We have been big fans of the Passport Program for quite some time, and love getting to use the Boulder Passport to check out new places or re-visit some of our favorites for 2 for 1 drinks.  Specials run from Memorial Day to Labor Day at a number of local spots, each with their own unique offerings.  We decided to create our own bike tour of places included in this year's summer Boulder Passport and share our experiences along the way! 

Vapor Distillery

We stopped first at one of our absolutely favorite distilleries. The mixologists are very passionate about their liquor and with good reason (it's some of the best!) We often have Andrea as our bartender and she can whip up a fabulous cocktail. She will even make us new cocktails she’s trying out that aren't even on the menu yet. It's these little details that keep you coming back. There isn't any outdoor space, but they have a garage door they'll open on nice days that gives ya that outdoor feel. The indoor space is cool, with funky bright red booths and a textured brass ceiling. Trust us though, the fabulous cocktails, the service, the dimly lit indoor setting, it all fits together like a perfect puzzle!

Wildwoods Brewery

Our next favorite passport spot is Wildwoods Brewery. The location is somewhat hidden, in fact, we actually lived down the street from them for years before finding them through the Passport! The beer is tasty, with new seasonal brews released frequently. When stopped in on our bike tour, they had a Purple Mountain Majesties IPA that was actually PURPLE. We love that they are constantly coming up with new ideas and love trying all the new and different beers every time we’re in. If you go on certain days, they have a food truck outside for some grub. You can enjoy it all while sitting out on their patio!

Elwood Distilling Company

We continued on our bike ride to this hidden gem, located near Arapahoe and 55th.  This distillery is named after the owner's pup (how cute!) and it's in the same spot the previous Avery taproom was located.  Elwood’s Single Malt Whiskey won a gold medal at the Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival. Mike, the owner and distiller, has truly perfected the whiskey making process. He is so interesting to chat with, as he has a true passion for what he does. If you love whiskey, you’ll LOVE Elwood Distillery!  The passport deal for Elwood is any cocktail on the menu, we chose the Blueberry Whiskey Spritzer and it was fabulous.  Sweet, refreshing, and the blueberry did not overwhelm the flavor of the whiskey, but complimented it perfectly.  

Rayback Collective

We then took a longer trip on our bikes to The Rayback Collective.  We love this spot, because it's one of the most unique spots in Boulder! With it's copious amount of food trucks, giant outdoor patio, and extensive beer, wine and cocktail list, there is really something for everyone. The Passport allows you select drafts or house wines if beer isn't your thing. We love that it's along the Goose Creek bike path. It's dog and family friendly, too, so bring the whole gang! We suggest checking their website before you go to see a line up of the food trucks that day.

Arcana

Next, we headed towards Pearl Street and hit up a few more places on the Passport!  Arcana is one of our favorite lesser-known spots on Walnut street.  The interior is quaint and polished, but we typically choose to sit on the patio.  Though it's small, the bar is open to the outside and allows for quick service.  Their Passport deal was just 2 for 1 any cocktail on the menu (which is always fun!).  The drinks pictured here are no longer on the current menu, but they were both unique and delicious (one whiskey and one gin based).  You really can't go wrong with any cocktail on the menu, though.

Japango

From Aracana, we walked over to Japango.  Their Passport drink is Sake Punch Cocktails that are basically sake sangria, and you can't go wrong with that! We decided to try the Rose and Red versions.  The rose had dragon fruit as a garnish and was sweet but definitely a much needed refreshment on a hot day!  The red was more of a traditional sangria, packed with citrus flavor that we absolutely loved.  Stop by during happy hour for some of the best drinks and sushi in Boulder!