid towering grain silos, and the Riverland Amusement Park, where you can ride a Ferris wheel and go down a giant slide. Beers are optional, but recommended.

Johnson’s landing, 4040 Lake Shore Road, Hamburg

If you prefer breathtaking views of Lake Erie, head to Johnson’s Landing in Hamburg. They have a huge, friendly beer garden with tables, Adirondack chairs, cornhole, fire pits, self-pouring outdoor taps, and more. And that’s just the ground floor. There are also rooftop decks on the second and third floors that offer views of Lake Erie you won’t find anywhere else.

Mystic Hills Brewery, 10959 Allen Road, East Concord

Even though East Concord is off the beaten path, it’s worth the detour, if only for a visit to Mystic Hills Brewery. The quaint little tasting room is home to one of our region’s best-kept brewing secrets. What this intimate space lacks in size, it more than makes up for in lush surroundings. The views are nearly unmatched, with green fields and rolling hills that seem to stretch as far as the eye can see. You won’t want to miss the sunset.

Rusty Nickel Brewery, 4350 Seneca Street, West Seneca

One of the area’s most lavish biergartens can be found behind Rusty Nickel. There’s plenty to enjoy here, including dozens of seats, tables and sofas, fire pits, a stage for live music (which also includes tables when there’s no music), a covered section for some shade, a small pond perfect for contemplation (be sure to bring a cold pint), and more. And it’s all impeccably landscaped.

Wayland Brewery, 3740

N. Buffalo Street, Orchard Park

A true gem in Southtown’s craft beer scene, Wayland Brewing has a robust outdoor space that’s tailor-made for the whole family. There are bocce courts, plenty of tables and benches to sit, drink, and soak up the sun, and even a window to order a cocktail or craft beer so you don’t have to go into the tasting room. Pair a pretzel with a cloudy IPA next time you’re there.