The days might be getting shorter, but there's still plenty of time to enjoy a great craft beer before summer officially winds down. If you're looking for a perfect spot to relax, cool off, and enjoy some local brews, Fort Rock Brewing (12401 Folsom Boulevard Suite 100, Rancho Cordova) is a must-visit. The brewery opened in the historic Nimbus Winery building in March 2017, and their dedication to crafting "Just Great Beer" has paid off as they've since expanded their reach throughout Northern California. Here are five great reasons to add a Fort Rock visit to your summer bucket list.

A busy taproom with beer being poured and the Fort Rock sign above the bargn — *The Barrel District in Rancho Cordova is home to Fort Rock Brewing, an award-winning brewery conveniently located off of Highway 50 at the Hazel Avenue exit.*

1. Award-Winning Beer On Tap

Fort Rock Brewing has a reputation for crafting delicious beer and they have the awards to prove it. Just months after the brewery first opened in 2017, their Folsom Dam Good Pilsner won a Gold Medal at the California State Fair and their FRB Brown Brown Ale earned a Silver Medal at the prestigious Great American Beer Festival. More recently, their Red My Mind Irish Red Ale took home a Silver medal at the 2025 California State Fair. Their taplist offers something for everyone. Whether you're a fan of a crisp lager, a classic IPA or something more adventurous like their seasonal “Whitney Brewston” stout, you'll find a great selection to choose from. It's a perfect opportunity to find a new favorite beer style or revisit a classic.

2. A Family- and Dog-Friendly Taproom in Rancho Cordova

As the last of the hot summer days settle in, Fort Rock’s taproom provides a welcome break from the heat. The brewery has a large cool indoor space where you can comfortably relax with friends, family or your dog! In addition to cold beers on tap, you might even be lucky enough to find a beer slushy available, too.

3. A Brewery with Fun Activities

Fort Rock isn’t just about great beer, it’s also a great place to hang out. The taproom is equipped with plenty of entertainment options to keep you and your group busy. You can challenge a friend to a game of pool, play some classic arcade games or watch your favorite team on one of the many TVs. From weekly trivia nights to regular comedy events, live music and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Fort Rock.

4. Prime Location in the Nimbus Winery Building

The brewery's location is part of its charm. Fort Rock is situated in the historic Nimbus Winery building. This unique setting puts it right next to other popular spots like the Old Spaghetti Factory and the Red Door Escape Room. It’s the perfect anchor for a fun afternoon or evening out, offering a central meeting place before or after another activity.

5. Convenient and Accessible

Fort Rock Brewing is conveniently located right off Highway 50 at the Hazel Avenue exit. This makes it an easy stop whether you're heading home from work or looking for a spot to wind down after a day of outdoor activities, like a hike along the river or a paddle boarding session at the nearby Sacramento State Aquatic Center. Its easy access makes it a natural gathering point for anyone looking to enjoy a cold one.

Don't let the last days of summer slip away without a visit to Fort Rock Brewing. Grab a friend and enjoy all that this great local brewery has to offer. Learn more at FortRockBrewing.com.

Ready to beat the heat and discover your new favorite summer sip? Plan your visit to Rancho Cordova’s Barrel District today!