Photos: The Inertia
Editor’s Note: This feature is presented by our partners at Athletic Brewing.
There’s something special about finding the perfect spot to unwind after an outdoor adventure. Whether you’re getting out of the water after a long surf sesh, cooling down after a big multi-pitch climb, or just seeking a place to connect with friends, the right hangout can make all the difference.
But not all watering holes are created equal. Across the country, certain spots have become more than just places to grab a drink — they’re vibrant hubs for local communities, where stories are shared, and memories are made. And thanks to Athletic Brewing Company, these spots serve craft non-alcoholic beer without the buzz.
This is Bar Stories, our new editorial series where we explore some of the best pre- and post-activity hangouts around the U.S., each with its own unique vibe and commitment to great food, drink, and community spirit.
Let’s dive in and discover what makes these places special, and how Athletic Brewing is helping to elevate the apres-adventure experience for everyone.
Our Top 4 Spots to Enjoy an Athletic Brew
Surfing: Duke’s Huntington Beach
SoCal’s Apres-Beach Spot
On the iconic shores of Huntington Beach, Duke’s is more than just a restaurant — it’s a pulse point for the coastal lifestyle that defines this stretch of Southern California. Since 1998, Duke’s has embodied the spirit of the ocean, drawing in surfers, beach lovers, and food aficionados with its laid-back, yet elevated, vibe.
Ryan Clancy, Duke’s service manager, speaks to the unique role the barstaurant plays in the community. Right off the Huntington Beach pier — front, center, and prominent — the watering hole is a fixture of the town’s physical layout and its beach vibe.
“Duke’s isn’t just a spot to grab a bite — it’s where the Huntington Beach community comes together,” Clancy said. “From the crew working here to the regulars who’ve been coming in for years, there’s this tight-knit vibe that makes Duke’s feel like home.”
A lot’s changed over the past 26 years — Duke’s beach-loving family vibe hasn’t. But with modern customers increasingly seeking alternatives to alcohol, Duke’s has evolved in some ways. “Back when we opened, the non-alcoholic options were pretty limited. But now, thanks to Athletic Brewing, we can offer our guests full-bodied craft flavors that are non-alcoholic,” Clancy explained. “They’ve really filled a gap in the market, and it’s all about making sure everyone feels included.”
Athletic Brewing has brought a new dimension to Duke’s drink offerings, catering to the crowd that wants the craft beer experience without the side effects of alcohol. It’s not just about the flavor; it’s about the vibe — and no matter what brought you in from the beach, a cold non-alcoholic brew from Athletic is the perfect complement.
“Athletic Brewing lets us offer something for everyone,” Clancy continued, “and that’s what Duke’s is all about — creating a space where everyone can enjoy the best of Huntington Beach, no matter what they’re sipping on.”
Climbing: Miguel’s Pizza
The Heartbeat of Red River Gorge’s Climbing Community
Nestled in the heart of Eastern Kentucky, Miguel’s Pizza has become an iconic spot, especially revered by the climbing community that frequents the Red River Gorge. According to co-owner Dario Ventura, Miguels’ roots in the climbing world date back to a time when the sport was still finding its footing in the region.
“Miguel’s has had such a long grassroots presence in the local climbing scene,” Dario reflected, emphasizing how the pizzeria became a haven for climbers long before the area became a popular tourist destination.
Since its inception, Miguel’s has provided an open environment that’s allowed the sport to grow in a place where it once seemed out of place. “We were just putting up all the kids,” Dario remembered, recalling the early days when climbers would camp out and gather at Miguel’s, forming the beginnings of what is now a thriving community.
Over the years, Miguel’s has evolved to meet the needs of its ever-growing customer base. What started as a simple pizza joint now boasts a comprehensive setup, including a primitive campground, showers, rental cabins, and even a well-stocked climbing shop. Utilizing these services, rock climbers make Miguel’s their basecamp for daily adventures into Red River Gorge, giving the pizzeria a very cherished spot in the community.
Climber and GearJunkie journalist Seiji Ishii has bivvied at Miguel’s many times — and can’t wait for his next visit. “It’s a ‘hub’ for the climbing scene there, like a HQ almost,” Ishii recalled. “You go all your separate ways during the day, meet up, compare notes on routes, socialize. And man, you come from all these different parts of the country and world, and you meet there. The community feel is great.”
The addition of beer service, including non-alcoholic options like Athletic Brewing Company’s offerings, reflects Miguel’s commitment to catering to the diverse tastes of its patrons.
The decision to stock Athletic Brewing was driven by both customer demand and a personal recommendation. “People actually were asking for it,” Dario says. His father, Miguel, also enjoys the non-alcoholic brews. “I think he just likes the lightness of it and the flavor,” Dario shared, adding that Athletic Brewing has become his dad’s go-to choice, particularly during a midday meal.
River Life/Fishing: The Bird
Jackson’s No-Nonsense Watering Hole
Tucked away in the heart of Jackson, Wyoming, The Bird has established itself as the go-to spot for those who want cold drinks, hearty grub, and an unpretentious vibe. Owned and operated by Will Nowack, The Bird doesn’t just cater to locals — it embodies the very essence of Jackson’s rugged, community driven spirit.
“We treat you like nobody important — or very important — depending on how you want to be treated,” said Nowack, underscoring the laid-back, inclusive atmosphere that makes The Bird a favorite among everyone from townies to the occasional celebrity looking to blend in.
Since its doors opened in 2008, The Bird has been a steadfast fixture in a town that’s seen plenty of change. In a place where the old-school mountain town vibe is becoming increasingly scarce, The Bird stands out as a bastion of authenticity. “Longtime locals dig our spot, and that’s huge because it makes new people feel like they’re in a place where there’s actually still that community vibe,” Nowack explained.
The Bird’s success is rooted in its commitment to keeping things real — a no-frills approach that resonates deeply with the locals who call Jackson home. Plus, it’s right on the way to the Snake River, so there’s always a gaggle of thirsty river folk frequenting The Bird’s indoor and outdoor spaces.
But what really sets The Bird apart is its ability to create a space where everyone feels at home, no matter if you’re a regular or just passing through. “Your server is going to shoot the breeze with you and hang out,” Nowack noted, highlighting the friendly, come-as-you-are atmosphere.
Tucked just off the beaten path, The Bird has become Jackson’s hidden gem — close enough to be accessible, yet far enough to maintain its status as a low-key hangout. “We just want you to have a good time… we’re there for fun,” Nowack added.
In true Jackson style, The Bird also taps into the growing trend of non-alcoholic craft beverages, stocking Athletic Brewing’s award-winning brews. “Athletic Brewing makes the best non-alcoholic beers… it’s a no-brainer,” said Nowack, who’s particularly keen on AB’s practical usage of cans — especially for the outdoor crowd.
“People are always looking for cans for the river,” he continued. “The convenience of cans — lightweight, packable, and river-ready — fits seamlessly with the Jackson lifestyle. And Athletic Brewing seems to get that.”
Biking: The Meteor
Austin’s Beverage Oasis
The Meteor, founded by a lifelong cyclist with a deep-rooted passion for the sport, has become a beloved hub for Austin’s exploding cycling community. Originally opened in Austin nearly five years ago, The Meteor has evolved into more than just a bike shop — it’s a gathering place for cyclists to connect, share their love of the sport, and enjoy top-notch service.
With locations in Austin, Bentonville, and soon Fayetteville, Arkansas, The Meteor provides high-level bike maintenance, custom builds, and a welcoming atmosphere for both amateur and professional cyclists.
“Cycling is a core part of our DNA,” said Director of Operations Andrew Wirth.“The vision for Austin was to be the front porch of the cycling community — a place to gather before and after rides.
But The Meteor is more than just bikes — it’s, as Wirth described it, a “beverage oasis.” From morning coffee to natural wines, the Meteor’s offerings reflect the quirks and tastes of its staff. “We start with your first drink of the day — whether that’s coffee, tea, soda, kombucha, or adaptogenic drinks,” the founder explained. The Meteor also stocks Athletic Brewing’s non-alcoholic beers, which pair perfectly with their Friday night pizza gatherings.
“We stock Athletic Brewing because we believe in living life to the fullest, and sometimes that means enjoying a great non-alcoholic beer,” Wirth says. “Everything we love is under one roof, creating an unexpected mashup of the things we’re passionate about.”
Cheers to the Adventure with Athletic Brewing
As we journey through some of the best pre- and post-activity hangouts across America, one thing becomes clear: the importance of a space where everyone feels welcome and included.
Whether savoring the coastal vibes at Duke’s Huntington Beach, connecting with fellow climbers at Miguel’s Pizza, relaxing in the unpretentious atmosphere of The Bird in Jackson, or gearing up for your next ride at The Meteor in Austin, the common thread is … community.
Athletic Brewing plays a supporting role in these rad places, offering a refreshing alternative that fits seamlessly with the active, adventurous lifestyles of the patrons. AB’s non-alcoholic brews bring full-bodied flavor, ensuring that everyone — from surfers, climbers, fishermen and cyclists — can enjoy a crisp, refreshing drink.
So, next time you’re wrapping up a day on the water, the trails, or the road, grab an Athletic brew and toast to the moments that make the journey worthwhile. Here’s to great experiences, great company, and the perfect beer to match — no matter where your adventures take you.
