Top 10 coolest beer gardens around the world

Whether they’re offering spectacular views or massive amounts of hipster flair, these are some of the coolest beer gardens in the world.

1. Zugspitze Beer Garden

The so-called “highest beer garden in Germany” sits atop the Zugspitze, which just so happens to be the highest mountain in Germany (makes sense). Although it takes some effort to reach this sprawling terrace—accessible only by cable car or foot—it’s undoubtedly worth it to take in views of the Alps with a cold beer in your hand.

2. Drury Beer Garden

One of Midtown Village’s most popular summer hangouts is Drury Beer Garden, located in a refurbished parking lot behind Greek restaurant Opa. The outdoor space offers an extensive draft list, as well as Ping-Pong tables and Jenga, dangling lights, and colorful seating—all contributing to the hip, playful atmosphere.

3. Brouwerij ‘t IJ

Brouwerij ‘t IJ has been open since 1985, a time when microbreweries were popping up everywhere due to a widespread dissatisfaction with larger breweries. All of its beers are organic and brewed on-site, making this one of the premiere drinking spots in Amsterdam. Plus, few Dutch experiences will be cooler than sipping a beer while sitting next to a giant windmill.

4. Takao Beer Mount

Mt. Takao’s beer garden—located 1,640 feet above sea level—is something of an inebriant oasis for weary hikers. It might take some time and effort to reach the elevated terrace, but once you’re there, you get an all-you-can-eat buffet, bottomless drinks for two hours, and breathtaking views of Tokyo and Yokohama.

5. Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden

There are dozens of beer gardens in NYC, but perhaps none so renowned and beloved as
Bohemian Hall in Astoria. It may not have the table tennis and twinkle lights of its modern counterparts, but this 104-year-old institution offers affordable drinks, Czech food, and enough fuss-free seating for you and all of your beer-guzzling buddies.

6. Chinesischer Turm

Munich has more than 200 beer gardens, but this spot—the second-largest in the city—is possibly its prettiest. The venue is mostly known for its signature 82-feet high Chinese Tower. Aside from seating up to 7,000 people, the site is located in the massive Englischer Garten, where people can enjoy carriage rides, concerts, and football tournament viewings.

7. Letná Beer Garden

If spectacular views are what you’re looking for, then add Letná Beer Garden to your bucket list. The area, located along the bank of the Vltava river, has a limited beer and food menu, but it compensates with panoramic scenes of the Letná Park pathways and historic buildings of Prague.

8. The Castle

Although The Castle has served as a public house since 1832, its colorful decor (updated in 2014) is completely modern. The outdoor garden has a variety of fun seating options, including “Mini Castles”: covered huts with fireplaces and enough room for up to 20 people.

9. Cafe Vlissinghe

Ah, history: This spot has the distinction of being the oldest pub in Belgium, dating back to 1515. Cafe Vlissinghe has everything one would ever need in a beer garden: an extensive beer list, bocce, and a menu that includes comfort-food favorites like chocolate mousse and mac and cheese.

10. D|two

Thanks to retractable awnings and heaters, people can enjoy D|two’s massive beer garden no matter the weather or time of year. The bar serves pub fare throughout the day before transforming into a busy nightclub at night. The main attraction: a huge outdoor screen that shows all major sporting events.