Top Picks for best non-alcoholic craft beer selection in downtown Portland breweries with outdoor seating

Essential Shopping List for the Perfect NA Craft Brewery Day in Portland

Buying Guide

1. Insulated Stainless Steel Growler

Why you need it: Many Portland breweries, like Great Notion and Breakside Brewery, now offer high-quality non-alcoholic (NA) beers on tap. A double-walled stainless steel growler keeps your NA IPA or stout cold for 24+ hours, even on a sunny patio. Look for models with a wide mouth for easy pouring and cleaning, and a secure twist cap to avoid spills on the walk between breweries. A 64oz (half-gallon) size is ideal for sharing.

2. Portable Tasting Flight Tray

Why you need it: The best part of exploring Portland’s NA scene is trying multiple styles—from hoppy hop waters to dark, roasty ales. A lightweight, stackable flight tray with slotted holes for four 5oz sample glasses lets you carry flights from the bar to your outdoor table without spilling. This is essential at busy spots like Deschutes Brewery’s outdoor beer garden or Prost!’s Bavarian biergarten.

3. Reusable Silicone Lids for Pint Glasses

Why you need it: If you buy a full pint of NA beer to go and want to savor it while walking along the Willamette River, a universal silicone lid (fits standard pint glasses) prevents splashing. It also keeps out falling leaves or rain—a common Portland reality—while you enjoy Ecliptic Brewing’s patio.

4. Battery-Operated Wine/Bottle Opener

Why you need it: Many NA craft beers come in crown-capped bottles (e.g., Crux Fermentation Project’s Mosaic NA IPA). A battery-powered opener makes opening multiple bottles effortless when your hands are full with a phone or snack. Look for one with a built-in foil cutter for wine-style NA bottles too.

5. Waterproof Picnic Blanket

Why you need it: Portland’s outdoor seating varies from paved patios to grassy knolls (e.g., StormBreaker Brewing’s grassy area). A waterproof-backed blanket keeps you dry if the ground is damp from morning dew or a passing shower. A fold-flat design with a carrying handle fits easily in a backpack or tote.

6. Compact Collapsible Camping Chairs

Why you need it: Not every brewery provides ample seating, especially on busy summer weekends. A pair of lightweight, collapsible chairs (weighing under 5 lbs each) guarantee you a spot in the sun at Occidental Brewing’s outdoor space or the Loyal Legion beer hall’s sidewalk tables. Opt for chairs with a side cup holder for your NA beer.

7. Large-Capacity Insulated Cooler Tote

Why you need it: To transport your growler, bottled NA beers, and snacks (like cheese, crackers, or a Portland-sourced pickle) safely, you need a leakproof, insulated tote. Choose a style with thick insulation and a waterproof interior liner to prevent condensation from soaking your backpack. This is perfect for a self-guided NA beer crawl from Von Ebert Brewing to Upright Brewing.

8. Portable Phone Charger / Power Bank

Why you need it: You’ll rely on your phone for maps, brewery hours, and real-time outdoor seating availability. A 10,000mAh power bank provides 3-4 full charges, ensuring your phone doesn’t die while searching for the perfect NA stout at Ruse Brewing or posting photos of your flights. A slim, pocket-friendly model with a built-in cable is ideal.