Top Restaurants & Breweries to Check Out After Rafting in Buena Vista

Rafting Browns Canyon or the Arkansas River is an unforgettable adventure — thrilling rapids, stunning scenery, and pure Colorado fun. But once you’re off the river, you’ll want to relax with great food, a cold drink, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Here are some of the best restaurants and breweries in Buena Vista, Colorado, to refuel and celebrate after your rafting trip.

🍴 Restaurants Worth a Stop

• Simple Eatery
• A local favorite, Simple Eatery serves up fresh, creative comfort food in a relaxed setting. From homemade soups and artisan sandwiches to hearty entrées, it’s the perfect stop for groups wanting a satisfying post-rafting meal without any fuss.

• Eddyline Restaurant @ South Main
• Located in the heart of Buena Vista, Eddyline Restaurant at South Main combines its brewery roots with a full menu. Enjoy pizzas, burgers, and hearty mains that pair perfectly with their craft brews. It’s a go-to spot for both lunch and dinner after a day on the river.

• Quincy’s Steak & Spirits
• Craving a steak dinner after paddling all day? Quincy’s Steak & Spirits offers a classic menu with perfectly grilled cuts and a relaxed, old-school Colorado vibe. It’s ideal for groups or anyone wanting a more substantial, sit-down meal.

• Crave BV
• For something a little more elevated, Crave BV offers inventive dishes in a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Expect creative seasonal plates, craft cocktails, and an inviting space — perfect for couples or small groups winding down after rafting.

• The Lariat
• The Lariat blends small-town charm with live music, good food, and a lively bar scene. Grab a burger, share a plate of nachos, and enjoy a local band in this laid-back Buena Vista favorite. It’s one of the best spots for a casual night out after a day on the river.

🍺 Breweries, Taprooms & Beer Bars

• Eddyline Brewery & Taproom
• A staple in Buena Vista’s craft beer scene, Eddyline Brewery & Taproom offers a rotating selection of IPAs, ales, and seasonal brews. Pair your pint with a wood-fired pizza or hearty pub fare, and enjoy the relaxed mountain-town atmosphere.

• Browns Canyon Brewing Company
• Right near the Arkansas River, Browns Canyon Brewing Company is a must-visit for rafters. The riverside beer garden is family-friendly, featuring a food truck, live music, and plenty of outdoor seating — the perfect way to end your adventure without straying far from the river.

• The Jailhouse Craft Beer Bar
• For a more intimate, historic vibe, head to The Jailhouse Craft Beer Bar — housed in a restored 1880s jailhouse. It offers a curated list of craft beers, small bites, and a cozy atmosphere that feels authentically Buena Vista.

• Nearby: Elevation Beer Company (Poncha Springs)
• Just a short drive away, Elevation Beer Company in Poncha Springs is worth the trip. Known for its creative beer lineup and friendly staff, it’s a great way to cap off your rafting weekend with another taste of Colorado’s vibrant craft beer culture.

⏰ Timing Tips & Pairing Suggestions

• Early Dinner or “Raft + Drink” Window: Most rafting trips return by late afternoon. Eddyline’s taproom opens at noon and stays open late — ideal for a quick beer or early dinner.

• Riverside Vibes: Browns Canyon Brewing’s food truck and outdoor garden make it a scenic, convenient post-raft stop.

• Small Bites vs. Full Meals: The Jailhouse is great for light fare or beer-and-appetizer combos, while Eddyline, Quincy’s, or Crave are better for full dinners.

• Group-Friendly vs. Cozy Ambiance: Simple Eatery and Eddyline work well for families or large groups; Crave and The Jailhouse offer a quieter, more intimate setting.

Final Thoughts

Buena Vista’s restaurant and brewery scene perfectly complements its outdoor adventures. Whether you’re celebrating a successful run through Browns Canyon or just soaking in mountain views, these local spots promise great food, friendly faces, and a true taste of Colorado.